Maili Point

Maili Point is an exposed reef and point break on Oahu’s leeward side, best known for powerful reef waves and advanced-level surfing. When conditions align—particularly with the correct southwest swell—it can produce very hollow, barrel-style left-hand sections with long, high-intensity rides. The break is exposed and over a coral reef, so conditions can become unforgiving quickly. Surfing is generally described as peeling and powerful, with the spot holding size on bigger days while also getting very heavy as currents strengthen and peaks shift. Reports consistently emphasize the shallow reef nature of the lineup and the need to plan around tide and reef exposure: mid-tide is recommended to avoid the shallowest sections. Safety concerns are prominent. The hazard set includes sharks and rocks/sharp coral reef, and strong currents are possible during larger winter surf. Local access can also be limited during high-surf warnings, and swimming areas nearby should be avoided. Standard surfing etiquette applies, and local lineup priority/localism can be moderate. Seasonally, the most consistent, highest-impact surfing is associated with winter swell, with January highlighted as the best month. Water temperatures stay warm year-round (roughly mid-20s °C in winter and upper-20s °C in late summer), and lifeguard coverage is reported as year-round at Maili Beach Park, though rescue availability is still described as limited.