Maui’s surf spots offer an adventure for all skill levels. The surf sites are predominantly reef breaks, which makes for some challenging experiences. Surf year-round, explore the west and south in the summertime and take a lesson or two, even if you are a skilled surfer. Wear reef shoes, regardless of the beach, as the sharp coral and varied marine life are dangers from which to protect yourself.
The fast and hollow waves can reach double-digit heights and though many may know Maui for golf, nature landscapes and other features, surfing is phenomenal whether in Lahaina or Kihei. Some surf spots are consistent in their right or left directions, some are very crowded on the weekends and some are dominated by local surfers. Watch and learn if you’re a novice. Shortboards, rippers, rounded pins and pin-tails are the most often used at Maui’s surf spots.
Ho’okipa Beach Park
Known for windsurfing and picnics, Ho’okipa Beach Park is also the surfing site to which the Road to Hana leads, so consider it a worthy detour and take the challenge. The swell directions are several, north, west, east and northwest. The wind directions are south, southeast and southwest. Bring your shortboard here and enjoy a gentle paddle out. Take advantage of a week, or longer, of surfing, with Middles and Pavillions nearby. Avid surfers will feed their thrill-seeking souls when surfing here and all will enjoy a chance to take in the spectacular backdrop, complete with a windsurfer or two. Spectators should find their spot at the Ho’okipa Lookout, which offers viewing of both Ho’okipa (also called Point) and Pavillions.
La La Land
Surf Ho’okipa from dawn till dusk and then retire to this luxury home and its stunning ocean view infinity pool. Hosting a beach bash here calls for more than a cooler full of beers. Call the caterer and celebrate with good food, an indulgent setting and plenty of good brews. Fine furniture, both indoors and outside, gourmet kitchen and top-notch features throughout this home will undoubtedly give you reason to extend your stay. Slaughterhouse Beach is nearby, with surf spots, windsurfing, bodysurfing and lots of dramatic sunrises and sunsets. You’ll find everything you need on hand, to the degree of detail that includes a coffee grinder (Kona, available throughout the islands) so fill your days with a good workout at Ho’okipa or Pavillions or Middles and then retreat to La La Land.
Pacific Islands View Home
A luxury Kaanapali home built in 2009, all the furnishings and appliances in this vacation rental are inviting for a group of friends, extended family or even a couple seeking the ultimate in their stay. Staying in Kaanapali, surfers will find the West Side surf spots are convenient and others in the travel party will have plenty to explore, including day spas, golf, shopping, local eateries and historic Lahaina. Surf Ho’okipa and aim to check out the other 40 surf spots on Maui and definitely find some time to watch (or participate in) the windsurfing at Ho’okipa or Lanes. When there are 10 or more surfers at Ho’okipa, wind surfing is not permitted so try to catch the scene on a slower day.
Lahaina Harbor, Break Wall
Three entrances, via the beach, rocks or marina break wall. Shortboards are predominantly used here and the paddle out is fairly easy. Skill levels from novice to experienced can find a good day’s surfing here and the summertime is ideal. Watch out for vuana (urchins) and reef and keep in mind that it gets crowded during the week and weekends. Break Wall is a left reef break and surfers have found the low and medium tides best. Swell directions are from the south, southwest and west, with wind directions from the north, northwest and east.
Truuli Maui Hale
An intimate luxury estate that offers a small family or group of friends an indulgent stay in Lahaina. Sports enthusiasts will be enthralled with the multitude of opportunities to play in and out of the water; in addition to surfing, the location is great for golf, snorkeling and plenty of beach hikes. The private hot tub and the grill are your favorite amenities after a full day of exhilarating surfing at Break Wall or one of the other Maui surf spots.
No Ka Oi Hale
Wrap around windows, an expansive lanai, hammock and an ocean view embody guests in nature and comfort at No Ka Oi Hale in historic and artsy Lahaina town. A grill, plenty of places to entertain and retreat, plus nearby galleries and local eateries fill the days and nights here. Surf Break Wall and Puamana, among other Maui surf spots. The vacation rental sleeps six comfortably so you can opt for a vacation for two or more surf buddies or a family or couples. Lazy times at the home in the evenings and active surfing adventures during the day are common itineraries for surf guests to this vacation rental, with beds you’ll sink into after a drinks and a good meal.
Maalaea Freight Train
Often called Maalaea, Freight Train gets the excitement going well before arriving to Kihei. You can park near the east side of the boat harbor at the Maui Ocean Center. Malalaea is for the experienced and is a spectacular show for surf enthusiasts. A right reef break that’s hollow and fast that works best with rounded pin or pin-tail boards. It’s considered world class for the fastest rights, particularly during swells in the south direction. Summer is the best for this surf spot.
Lotus Indo House at Kamaole Beach
Open the bedroom door and it leads to the hot tub and an ocean view at Lotus Indo House, which has plenty to keep you entertained at home or at the nearby beach. Luxurious bathroom fixtures and incredible home furnishings and features make this a top pick for surfers and their guests who like to have good restaurants and attractions nearby but also a place to escape after a strenuous workout on the Maalaea Freight Train. Guests need not bring much for a stay here as everything from bar ware to children’s games are supplied.
Hale Lanui
The location is fantastic, adjacent to Kalama Park and surfing is in walking distance. Tasteful art, plenty of views from the upper lanai and downstairs dining area. The Jacuzzi is what you’ll seek after an adventure at Maalaea and other surf spots. The grill, lounges, and cozy cottage feel makes Hale Lanui a good beach pad for surfers seeking an ideal location for both surfing experiences and exploring Kihei and other parts of Maui. Go for a swim, walk to local food stores and coffee shops and live within the community like a local, intermingling as much or as little as you’d like.
For more places to stay on Maui, check out the rest of our Maui vacation rentals.