Lopa Beach Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
S-SSE, and NNE-NE
Wind
Calm or offshore from the westerly direction (SW-W-NW), which is usually during a frontal passage in winter.
Surf Height
Chest high-overhead
Tide
Medium tides
Lopa Beach Surf Guide
Lopa Beach is a long, white sand beach on the east coast of Lanai. It is most consistent in summer, but occasionally a winter north-northeast swell will sneak between Maui and Molokai and provide moderate surfing potential. The stretch of reef just offshore offers a variety of peaks and sections for surfers of all abilities to have fun with. The catch is that the wind is usually onshore because of the easterly trades. Any possibility of trade swell, however, is dashed due to Lopa Beach's close proximity to Maui, whose northwest coast lies within eyesight ten miles across the Auau Channel. If you're lucky enough to be on Lanai when a front passes through and the winds clock around offshore from the westerly direction and a swell is in the water, you're guaranteed a fun session. Also, Lopa Beach is only accessible by one of four 4X4-only roads that branch off of Keomuku Road, so access with just any vehicle is not possible.
Ability Level
All Abilities
All levels -- Depends on size.
Local Vibe
Welcoming
None to very mellow. Be cool and keep it that way.
Crowd Factor
Mellow
Can have a little crowd sometimes when its on, but usually empty.
Spot Rating
Fun
Can get super fun when the swell and wind come together, just doesn't happen all that often.
Shoulder Burn
Light
Not bad.
Water Quality
Clean
Pristine.
Hazards
Reef
Bring Your
Shortboard, Funboard, Longboard, Fish, Bodyboard
Access
Dirt roads, 4x4 is a must.
Bottom
Reef
Best Season
Year-round. Summer is most consistent for surf. However, winter delivers occasional NE-NNE swells that slip through Maui and Molokai, as well as the episodes with ideal wind.
Do you have local knowledge about Lopa Beach?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]