A long-period south swell is pounding Maui’s south-facing beaches, driving full-face surf up to about 7–10 feet and stirring up dangerous currents that are expected to hang around through early Friday morning. West-facing shores are catching some of the action with elevated sets, while north and east exposures are staying mostly ankle- to knee-high. Locals and visitors can expect rough shorebreak and strong rip currents at the more exposed spots as the swell slowly eases overnight.
The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Coastal Hazard Message that puts all south-facing shores under a High Surf Advisory through 6 a.m. HST Friday, calling out a "moderate, long period south swell (180-190 degrees)" that is peaking at advisory levels. The advisory lists "Surf 7 to 10 feet" and warns that "strong breaking waves and strong currents will make swimming dangerous." The message urges caution and reminds beachgoers to stick with ocean-safety guidance.
As reported by Maui Now, forecasters have north and east shores in the 1–3 foot range, west-facing shores at 4–6 feet, and south-facing beaches at 7–10 feet, with winds out of the east near 10 mph and overnight lows in the lower 70s. Maui Now also links tide predictions for Kahului via NOAA Tides & Currents, which can influence how far waves run up the beach and how the shoreline is impacted. The site credits NOAA and SwellInfo for the underlying swell data.
What Swimmers And Beachgoers Should Know
Lifeguards and ocean-safety officials routinely warn that rip currents and shorebreak can overwhelm even strong swimmers in a hurry, and the NWS echoes that warning in its advisory. The Coastal Hazard Message tells the public to "Heed all advice from ocean safety officials. When in doubt, don't go out." Officials say people should avoid entering the water at unguarded or particularly exposed beaches while the advisory is in effect.
Looking Ahead
Forecasters expect the south swell to fade late Friday, dropping below advisory levels by Friday morning, although a series of smaller south–southwest swells is forecast to fill in Sunday into early next week and keep surf near seasonal averages, per Maui Now. Travelers and residents planning ocean activities for the weekend are urged to check updated forecasts from the NWS and local surf-report services before heading to the beach. For the latest tide times and marine information, officials point to NOAA tide charts and county advisories.
