In this guide, you'll learn about the best surfing beaches on Maui.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, there's a spot on Maui that will suit your needs.
With waves ranging from gentle to moderate, Maui has something for everyone.
Also read our guide to the best surfing in Maui for beginners.
Best surfing beaches on Maui
1. Launiupoko
Launiupoko is our top pick for the best surfing beach on Maui.
It's a surf break located in West Maui, and you can access it from the Honoapiilani Highway.
Just drive south of Lahaina for 10 minutes until you see mile marker 18.
The waves at Launiupoko are perfect for longboarding, making it a popular spot among families, SUPers, and of course, longboarders!
2. Olowalu
Olowalu falls second on our Maui surfing beach list.
With steady and small waves, it's ago-to spot for beginner to intermediate surfers during the summer months.
Located in West Maui, however, first-time surfers should avoid Olowalu as generally speaking, it is an area better suited for those with some previous experience.
If you want to surf here, it will be more fun if you are experienced.
However, if you are not experienced, you can take a few surf lessons in Maui to get up to the level you need.
3. Paia Bay
Paia Bay is one of the best surfing beaches. It has a sandy beach to paddle out from and several small peaks.
The waves here can look bigger than they are, but they don't break very hard so it's a good place to start surfing.
4. Kaanapali Beach
Kaanapali Beach is the fourth beach on our list of the best surfing beaches in Maui.
Kaanapali Beach is a stunning surf spot located just outside the gates of Kaanapali Resort.
The Marriot, which is directly to the left of the beach, serves as a good starting point.
This beach has been listed by a magazine as one of the most beautiful every year since it was first discovered.
It's also an excellent location for learning how to ride a wave on traditional Maui waves.
5. The Cove
The Cove at Kalama Beach Park in Kihei is our fifth choice for the best surfing beaches on Maui.
It's the most accessible surf spot for beginners.
It's essentially Maui's own Waikiki.
For the majority of the year, there are small and kind waves every day.
On certain days, beginner conditions aren't ideal, though.
6. Breakwall
Although Breakwall surfing beach is great for beginners during the small waves in Maui, it becomes too dangerous for them to surf during the peak summertime.
7. Puamana Beach Park
There are several excellent surfing beaches on Maui.
Puamana Beach Park is number seven on the list.
This beach, which is a novice surf break and lies just south of Lahaina past mile marker 19, is usually closed out.
The waves here can close out frequently, but they're still a fantastic place to practice standing up on your board.
Plus, because the paddle out is brief, you'll be able to catch many waves without becoming fatigued.
8. Grandma’s
Grandma’s is a surf break in Maui near a campground–the only one!
You could go on an original trip and camp while surfing in Maui.
There's great surf at Papalaua Park, or between mile markers 11 and 11.5. Just know that there are few amenities like porta-potties or trashcans at Grandma’s.
You can find rentals Kihei or Lahaina, which would be about 15 to 20 minutes away in either direction driver .
9. Guardrails
Guardrails is a surf spot located on the Honoapiilani Highway, approximately 5 minutes south of Lahaina.
This spot gets its name from the waves crashing along the guardrail by the highway.
Guardrails typically isn't too crowded compared to other surfing areas.
Often this spot is frequented by longboarders and paddleboarders.
10. Thousand Peaks
Ukumehame Beach Park is a great place to surf because of its many waves and peaks.
The beach is located off Honoapiilani Highway at mile marker 12. It's called Thousand Peaks because of the number of waves and peaks there are at the beach.
The main challenge for surfers in this area is the long and difficult paddle out.
This means that it's common to get trapped inside where waves are breaking.
To avoid this problem, paddlers can follow a horseshoe shape pattern when going out instead of straight out.
Many people believe that Hawaii and surfing go hand-in-hand.
Maui is a great place for beginner surfers.
The waves are not usually too big, because other islands block the waves.
And there aren't as many locals who will be mad if you surf in their area.
This means that you can stay in beginner zones and not have to worry about getting in trouble.
Maui is also a great place to improve your surfing skills.
Common Questions – Best surfing beaches on Maui
What are the best beaches for surfing in Maui?
The best beaches for surfing in Maui are Ho'okipa Beach Park, Launiupoko Beach Park, and Kanaha Beach Park.
What is the best time of year to surf in Maui?
The best time of year to surf in Maui is during the winter months.
The waves are typically larger and the water is cooler.
What are the best surf spots for beginners in Maui?
The best surf spots for beginners in Maui are Front Street in Lahaina, Puamana Beach Park, and Grandma's.
What are the best surf spots for intermediate surfers in Maui?
The best surf spots for intermediate surfers in Maui are Guardrails, Thousand Peaks, and Honolua Bay.
How do I find good waves while surfing in Maui?
A good way to find waves while surfing in Maui is to go to the north shore of the island.
The best time to surf on the north shore is during the winter months when the waves are typically larger.
Where can I find a surf instructor in Maui?
There are many surf instructors in Maui.
A good place to start is by searching online or asking at your hotel or vacation rental.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer to go surfing in Maui?
No, you do not need to be a strong swimmer to go surfing in Maui.
Overall, this has a lot to do with the surf conditions.
However, it is helpful if you are comfortable in the water and can swim at least a little bit.
How do I stay safe while surfing in Maui?
There are a few things you can do to stay safe while surfing in Maui:
- Choose a surf spot that is appropriate for your skill level.
- Don't paddle out too far.
- Be aware of other surfers and objects in the water.
- Don't drop in on other surfers.
- Listen to the lifeguards and follow their instructions.
