I didn’t go to Kaanapali to surf. I went to draw. But after a few days sketching from the sand and watching the waves peel off the reef, I couldn’t resist paddling out. I’d always pictured Kaanapali as a resort-heavy stretch of west Maui with calm, tourist-friendly waters – and in many ways, it is. But surfing Kaanapali turned out to be more interesting than I expected, especially if you go into it with the right mindset.
It wasn’t epic. But it was fun. And if you’re staying nearby with a board (or can rent one), it’s a worthwhile session. Just don’t expect perfection. This isn’t a longboard dream like other parts of Hawaii or even nearby Oahu. It’s more of a convenient, quirky little wave that surprises you when the conditions align. And that’s exactly what I found charming about it.
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Surfing Kaanapali: What You Need to Know
Most people visit Kaanapali for snorkeling, sunsets, or umbrella drinks. The beach is lined with resorts, and most folks are focused on mai tais, poolside lounging, or cliff-jumping off Black Rock. But if you look closely at the reef breaks scattered along this coastline, especially near Hanakao’o Beach Park (also known as Canoe Beach), you’ll spot locals and travelers scoring mellow rides on small south swells. That’s where I paddled out – a stone’s throw from the cliff divers and within walking distance from many hotels.
The water was clear, the reef sharp, and the vibe easygoing. Most waves were in the knee-to-waist range, but on the right tide and swell, they shaped up nicely for a few quick turns or a clean glide. If you’re riding a longboard or a mid-length, you’ll find enough push to catch waves without too much effort. Shortboarders will likely struggle unless there’s a bigger south swell running.
Key Points
- Best on a small south swell and mid-tide: Kaanapali breaks don’t like too much water or wind. Check tides before paddling out, and avoid high tide unless the swell is significant.
- Bring booties: The reef is sharp and shallow, especially near the takeoff zone. I saw a few people limping out with reef cuts.
- It’s not a secret spot: You’re sharing the lineup with surf schools and curious travelers. Keep expectations low and stoke high.
Conditions and Crowds
I surfed in early May during a small south swell, and it was glassy in the mornings with just a handful of people out. A few longboarders, one foiler, and some surf lessons closer to shore. The crowd was friendly and mixed in experience. There was enough space to catch waves without feeling like you were battling anyone for them.
Weekends were slightly more crowded, especially later in the morning. Surf schools show up by 9 or 10 a.m., and the wind usually starts creeping in not long after that. Your best bet is to paddle out between 6 and 8 a.m. when it’s still glassy and quiet.
That said, timing is everything. If you go out at high tide or onshore wind kicks up, the waves turn mushy fast. Early mornings are your best shot. If you’re chasing more reliable conditions or longer rides, I recommend checking out the best longboard waves in Oahu or heading further afield to some of the longboard waves in Costa Rica.
Surfboard Rentals and Access
I didn’t travel with a board on this trip, so I rented one in Lahaina and drove five minutes north to Kaanapali. Several shops in Lahaina rent longboards and soft tops at decent rates – usually around $25–$35 per day. I picked up an 8’6″ single fin that felt just right for the playful conditions.
Access to the break near Canoe Beach was easy. There’s free parking (rare in Maui), restrooms, and even a shaded area for stretching or sketching. The paddle out is short, but if you time it poorly and end up walking over shallow reef, it’s easy to ding your board or your feet. If you want to avoid the reef walk, paddle out from the sandy beach section further south and angle your way over.
If you’re traveling with a board, it’s a convenient backup option when the rest of the island is blown out. And if you’re brand new to surfing, it’s not a bad place to take a lesson, especially if you want to combine it with a relaxing beach day.
Drawing Between Sessions
When the surf went flat (which happened often), I returned to my sketchbook. There’s something calming about drawing while everyone else is chasing GoPro shots or fighting over beach chairs. The palm trees, lava rocks, and turquoise layers gave me plenty to work with. I did a few studies of local canoe paddlers, and a long drawing of the cliff divers silhouetted against the sunset. It felt like the kind of place where you could slow down and really observe without distraction.
If you’re into sketching your travels, Kaanapali gives you contrast: the chaos of crowds and the serenity of the sea. I talk more about sketching during surf trips and finding inspiration in my drawing section of the site, especially when nature, movement, and rhythm intersect.
If you like that balance, you might also enjoy combining sketching and surfing at some of the longboard-friendly spots in Mexico or the lush coastlines around Kauai. Both offer more consistent waves and stunning sketchable scenery.
Final Thoughts on Surfing Here
Surfing Kaanapali won’t change your life. But it might change your day. Especially if you’re already staying nearby and want to sneak in a session without driving across the island.
It’s not going to compete with world-class breaks, but it’s got enough personality to make it worth your time. Just watch the tide, go early, and don’t forget your booties. Expect a few short rides, a friendly lineup, and views that will make your sketchbook pages come alive.
If you’re planning a surf trip that includes mellow waves and natural beauty, check out my guide to the best longboard waves in Hawaii.
For a current surf forecast in Kaanapali, I recommend checking Surfline’s Kaanapali report.
