The surf’s always up in Hawaii, attracting pro and amateur surfers from all over the world. These neighborhoods bring you closer to the surf.
Maui
Best known for Peahi, or “Jaws,” a renowned surf spot with waves swelling up to more than 70 feet, there’s no denying that Maui is a surfer’s paradise. Peak surf season is from October to April, the dirt road that leads to Peahi is accessible to 4X4s or four-wheel drives.
- Paia
The North Maui community of Paia brings you close to great surfing and windsurfing. Baldwin Beach Park, one of Maui’s prime surf spots, can be found just minutes west of Paia. It encompasses about 17 miles of the North Shore’s pristine coastline.Paia Bay is another surfing mecca, featuring a long beach and a near-shore beach break. The place attracts bodyboarders and bodysurfers – the waves can get large, offering up a challenge for those who want to ride the big waves.
Paia also has an array of cafés, restaurants, and shops to keep you occupied on land.
Don’t forget to visit Ho’okipa Lookout while you’re in the area. Located three miles from Paia, the waves here can close out and reach up to 20 feet.
- Haiku
Also close to Peahi aka Jaws, Haiku is another great North Shore neighborhood for surfers.Those who live here also have plenty of attractions to enjoy on dry land. Animal lovers will love the Leilani Farm Sanctuary, which is home to goats, rabbits, guinea pigs and other wonderful creatures. The Haiku Mill, an old processing factory, is a historic landmark and gives visitors a glimpse into Maui’s storied past.
- Lahaina
Located in West Maui, Lahaina has a population of about 11,700, among them avid surfers who love being close to the ocean. Hawaii’s former capital, its downtown area is listed as a National Historic Landmark.Its renowned surf spots include Puamana Beach County Park, located just south of Lahaina, and Lahaina Breakwall, located on the southern side of Lahaina Harbor.
You’ll also have plenty to do on land – go to Old Lahaina Center and shop for clothes at Maui Clothing Company. Have a cup of java at 808 Grindz Café or watch a cultural show at Maui Theater.
- Kapalua
This town in Maui’s northwestern shore has a population of around 300.Surfers come here for Oneloa Bay, which is famed for its long, sandy shoreline and blue crystalline waters. The beach is just a short walk from the small parking lot and is typically less crowded than other surf spots in Maui.
Those who want more surf action can head northward to Honolua Bay or the Nakalele Blowhole.
On land, you can enjoy an exhilarating game of golf at Kapalua Golf & Tennis or get pampered at The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua.
Oahu
The North Shore of Oahu is globally renowned for its huge waves – Waimea Bay is regarded as the cradle of big wave surfing.
Looking for a central, easily accessible location? Honolulu, the state capital, offers an excellent selection of condos and single-family homes. Find a home in Waikiki if you want to be just steps away from the beach.
Big Island
The youngest among Hawaii’s chain of islands, Big Island is prized for remote surf spots that can only be accessed via 4WD, and are therefore less crowded. The surf landscape is constantly changing, since Kilauea, an active volcano on the southeastern portion of the island, spurts lava that can either destroy orcreate new breaks.
Live close to the Big Island’s dramatic landscape. The towns of Hilo and Kailua Kona offer a wonderful array of single-family homes. Kailua Kona, in particular, has a great selection of new construction homes.
Kauai
Also referred to as “The Garden Isle”, Kaua’i brings you over 50 miles of sandy beaches and stunning mountain scenery. It’s also brimming with surf spot that can accommodate surfers at all skill levels. The South Shore offers consistent swells from May to October.
Popular spots include Poipu Beach and Kalapaki Beach, which are great for beginners while more experienced surfers will get a good challenge in surf spots like Heroins and Acid Drop.
Live in Hawaii and surf to your heart’s content. Call me, Greg Burns, at 808-214-0302 or send an email to Greg(at)IsleLuxury(dotted)com for more information on surfer homes here.