Hawaiian Islands Surf Outlook: Fading Swells and Trade Wind Shifts

Read the latest surf forecast for Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island for June 27, 2026, covering swell patterns, wind conditions, and what to expect on coastal shores.

Hawaiian Islands Surf Outlook: Fading Swells and Trade Wind Shifts

As of late June 2026, coastal conditions across the Hawaiian Islands are experiencing a transition in swell energy. While a small, medium-period south swell that brought recent activity is currently fading, surfers can expect a fresh pulse of long-period energy to arrive by the weekend. Meanwhile, consistent trade winds continue to impact east-facing shores, keeping waters in those areas rough and choppy.

Key takeaways

  • South shores will see a brief lull in surf followed by a new swell on Sunday.
  • Persistent trade winds continue to create rough conditions on east-facing coastlines.
  • Minimal surf persists for north-facing shores with only tiny ripples expected.
  • Weekend weather across the islands generally features mostly sunny skies with scattered showers.

Maui surf conditions

Maui is currently navigating a period of lower swell activity. South-facing shores are seeing a decline from the recent swell, with heights of 3-5 feet expected to drop as the current energy tapers off. East-facing shores remain consistently rough, with surf heights holding between 4-6 feet despite the breezy trade winds. North and west sides of the island continue to see minimal, ankle-high surf as we head into the weekend.

Kauai outlook

Similar to other islands, Kauai is watching the fading south swell while preparing for a secondary pulse. South shores are currently recording surf heights in the 3-5 foot range, with east shores remaining choppy at 4-6 feet. Winds are holding steady at 10-15 mph, maintaining a familiar pattern for coastal residents. While north and west shores remain relatively calm, minor west-northwest swells may provide a tiny increase in wave energy on Saturday.

Big Island coastal forecast

The Big Island continues to follow the broader statewide trend. Windward and southeast shores remain influenced by trade winds, resulting in rough 4-6 foot surf. Leeward and Kona areas remain mostly calm, with surf predominantly in the 1-3 foot range, though regional variations exist depending on local wind shifts. Conditions on the Big Island are expected to see minor fluctuations as wind directions shift from northeast to light and variable throughout Saturday, particularly for those on western coasts.

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