Overview
Honolua Bay is a world-class right-hand pointbreak set in a cliff-lined amphitheatre on Maui's northwest coast, and it ranks among the best waves on the planet. The right peels over an uneven reef through a series of barrel and turn sections that can run for the better part of a quarter-mile. Surfers break it down by zone: Coconuts is the outermost takeoff with the most size, Outside stands up into the first hollow wall, Cave delivers the thickest and most high-performance barrels, and the inside Keiki Bowl finishes racy over shallow reef. This is a wave for experienced surfers only.
When It Works
The Bay draws swell from west through north to northeast, with northwest (NW) the best match. It works from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 3.7 m / 12 ft. The window runs through autumn, winter, and spring, though the spot can be somewhat inconsistent and is a bit fickle to catch pumping.
Wind and Tide
Look for northeast (NE) offshore wind. The reef can work through most of the tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
Expect a busy but friendly lineup when it's on. It handles a wide range of boards, from shortboards and fish to funboards, longboards, and bodyboards, but the wave itself rewards expert surfing. Watch the shallow reef and sea urchins, and be aware of current and sharks. Rides are long, so factor in a long paddle back up the point.
Access
Park in the car park along the bluff. Parking becomes a major issue when it's pumping.
