Maui, Hawaii Surfing

The Good and Bad of Maui Surfing

Hawaii is the Mecca of surfing. Although Maui is not known as the center of the sport, our island has some incredible breaks. Oahu's North Shore is the best spot for surfing good-sized waves with good shape. Maui has many downfalls when it comes to surfing, but if you learn them, you can get around them and score good rides. The following will explain the good and the bad of Maui surfingand how you can get the best out of your Maui surfing experience in Hawaii.
Also, see our Maui Surf Spots Guide and Maui Surf Videos.

Beginner Maui Surfing

Learning to surf on Maui is a must do. With its gentle breaks and plethora of surf schools, our island is built for learning to surf. Both the South and West side of Maui have numerous breaks made for longboarding. The gradual slope of the ocean contour at these spots make for a gently breaking wave perfect for getting you up and going. Most of our surf schools on Maui guarantee you'll stand up the first time you take a lesson. Many will also rent you a board if you want to try surfing by yourself. One thing you need to keep in consideration is the sharp reef below you. Most of the beginner friendly spots break in shallower water, which means you'll want some kind of booty or reef shoe. When falling, which you'll do plenty of, make sure to fall away from your board and others and fall as flat as possible. Stick to South and West shores where you see other longboard surfers, and don't go alone. We advise you go to one of the Maui surf schools below to get proper instruction and surf at a safe spot. During some south or west swells, the surf in these areas can become hazardous. Be careful!