Honolua Bay Tours and Activities

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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Best Lodging Options Near Honolua Bay

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Things to do near Honolua Bay

Honolua Bay offers an array of activities for visitors, including stunning sunsets and excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving. While exploring the bay, be sure to check out the prime snorkel spots and surf season for thrilling surfing experiences. Whether you're a seasoned diver or just looking to enjoy the natural beauty, Honolua Bay is a perfect destination to immerse yourself in Hawaii's scenic charm.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Honolua Bay, visit Whalers Village, only 11.3km away, offering family-friendly vibes and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, check out One Love Farmers Market 30.6km away, or Kihei Kalama Village, 37.0km away, both featuring vibrant city atmospheres.

Recreation

Experience the Kapalua Golf Club Plantation Course, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning views, just 805m from Honolua Bay. Alternatively, the Kaanapali Kai Course at Kaanapali Golf Resort, located 11.3km away, offers another fantastic golfing experience surrounded by the natural beauty of Maui.

Adventure

The Kapalua Coastal Trail, located 3.2km from Honolua Bay, offers stunning ocean views and scenic landscapes for a rewarding hike. For adventure enthusiasts, Jean Michele Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment, 1.6km away, provides thrilling underwater sports experiences. Lastly, the Skyline Eco Adventure, 11.3km from Honolua Bay, features exhilarating zipline courses set in breathtaking surroundings.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Honolua Bay offers a vibrant mix of culture and entertainment. Just 13.2km away, the Iao Theater is a charming spot for an evening of romance and family-friendly performances, perfect for soaking in the local atmosphere.

Find the best attractions near Honolua Bay

Honolua Bay, located on Maui, is a stunning destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore Honolua Bay Beach and the picturesque Honolua Valley, enjoying breathtaking scenery and a relaxing atmosphere. Ideal for those seeking a combination of natural beauty and recreational activities, this area offers a perfect getaway for travellers looking to immerse themselves in Hawaii's vibrant coastal charm.

  • Kaanapali Beach: Located 12.9km from Honolua Bay, Kaanapali Beach offers a vibrant beach experience with soft sands and clear waters. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports while surrounded by stunning ocean views.
  • Napili Bay: Just 3.2km away, Napili Bay is a picturesque spot known for its outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. The tranquil beach vibes make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and simply relaxing amidst swaying palm trees.
  • Kapalua Golf Resort Bay Course: Also 3.2km from Honolua Bay, this golf resort combines tropical beauty with romantic vibes. Play a round of golf while enjoying panoramic views of the ocean and lush landscapes that create a serene atmosphere.

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 is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain. February and March are its coolest month on average. At the time of March, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny.

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 LowSlightly High
March72.7°F (22.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
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 a budget-friendly destination with free public access and nearby attractions like Kaanapali Beach and Napili Bay. The best time to visit is from September to November, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking hotels about a month in advance or taking advantage of last-minute deals on Expedia can yield savings. Saturdays are the most economical days to stay, while Wednesdays tend to be pricier. Additionally, consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities through Expedia for further discounts.

  • 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 February, 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, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Honolua Bay is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Honolua Bay is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and special offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Honolua Bay hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.