The best surfing for beginners isn’t the biggest swell. Newer surfers will benefit from more mellow action to help them learn balance and gain confidence. Here are four locations to try if you’re ready to hit the water.

What Are the Top Places to Surf in Lahaina?

1. Olowalu

This surf break located six miles south of Lahaina Harbor offers small, less-traveled beaches. You’ll have plenty of room to rest on the shoreline in between catching small and medium waves. 

Visitors can easily reach the surfing area from the side of the road. You’ll find moderate waves much of the year and high swells around summertime. Bring what you need to spend the day, as there are no bathrooms, showers, or barbecues.

2. South Lahaina Papalua Beach

Locals call this spot “Grandma’s” or “1,000 Peaks,” but it’s technically named Papalua State Wayside Park. This locale offers many waves for newer riders to try out. There is a campground adjacent to the beach just off the Honoapi‘ilani Highway if you want to spend a few days working on your skills. Trashcans and porta-potties are available on-site.

3. South Lahaina “Launiopoko”

If you’re interested in longboarding, a relaxed, lower style of riding, this is the perfect place for surfing for beginners. Launiopoko Beach Park is off the Honoapi‘ilani Highway, offering beautiful sandy beaches and long, slow-rolling waves. This spot has many wave breaking points, so surfers have plenty of places to get their boards in the water.

4. North Lahaina Ka‘anapali Beach

This favorite beach north of Lahaina Town was once a place for Hawaiian ali‘i to enjoy the mild weather and light winds, creating the perfect atmosphere for surfing for beginners. There are many resorts along this six-mile stretch, so you can stop at a restaurant or visit a pool if you want a break from the waves.

If you’re interested in checking out these beaches, rent surfboards at LahAina Surf Shack. The woman-owned Maui surf school offers private and group lessons to get people of all ages and ability levels on the water. Call the surf shop at (808) 661-2700 to sign up, or visit the website for information on their classes, rentals, and retail shop.