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Little Beach

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Ideal surf conditions at Little Beach

Swell window
SSE, S, SSW, SW, WSW, W, WNW
Swell size
3ft - 7ft
Swell breaks over
Sand, Rock
Wave types
Beach, Reef
Wave directions
Right, Left
Wind window
N, NNE, NE, ENE, E, ESE, SE
Best tides at
Low to Mid, Mid, Mid to High
Skill Level
Beginner, Intermediate, Expert
Seasons
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Board types
Bodyboard, Skimming, Bodysurfing, Shortboard

Little Beach surf guide

Little Beach, also known as Pu'u Ola'i Beach, is a scenic spot located on the southern end of Maui. It's part of a pair of beautiful beaches next to each other, with Big Beach nearby. This beach is famous for its unique vibe and is noted as the only generally accepted clothing-optional beach on the island. Access is easy via Makena State Park off Makena Road, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

When it comes to surfing, Little Beach generally features shorepound that can be powerful but is mostly suitable for bodyboarding, skimboarding, and bodysurfing. The wave sizes can range from about 3 to 7 feet (1 to 2.1 meters), depending on the swell. The spot is well exposed to swells coming from the South to South-Southwest, which are the most common, while larger, less frequent winter swells from the West-Northwest can slip in. It’s mostly a sandy bottom but there are rocks at both ends of the cove, and the waves break in both directions – right and left. This beach caters to surfers of all abilities, from beginners to experts, especially when the tides are medium to high.

As for wind, it's preferred to have calm conditions or gentle offshore breezes coming from the northeast or east. While the beach offers good waves most of the time, be prepared for some crowded days when the swell picks up. Overall, expect a minimal local vibe, and just remember to be chill and enjoy the waves!

Surf reports nearby Little Beach