Whether you’ve tried surfing in the past or you’re looking forward to experiencing it for the first time on your upcoming Hawaiian vacation, there are some things you need to know BEFORE you go. As one of the top surfing spots in the world, Maui offers something for every experience level, and as long as you understand the basics of what to look out for, you’re sure to have a great time.
This month, we’re taking the guesswork out of the planning and covering everything you need to know before surfing in Maui. From the different seasonal characteristics and how to check the surf conditions to top spots and the best places to learn, you’ll find all the details right here. Check them out and get ready to ride the waves like a pro when you visit.
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Best Time for Surfing in Maui
Depending on the season, you’ll find different kinds of surfing conditions. Understanding how the weather affects the waves can help you choose when to visit and what part of the island to check out.
During the winter months, frequent storms in the North Pacific send waves toward Maui, often resulting in swells that can reach over 70 feet at certain breaks. Most of these giant waves are found in North Shore from November to February, and it’s because of this, only professional surfers should attempt surfing here.
Just because you can’t get out in the North Shore water doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the sport in other ways! Several surfing competitions take place in North Shore and draw crowds of spectators, like the TUDOR Jaws Big Wave Challenge that begins every November in Pe’ahi. If you’re visiting November – May, be sure to add this to your to-do list.
The spring and summer months are arguably the best time for amateur or beginner surfers. The gentle waves found in south and west Maui, along with numerous teachers and equipment rental shops, mean you can easily add this activity to any beach day. If you’re staying in one of our Bello Realty, Inc. Maui vacation rentals, you’ll be close to places like Kamaole Beach Park III and the shores of Kihei, all of which offer excellent spots to practice your skills.
Top Surf Spots in Maui
With gorgeous, clear water and spectacular surrounding scenery, surfing in Maui is unlike anywhere else. Here are a few of our recommended surf spots for every experience level.
- Launiupoko State Wayside Park – Perfect for beginners, this state park is located in West Maui and has easy reef-break waves.
- The Cove – Located in Kihei at the Kalama Beach Park, The Cove is like Maui’s mini-Waikiki. With sloping waves that can travel over 100 yards as they roll onto the shore, it’s a great place for beginners and intermediate surfers.
- Honolua Bay – This popular northwest spot is known for long, multi-section waves with incredible breaks. It’s even been called the “best wave in the world.” For intermediate to advanced surfers, it’s well worth a visit.
Types of Surf Breaks
Did you know, beyond winds and tides, it’s what’s under the water that affects the shape of the wave more than anything else? There are three main break types, and understanding them will help you plan your surfing adventure in Maui.
- Beach Breaks – This is the most common type of wave break and occurs as the water rushes up a sandy bottom. Due to constantly shifting winds, tides, and currents, the breakpoints are always changing, but the consistency of the waves remains strong.
- Point Breaks – These are some of the rarest types of surf breaks because so many factors have to align for them to take shape. All about angles, point breaks happen when water wraps around a fixed feature like a jetty or rocky headland and shifts direction, heading perpendicular to the shore. This creates incredibly long waves that are a surfer’s dream.
- Reef Breaks – While reef breaks often create epic barrels, they also can be some of the most dangerous breaks. Getting tossed about under the water on a reef can cause severe injury due to the razor-sharp features. Paying attention to the water's depth goes a long way in making sure you can safely surf near a reef break.
Learning to Surf: Maui’s Surf Schools
Maui has many great places where you can learn how to surf. Whether you book with a private instructor or take a group class, you’ll be ready to catch waves in no time!
Some top surf schools in Maui include:
- Surf Club Maui in Kihei
- Ka’anapali Surf Club in West Maui
- Aloha Surf School at Kalama Beach Park
During your surfing lesson, your teacher will go over some tips to make sure you understand the tides, water conditions, and basic water safety. Then, you’ll practice body position on your board, paddling techniques, and how to “pop up” into your stance.
Once you’ve mastered the techniques on the sand, you’ll suit up and head to the water. Your instructor will help you catch your first couple of waves, and then you’re free to spend the rest of the class practicing all your new skills!
Understanding the Ocean
Once you’ve had a lesson or two, you’ll be ready to hit the water on your own. But before you do, be sure you understand some ocean basics. Check the surf report of the area you’re in before you head out. The tides are also important. As we mentioned with reef breaks, taking a spill in shallow water around coral reefs can cause serious bodily harm. Check the tides so you can understand water depth and things like riptides or other dangerous conditions.
Additional rules and etiquette include:
- Always surf with a friend
- Don’t go out further than you can swim
- Stay away from crowded areas
- Don’t take off if someone is in your path or already on the wave
- Stay out of the way if you’re not surfing
- Similarly to number 5, don’t surf where people are swimming
- Never turn your back on the ocean: be aware of your surroundings
Book Your Surfing Getaway with Bello Realty, Inc.
Pictured Property Hale Hui Kai #311
Now that you’re ready to ride the waves, it’s time to get your Hawaiian vacation on the books! At Bello Realty, Inc., our south Maui vacation rentals put you near excellent beaches for beginner surfers. With gentle waves, tons of instructors, and excellent beach amenities, your dream of surfing in Maui can come true!
Choose from our list of Kihei vacation home rentals, Maui oceanfront rentals, Kihei condo rentals, and more, and book your trip directly with us for the best rate on your stay.
Unlike third parties, we’ll never add on extra fees, and you’ll always have the island’s best and most trusted name to turn to for everything from booking to checkout. Book directly with Bello Realty, Inc., and discover the difference a local team can make!
