Winter Swells Awaken Certain Spots as Tradewinds Return

By Carlos Rock

Honolua Bay. File photo by Madeline Ziecker.

A few big northwest swells have already hit the island. Combined with a solid run of Kona winds, it has produced exceptional surfing conditions and very, very hot weather.

However, the remainder of the week will see a return of the glorious trade winds to cool down the land and simultaneously make some windy conditions for surfers.

Tuesday should see the N/NW swell from Monday in full effect at 8-12 feet. That is probably the best size for average surfers to go out and surf without fear of serious injury. Any bigger than that would be cause for concern.

15 feet is best left to the pros or kamikazes.

Maui’s famed and premier surf break Honolua Bay has awoken from her summer slumber with the latest runs of big NW swells. But, as always, the crowds were on it, leaving only the locals and rippers to get the biggest and best set waves.

Jaws (Peahi). File photo courtesy Jeff Rowley.

The winter season is still yet to dish out a massive 30-foot swell to make Jaws break. And with the latest paddle-in-to-gigantic-waves craze sweeping the surfing world, many hardcore chargers are watching the reports with eagle eyes for that one big storm system to send that type of surf to Maui.

Each year there is at least one or two really big swells for Peahi (Jaws) to really do its thing. However, there is also the possibility of it never getting big enough for Jaws.

One of the best things about winter are reinforcement swells. Before a swell completely dies, another one is already there to take its place.

The winter season is here to stay for a while so get out there and get the best wave of your life.