Honolua Bay Tours

Photo by Lisa A Schmidt
Photo by Herschel Johnson
Photo by Terry Porter
Photo by Kelda Anderson
Photo by Alex's Outdoor Escapes


Come to ride some of Maui’s huge barrel waves in winter or just watch the professionals from the bluff. In summer, go for a snorkel session or nature hike.

Honolua Bay’s position on the northwest coast of Maui makes it an ideal spot for surfers. Winter is the best time for this, because that’s when the swells are biggest. The huge barrel waves here are renowned for their incredibly long riding time, so if you are experienced, join the fun! If you want to brush up your skills first, sign up for a surf lesson there are good surf schools around. In the summer, Honolua Bay is great for snorkeling.The beach here is small, so if you want to watch the surfing, it’s best to go to the bluffs above the bay for a better vantage point. In December, Honolua Bay hosts the Billabong Pro Maui women’s surf competition. This showcases some of the best female surfing talent in the world. If you’re looking for other surf hotspots, travel to Ho‘okipa Beach Park further north. It also hosts competitions, but the beach there is more comfortable.While Honolua Beach itself is not great for a walk or relaxing, due to its rocky terrain, a walk through the vegetation over the top of the cliffs is idyllic. Take your camera, because the view over the bay is beautiful, especially at sunset.Waters are calmer during the summer months, and you can get up-close to fish, turtles and coral if you go for a snorkel. The surrounding area is part of the Mokuleia Marine Life Conservation District, which ensures that the wildlife is protected. Swim a bit further out for clearer waters the sand near the beach is often stirred up by the waves.Give snorkeling a miss if it’s been raining, when visibility will be restricted due to run-off waters from the island. Also remember that Honolua Bay is not suitable for inexperienced swimmers or boarders, so don’t attempt to dive into the waves if you’re unsure of their power. Honolua Bay in West Maui is reached by following the Honoapiilani Highway. Free parking is available near the beach, but it’s limited, so come early in the day. A special access trail leads to the beach.

Plan a trip to see Honolua Bay

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Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows
Ilikai by Luana Hawaii Vacation Rentals
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Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Honolua Bay

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

5 out of 5
1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Kapalua, HI
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Napili Shores Maui by OUTRIGGER

Napili Shores Maui by OUTRIGGER

3 out of 5
5315 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI
Napili Shores Maui by OUTRIGGER
Napili Kai Beach Resort

Napili Kai Beach Resort

3.5 out of 5
5900 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI
Napili Kai Beach Resort
Kapalua Ridge Villas by KBM

Kapalua Ridge Villas by KBM

4 out of 5
Lahaina
Kapalua Ridge Villas by KBM
Kapalua Villas Maui

Kapalua Villas Maui

4 out of 5
300 Kapalua Drive, Lahaina, HI
Kapalua Villas Maui
Montage Kapalua Bay

Montage Kapalua Bay

5 out of 5
One Bay Drive, Lahaina, HI
Montage Kapalua Bay
Kapalua Bay 1BR Villa | Oceanfront, Gated, Molokai Views & Beach Access 29B4

Kapalua Bay 1BR Villa | Oceanfront, Gated, Molokai Views & Beach Access 29B4

Lahaina
Kapalua Bay 1BR Villa | Oceanfront, Gated, Molokai Views & Beach Access 29B4
OCEANFRONT gated Kapalua Bay Villa 23G1. Steps to beach!

OCEANFRONT gated Kapalua Bay Villa 23G1. Steps to beach!

Lahaina
OCEANFRONT gated Kapalua Bay Villa 23G1. Steps to beach!
Kapalua Bay Villas by KBM

Kapalua Bay Villas by KBM

4 out of 5
500 Bay Drive, Kapalua, HI
Kapalua Bay Villas by KBM
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Honolua Bay

Honolua Bay is a stunning destination for snorkeling and diving, renowned for its vibrant marine life, including sea turtles. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunsets and explore other activities in the area, such as taking a Molokini trip or participating in the best tours of Lahaina. Whether you're an underwater enthusiast or simply looking to soak in the natural beauty, Honolua Bay offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Food and drinks

Indulge in fresh seafood at the renowned Merriman's Kapalua, offering stunning ocean views. For a casual bite, try the Fish Market Maui, where you can savor local fish dishes and poke. Both spots are a short drive from Honolua Bay, showcasing the rich flavors of Hawaii.

Shopping

For shopping near Honolua Bay, check out Whalers Village, located 7 miles away, offering a blend of family and entertainment vibes. Also, Lahaina Cannery Shopping Center is 9 miles away, featuring a lively atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, visit One Love Farmers Market, 19 miles away, for unique finds.

Recreation

Experience the scenic Kapalua Golf Club Plantation Course, just 0.5 miles from Honolua Bay, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst lush landscapes. Alternatively, the Kapalua Golf Resort Bay Course, located 2 miles away, offers a relaxing outdoor vibe perfect for unwinding in nature.

Adventure

Explore the Kapalua Coastal Trail, located 2 miles from Honolua Bay, for breathtaking scenery and invigorating hiking. Dive into adventure with Jean Michele Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment, 1 mile away, for thrilling underwater sports. Experience the excitement of ziplining at Skyline Eco Adventure, 7 miles from the bay.

Nightlife

Catch a show at Iao Theater, located 12 miles from Honolua Bay, where you can soak in the local culture and enjoy a romantic atmosphere. The theater offers family-friendly performances and a vibrant entertainment scene that adds to the charm of your Hawaiian vacation.

Find the best attractions near Honolua Bay

Honolua Bay, located in Hawaii, is a fantastic destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the stunning beaches, explore the vibrant culture, and take in the beautiful bay surroundings. Nearby attractions include Kaanapali Beach and various Maui beaches, offering plenty of options for relaxation and adventure. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or outdoor activities, Honolua Bay provides a perfect mix of experiences for every traveler.

  • Kaanapali Beach: Just 8 miles from Honolua Bay, Kaanapali Beach offers a quintessential Hawaiian beach experience. With its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, it's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying vibrant beach vibes. Don't miss the dramatic sunsets that paint the sky in stunning colors.
  • Napili Bay: Located only 2 miles away, Napili Bay is a picturesque haven for outdoor enthusiasts. This serene bay is known for its stunning scenery and beach vibes, ideal for snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing on the shore while enjoying the breathtaking views.
  • West Maui Mountains: A short 9-mile drive takes you to the West Maui Mountains, where adventure awaits. Explore hiking trails that offer stunning vistas, lush landscapes, and a chance to connect with nature in an outdoor paradise.

Best time to go to Honolua Bay

Visitor numbers around Honolua Bay is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Honolua Bay can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Honolua Bay falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Honolua Bay falls in February and March. March has average visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January73.2°F (22.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
February72.7°F (22.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March72.7°F (22.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April73.8°F (23.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May75.0°F (23.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
June76.3°F (24.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July77.2°F (25.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August77.9°F (25.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
September78.1°F (25.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October77.7°F (25.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November76.3°F (24.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Honolua Bay

Honolua Bay is budget-friendly with free entry and nearby attractions like Kaanapali Beach and Napili Bay. Visit between September and November for lower accommodation rates, and consider booking a hotel about a month in advance for the best deals. Check Expedia for last-minute offers and use their search tools to find affordable options, including eco-certified hotels. You can save further by booking packages that combine flights and stays, and joining Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and rewards on future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Honolua Bay are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March, July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Honolua Bay is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking a package through Expedia that combines your hotel stay at Honolua Bay with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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