Kitesurfing

When you think of a tropical destination with superb conditions for kitesurfing, Maui is one of those places that will always make you a better rider.

Once hailed the best island in the world, Maui is also often considered the world's windsurfing capital; a place where wind-and-water sports enthusiasts put their skills to test.

But it is also one of the birthplaces of kiteboarding. The world's first kite competition was held in Maui, in September 1996, and won by Marcus "Flash" Austin.

The second largest of the Hawaiian islands will impress any foreigner. Maui breathes nature, but also offers a laid-back lifestyle and vibrant culture.

From a climate perspective, Maui is the Mecca of wind sports. The island has 120 miles of coastline, and over 30 miles of white, black and red sand beaches.

"The Valley Isle" has tropical weather all year-round with warm ocean waters, trade showers, and occasional cold fronts. The air temperatures here range from 79-88°F (26-31°C).

Although Maui gets less swell than the island of Oahu, it is definitely windier. The Hawaiian trades generate consistent 15-to-25 knot NE winds during summer and, due to the island's topography, they accelerate as they reach the North Shore.

The best time of the year to ride a kite in Maui is between March and October, even though swells are less powerful in this period.

If you're visiting Maui for the first time, know that there are no hotels along most of the northern coastline, except for Kahului. So the best option is to rent an apartment or ask for a guest house.

Maui has many shops, shapers, schools and gear rental points for the traveling kitesurfer, and plenty of kitesurfing instructors in Maui. If you're a beginner or first-timer, book a few private lessons for between $50 and $100 per hour.

Professional kitesurfing instructors will provide all equipment you'll need to start flying a kite safely and in a controlled environment.

Advanced riders should launch their kites in authorized kite beaches only. There are a few federal laws, state statutes, county ordinances, and environmental restrictions governing the use of kites in these areas.

The most popular kitesurfing area in Maui is the North Shore. Here, kiteboarders are not allowed to ride their wings before 11 am.

They will also have to respect a minimum distance of 200 feet from surfers, swimmers, paddleboarders, divers, fishermen, paddlers, and other ocean users.

https://www.surfertoday.com/kiteboarding/the-best-kitesurfing-spots-in-maui

Here are links to some Kitesurfing Companies that provide rentals and lessons:

https://www.kitehi.com/

https://mauikiteboardinglessons.com/

https://hstwindsurfing.com/

http://www.completekiteboarding.com/

https://www.mauikiteriders.com/