Catch the Wind and Waves
Maui is famous as a top destination for windsurfing. The little town of Pa'ia and nearby Ho'okipa Beach on the north coast are the center of the action. The relatively new sport of kite-surfing is also taking off, literally. It involves the manipulation of a windborne kite that pulls you up and along the waves. And of course there's surfing, very much a Hawaiian pastime. If you want to give these exciting sports a try, these folks can help you.
Maui Waveriders say they can teach anyone to surf, “from beginners to cowards — even non swimmers!” 875-4761 www.mauigateway.com/~mwr
Surf Dog Maui will give you lessons taught by real “surf-dogs” — well-qualified and experienced surfing instructors, that is. 250-7873 www.surfdogmaui.com
Nancy Emerson's School of Surfing: Surfing celebrity Nancy says you can “learn to surf in one lesson.” 244-7873
HST (Hawaiian Sailboarding Techniques): Teaches both beginning and advanced windsurfing. 871-5423 1-800-968-5423 www.hstwindsurfing.com
Action Sports Maui offers adventures and instruction in the areas of surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paragliding. 871-5857 www.actionsportsmaui.com
FAST FACT
The north coast of Maui is one of the most difficult and dangerous surfing spots in the world. Waves known as “Jaws” are so massive that surfers need to be towed behind jet-skis to catch a ride. Needless to say, attempting to surf “Jaws” is for the super-expert only.
