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Maui has more swimmable beaches than any other Hawaiian Island. But you gotta know where to go.
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Saturday, December 21 2024
THE SKINNY
Extremely dangerous ocean conditions in the northwest today with a high surf warning in place, the northwest zone is not recommended today due to an extra-large swell, making water entry extremely hazardous. Strong currents, undertow, and significant shore break are present in the area. It is highly advised to avoid this zone.
Ka’anapali: 1.5
There are still numerous hazards throughout Kaʻanapali. A large swell is creating significant shore break, making ocean entry and exit challenging in many locations. Strong currents, undertow, and breaking waves are also present in deeper waters, especially near the tip of Black Rock.
South Shore: 1.0
The south shore is also experiencing elevated surf, making ocean entry and exit challenging due to larger shore break. Please be mindful before heading out, as this shore break can also impact visibility. Even when conditions seem calm between swells, waves arrive in sets with occasional larger waves. Always observe the ocean carefully and use caution when deciding whether to go in.
Friday, December 20 2024
THE SKINNY
Extremely dangerous ocean conditions with powerful waves, strong currents, and a relentless undertow. Some of the largest waves can appear after long lulls, sometimes 20 minutes or more, crashing high onshore and pulling everything back into the sea. While waves inside Kapalua Bay might seem smaller, conditions remain very hazardous. However, it is a beautiful day with light winds and sunshine.
Ka’anapali: 6.0
It’s an absolutely beautiful day at the beach, with light winds and sunshine expected throughout much of the day. Snorkeling looks best along the south face of Black Rock, though currents are stronger near and beyond the rock tip. Kahekili may still offer a decent option if we avoid any waves, but please stay aware as the surf is likely to pick up as the day goes on.
South Shore: 4.5
Light winds and sunshine make for a gorgeous day at the beach. While the surf isn’t huge, it has picked up and is affecting snorkeling at many spots. The smallest waves are around the south end of the Kamaole Beaches, with larger waves further south in Wailea and Makena. Stay aware, as conditions can fluctuate throughout the day, and there’s always a chance for improvements as well.
Thursday, December 19 2024
THE SKINNY
Ocean conditions remain extremely hazardous today, with powerful waves, strong currents, and an undertow. There may be long gaps, sometimes 15 minutes or more, between sets of larger waves, which can make the ocean seem calmer than it is. Big waves are rolling in, so it’s best to stay clear of the shoreline. Even though Kapalua Bay has the smallest waves in the area, it’s still safer to head south to Ka’anapali. Expect mostly sunny skies with breezy winds.
Ka’anapali: 7.5
Kahekili Beach Park (Airport Beach) and the south face of Black Rock are great for snorkeling this morning, with glassy water and excellent visibility. Waves have picked up slightly, likely from the large northwest swell. These waves aren’t big but should be avoided thoughtfully, as they could increase later. Watch for strong currents in deeper water and beyond the point of the rock. Skies should stay mostly sunny, with afternoon winds increasing.
South Shore: 6.0
Absolutely beautiful beach day with sunshine and light winds this morning. The smallest waves are along the south ends of the Kamaole Beaches and the north end of Ulua Beach, with surf becoming more noticeable farther south into the Makena area. The powerful northwest swell is wrapping around the islands and has unexpectedly brought elevated surf to some areas in this zone. Stay aware of changing conditions, and if waves pick up in one spot, consider exploring another.
Wednesday, December 18 2024
THE SKINNY
The northwest zones, including Kapalua, Honolua, and Napili bays, are facing hazardous conditions today, with waves continuing to build. Expect dangerous shore break, strong undertow, and powerful currents. It’s strongly advised to avoid entering the water in these areas until the swell subsides. For safer and better snorkeling conditions, check out the Ka’anapali and south shore zones below.
Ka’anapali: 8.0
With plenty of sunshine in the Ka’anapali area, the calmest conditions and clearest visibility this morning can be found at the south face of Black Rock. Kahekili is looking great as well, though some of the northwest swell may bring shore break across the Ka’anapali area. Please be mindful of strong currents in deeper waters and near the tip of Black Rock. Remember, conditions can change at any time, so always check before heading out. Enjoy the sunshine and stay safe.
South Shore: 9.0
Kamaole 1, 2, and 3, along with Ulua Beach, are looking calm this morning, with only small waves setting the stage for a beautiful beach day. Winds are expected to pick up this afternoon, likely creating choppy waves and reducing visibility, but the morning conditions are fantastic.
Tuesday, December 17 2024
THE SKINNY
Waves are starting to build, with extremely dangerous surf forecasted throughout the day. While Kapalua Bay started off fairly calm this morning, strong currents near the points are already present, and conditions will shift quickly to hazardous as this northerly swell fills in. Head a bit further south for safer options.
Ka’anapali: 9.0
Fantastic snorkeling conditions at Ka’anapali beaches today. The water is crystal clear, and light winds are setting the stage for an epic beach day. Black Rock and Kahekili (Airport Beach) are looking especially stunning this morning. Expect occasional small waves, with a chance for them to pick up later this afternoon. As always, stay mindful of strong currents farther from shore and near the tip of Black Rock. Dive in and enjoy the beauty out there.
South Shore: 9.5
The south shore is looking absolutely gorgeous this morning! Lighter-than usual winds and calm waters, with just a few small waves, are creating crystal clear conditions, perfect for snapping underwater shots of the amazing marine life. Kamaole 1, 2, and 3, Ulua Beach, and Makena Landing are all looking fantastic today. As always, check conditions before diving in and remember that currents get stronger the farther you go from shore.
Monday, December 16 2024
THE SKINNY
Snorkeling conditions are looking great inside the bays this morning, with clear visibility, particularly inside Kapalua Bay and Honolua Bay. Be sure to stay inside the bays, as currents become stronger near and beyond the points. While potentially huge waves are heading this way, they likely won’t impact the area too much until tomorrow. Just please always keep an eye on conditions and exercise caution.
Ka’anapali: 9.5
Incredibly beautiful beach and ocean conditions today with light winds, sunshine, and small waves expected for most of the day. Kahekili Beach Park (Airport Beach) and the south face of Black Rock are crystal clear, with only the occasional small wave to watch for. As always, be mindful of stronger currents farther from shore and beyond the rock tip. Skies should stay clear, though some clouds may form later.
South Shore: 9.0
orgeous day for snorkeling and relaxing on the beach, with calm winds expected to stick around for most of the day and only a slight chance of clouds later on. Waves are looking small at most beaches, with Kamaole Beaches 2 and 3, Ulua Beach, Wailea Beach, and Makena Landing all offering excellent conditions. Be sure to take a look before heading in, avoid any waves, and remember that currents become strong in deeper water.
Sunday, December 15 2024
THE SKINNY
Increasing clouds and possible scattered showers are expected at some point, though the timing is hard to predict, with strong winds persisting throughout the day. Inside Kapalua Bay and Honolua Bay, the water is calmer and clear this morning, offering great visibility. However, the strong winds are driving hazardous currents, especially farther out. Always assess conditions before heading out, stick closer to shore, and avoid areas where waves are breaking near the points.
Ka’anapali: 8.5
Light winds and small waves are creating excellent snorkeling conditions this morning along Kahekili Beach Park (Airport Beach) and the south face of Black Rock. Avoid swimming out to deeper water or beyond the point of the rock, as currents become very strong. Increasing winds are likely this afternoon, which could impact Kahekili, while Black Rock may remain more protected. Clouds are expected to increase later in the day as well.
South Shore: 8.0
Overall, conditions are looking great for snorkeling this morning. There are some elevated waves in the Makena area that could make getting in and out a bit tricky. The best spots today are the three Kamaole Beaches, Ulua Beach, and Wailea Beach. Be sure to stay closer to shore, as currents become very strong in deeper water. Winds are expected to pick up this afternoon, likely making things rough. Morning clouds should clear up then may return.
Saturday, December 14 2024
THE SKINNY
Visibility is clear within the bays, with Kapalua Bay and Honolua Bay looking calm closer to shore. However, strong winds are creating powerful currents just offshore, and waves are breaking along the points. If you choose to snorkel here, stay inside the calmest areas and avoid swimming too far out where conditions can quickly turn hazardous. Scattered showers may pass through as well.
Ka’anapali: 8.5
Snorkeling conditions are looking great this morning at both Kahekili Beach Park (Airport Beach) and the south face of Black Rock. Currents become stronger in deeper water and beyond the point. Afternoon winds are likely to make Kahekili less favorable, but Black Rock should offer nice wind protection. Be mindful of small waves on the shoreline, and clouds may increase later in the day.
South Shore: 8.5
Snorkeling conditions are fantastic this morning, with only occasional small waves. Kamaole Beach 1, 2, 3, Ulua Beach, Makena Landing, and most nearby spots should stay calm for much of the day. However, conditions can change, so always take a moment to assess before heading out. Afternoon winds could strengthen, making things rough later on, and currents are very strong in deeper water.
