Last updated on March 2nd, 2024 at 07:31 pm
If you plan to surf in Maui, you came to the right place. In this surf guide, you will find all the information you need for your next surf trip, including surf seasons, surfer tips, and the best surf spots in Maui, Hawaii.
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About Surfing in Maui, Hawaii
The Island of Maui is one of the best surf destinations in the Hawaiian Archipelago. Unlike the big, challenging waves of Oahu or Kauai, Maui is considered the perfect place for beginners. In fact, most of the surf beaches in Maui offer mellow waves and ideal conditions for surf lessons. However, don’t mistake, the North Shore of the island is home to several world-class breaks. The most famous one is “Jaws”, one of the most aggressive waves on the planet.
When surfing in Maui, you will never be alone in the water. Since it is such a popular destination for surf holidays, all surf spots in Maui are crowded. That can be an advantage because you get to meet great people from different places. However, you must remember to show respect for the locals and follow the surf etiquette.
As for the waves, Maui offers a wide selection for all skill levels. While the North Shore receives big and consistent swells, the South Shore is smaller and beginner-friendly. Due to the location of the Big Island from the south and other islands from the southwest, most of the southern swell is blocked and never makes it to Maui. Therefore, the waves in Maui are usually less powerful than on the other Hawaiian Islands.
Some of the biggest names in the world of surfing come from Maui. From Ian Walsh to Kai Lenny and many others, Maui produced some of the best surfers in the world. Therefore, when surfing in Maui, especially on the North Shore, you will likely share waves with very good surfers. Remember, this is Hawaii, the mother of surfing, and having fun in the water is all that matters.
Surf Seasons in Maui
Like in all the Hawaiian Islands, you can surf Maui all year long. Just remember, the North Shore works best during winter, from November to April, and the South Shore is best in summer, from May to October.
During winter, the north swells are big and consistent. Therefore, this is the best time for advanced surfers to surf in Maui. Beaches like Jaws and Hookipa produce giant waves during this time of year and attract surfers from all over the world. The water temperature is about 75°F (24°C), and a short vest is usually enough (or a spring suit for the sensitive ones).
The summertime is when the south swell hits the surf beaches of Maui. However, as mentioned, some of it gets blocked on the way, and the waves that actually hit the shore are small and mushy. Therefore, this time of year is excellent for beginners and for longboarders. The water temperature in summer is about 81°F (27°C), and there is no need for more than a pair of shorts.
Finally, keep in mind that Maui is a windy island. That means that every day around 10 AM, the wind kicks in and destroys the quality of the waves. Therefore, when surfing in Maui, waking up early for a morning session is highly recommended.
Surf Spots in Maui
When surfing in Maui, you can choose between many different surf breaks. From the challenging barrels of the North Shore to the user-friendly waves of the South Shore, it all depends on what you are looking for. So, in detail, these are the most famous surf spots in Maui:
Surf Spots in Maui’s North Shore
Jaws:
You cannot talk about Maui’s surf scene without mentioning Jaws. This is the wave that put Maui on the world’s surfing map and the main attraction for big-wave riders. Jaws is located in Pe’ahi Beach on the North Shore and lights up when a big northern swell hits Hawaii. The wave is massive, powerful, and dangerous. Needless to say, only pro surfers paddle out to Jaws and usually get towed by a jet sky.
Hookipa:
This is one of the best surf spots in Maui and Hawaii in general. In Hookipa, you will find several peaks, all breaking over a shallow reef. The waves are hollow, and the currents are strong, so this break is suitable for experienced surfers. Due to its high quality, this beach is always crowded.
Kahului:
Just next to the harbor of Kahalulu City, there is an excellent wedge-type wave. It requires a big swell to work, and it is not always at its best, but once it does, the break is extremely powerful. This is probably the favorite surf spot in Maui among bodyboarders.
Honokohau Bay:
Just next to the famous Honolua Bay, this spot is much less crowded. The waves here are not as good, but on the right swell, you can score very long right-handers. Due to the rocks and the strong riptides, this break is suitable for intermediates and up.
Honolua Bay:
You probably heard about this beach, as it is very famous and popular. Actually, it is considered one of the best surfing beaches in Hawaii. Honolua Bay requires a big northern swell to spread its magic, and once such swell arrives, the rides are long and hollow. The quality of this right-hander is the best you can get, but it is also very aggressive and suitable for experienced surfers only.
Surf Spots in Maui’s South Shore
Lahaina Reefs:
This spot is situated on the West Coast of Maui. It offers several reef breaks that are suitable for all skill levels. Moreover, if you go to the south end of the beach, you can ride the left wave just off the harbor wall or the right-hander inside of it. That’s a fantastic spot for beginners and intermediates, especially during summer.
Olowalu Beach:
A bit south of Lahaina Harbor, this beach offers lovely left-hand rides during summer. The surf here is suitable for all skill levels, but be aware of the sharks in this area, as they are out there pretty often.
Ma’alaea:
Fast and hollow waves break here just in front of the harbor wall all summer. This beach is a south swell magnet, and it is one of the best surf spots in Maui.
The Cove:
Can Beginners Surf in Maui?
The Island of Maui offers spectacular waves for surfers of all skill levels, including novice ones. For instance, the break at Kalama Beach is gentle and ideal for those who want to learn and practice. In contrast, beaches like Honolua Bay and Ma’alaea are more aggressive and require higher surfing skills. In short, there is a wide selection of surf spots in Maui that suit all surfers.
Surf Camps in Maui
If you are a beginner taking your first steps in the surfing world or even an intermediate seeking improvement, you can explore the surf beaches of Maui at a surf camp. These are the most recommended ones on the island:
1. Maui Wave Riders.
2. Women’s Soul Retrieval Surf Camp.
3. Maui Surfer Girls.
For more information about surf camps in Hawaii, please click here.
Surf Hotels in Maui
When coming to surf in Maui, you obviously want to stay as close as possible to the best surf spots. So, these are some of the most recommended surf hotels on the Island:
1. Condo with Lanai at Beginning of Road to Hana– Situated in Paia, within less than 1 km of Ho’okipa Beach Park and 2.2 km of Paia Bay Beach, Condo with Lanai at the beginning of Road to Hana offers accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning and a terrace. The property is 35 km from Wailea Emerald Course and 47 km from Lahaina Boat Harbor.
2. Lahaina Shores Beach Resort, a Destination by Hyatt Residence– Featuring an outdoor pool and a hot tub, Lahaina Shores Beach Resort offers unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean. Daily maid service is available.
3. Nani Kai Hale– Located in Kihei, just a few steps from Maalaea Beach, Nani Kai Hale provides beachfront accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a private beach area, and free WiFi. Featuring free private parking, the apartment is in an area where guests can engage in activities such as hiking and diving.
For more surf hotels in Maui, check out the best deals on Booking.com.
Maui- Travel Information
Language– Hawaiian, English.
Population– about 170,000.
Currency– U.S dollar.
Calling code– +1 808.
Time zone– GMT -10.
Pros– great waves, beautiful nature.
Cons– crowded.
Conclusion- A Final Few Words
To sum up, the island of Maui offers crystal clear water with great waves. The variety of surf spots in Maui and the beauty of the beaches make it a true surfing paradise. Therefore, regardless of your skill level, when surfing in Maui, you will always have a great time.
