Lopa Beach is a long, white sand beach located on the east coast of Lanai. It's a bit remote, accessible only by rough 4X4-only roads branching off from Keomuku Road. This means you really need a sturdy vehicle to get there. The beach itself is generally pretty pristine, making it a nice spot to chill when the surf isn't pumping. Summer is the most consistent time for waves here, but you might catch some decent ones in winter if the north-northeast swells sneak in between Maui and Molokai.
The surf at Lopa Beach can get fun, especially with the right swell and wind conditions. It handles sizes from about 4 to 7 feet (1.2 to 2.1 meters), with the best action coming from S-SSE and NNE-NE swells. The breaks are mostly over reef and coral, offering both right and left waves. You can surf here year-round, but summer usually delivers better sessions. When the wind is calm or blowing offshore from the west or northwest—often during winter fronts—it's game on. Just keep in mind that onshore winds from the easterly trades are pretty common, which can mess up the waves.
The crowd situation at Lopa Beach can be hit or miss. When the conditions are prime, it might get a bit crowded, but more often than not, you can find some empty spots to enjoy. The vibe is generally mellow, so it’s a good place to relax and ride some waves. Beginners and intermediate surfers will find something to enjoy, while more experienced surfers can challenge themselves when the swell is up. Just remember to be respectful and keep it chill.