Northwest Maui
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Positives
- World-class spots
- Thinner crowds than Oahu
- Wind and kitesurfing heaven
- Amazing volcanic scenery
Negatives
- Swell shadows
- Strong trade winds
- Difficult access to some spots
- High prices
Northwest Maui surf travel guide
The legendary rights of Honolua and Maalaea are part of surfing's heritage and now Jaws, the biggest name of all can be added to Maui's list of insane waves. It's an island of contrasts, where lush green valleys give way to arid coastline, tropical fruits and flowers meet barren lava and cactus, beneath the towering peaks that dominate the landscape. The shroud of islands that include Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe block out some swell directions and there is an element of real luck and timing to score the big names, but there is a back-up cast of consistent, quality waves just waiting to keep the locals and visitors stoked.
Surf spots in Northwest Maui
Research the 20 surf breaks in Northwest Maui and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 20 breaks in Northwest Maui.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to Northwest Maui
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Library
Helpful surf travel videos and articles featuring Northwest Maui.
MA'ALAEA FREIGHT TRAINS ALL TIME!!! 10FT BEST AND BIGGEST WAVES IN 20 YEARS!!! (RAW BEST CLIPS)
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Travel Information
General
- Current Time
- Tourists
- 10,400,000
- Population
- 1,416,000
- Tourist Info
- Tourist Info
Security
Health
Money
- Currency
- USD
- Exchange rate
- $1 = $1 USD USD
Cost of living
Communication
- Dialing in
- +1 808
- Dialing out
- 011
- Emergencies
- 911
- Language
- English, Hawaiian, Pidgin
Electricity
- Plug Type
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Visas
Visitors visas have been waived for Australian, British, Canadian and most EU passport holders. However, you must be carrying a biometric passport (kids too), with at least 90 days before expiry, otherwise a visitor visa must be obtained before travel.
Getting There
Most flights arrive from Honolulu (HNL) or Kahului Airport (OGG) on Maui, although there are some direct flights from Vancouver, Canada and west coast mainland cities. Inter-island with Hawaiian Airlines, Island Air or Go!Mokulele (no boards over 6ft). All charge for boards + $35 e/w.
Getting Around
All the major rental companies available at the airport from around $30/day for an economy or compact model. Getting longer boards inside is a challenge - take straps/soft racks. Most car rental agencies require an age limit of 25. Gas is about 25% more expensive than the US mainland. Traffic gets thick through Lahaina and near the airport. Maui Bus links the main towns (fare $1), but bodyboards only. There are bike rentals available in Lahaina for both beach cruising and serious mountain riding.
Accommodation
Accommodation prices are generally higher on Maui than Oahu. Good bases are Haiku or Paia near Hookipa in winter or Lahaina will have plenty of options in summer like Nani Kai Hale (fr $135 dbl). There are a couple of County Parks for camping near Hookipa. Avoid the low surf, tourist resorts on the SW coast around Kihei. Food is also pricey ($35+ per meal) so self catering is a good idea.
Activities
Haleakala Crater is the world's largest dormant volcano - see the sunrise from the summit. Flat-day activities include mountain biking, windsurfing, diving, and whale watching. For nightlife, head to Lahaina or Kaanapali.
Hazards & hassles
To avoid trouble with the locals, don't surf the big name spots at the busiest times of the day. Don't leave valuables visible in your car.
Handy Hints
There are plenty of surf shops in Paia, including Da Kine, Hana Highway Surf and Honolua Surf Co, or Ole's in Lahaina, run by legendary shaper Bob Olsen. Honolua and others are real board snapping spots. Beginners should head to Nancy Emerson's surf school (fr $50/hr).
Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.