Honolua Bay is one of the most renowned surf spots in Maui, located on the northwestern coast. It's known for its stunning scenery, with high cliffs surrounding the bay. The area generally gets a lot of swell during the winter months, making it a favorite among surfers looking for quality waves. Access is easy, with plenty of places to park along the bluff, but it can get really crowded when the waves are good. Expect to see many local surfers out in the water, especially during the height of the season.

The surf at Honolua Bay is pretty special, offering a right point break that can deliver fantastic waves over a distance of about 400 meters. The best swell direction is Northwest (NNW), and it handles sizes from around 2.5 to 4 meters (8 to 12 feet). The wave often starts at Coconuts, where it’s bigger and windier. After that, it moves into Outside, which can produce hollow sections for some solid barrels. The most famous section is Cave, known for its intensity and potential for serious rides, although it can also be chaotic with lots of surfers around. Lastly, Keiki Bowl is where the wave relaxes a bit, making it suitable for those just starting out or smaller surfers. Ideal conditions usually come with light winds from the Northeast, and all tides can work well here.

While the surf can be amazing, it’s important to be cautious of the shallow, uneven reef, which adds a challenge and risk to riding here. The crowd can be heavy, especially when the waves are firing, so if you’re heading out, show respect and humility. This spot isn't for beginners—experience and skill are a must to handle both the waves and the crowd. Typical board choices include shortboards, funboards, and even longboards depending on the conditions.