Winter on West Maui brings a shift in energy to our coastline. The trade winds often soften, the evenings cool down, and the Pacific Ocean wakes up with the arrival of powerful north and northwest swells. For visiting surfers and kamaʻāina (residents) alike, this is the season when the “Country” side of Maui truly shines.

Whether you are looking to charge double-overhead barrels or just watch the pros from the cliffs, staying at Nāpili Village Hotel puts you front and center for the action.

Honolua Bay: The Crown Jewel

Just minutes north of Napili Village Hotel lies Honolua Bay, widely considered one of the best waves in the world. As part of the Mokulēʻia Marine Life Conservation District, the bay is pristine, beautiful, and culturally significant.

During the winter months (typically October through April), North and Northwest swells wrap perfectly around the point, creating a mechanical, hollow reef break. On epic days, the wave connects through three distinct sections—The Cave, Keiki Bowl, and Coconuts—offering rides that can peel for hundreds of yards.

Honolua Surf Fact Sheet:

• Best Swell Direction: NNW to N
• Skill Level: Advanced to Expert (The Cave); Intermediate (Keiki Bowl on smaller days).
• The Vibe: High performance. This wave hosts professional contests and local legends.
• Spectator Tip: If you aren’t an expert surfer, the view from the cliffs is unbeatable. It is the best natural amphitheater for watching surfing in Hawaiʻi.

Note: Honolua demands respect. The reef is sharp and shallow, and the lineup is competitive. Always practice strict etiquette here. If in doubt do go out.

Nāpili Bay: The Home Break

You don’t always have to drive to find waves. Right here at our doorstep, Nāpili Bay transforms during the winter season. While famous for its calm summer swimming, winter swells filter in to create fun, wedgy peaks.

Nāpili is generally more forgiving than Honolua, making it a favorite for bodyboarders and surfers looking for a quick session without the heavy crowds.

• Best For: Intermediate surfers and bodyboarders.
• Conditions: Look for a cleaner North swell with light winds.
• Why we love it: You can check the surf while drinking your morning coffee on your lanai, then walk to the water’s edge.

Pōhaku Park (S-Turns)

Located in Kahana, just a short drive south of Nāpili, is Pōhaku Park, locally known as “S-Turns.” The nickname comes from the old curves in the road that used to exist here, though the road has long since been straightened.

S-Turns is a favorite specifically during North swells. It offers a softer, A-frame peak compared to the hollow intensity of Honolua, but it still packs a punch. It is known for “shifting” peaks, meaning you have to stay active and paddle to find the sweet spot.

• Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced.
• The Wave: Fun walls with occasional barrel sections on the inside.

Punalau (Cliffs)

Continuing north past Honolua Bay, the road winds toward Punalau, often referred to by surfers simply as “Windmills.”

This spot picks up a tremendous amount of swell. When Honolua is too crowded, surfers often check Punalau. However, it is exposed to the wind and the currents here are strong. It is a raw, powerful break that favors a goofy-foot surfer (breaking left) but offers rights as well.

• Warning: The entry and exit can be tricky over sharp reef and rocks.

Winter Surf Protocols: Mālama The Ocean

The ocean in Hawaiʻi is powerful and deserving of deep respect. When surfing West Maui this winter, please keep the following in mind:

1. Know Your Limits: “When in doubt, don’t go out.” Winter waves look smaller from the shore than they actually are.
2. Reef Awareness: Our reefs are living ecosystems. Avoid standing on the coral to protect the marine life and your feet (sea urchins are common!).
3. Respect the Locals: Many of these spots have been surfed by the same families for generations. Smile, wait your turn, and give respect to get respect.
4. No Parking Zones: Be mindful of where you park, especially near Honolua and Punalau, to avoid ticketing and keep traffic flowing.

Surf-Friendly Stays at Nāpili Village Hotel

For surfers, convenience is key. You don’t want to waste time driving when the wind creates glass-off conditions.

Nāpili Village Hotel offers the ideal base camp for your winter surf trip:

• Location: We are centrally located between the world-class rights of Honolua and the fun peaks of Kahana.
• Space: Our rooms feature full kitchens, perfect for cooking a hearty breakfast before the dawn patrol.
• Vibe: After a long session, relax in our low-key, plantation-style setting.

Ready to chase the winter swells? Book your stay at Nāpili Village Hotel today.