Honolua Bay is a small rocky beach in the Mokuleia Marine Life Conservation District on the North-West coast of Maui. It is famed as one of Hawaii’s foremost surfing spots, with immense barrel waves that reach up to 18 metres in height creating perfect conditions for long rides. The waves are intense, so less confident surfers may want to brush up their skills with a few lessons at one of the local surf schools before heading out alone.If you’d rather watch the fun than risk the waves, head up to the craggy cliffs around the beach for perfect views of all the action. The surf is best during the winter months, with the immense Northern swell hitting the beach’s renowned surf break for some of the most spectacular peaks around. If you’re around in January, you should head over for the Billabong Pro Maui Surfing Competition, which attracts the world’s best professional women surfers who come to show off their skills.The grass-carpeted cliffs make a divine walking spot, with views across the bay to the neighbouring island of Molokai with its dense jungle-like vegetation. Remember to take some water with you as, although there is a cooling sea breeze, hiking in the Hawaiian heat can be thirsty work!Outside of the surf season, the Beach is a popular snorkelling spot. Fishing is banned in the conservation district, so the native sea-life is varied and plentiful. See if you can spot the official Hawaiian state fish, the Humuhumunukunukuapuaa (or humuhumu for short), amongst the teeming schools of damsel fish, flag tails and bigeye scad. Head to the rocks at the northern end of the Bay for spectacular coral formations and clearer water that hasn’t been fogged up by the swirling grey sands.There are no lifeguards on patrol here, so don’t enter the water unless you are an experienced swimmer as its strong currents can be unpredictable. To get to Honolua Bay, drive northwest along the Honoapiilani Highway. There is a free car park just near the beach, with a pedestrian track which will lead you straight to the shore.
Honolua Bay Tours and Activities
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Plan a trip to see Honolua Bay
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Popular places to visit
Kapalua Golf Club Plantation Course
Play a round of golf at Kapalua Golf Club Plantation Course and enjoy other activities in Honolua such as snorkelling. Discover the area's beautiful sunsets and seafood restaurants.
D.T. Fleming Beach Park
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, D.T. Fleming Beach Park might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Lahaina. In the area, take in the great live music and beautiful sunsets.
Oneloa Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Oneloa Beach during your travels in Lahaina? Discover the area's great live music or seek out its snorkelling spots.
Kapalua Beach
Home to rare monk seals and a range of rainbow-coloured tropical fish, the white sands of Kapalua Beach are a dream destination for snorkelling and sunbathing.
Kapalua Coastal Trail
Enjoy a trip to Kapalua Coastal Trail and popular activities such as snorkelling in Kapalua. Stroll along the seaside in this romantic area or seek out the golf courses.
Napili Bay
An idyllic white sand beach bordered by palm trees and coral reefs, Napili Bay is a spectacular natural refuge.