Seasonal· Maui· Hawaii

North Shore Winter Swell (Maui)

20° 57.9′ N · 156° 18.0′ W · approximate

From about October to April, North Pacific storms send big north and northwest swells onto Maui's north shore, lighting up Hookipa and closing every north-coast anchorage from Kahului to Keanae.

Practical

Approx: representative point off the Haiku coast. Coast Pilot: surge reaches the Kahului piers during heavy north swells about 10 times a year, and the Hana Bay entrance should not be attempted when seas are breaking. North-coast anchorages (Uaoa, Pilale, Honomanu, Nuaailua) are summer or kona-wind stops only. The Hana Bay ramp faces north swell, making launching extremely difficult. Watch NWS Honolulu high surf advisories.

Best for

Avoiding the north coast in winter

Season

Oct-Apr

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