Maui’s reef breaks offer an adventure for every surfer

Maui’s surf spots offer an adventure for all skill levels. The surf sites are predominantly reef breaks, which makes for some challenging experiences. Surf year-round, explore the west and south in the summertime and take a lesson or two, even if you are a skilled surfer. Wear reef shoes, regardless of the beach, as the sharp coral and varied marine life are dangers from which to protect yourself.

The fast and hollow waves can reach double-digit heights and though many may know Maui for golf, nature landscapes and other features, surfing is phenomenal whether in Lahaina or Kihei. Some surf spots are consistent in their right or left directions, some are very crowded on the weekends and some are dominated by local surfers. Watch and learn if you’re a novice. Shortboards, rippers, rounded pins and pin-tails are the most often used at Maui’s surf spots.

Ho’okipa Beach Park

Ho’okipa Beach Park is known for windsurfing and picnics but also offers great surfing opportunities

Known for windsurfing and picnics, Ho’okipa Beach Park is also the surfing site to which the Road to Hana leads, so consider it a worthy detour and take the challenge. The swell directions are several, north, west, east and northwest. The wind directions are south, southeast and southwest. Bring your shortboard here and enjoy a gentle paddle out. Take advantage of a week, or longer, of surfing, with Middles and Pavillions nearby. Avid surfers will feed their thrill-seeking souls when surfing here and all will enjoy a chance to take in the spectacular backdrop, complete with a windsurfer or two. Spectators should find their spot at the Ho’okipa Lookout, which offers viewing of both Ho’okipa (also called Point) and Pavillions.

La La Land
Surf Ho’okipa from dawn till dusk and then retire to this luxury home and its stunning ocean view infinity pool. Hosting a beach bash here calls for more than a cooler full of beers. Call the caterer and celebrate with good food, an indulgent setting and plenty of good brews. Fine furniture, both indoors and outside, gourmet kitchen and top-notch features throughout this home will undoubtedly give you reason to extend your stay. Slaughterhouse Beach is nearby, with surf spots, windsurfing, bodysurfing and lots of dramatic sunrises and sunsets. You’ll find everything you need on hand, to the degree of detail that includes a coffee grinder (Kona, available throughout the islands) so fill your days with a good workout at Ho’okipa or Pavillions or Middles and then retreat to La La Land.

Pacific Islands View Home 
A luxury Kaanapali home built in 2009, all the furnishings and appliances in this vacation rental are inviting for a group of friends, extended family or even a couple seeking the ultimate in their stay. Staying in Kaanapali, surfers will find the West Side surf spots are convenient and others in the travel party will have plenty to explore, including day spas, golf, shopping, local eateries and historic Lahaina. Surf Ho’okipa and aim to check out the other 40 surf spots on Maui and definitely find some time to watch (or participate in) the windsurfing at Ho’okipa or Lanes. When there are 10 or more surfers at Ho’okipa, wind surfing is not permitted so try to catch the scene on a slower day.

Lahaina Harbor, Break Wall

One of the many surf breaks located off of Lahiana

Three entrances, via the beach, rocks or marina break wall. Shortboards are predominantly used here and the paddle out is fairly easy. Skill levels from novice to experienced can find a good day’s surfing here and the summertime is ideal. Watch out for vuana (urchins) and reef and keep in mind that it gets crowded during the week and weekends. Break Wall is a left reef break and surfers have found the low and medium tides best. Swell directions are from the south, southwest and west, with wind directions from the north, northwest and east.

Truuli Maui Hale
An intimate luxury estate that offers a small family or group of friends an indulgent stay in Lahaina. Sports enthusiasts will be enthralled with the multitude of opportunities to play in and out of the water; in addition to surfing, the location is great for golf, snorkeling and plenty of beach hikes. The private hot tub and the grill are your favorite amenities after a full day of exhilarating surfing at Break Wall or one of the other Maui surf spots.

No Ka Oi Hale
Wrap around windows, an expansive lanai, hammock and an ocean view embody guests in nature and comfort at No Ka Oi Hale in historic and artsy Lahaina town. A grill, plenty of places to entertain and retreat, plus nearby galleries and local eateries fill the days and nights here. Surf Break Wall and Puamana, among other Maui surf spots. The vacation rental sleeps six comfortably so you can opt for a vacation for two or more surf buddies or a family or couples. Lazy times at the home in the evenings and active surfing adventures during the day are common itineraries for surf guests to this vacation rental, with beds you’ll sink into after a drinks and a good meal.

Enjoy nearby beaches and great waves from any of these Maui vacation rentals

Maalaea Freight Train
Often called Maalaea, Freight Train gets the excitement going well before arriving to Kihei. You can park near the east side of the boat harbor at the Maui Ocean Center. Malalaea is for the experienced and is a spectacular show for surf enthusiasts. A right reef break that’s hollow and fast that works best with rounded pin or pin-tail boards. It’s considered world class for the fastest rights, particularly during swells in the south direction. Summer is the best for this surf spot.

Lotus Indo House at Kamaole Beach
Open the bedroom door and it leads to the hot tub and an ocean view at Lotus Indo House, which has plenty to keep you entertained at home or at the nearby beach. Luxurious bathroom fixtures and incredible home furnishings and features make this a top pick for surfers and their guests who like to have good restaurants and attractions nearby but also a place to escape after a strenuous workout on the Maalaea Freight Train. Guests need not bring much for a stay here as everything from bar ware to children’s games are supplied.

Hale Lanui
The location is fantastic, adjacent to Kalama Park and surfing is in walking distance. Tasteful art, plenty of views from the upper lanai and downstairs dining area. The Jacuzzi is what you’ll seek after an adventure at Maalaea and other surf spots. The grill, lounges, and cozy cottage feel makes Hale Lanui a good beach pad for surfers seeking an ideal location for both surfing experiences and exploring Kihei and other parts of Maui. Go for a swim, walk to local food stores and coffee shops and live within the community like a local, intermingling as much or as little as you’d like.

For more places to stay on Maui, check out the rest of our Maui vacation rentals.

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Experience Kaanapali on a budget

Kaanapali is known as a resort area on Maui that might be easily dismissed by travelers considering it expensive. Vacation rentals here offer the best values in luxury vacationing because of an excellent location to a gorgeous beach with multiple water sports and access to boutiques, art galleries, spas, restaurants and other sites.

Experience the best of Kaanapali from one of our Kaanapali vacation rentals.

The vacation rentals offer views of the ocean in West Maui and amenities for luxuriating when not touring the island. The décor exudes island chic and provides a haven after a long day of exploration. Purchase your gourmet items at the farmers’ market or fish market—for both picnics and leisurely nights at home and then splurge on grand meals the rest of the time. Kona coffee is a luxury worth tasting and enjoying every morning before you start your day. Day spas or resort spas are located throughout the West Side of Maui and you may find great deals at a local spa and a more intimate atmosphere. Resort spas may offer reasonable discounts for multiple treatments.

Experience the spiritual Black Rock evening ceremony

Plan on a trip to Black Rock for the evening ceremony, spiritual, and a site worth an end of day experience. Resort area shopping is fun for browsing and nearby Lahaina offers a myriad of funky artwork by local artists and reasonably priced souvenirs. Some vacation rentals include sports gear, for adventures on land and sea so you can save some rental costs when you plan that dream excursion, of which there are several in Kaanapali: jet skiing, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving and cliff jumping. Food and entertainment in Kaanapali is another expense that travelers think about but if you plan on going to happy hours, you can taste excellent local food and good drink specials. Also, live Hawaiian music and hula shows are also often part of the scene so sit back and enjoy some island cocktails. Staying on the West Side of Mauai, particularly in Kaanapali, is a good idea with access to multiple towns and sights—Lahaina, Kapalua Bay and more.

For more places to stay on West Maui, check out our Kaanapali condos and Kaanapali luxury rentals

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Relax in your vacation rental in Kaanapali on West Maui

Vacations are for rejuvenation and a stay in Kaanapali on West Maui includes a bounty of relaxation. A former retreat for ancient Hawaiian royalty, the acclaimed beaches alone exude serenity. Consider your vacation rental your base sanctuary, with all the comforts of home and the luxuries of a boutique, upscale hotel.

Escape to one of our Kaanapali vacation rentals for a romantic getaway on West Maui.

Start with an excursion to a spiritual ceremony at Puu Kekaa. Sunset is a sacred time during which a daily cliff diving ceremony is held from the beach’s northernmost cliffs, Black Rock. Every evening, a cliff diver lights the torches along the cliff and then dives off of Black Rock, in honor of the adventurous and beloved King Kahekili. The event is a spiritual experience that sets the tone for your stay.

Experience a spiritual sunset cliff diving ceremony at Puu Kekaa

Continue the renewing activities with a visit to a local day spa or one of the resort’s top-notch spas. Zen-like treatments and atmospheres, spa packages with ancient Hawaiian methods and local ingredients as part of an entire day of pampering will delight. Leave with a sense of lightness and if you’re visiting Kaanapali for a romantic getaway, make sure to do a side-by-side massage on the beach.

Also, check out our Lahaina vacation rentals located just down the road from Kaanapali.

Walk through the multiple resort areas to find more ways to relax and renew. The inspiring lava rock structures, gardens and waterfalls are soothing. Reward yourself at every turn, with gourmet dinners, lazy days and treats throughout your stay for a genuine renewal before heading home.

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Make the most of your time in the Historic whaling village of Lahaina

Historic whaling village, offbeat charm and Front Street are a few features of Lahaina to which visitors flock when visiting Maui.

The Banyan Tree, Old Jail Gallery and the numerous art studios and galleries will fill your days outside of sun and fun. Photography to take home, art to behold and handcrafted items are all available to browse and for shopping. Even festivals are offbeat cultural adventures, with a memorable Halloween celebration, somewhat reminiscent of a mini Mardi Gras. Other events include artist receptions and boutique gallery temporary exhibit evenings.

Our Lahaina vacation rentals in West Maui guaranty a cultural island experience for every traveler.

Take a walk down the Historic Front Street in Lahaina

While the art galleries in Lahaina are a great way to explore handcrafted items and local artists’ talents, the locale itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so you’ve essentially fallen into a history book if you opt to stay in a vacation rental here. The farmers’ market is open two days a week, ideal for mid-week and weekend shopping. The market includes foods, crafts and local items for both souvenirs or to whip up a gourmet meal for a night in or a picnic on the beach. Open early in the morning till late afternoon, you’ll find plenty to taste and to take home, including the day’s fresh catch and fruits you’ve never seen nor tasted before.

Make the most of your time in Lahaina, with excellent proximity to whale watching, golf, Kaanapali and other towns from one of our Lahaina condos.

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Wailea has great golf courses suitable for beginner and experienced players

South Maui’s Wailea is known for the fine shops, beaches, spas and resorts. When you’re visiting the island, you’ll have access to a great range of active experiences, both land and sea. Your vacation rental serves as both a base camp and haven so start the day on your deck, curled up with a few brochures and guides and a cappuccino.

Check out all that Wailea has to offer from one of our Wailea vacation rentals.

Wailea Golf
Golfers, both beginners and experienced, will fill their days with Wailea Blue, Gold and Emerald, a total of 54 holes of championship golf. Vantage views of the dormant Mt. Haleakala may serve as a distraction, as will the updates and improvements in 2011 of the ponds and tees at Wailea Blue, revealing more of the native plants and flowers. Wailea Gold is called a “thinking player’s course” and a great one for training yourself from thinking of work to shifting to the challenges on the course. Coconut trees, Molokini and ancient lava rock walls form the backdrop here. Wailea Emerald’s unique facets are the draw, plus the Top Fairways Award for the most women-friendly golf clubs (Golf for Women magazine honor won seven times). The double green is shared by holes #10 and #17, a dramatically scenic spot alongside many more on all three courses.

Wailea Beach

Wailea Beach has activities for all ages

A gorgeous resort beach that is idyllic for an active, or passive, experience. Its crescent shape, black lava structures add character to an already scenic beach. Nationally acclaimed, it’s a multi-use beach, with activities for all ages. Walk on the boardwalk at dawn or dusk. Near the south side, an elevated area makes for a great walk with views of the entire beach park, including the coastline. West Maui Mountains and Molokini. Calm waters at Wailea Beach Park make it an appealing place to bring the kids for gentle swimming or wading. Snorkeling is a fantastic activity before noon, with clear waters to spot sea life. You’ll also have a chance to meet both locals and visitors. Finish the day by returning to your vacation rental sanctuary, cocktail in hand.

For more places to stay in Wailea, take a look at our Wailea luxury rentals and Wailea condos.

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Stay safe by going to beaches with a lifeguard and obey all warnings and notices

Kanaha Beach Park
Kanaha Beach Park is a beach on Maui that is one of the rare spots with few crowds. Located in Kahului behind the airport, the beach is a world class windsurfing destination. Watching or participating is a thrill. Swimming is good here, year-round, and the beach park has full facilities including lifeguards, restroom and shower facilities and picnic areas. An extra bonus is the Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary where you’ll find the endangered Hawaiian coot and silt at these wetlands (free admission, parking available).

Planning a trip to Maui? Stay in one of our Lahaina vacation rentals.

West Maui’s D.T. Fleming Beach Park
Swim, snorkel, dive, surf and simply hang out at D.T. Fleming Beach Park on your Maui vacation. The beach is named for David Thomas Fleming who introduced pineapple to West Maui as a commercial crop. Soak up the sun as you gaze at Honokahua Bay, one of West Maui’s six bays. Lifeguards are on duty, but even so, surf with caution as a high surf breaks on the sandbar. Explore Honokahua Beach too, with large ironwood trees and dunes near Makaluapuna Point.

Makena Beach

Lifeguards are on duty but act with caution because there is high surf at Makena Beach

Makena Beach, also known as Big Beach, is a beach and more, with Little Beach that was created from lava flow and an earthquake in 1790. Lifeguards are on duty but as with all beaches, act with caution because there is high surf at Big Beach, seasonally. Body surfing, hiking, swimming and snorkeling are multiple water sports taking place so it’s an active scene. Pu’u Ola’i, or Earthquake Hill, is a volcanic cinder cone dividing Big and Little Beaches. Little Beach has less forceful waves breaking on a wide, shallow sandbar. Big Beach is also known as Oneloa, long sand and Makena means abundance. The long stretch of sand at Big Beach makes it one of Maui’s biggest and it will not disappoint.

Stay nearby Makena Beach in one of our Makena vacation rentals.

H.A. Baldwin Beach Park
Frolic among the local community and see what they love so much about Maui’s North Shore. Swimming, body boarding and picnics are all great but beware the waves and currents. Lifeguards stands are on site so you’ll have security if you’re swimming in strong winds but obey all warnings and notices. Full facilities you expect of a beach where you want to spend the day, this beach is in picturesque Paia, complete with a small beach and lagoon, ideal for children.

While digging your toes in the sand is grand, if you are a water lubber, you should get out on one of the many Maui snorkeling or whale watching tours. You can see a lot of marine life that you don’t see from the beach, and also avoid some of the crowds on the more popular beaches.

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Makena is a heavenly vacation for a couple or family visiting Maui’s South Shore

Sunny Surf at Makena Surf
Sunny Surf exemplifies Makena’s beach scene with soft light indoors and bright blue and green colors outside. The corner villa is a haven for a couple or family visiting Maui’s South Shore. Spacious living and sleeping areas, luxury bath, access to tennis courts and swimming pool, gourmet kitchen and espresso machine are only a handful of amenities that are part of the package at Sunny Surf. It’s a resort within itself, so indulge in the big and small perks. The views from inside reveal some of Maui’s best coastlines, complete with towering palms.

The lovely terrace areas offer dining and lounging areas for early morning breakfasts to see the sunrise, cocktails at sunset and stargazing at night. Makena’s rustic and small-town feel offers guests glimpses of ancient Hawaii through the black lava landscapes, a great contrast to the resort location. The nearby spa is great for pampering and you’ll find plenty of eateries for seaside dining, if you leave your villa.

Makena Surf F106
The Makena Surf F106 vacation rental is almost 2,000 sq. ft., with the ocean just steps away. Sea and nature views, a fully equipped kitchen, two bedrooms and a porch are amenities to make this a cozy and comfortable stay for a family. The sofa bed, washer and fully-equipped kitchen make it a home on Maui, with plenty to do in addition to lazy beach days throughout your vacation. The community pool and hot tub are also a part of the stay so you can unwind after a full day or opt to hang out at your vacation rental.

Enjoy the ocean just steps away from your Makena vacation rental

Malukai O Makena
Malukai O Makena is a mere minute from a nature preserve. This vacation rental is idyllic for couples, romantic for couples married a long time and a dream escape for anyone visiting Maui. Seemingly from a movie, it’s a surreal stay, with golf, tennis, SCUBA and snorkeling all just under a five minute drive away. The lava rock infinity pool, deck overlooking the water and a sense of being on an island all your own makes this a top pick and a must for vacationers seeking the experience the good life on the island.

Private Makena-Maui Estate
The Private Makena-Maui Estate brings the outdoor beauty inside and the luxury of the home’s interior outside. It’s evident that every part of the vacation rental was created for travelers who want to spend as much time in their temporary home on the island as the time spent exploring. A swim-up bar, your own courtyard and waterfall, mountain and ocean views, an outdoor lanai with gourmet grill and upscale furnishings throughout the palatial home. Make the most of Makena’s royal lifestyle here—water sports, culture, golf, spas and more.

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The West Side of Maui is home to the town of Napili

Maui’s West Side is home to many incredible towns, rich in history of which Napili is one. A special phrase, Napili means luck will cling. It also refers to the pili grasses that once filled the land. Beautiful bays create a coastline that still captivates today. Napili is neighbor to other treasured towns within 10 miles, Honokowai, Kahana, Kapalua and Lahaina (the entire town translates heritage and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places).

Planning a trip to the West Side of Maui? Check out our Napili vacation rentals for your stay.

Today, a vacation paradise, the development of the area slowed down as zoning ordinances restricted the height of buildings, preserving the beauty, views and facets visitors enjoy today in Napili. The area is a lively contrast of the past blending with today and coming full circle as people enjoy exploring Napili’s area beaches. Swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing are one day’s activity while exploring organic farms adjacent to Pu’u Kukui, the West Maui summit, is another. Farming of centuries ago has evolved and endured today.

Napali and its neighboring towns have found a balance for preserving the history and natural beauty of the area

Also, take a look at our Lahaina vacation rentals located nearby the town of Napili.

From the central Pacific, the first settlers of the islands date back to the 8th century and the lucky ones found Napili. Attend a Napili luau to see the traditions and heritage brought to life from centuries ago—hula, ukulele, rituals and ancient heiau. Concerts for the slack key guitar, lei making and more will show visitors Napili’s cultural side. The neighboring towns of the West Side have found a balance for preserving the history and natural beauty of the area.

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Make the most out of your Maui vacation with one of our 5 best Maui luxury rentals

Royal Ilima at Wailea Beach Villa
Beyond luxury, this villa elevates the good life to a lavish one. It’s likely a millennium version of a palatial estate akin to Hawaiian royalty’s summer escapes centuries ago. Located on Maui’s South Shore in Wailea, the home is suited for the traveler seeking romance, comfort, luxury and a dream respite. The view of the ocean is magnificent, just beyond your own oasis; the daybreak, sunset and times in between are unbelievable, with soft, sunshine mornings and candy-colored evenings. The South Shore’s sun teams with blue skies during the day so lounging by the infinity pool will be a frequent activity. A private veranda for cocktails, cozy living and sleeping areas will entice you to spend most or all of your time at home, but the sights and eateries nearby are plentiful.

Kapalua Manor
Maui’s West Side offers plenty to do for the sports enthusiast, with golf, surfing and snorkeling nearby. The Kapalua Manor is a place to unwind after an active day or a restful one and, either way, it is a luxurious retreat. The views of the ocean and mountains in the distance are peaceful and you’ll enjoy them indoors and throughout the home. The light, airy interior makes this elegant home inviting and cozy all at once. Spend time in the Jacuzzi, make the one minute walk to the beach and enjoy gourmet meals on nights you want to spend at home. Kapalua Manor is ideal for an extended family or group of friends.

The ultimate relaxation is to enjoy the Lahaina sunset from the lanai of the Bella Mare Estate

Bella Mare Estate
A dreamy estate, this luxury vacation rental is in Lahaina and beautifully manages to be grand while intimate. Both inside and outdoors, you’ll enjoy sumptuous meals with cocktails. The pool is large enough for laps, lounging on the lanai and enjoying gourmet meals. The master outdoor shower, cozy suites, striking sunsets, koi pond and spacious family room are highlights to make this a vacation home perfect for a couple or small family. Lahaina’s duality of New England charm by the harbor and sunny shoreline makes it a fantastic part of Maui to explore. The town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so take advantage of the close proximity to heritage sites, art galleries, boutiques and a variety of eateries. Sitting on the lanai at night for stargazing and ultimate relaxation is one of the popular guest activities.

AZURE
A warm, inviting home, Azure is like living in a Zen garden, with just about every view from inside and outdoors offering a serene glimpse of the landscapes, sky and sea. The openness of the home makes the pool an outdoor focal point and spacious lounging areas inside serve as interior focal points, perfect for entertaining and enjoying each other’s company.

Located in the Kaanapali resort area, Azure provides easy access to beaches, golf, sailing, diving and Whalers Village. You’ll likely want to spend most of your time at home, with the infinity edge pool and Jacuzzi, but when you want to venture beyond the home, Kaanapali offers plenty to do, including spas and upscale restaurants. The privacy will make you feel safe and secure, but also allow you to fully relax in Azure’s splendor.

Malukai O Makena
An unreal find, this luxury sanctuary is every traveler’s dream. Located in Makena on the South Shore, this Maui find is in the historic NARS district of Maui. The infinity pool, ingenious architecture, indoor/outdoor lounging areas and waterfalls exude the ultimate in relaxation. This is the honeymooning pair’s indulgent escape or anniversary couple’s surreal paradise.

Watch the sunrise from the Malukai O Makena or from the nearby beach

Almost 360° views of the ocean enhance the essence of a tranquil island vacation experience and the home is simply an island within the island. The gourmet kitchen, Balinese décor and multiple places within the home for cozy curling up will warm you to Malukai O Makena. Watch the sunrise with a steaming hot cup of coffee and pastries in the morning, laze around in the sun by the pool or in it and enjoy cocktails and tapas early evening before a leisurely gourmet dinner.

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Overlooking the legendary Kaanapali on Maui’s West Side

Kaanapali Kahala Estate
Black Rock, signature beaches and world-acclaimed golf are the features of legendary Kaanapali on Maui’s West Side. Spend your days lounging at Kaanapali Kahala Estate, with its vast grounds, spacious living spaces and two master suites overlooking the sea. The gourmet kitchen is excellent for catering parties for 16 or just two.

Make sure to find time for a sunset stroll to see the daily cliff diving ceremony off Black Rock (Puu Kekaa) where you’ll see a cliff diver light torches for a pathway along the cliff and then watch the show as he brings to life the cliff diving bravery of Maui’s royal past, as displayed by King Kahekili centuries ago. When you want to leave the Kaanapali Kahala Estate, which is rare, you’ll possibly find yourself browsing the shops at Whalers Village.

Our Kaanapali Kahala Estate makes Maui all the more wondrous

The pool’s unique features include its marbled steps for dipping and sunning positions and semi-indoor-outdoor feel. After a full day, unwind in the billiard room or escape to your private lanai. Venture to nearby Lahaina for half a day if you like and then return to a soothing soak in the Jacuzzi. Also called Castle Villa, this two and a half story home makes Maui all the more wondrous.

For more places to stay on Maui’s West Side, check out the rest of our Kaanapali luxury rentals.

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