Kahului Harbor surf guide

Kahului Harbor is located on the north-central coast of Maui. It's a place where surfers often pop in for a ride. The harbor has a few breaks both inside and outside that can be decent when conditions are right. The main wave you’ll want to check out is the right on the west side of the harbor, which can be a fun spot to test your skills.

The surf here works best with northwest to northeast swells in the 4 to 7 ft (1.2 to 2.1 m) range. When the conditions line up, you can catch a powerful roll-in wedge that’s created by swells breaking over a mix of reef, lava, and sand. The right is the standout, giving you a mini tube experience, while the left isn’t as reliable since it spills into deeper water. Winds from the south to west are best for keeping the waves clean, so keep an eye on the forecast. This spot is really suited for intermediate to expert surfers who are ready to handle the shifty currents and make the most of the conditions.

Accessing Kahului Harbor is pretty easy, with parking available right by the water, allowing you to jump straight into the lineup. It’s usually uncrowded on small swell days, but expect more surfers when a solid northerly swell rolls in. If you’re planning to surf here in the winter, be ready for potential crowds, but don’t let that discourage you; the wave can be worth the hustle. Just remember to be respectful and humble in the lineup!