The
island of Maui, considered the Mecca for windsurfing, is quickly
becoming the destination for
beginning kiteboarders and is the proving ground for many of the
world's best professionals in the sport. The venturi effect created by
the gap between the West Maui Mountains (elev. 5788'-extinct volcano)
and Haleakala (10023'- dormant volcano) results in a nearly
year-round, side-onshore, 10-20 knot trade wind. Warm waters,
beautiful sandy beaches and areas set aside solely for practicing the
sport make Maui one of the foremost kiteboarding spots.
The
most common kite sizes for local riders range from 5 to 6.5 sq. meters
for men
and 3 to 5 sq. meters for women, in the spring and summer. In the late
fall and winter, when the winds become less predictable, due to low
and high pressure centers moving in and out of the area, sizes range
from 3 to 23 sq. meters.
Currently, there are several different areas where riders are
launching. The most popular is the west (downwind) end of
Kanaha Beach Park. Kihei and west side (above Lahaina) areas are
also popular with intermediate to advanced riders. Each of these sites
has its own unique challenges so we recommend, before jumping into
your rental car at the airport and heading off with your equipment to
ride, stop at a nearby shop for the safe riding guidelines brochure.
For
much more information about kiteboarding (also called kitesurfing or
kitesailing) on Maui, including gear rentals, pros, great spots, and
lessons, check out the sites in the table below. If you're
looking for lessons or gear rentals, see the links below to find where
you want to go, and then visit our
Discounts & Bargains
page to save some bucks on your kiteboarding experience.
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beginning kiteboarders and is the proving ground for many of the
world's best professionals in the sport. The venturi effect created by
the gap between the West Maui Mountains (elev. 5788'-extinct volcano)
and Haleakala (10023'- dormant volcano) results in a nearly
year-round, side-onshore, 10-20 knot trade wind. Warm waters,
beautiful sandy beaches and areas set aside solely for practicing the
sport make Maui one of the foremost kiteboarding spots.
