Olowalu is a surf spot located about six miles south of Lahaina Harbor. This spot features a jetty spit and offers a fun left during the summer months when the SSW-SW swells make their way through the channels between Lana'i and Kaho'olawe. Besides the left, there are also some right and left peaks nearby, keeping options open for different wave preferences. Generally, it's an easy access spot right off the road.
The surf here handles swell sizes from about 4 feet (1.2 meters) to 7 feet (2.1 meters), making it suitable for various levels of surfers from beginners to experts. The waves break over a reef bottom, with the primary wave types being reef breaks. The best swell directions are SSW, SW, and WSW, while the ideal wind comes from the North to ENE. For tide, low to mid and mid to high are usually the best options. Expect the size to range up to about chest high and even up to 2x overhead at times. When the conditions are right, this spot can be a lot of fun.
While the crowd factor can vary from light to moderate based on the day's surf quality and the day of the week, it's generally a mellow scene. Just be sure to be respectful to others out in the water. The environment here is pristine, though be mindful of the reef, as it can be a hazard. Whether you choose a shortboard, funboard, longboard, fish, bodyboard, or even a kiteboard, there's potential for a solid session at Olowalu, especially during spring, summer, and autumn.