PHOTOS: Surfers Brave Big Waves at Ho’okipa

By Madeline Ziecker

Surfers on Maui took advantage of prime surf conditions early Sunday morning as the National Weather Service extended a High Surf Advisory until 6 p.m. Sunday along Maui’s north shores.

Though beach goers are warned to stay away from the shore during an advisory period, some seasoned surfers felt that they could handle the high, choppy surf and fast winds for a chance at catching a gratifying wave.

Lifeguards stood vigilantly on the beach, monitoring nearly 20 surfers who were dispersed off shore.

From 7-9 a.m., conditions at Ho’okipa Beach Park fluctuated with waves coming in at varying heights – jumping from small barrels to messy 12 footers.  The conditions made it hard to catch a worthy wave without experiencing some significant wait time between sets.

Waves were estimated to reach 14-20 feet on the North Shore Sunday morning, and gradually decline throughout the day – ranging from 12-16 feet.

The following are a selection of photos taken at Ho’okipa Beach Park on the morning of Sunday, December 18.

Showers at Ho'okipa are decorated for the Holidays. Photo by Madeline Ziecker.	Waves at Ho'okipa at 7:30 a.m. Photo by Madeline Ziecker.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD Photo by Madeline Ziecker.	A surfer waxing his board in the morning sun before going out. Photo by Madeline Ziecker.
Photo by Madeline Ziecker.	A Ho'okipa lifeguard on duty. Photo by Madeline Ziecker.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD A surfer drops in on a messy wave and decides to stay on his stomach for the ride. Photo by Madeline Ziecker.	Photo by Madeline Ziecker.
Waves on the right side of Ho'okipa. Photo by Madeline Ziecker.	Photo by Madeline Ziecker.