Shark Pit (Polanui-Uhailio)

Shark Pit (the proper name is Polanui-Uhailio) is a surf spot south of central Lahaina, named for the dark reef silhouettes visible from the bluff above — not for actual shark activity. The latest Surfrider BWTF sample (2026-04-15) measured 10 MPN/100mL — within the 130 BAV threshold. The Hawaii DOH does not routinely test this beach.

Shark Pit sits on a stretch of West Maui coast between Lahaina and Olowalu. No major streams enter directly. BWTF readings have been at or near 10 MPN/100mL — well within threshold.

Open-coast exposure flushes the area effectively. Even after rain, this stretch tends to clear faster than the Lahaina downtown waters because there's less drainage and no harbor concentration.

Standard 72-hour rule applies after heavy rain. The post-fire recovery in Lahaina has not caused notable contamination at Shark Pit, based on monthly BWTF sampling.

The Hawaii Department of Health does NOT routinely test Shark Pit (Polanui-Uhailio). The community-tested readings on this page come from the Surfrider Foundation Blue Water Task Force, a volunteer-led monitoring program run by the Surfrider Maui chapter.

BWTF samples Shark Pit (Polanui-Uhailio) monthly using the IDEXX Enterolert method (MPN/100mL), and compares results against the same 130 Beach Action Value DOH uses statewide. See our overview of citizen water-quality testing in Hawaiʻi for the methodology and how BWTF data fits with DOH coverage.

Rocky entry along the bluff. This is a surfer's spot — paddle out is across the reef. Not a swimming beach. Watch for sea urchins on the rocks.

Winter west swells and summer south swells both produce waves here. Smaller, more manageable than Honolua Bay further north. Quieter than Lahaina town's surf spots.

Off Honoapiʻilani Highway south of Lahaina, between Olowalu and central Lahaina. Roadside parking. Walk down the bluff trail. Combine with Olowalu (5 minutes south) for a longer surf session.