Surfing

Maui’s surf culture is as diverse as its landscape, ranging from the world’s fastest waves to gentle rollers perfect for your first time on a board.

Here is a breakdown of the top spots and local businesses for each region:

Westside: Kaanapali / Lahaina

Note: Due to the 2023 wildfires, some areas in Lahaina remain in recovery; always check local access before visiting.

  • Surf Spots:

    • Kaanapali Point: A consistent, gentle longboard wave located right in front of the resorts.

    • Mala Wharf: An advanced left-hand break known for its long, peeling walls (best on a solid south swell).

    • Launiupoko Beach Park: The ultimate family spot. It features a shallow, protected pool for kids and long, mellow waves for longboarders.

    • Honolua Bay: Located further north, this is a world-class right-hand point break. It’s for experts only in winter but a beautiful snorkel spot in summer.

  • Surf Businesses:

    • Sea Maui Surf: Offers lessons and rentals right in the heart of Kaanapali.

    • Kaanapali Surf Club: Specialized in kayak tours and surf lessons near Black Rock.

    • 808 Boards: High-quality rentals and a staple for local gear.

Group of three children in wetsuits and life jackets standing under a surf shop sign with surfboards and water equipment in the background.

Northside: Wailuku / Kahului

  • Surf Spots:

    • Kahului Harbor: Features a heavy, "wedge" style wave off the jetty. It’s popular with bodyboarders and experienced surfers but can be polluted after heavy rain.

    • Paukukalo: A local favorite reef break that offers consistent lefts and rights.

    • Kanaha Beach Park: While legendary for windsurfing, the outer reefs provide great surf for intermediates when the wind is light.

  • Surf Businesses:

    • Adventure Sports Maui: Located in Kahului, they specialize in "all things wind" but carry a deep stock of surf gear.

    • Second Wind Sail & Surf: A go-to for used gear and local advice on North Shore conditions.

Row of colorful surfboards standing upright on the ground outdoors.
A storefront with a large sign displaying '808' and two surfboards standing outside.

Southside: Kihei / Wailea

  • Surf Spots:

    • The Cove (Kalama Park): The "nursery" of Maui surfing. It’s almost always small and friendly, making it the primary hub for surf schools.

    • Kamaole Beach Parks (I, II, III): Great for bodyboarding and occasionally small surf for beginners.

    • Keawakapu (Sidewalks): A punchy beach break for intermediate shortboarders.

    • Ma’alaea ("Freight Trains"): Famous for being one of the fastest rideable waves in the world. It only "breaks" on rare, massive south swells.

  • Surf Businesses:

    • Maui Wave Riders: A long-standing school at The Cove known for high success rates with beginners.

    • Hi-Tech Surf Sports: A massive shop in Kihei with everything from wax to high-end performance boards.

    • Surf Shack Maui: A boutique shop offering personalized lessons and affordable rentals.

The storefront of a surf shop named Euma Makani with a large window display. The display features a promotional poster with images of surfers in black and white, a mountain in the background, and the shop's name written in large red letters. There is a surfboard sign leaning against the wall outside the shop and an open sign on the door.

Upcountry/North Shore: Paia / Makawao / Haiku

  • Surf Spots:

    • Ho’okipa Beach Park: The "Mecca" of Maui surfing. It has four distinct peaks (Pavilions, Middles, Point, and Lanes). Best left to intermediates and pros due to strong currents and sharp reef.

    • Pe’ahi (Jaws): Located off the cliffs of Haiku. This is a world-famous big wave spot where waves can reach over 60 feet. For elite professionals only.

    • Baldwin Beach: Mostly a bodyboarding/bodysurfing spot due to its heavy shorebreak.

  • Surf Businesses:

    • Paia Surf Co: A stylish shop in the heart of Paia town.

    • Simmer Hawaii: Known for high-performance boards and deep roots in the North Shore community.

    • Hi-Tech (Paia Location): A smaller version of their main shop, perfect for grabbing wax or a leash on the way to Ho'okipa.