Maui’s beautiful beaches offer some of the best boogie boarding spots in Hawaii. I’ve spent countless hours riding waves across the island and have found that certain beaches stand out for their perfect conditions. The best beaches for boogie boarding on Maui include Kamaole Beach III in South Maui, D.T. Fleming Beach in West Maui, and Big Beach in Makena State Park.
When I’m looking for a great day of boogie boarding, I consider wave height, shore break quality, and safety features like lifeguards. Each area of Maui offers different wave experiences depending on the season and weather conditions.
South Maui beaches tend to be calmer in winter. Meanwhile, west-facing shores can get more exciting swells during summer months.
Keawakapu Beach
I recently visited Keawakapu Beach, and it’s a hidden gem for boogie boarding on Maui. The waves here are consistent but not overwhelming, making it perfect for boogie boarders of all skill levels.
The beach offers a beautiful stretch of golden sand with crystal clear waters. On my visit, I was thrilled to see sea turtles swimming nearby while I took breaks between riding waves. This adds a special touch to the boogie boarding experience.
Mornings are the best time for boogie boarding at Keawakapu, as the winds tend to pick up in the afternoon. I found the south end of the beach had the best breaks for catching rides, especially during a moderate swell.
What I love most about boogie boarding here is the uncrowded atmosphere compared to more popular Maui beaches. There’s plenty of space to spread out, and the friendly locals are always happy to share tips about the best spots to catch waves.
Rating: 4.8 (954 reviews)
Location: South Kihei Road & Kilohana Dr, Kihei, HI 96753
Website: Visit Website
Slaughterhouse Beach
I recently visited Slaughterhouse Beach (locally known as Mokulē’ia Bay) and was blown away by the boogie boarding opportunities. The powerful waves make this spot a paradise for boogie boarders looking for an exciting ride.
Getting to the beach requires a short hike down a stairway from the cliffs above, but trust me, it’s worth the effort. The beach got its unusual name because there was once a slaughterhouse on the cliffs overlooking this beautiful spot.
The water conditions here can vary greatly by season. I found the winter months bring larger swells that are perfect for experienced boogie boarders, while summer offers gentler conditions suitable for beginners. The sandy bottom makes for safer wipeouts compared to some rockier beaches.
I recommend arriving early to grab parking along the highway since spaces fill up quickly. The natural beauty surrounding the beach is breathtaking, with crystal clear waters when conditions are calm and stunning cliff views that add to the overall experience.
Rating: 4.8 (634 reviews)
Location: 6501 HI-30, Lahaina, HI 96761
Contact: (808) 243-5294
Website: Visit Website
Hamoa Beach
Hamoa Beach is a stunning spot for boogie boarding on Maui’s eastern shore. I visited last summer and was blown away by its crescent-shaped bay and clear turquoise waters. The waves here are consistent and sizable, making it perfect for intermediate boogie boarders.
The beach has beautiful gray sand and is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. When I arrived early in the morning, I practically had the place to myself before other visitors started showing up. The backdrop of palm trees and volcanic cliffs makes for a picturesque setting.
Be aware of the strong currents here – they can catch you off guard if you’re not paying attention. I found the best boogie boarding to be during mid-tide when the waves break cleanly without being too powerful. The beach doesn’t have lifeguards, so you’ll need to be confident in your water skills.
I love how this beach feels more secluded and less touristy than many of Maui’s more famous beaches. Parking is somewhat limited, so arriving early is a good strategy. Don’t forget to bring water and snacks as there aren’t many facilities nearby.
Rating: 4.7 (547 reviews)
Location: Hamoa Beach, Hana, HI 96713
Website: Visit Website
Makena Beach
Makena Beach is one of my favorite spots for boogie boarding on Maui. When I visited recently, I was amazed by the spacious shoreline and crystal-clear waters. The waves here are perfect for boogie boarding – not too intimidating for beginners but still exciting enough for more experienced riders.
I found the beach to be well-maintained with good facilities nearby. There’s even a food truck where I grabbed a quick lunch between riding waves. The picnic tables made for a great spot to rest and enjoy the amazing views of the ocean.
What I love most about boogie boarding at Makena is how the waves break consistently. The beach has a nice sandy bottom with fewer rocks than some other Maui beaches, making it safer when you inevitably wipe out. I recommend visiting in the morning when the winds are typically calmer.
The swimming and snorkeling are excellent here too if you need a break from boogie boarding. I spotted some colorful fish just a short distance from shore. Just be aware that conditions can change throughout the day, so keep an eye on the lifeguards’ flags for safety.
Rating: 4.7 (1961 reviews)
Location: 6600 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (800) 464-2924
Website: Visit Website
Big Beach
Big Beach is one of my favorite spots for boogie boarding on Maui. The waves here are perfect for riding, with consistent breaks that offer thrilling runs for both beginners and experienced boarders.
The golden sand stretches wide, giving you plenty of room to spread out even on busy days. I love how the beach isn’t usually crowded, which means more waves for everyone! The shoreline is about 3/4 mile long, making it one of the largest beaches in Makena.
Be aware that the shore break can get powerful, especially during high surf days. I’ve seen the waves knock people over, so it’s always good to watch the water for a few minutes before jumping in. The lifeguards are vigilant and helpful if you have questions about conditions.
The crystal clear water and stunning views of Molokini and Kahoolawe make this a scenic spot for boogie boarding. I recommend coming early in the morning when the wind is calmer and the waves are more manageable.
Rating: 4.7 (257 reviews)
Location: 6450 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753
Ulua Beach Park
I recently visited Ulua Beach Park in Kihei and found it perfect for boogie boarding! The waves here are just right – not too intimidating for beginners but still exciting enough for experienced riders like me.
The sandy, palm-fringed beach offers ideal conditions when the surf is up. I noticed many locals and tourists alike catching great rides during my visit. The beach has a gentle slope into the water, making it easy to wade out to the perfect spot to catch waves.
What makes Ulua extra special for boogie boarding is the mix of calm areas and sections with more active surf. I appreciate that the beach has showers and restrooms, making it convenient to rinse off after a fun session in the waves. The parking lot is fairly sizeable, though it can fill up during peak hours.
I recommend arriving early to secure a good spot on the beach. The consistent waves at Ulua make for a fantastic boogie boarding experience that kept me coming back day after day during my trip.
Rating: 4.8 (352 reviews)
Location: Ulua Beach Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 879-4364
Website: Visit Website
Po’olenalena Beach
Po’olenalena Beach is a hidden gem for boogie boarding in Maui. I visited on a weekday morning and was thrilled to find smaller crowds than at the more touristy beaches. The waves here are perfect for intermediate boogie boarders like me.
The sand is soft and golden, with enough space to spread out and relax between riding waves. I noticed the shore break can get pretty exciting, especially in the afternoon when the winds pick up. That’s when I caught some of my best rides!
The surrounding area has beautiful trees that provide patches of shade when you need a break from the sun. I found parking to be relatively easy compared to other South Maui beaches, though it’s best to arrive before 10am if possible.
When I visited, I saw several sea turtles swimming near the shore. Remember to keep a respectful distance if you’re lucky enough to spot them while boogie boarding here. The clear water makes it easy to spot marine life while riding waves.
Rating: 4.7 (188 reviews)
Location: 96 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753
Fleming Beach
Fleming Beach in Kapalua is a fantastic spot for boogie boarding enthusiasts. I recently visited and was impressed by the consistent waves that make it perfect for riding.
The beach offers more than just great boogie boarding conditions. I appreciated the convenience of having lifeguards on duty, which made me feel safer while enjoying the sometimes powerful surf.
The facilities are excellent too. After a long session in the water, I was able to rinse off at the showers and relax at one of the picnic tables. The beach wasn’t overcrowded, giving me plenty of space to enjoy the waves.
When the swells are up, this beach delivers some thrilling rides. I found the north end of the beach particularly good for boogie boarding, with waves that break cleanly and provide longer rides.
Rating: 4.7 (75 reviews)
Location: Kapalua, HI 96761
Black Rock Beach
Black Rock Beach is one of the best spots for boogie boarding on Maui. I recently visited and was amazed by the perfect waves that roll in consistently throughout the day. The black lava rock formation at the north end creates a unique backdrop for your boarding adventure.
The water here has a beautiful clarity that lets you see tropical fish swimming below as you ride the waves. I found the best boogie boarding conditions in the morning before the wind picks up. The waves are typically moderate and predictable, making it great for both beginners and experienced riders.
I noticed many families enjoying this beach because of its sandy shoreline and relatively gentle surf. There’s plenty of space to spread out, though it can get crowded during peak tourist season. The facilities nearby make it convenient for an all-day outing.
If you get tired of boogie boarding, Black Rock is also famous for its snorkeling and cliff diving opportunities. I watched several brave souls leap from the lava promontory while taking a break between rides. Just be cautious of the occasional stronger currents that can develop as the day progresses.
Rating: 4.6 (1711 reviews)
Location: Lahaina, HI 96761
Website: Visit Website
Kamaole Beach Park II
I recently visited Kamaole Beach Park II in Kihei and found it to be a fantastic spot for boogie boarding. The waves here break consistently, making it perfect for riders of all skill levels.
The beach is well-maintained with soft sand and crystal clear water. What makes it great for boogie boarding is the gentle shore break that provides enough excitement without being too intimidating for beginners.
I appreciated the presence of lifeguards, which adds an extra layer of safety when riding the waves. The beach park also offers convenient amenities like picnic tables, BBQ grills, and restrooms for when you need a break from the water.
After a fun session of boogie boarding, I enjoyed using the outdoor shower to rinse off. The beach isn’t too crowded compared to some other Maui spots, giving you plenty of space to ride waves without bumping into other swimmers.
Rating: 4.7 (899 reviews)
Location: S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 270-7230
Website: Visit Website
Understanding Maui’s Surf Conditions
Maui’s beaches have different wave patterns throughout the year, which affects where and when you’ll find the best boogie boarding conditions. The right timing and beach choice can make a huge difference in your experience.
Best Time of Year for Boogie Boarding
Summer months (May through October) bring bigger waves to Maui’s south shores. If you’re looking for exciting boogie boarding during summer, the south shores of Maui are your best bet.
Winter months (November through April) flip this pattern, with north shore beaches getting larger swells. This seasonal change happens because of different storm patterns in the northern and southern hemispheres.
For beginners, I recommend starting at calmer spots like Kamaole Beach Park I in Kihei. It’s perfect for learning the basics without getting overwhelmed.
If you’re new to boogie boarding, avoid days with large swells — especially at beaches like Big Beach which can have dangerous shore breaks.
Common Wave Types on Maui
Maui has several wave types you’ll encounter while boogie boarding:
Shore break waves form when waves break directly on or very close to the shore. These are common at Big Beach in Makena, where the powerful on-shore break can be dangerous, especially during large south swells.
Point break waves wrap around land points and offer longer rides. You’ll find these at spots like Honolua Bay, one of Maui’s best surf spots.
Reef breaks occur when waves break over coral reefs. These create consistent waves that are great for boogie boarding, but require caution to avoid reef injuries.
I always check local weather reports and talk to lifeguards before heading out. Wave conditions can change quickly on Maui, so it’s important to stay informed.
Beach Safety Tips
Boogie boarding in Maui can be super fun, but I want to make sure you stay safe while catching those awesome waves. Being prepared and aware of your surroundings will help keep your beach day enjoyable and accident-free.
Recognizing Strong Currents
When I go boogie boarding on Maui, I always check the water conditions first. Strong currents can pull even experienced swimmers away from shore quickly.
Look for posted warning signs at beaches – they’re there for a reason! Big Beach in Makena has earned the nickname “Break Neck Beach” because of its dangerous shore break.
I watch the water for about 10 minutes before entering. If I see water moving sideways along the beach, that’s a rip current – stay away!
For beginners, I recommend starting at beaches with calmer waves like Kamaole Beach Park I. The gentler conditions are perfect for learning.
Never boogie board alone! I always make sure someone knows where I am, even if they’re just watching from shore.
Essential Gear for Safety
The right gear keeps me safe while having fun in the waves. Here’s what I never go without:
Must-Have Safety Gear:
- Fins (helps with steering and power)
- Leash (keeps your board attached to you)
- Rash guard (prevents painful skin abrasions)
- Reef-safe sunscreen (protects your skin and the ocean)
I always wear fins when boogie boarding in Maui. They give me control in strong currents and help me catch waves more effectively.
A secure leash attachment is non-negotiable! I’ve seen too many boards become dangerous projectiles when a big wave hits.
For longer sessions, I bring a beach chair and umbrella for breaks. This prevents exhaustion and sunburn, which can both create dangerous situations in the water.
Staying hydrated is crucial too! I pack plenty of water for before and after my boogie boarding sessions.
