Kanaha Beach is located just a short distance from Kahului International Airport, making it super accessible for surfers. It's less than two miles from Town, which is convenient for grabbing any essentials. The spot enjoys a good view of the North Pacific, so you can expect some consistent fun surf. It’s not known for being overly critical, but it’s a chill place to catch some waves and hang out.
For the surf itself, make sure you're ready for a long paddle out—almost half a mile—to reach the peak where the waves break. The surf often runs from waist high to about 2X overhead (roughly 1.5 to 6 meters), and it can handle swell sizes from 5 to 10 feet. The waves are mostly crumbly rights and lefts, which are popular with longboarders and SUPs. The reef out there adds to the fun, but keep in mind that conditions can change. In the late morning and afternoon, the NE-ENE tradewinds kick in, making it a playground for kiteboarders and windsurfers instead.
Access to Kanaha is pretty straightforward, and while the crowds are minor, they can be spread out across the beach. It’s advisable to keep a mellow vibe and respect fellow surfers. The environment is usually pristine, with a river mouth that flows during rainier periods. You can expect the best conditions in winter, though the tradeswell in summer can sometimes be rideable. With varying abilities catered for, from beginners to intermediates, this spot can handle shortboards, funboards, longboards, fish, and even bodyboards. If you're looking to kiteboard, this spot has you covered too!