Maui – Ho'okipa
United States · Kitesurf · Windsurf · Surfing
- Best winds NE (trade wind)
- Level Pro
- Water Waves
- Best months Ganzjährig (Swell stärker Sep–Apr)
About this spot
Ho'okipa sits on Maui's north shore, a few kilometres east of Paia. NE trade winds meet an incoming northerly swell that an offshore reef bends into clean right-handers – since the 80s the spot has been one of the most important wave-windsurf areas in the world. Mornings belong to the surfers; in the afternoon, once the trades fill in, the water is exclusively for windsurfers and kiters.
When is Ho'okipa best? There is wind almost year-round, with the NE trades most consistent in summer (roughly May to September). The big northerly swell and the most spectacular waves, however, arrive in the winter half (September to April), often reaching 3 to 5 metres. Ho'okipa is a demanding reef spot and no place for first steps – it rewards experienced wave riders with world-class conditions.
Last updated:
Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, July is the windiest month: on 81 % of days the wind blows at 12 knots or more from a direction that works at this spot for at least three daytime hours. It then mostly blows from the east. The most reliable period runs from June to September. The least wind is in January (16 %). The water ranges from about 24 to 27 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
16 %
| 13 kn | E | 25 °C | 25 °C |
| February |
17 %
| 17 kn | E | 24 °C | 25 °C |
| March |
25 %
| 17 kn | E | 24 °C | 24 °C |
| April |
31 %
| 18 kn | E | 25 °C | 25 °C |
| May |
36 %
| 20 kn | E | 25 °C | 25 °C |
| June |
65 %
| 21 kn | E | 26 °C | 26 °C |
| July |
81 %
| 22 kn | E | 26 °C | 26 °C |
| August |
69 %
| 19 kn | E | 26 °C | 27 °C |
| September |
61 %
| 19 kn | E | 27 °C | 27 °C |
| October |
37 %
| 16 kn | E | 26 °C | 26 °C |
| November |
29 %
| 17 kn | E | 26 °C | 26 °C |
| December |
21 %
| 15 kn | E | 25 °C | 26 °C |
Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from NE (usable according to the spot info) are counted. Model data (ECMWF IFS, approx. 9 km grid) – local venturi and thermal effects can be stronger. Weather data: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0)
Insider tips
The wave is usually cleaner in the morning before the trades ramp up in the early afternoon, so time your session if you want clean wave riding. Know the currents and reef sections beforehand, or get a briefing from locals before going out.
⚠︎ Hazards
Reef break with strong current – pro level only. The shallow, sharp reef is unforgiving, and on swell days there are rip currents plus an experienced line-up. Don't overestimate yourself when the afternoon wind suddenly builds; a helmet and impact vest make sense.
All information without guarantee. Please check locally whether kiting, windsurfing, winging or surfing is currently allowed here – protected areas, swimming zones and seasonal closures change. You go on the water at your own risk.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Maui – Ho'okipa suitable for beginners?
Not really. According to the spot info, Maui – Ho'okipa is a spot for Pro (water: Waves).
Which wind works at Maui – Ho'okipa?
Best with wind from NE (trade wind). In the windiest month (July), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the east.
When is the best time for Maui – Ho'okipa?
The best months are considered to be Ganzjährig (Swell stärker Sep–Apr). According to the wind statistics, July has the most wind days (81 % of days).
How warm is the water at Maui – Ho'okipa?
Over the year about 24 °C in March to 27 °C in September (model data).
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