Located on the far western edge of Maui, Rainbows is a popular surf spot nestled in the resort area of Kaanapali. This spot showcases a collection of peaks that catch summer swells from the south and winter swells from the north. However, the nearby islands of Moloka'i, Lana'i, and Kaho'olawe can block some of the swell. Expect a crowd here, no matter when you come, since this place is a hotspot for surfers. Thankfully, the winds are generally favorable with the ENE tradewinds blowing offshore, making it a decent spot to catch some waves.
The waves here can vary quite a bit with the seasons. You'll find them ranging from waist high to about 2 times overhead (roughly 0.9 to 6.1 meters), handling swells between 3ft to 7ft (about 0.9 to 2.1 meters). The right can offer some solid barrels when the north swells pump in, especially in winter, while the lefts also have their moments. The bottom is reef, and surfers should be careful of that. Whether you're riding a shortboard, funboard, longboard, fish, or using a bodyboard, you'll find something for your style here. It's best suited for intermediate surfers and can be ridden at low, mid, and high tides. Wind conditions are typically calm to offshore from the east, making for a pleasant surf experience.
Access is pretty easy, as you can get to Rainbows via Honoapiilani Park. Just keep in mind that the crowd factor can be moderate depending on the surf quality and the day of the week. The local vibe is generally chill, so just be respectful and enjoy your time in the water. Surfing here is possible all year round, with the best conditions usually found in autumn, winter, spring, and summer. And remember, always stay alert of the reef while you're out there!