Small and ungrowded beach at PoHaku Park, West Maui.
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Pohaku Park S-Turns

4.6
·380 reviews·Lahaina, United States

Pohaku Park (S-Turns) offers consistent surf, abundant sea turtles, and stunning sunsets, serving as a vital community hub.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Best waves & parking

CrowdLow
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Small and ungrowded beach at PoHaku Park, West Maui.

Pohaku Park S-Turns

Best Time

Early mornings

Best waves & parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Pohaku Park (S-Turns) offers consistent surf, abundant sea turtles, and stunning sunsets, serving as a vital community hub.

4.6
(380 reviews)

"Incredible sunset, chance to see turtles chilling on the beach, nice and quiet."

Vertical photo
TIP

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can get tight, especially on weekends. Aim for early morning to secure a spot. :car:

Respect the Honu

Sea turtles are protected. Keep a safe distance and never touch or feed them. :turtle:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

S-Turns Surf Break

S-Turns Surf Break

Oceanfront

Consistent, well-shaped waves perfect for longboards and shortboards. A surfer's paradise!

Honu Haven

Honu Haven

Beachfront

Abundant sea turtles (Honu) often seen basking on the sand or swimming near shore. A magical wildlife encounter.

Community Gathering Point

Community Gathering Point

Park grounds

A place for local events, fundraisers, and crucial supply distribution for those affected by the Lahaina fires.

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Planning Your Visit

Surf's Up & Turtle Spotting

Pohaku Park, also known as S-Turns, is a prime spot for surfers of all levels and a sanctuary for sea turtles. Arrive early for parking and to catch the best waves. Remember to respect wildlife and keep a safe distance from nesting turtles.

Community Hub & Post-Fire Support

This park has become a vital distribution center for Maui fire relief efforts. While it's a beautiful recreational area, be mindful of ongoing community support activities and potential temporary closures or increased activity.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Best waves & parking
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Turtle sightings
Crowd
Medium
When
Event days
Why
Local culture & food
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pohaku Freestyle. #hawaii #hawaiitiktok #oahu #rap #rapper #undergroundrapmusic #fypシ #music #hawaiitingz #hawaiitiktok #hawaiicomedy #foryou #viral
@myreeen
53.3K likes • 353K views

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can get tight, especially on weekends. Aim for early morning to secure a spot. :car: Reddit

Respect the Honu

Sea turtles are protected. Keep a safe distance and never touch or feed them. :turtle: Reddit

10/10 experience!!! 🌟#royallahainaresort #maui #mauihawaii #vacation
@hiitsdenisee
34.5K likes • 753.6K views
🔥 LAST DAY! HULI HULI CHICKEN FUNDRAISER 🔥 Uncle Russell Kahookele from Hana is back ONE MORE DAY with his broke-da-mouth Huli Huli Chicken! 🍗 📍 Pick-up: Pohaku Park (S-Turns) 🕥 Today Only: 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM 💵 $18 Plate – Rice, Mac Salad, Green Salad & that famous Huli Huli Chicken! All proceeds help Lahaina Veterans Hall & Sturns Community Donation Hub. Come hungry, leave happy, and support ou...
filipinapineapple
2 likes • 208 views

Surf's Up!

Great spot for longboards and shortboards. Beginner to intermediate friendly waves. :surfboard: Instagram

Community Support Hub

Park often serves as a donation/distribution point. Be mindful and respectful of ongoing relief efforts. :heart: Instagram

Video 8/11/23 Kahana, West Maui , Pohaku Park “S-Turns” hub. Jet Ski’s distribution of essentials and supplies from neighboring islands Molokai and Oahu & south maui boat harbor Maalaea. There is also the Kahana boat ramp just a half mile away that also took in supplies video 8/11/23. I’m volunteering every couple of days. Come by if you need anything. Aloha !! Alika Peneku, Kanamu Balinbin, W...
clinton_eastwood__
6 likes • 227 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can get tight, especially on weekends. Aim for early morning to secure a spot. :car: Reddit

Respect the Honu

Sea turtles are protected. Keep a safe distance and never touch or feed them. :turtle: Reddit

Surf's Up!

Great spot for longboards and shortboards. Beginner to intermediate friendly waves. :surfboard: Instagram

Community Support Hub

Park often serves as a donation/distribution point. Be mindful and respectful of ongoing relief efforts. :heart: Instagram

Pack a Picnic

Picnic tables and BBQs available. Enjoy the ocean breeze with your own meal. :sandwich: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(380 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Pohaku Park is praised for its excellent surf break and frequent sea turtle sightings, offering a serene beach experience with beautiful sunsets. Some visitors have noted concerns about comfort due to the presence of individuals who appear to be living in the area, impacting the feeling of security when leaving belongings unattended.

"Nice place the three stars is related to people that seem to be living there. Definitely did not feel comfortable going into the water and leaving my belongings on the beach."

Jonathan Janes

"Small Beach front. Calm waters. Saw 8 or more Honus underwater. Fresh water shower. Chemical toilets"

Ivàn Tñ

"Turtles 🐢 nesting here!

there’s a group of surfers here in the morning 🏄‍♂️ watching them flying on the ocean with ease in harmony with nature, simply brings me joy and peace.

The turtles are so big. Sometimes I had to ask, is that someone snorkeling or is that a swimming turtle 🐢?😂

The park also serves as a food distribution center for families impacted by Maui fire."

Helen De La Rosa

What People Like

Great surf spot
Abundant sea turtles
Beautiful sunsets

What People Dislike

Concerns about comfort

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pohaku Park, also known as S-Turns, is located north of Kaanapali. It's easily accessible by car, with a parking lot that can fit about 20 cars. If the lot is full, nearby street parking is often available, requiring a short walk. InstagramReddit

While specific bus routes can vary, it's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for direct access to Pohaku Park. Check local Maui bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. :bus:

If you're staying in Kapalua, Pohaku Park is a convenient drive south. It's a popular spot for surfers coming from that area. Reddit

Pohaku Park is situated near a series of condos and is north of Kaanapali Beach. It's often referred to as S-Turns due to the wave shape. Instagram+1

Parking can be challenging, especially during peak surf times or events. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to secure a spot. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Pohaku Park is a public beach park and does not have an entrance fee. It's free to access for everyone. :ticket:

Pohaku Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset, as is typical for most Hawaii state and county parks. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific event schedules or temporary closures. :clock:

No advance booking is required for general park access. However, if you're interested in participating in organized events like surf clinics, registration might be necessary. Instagram

General park rules apply. You can bring picnic items, beach gear, and surf equipment. Alcohol and amplified music may be restricted, and it's a dog-friendly park. Reddit

Absolutely! Pohaku Park is a fantastic destination for a day trip, offering surfing, wildlife viewing, and picnic facilities. Instagram

🎫 🏄 Onsite Experience

The main draws are surfing the S-Turns break, spotting sea turtles (Honu) on the beach, and enjoying the scenic ocean views. It's also a great spot for picnics and relaxation. InstagramReddit

Pohaku Park has a swimming area, but it's important to be aware of the waves and potential rocks. There is no lifeguard on duty, so swim with caution. Reddit

While there aren't rental shops directly at Pohaku Park, you can find surfboard rentals in nearby Kaanapali or Lahaina. Many surfers bring their own boards. Reddit

Yes, the park provides restrooms (porta-potties) and freshwater showers, which are very convenient after a surf session or beach visit. Reddit

Pohaku Park is renowned for its frequent sea turtle sightings. They often bask on the beach or swim close to shore, offering incredible viewing opportunities. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Pohaku Park itself doesn't have permanent food vendors. However, it occasionally hosts fundraisers like Huli Huli chicken sales. Instagram For regular dining, Kaanapali and Lahaina offer numerous options. Instagram

You'll find a variety of dining options in the nearby Kaanapali and Kahana areas, ranging from casual sushi spots to resort restaurants. Miso Phat Sushi is a recommended nearby option. Instagram

Yes, Pohaku Park is equipped with picnic tables and barbecue grills, making it an ideal spot for a beach picnic. Reddit

There are grocery stores in the Kaanapali and Honokowai areas where you can purchase supplies for a picnic at the park. :shopping_cart:

Fundraisers at Pohaku Park have featured local favorites like Huli Huli chicken, often served with rice, mac salad, and green salad. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of surfers catching waves, sea turtles basking on the sand, and breathtaking sunsets over the ocean. The park's natural beauty is very photogenic. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Pohaku Park offers incredible sunset views over the Pacific Ocean, making it a prime location for photographers seeking golden hour shots. Reddit

Sea turtles are often most active and visible during the day, especially in the morning and late afternoon. Be patient and respectful when photographing them. Reddit

Experiment with low angles to capture the waves and turtles, and higher vantage points for panoramic ocean views. The park's layout offers diverse photographic possibilities. Instagram

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing both distant surfers and close-ups of wildlife. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and sunsets. :camera:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pohaku Park offers a family-friendly environment with its calm waters suitable for swimming and the exciting chance to spot sea turtles. The picnic facilities, including tables and BBQs, make it easy to enjoy a full day out. Reddit While there's no lifeguard, the generally calmer conditions compared to some other surf spots can be reassuring for families. Remember to bring plenty of sunscreen and snacks for the little ones. Reddit

🏄 Surfers

For surfers, Pohaku Park (S-Turns) is a gem. It's known for its consistent, well-formed waves that are ideal for both longboarders and shortboarders. Instagram The break is generally considered intermediate-friendly, offering a good balance of challenge and fun without the extreme conditions of some other Maui breaks. Arriving early is key to catching the best waves and securing parking. Reddit

🐢 Wildlife Enthusiasts

If you're passionate about wildlife, Pohaku Park is a must-visit. The frequent sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles (Honu) basking on the beach or swimming nearby are a major highlight. Reddit+1 Remember to observe from a distance and respect their space to ensure their well-being. The park offers a fantastic opportunity for ethical wildlife photography and observation. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Surfing at S-Turns

Pohaku Park's S-Turns break is a well-regarded surf spot on Maui, particularly favored by longboarders and shortboarders looking for consistent, well-shaped waves. Unlike more intimidating breaks like Jaws, S-Turns offers a more accessible experience, making it suitable for intermediate surfers and even adventurous beginners. The waves here tend to break closer to shore, providing ample opportunities to catch rides and practice maneuvers. Many visitors, including those staying in Kapalua or Kaanapali, make it a point to surf here. InstagramReddit

While rentals aren't directly at the park, surf shops in nearby Kaanapali and Lahaina can equip you. The consistent nature of the waves means you can often find good conditions for extended periods. It's a place where you can truly connect with the ocean's rhythm and enjoy the pure joy of surfing in a beautiful Hawaiian setting. Instagram

The Majestic Honu (Sea Turtles)

Pohaku Park is a significant resting and feeding ground for Hawaiian green sea turtles, known locally as 'Honu'. Visitors frequently report seeing numerous turtles basking on the sandy shores or gracefully swimming in the shallow waters. These gentle giants are a major draw for the park, offering unforgettable wildlife encounters. Reddit+1

It's crucial to remember that Honu are a protected species. Visitors are urged to maintain a respectful distance, never touch, feed, or disturb them. Observing them from afar allows them to continue their natural behaviors, including nesting. The presence of these magnificent creatures adds a unique and serene dimension to the Pohaku Park experience, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. Reddit+1

Community Resilience and Support

In the wake of the devastating Lahaina fires, Pohaku Park has transformed into a vital hub for community support and relief efforts. It has served as a critical distribution point for essential supplies, with volunteers and organizations coordinating the delivery of goods from neighboring islands and local communities. Instagram+1

This role highlights the resilience and aloha spirit of Maui. While enjoying the park's natural beauty, visitors may witness or even participate in these ongoing efforts. Events like fundraisers for local veterans or community organizations are also frequently held here, showcasing the park's importance as a gathering place for both recreation and community solidarity. Instagram+1

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