Honolua Bay

A vibrant hub of water sports and activities, Honolua Bay is one of those rare destinations that has something to offer all year round. During the winter, throngs of surfing enthusiasts can be seen flocking to its shores to master the huge waves, while the summer months, when the waters are calmer, are the perfect time for a spot of snorkelling to catch a glimpse of the tropical marine life that flounders beneath the surface. It’s no surprise then that’s it’s one of the most popular attractions in Maui.

The must-be-seen spot for professional surfers, Honolua Bay also hosts the Association of Surfing Professionals’ Billabong Pro Maui women’s competition every December, so make sure to stop by if you’re in the area and watch the pros take on the bay’s infamous barrel waves.

Sun-worshippers should note that Honolua Bay is not really intended for sunbathing and lounging its small, craggy shoreline doesn’t really cater for this. But don’t be discouraged, the panoramas from the top of the surrounding bluffs are breathtaking, so be sure to bring your camera to capture some shots of this stunning landscape. The top of these high, rocky cliffs is also a sensational vantage point for watching the surfers in action down below.

Honolua bay is part of the Mokuleia Marine Life Conservation District and, as a result, its water is teeming with colourful, exotic fish and spectacular coral formations so dive on in and get a close-up of the friendly sea turtles that dwell within.

Given the unpredictable power of Honolua’s waves, this bay is not really suitable for children or novice swimmers or surfers, so don’t dive in unless you’re confident. Waters are calmer in the summer so this would be the best time to visit if you’re a little unsure.

To get to Honolua Bay, follow the Honopiilani Highway. Free parking is available nearby but it can get quite busy so it’s best to get here early to avoid the crowds.