Pailolo Channel

Better channel swimming through shared knowledge

Hosted by Maui Nui Swim

Key Fact: Auau, Pailolo, and Kalohi channels are different environments.

Pailolo Channel separates the Hawaiian Islands of Maui and Molokai. Conditions vary greatly in this channel and it is best to swim across the channel with the lowest winds possible. The map (left) depicts historical crossing routes with associated times dating back to the very first cross and ending with the Maui Nui Swim of February, 2021. Data courtesy of Carl Kawauchi and Steven Minaglia.

A windy (25kt) Pailolo crossing during the February 2021 Maui Nui Swim.