Ma'alaea
Ma'alaea (Freight Trains) is considered the world's fastest rideable wave—a 150-300+ yard barrel that fires only a handful of times per year when huge south swells slip through the gap between Kahoolawe and Maui. When it runs, it's one of surfing's greatest spectacles.
Ma'alaea surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- S (190°)
- Direction range
- 160° - 210°
- Size range
- 1.8m - 3.6m
- Ideal size
- 2.6m - 3.2m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNW (340°)
- Offshore range
- 290° - 10°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
Water temp
25°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Bottom
Reef
Max wave face
4m+
Board
Shortboard
Consistency
1/10
Difficulty
9/10
Crowd level
4/10
Access: Access from Ma'alaea Harbor area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Ma'alaea?
The Ma'alaea profile favors low to mid tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Ma'alaea?
The Ma'alaea profile uses wind from NNW (340°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 290° to 10°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Ma'alaea?
The Ma'alaea scoring profile favors swell from S (160° to 210°), a swell-height range of 1.8m to 3.6m, and a reference period of 16s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Ma'alaea?
The main season at Ma'alaea is May-Sep. May-Sep. World's fastest rideable wave. Fires only a handful of times per year.
How do I get to Ma'alaea?
The spot profile lists OGG as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 20 minutes. Access from Ma'alaea Harbor area.
What kind of wave is Ma'alaea?
Ma'alaea is a reef break, a right-hander over a reef bottom. Difficulty is rated 9/10.
Best Season
Peak: May-Sep
May-Sep. World's fastest rideable wave. Fires only a handful of times per year.
Getting There
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