Here Are the 5 Best Maui Surfing Spots

With millions of wave-riding visitors and plenty of professional residents, Maui, Hawaii, is known as a surfer’s paradise. The island’s coves, bays, and beaches provide hours of fun, and looming mountain peaks complete the backdrop. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned veteran or searching for lessons; these Maui surfing spots will have you coming back for more. Check out some of our favorite places to catch that perfect wave. Then, use our free Travel Guide to plan the rest of your trip!

Your Ultimate Maui Surfing Guide

1. Ho’okipa Beach

Ho’okipa Beach is a go-to surfing spot on Maui. This North Shore beach sets perfect conditions with north, northwest, west, and east swells. It’s also a world-class windsurfing destination. Surfers should be aware that there can be riptides, relentless wave sets, and some sharp rocks and reef to watch out for. We suggest visiting Ho’okipa Beach if you are a more advanced rider.

2. Lahaina Reefs

Fun reef breaks for riders of all levels make Lahaina a great place to surf on the west coast of the island. Check out Kammies and Shark Pit at the south end of town, or surf the popular Breakwall up against Lahaina Harbor. The harbor also has a fun peak that comes out of deep water. You’ll definitely see a few resident pros surfing here.

3. Honolua Bay

Get ready to catch the longest ride of your life! Honolua Bay is one of the best surf spots in Hawaii, boasting a powerful, hollow reef break point and a world-class wave. It was even described as “the best wave in the world” by four-time world champion Mark Richards. The bay can get very crowded in the summertime, so be sure to respect the locals.

Did you know? Honolua Bay offers impeccable Maui snorkeling when the water is calm. Pick up some snorkel gear and explore the waters for tropical fish, turtles, eels, and more.

4. Pe’ahi

With a nickname like “Jaws Beach”, it’s no surprise that Pe’ahi on the North Shore is the most powerful surf spot on Maui. Its massive, fast-moving waves make Jaws strictly for professional surfers only. When conditions allow, pros from all over the world get behind a jet ski, let go of the tow rope, and risk their lives to get a taste of the most impressive wave on Earth. Visitors are welcome to stand on the beach and watch the action unfold.

5. Olowalu Beach

Just off the Honoapiilani Highway, Olowalu is the easiest spot to access on the island. You can literally go from driving the highway to dropping in on a wave in two minutes. When ocean swells are right, the waves provide consistent fun for intermediate to advanced surfers. However, only a few people can go at the peak at one time. Caution: These waters are known to be some of the sharkiest around.

Looking for more Maui surfing spots? Check out our blog about windsurfing on the island.

Tips & Warnings

Maui does have a few secret spots to surf, but there’s usually a reason they’re secret. If you find a location that looks good but no one is out, think twice about surfing there. It may be empty because of unforeseen dangers like sharks, extremely shallow reefs, or dangerous currents. Be sure to always check the surf conditions before heading out. We want our guests to stay safe while having fun!

Hang Ten at The Historic Wailuku Inn

Now that you know a little bit about surfing on Maui, it’s time to start planning your Hawaiian vacation! Our inn is just a short drive from the beach and is a great place to unwind in between rides. Spend some time in one of our comfortable guest rooms, or hang out on the spacious veranda. In the morning, join us for a delicious, gourmet breakfast and get ready for another day of fun in the sun. We can’t wait to hear about where the waves take you!

Check our availability and book your Hawaiian vacation today! We look forward to hosting you.