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Home / Most Popular Kite Surfing Spots in Hawaii
Hawaii is a natural playground for water sports of all kinds. The tropical weather, steady sea breezes, and long stretches of coastline set the stage for some of the best kite surfing in the world. The Hawaiian Islands are kite surfing’s spiritual birthplace, home to Pete Cabrinha, Robby Naish, and other pros who have pioneered this exhilarating sport.
Whether you’re looking for the ideal place to learn the ropes, or want to hone your latest tricks, here are some of Hawaii’s most popular kite surfing spots.
Maui is the mecca for kite surfing in Hawaii. The world’s first kite boarding competition was held here in 1996, and the island boasts more kiteable days than any other destination, thanks to its strong and consistent trade winds. There are opportunities for novice through advanced. Kite Beach, a short jaunt from the Kahului airport, is a fantastic place for kite surfing on the north shore. It is one of the safest areas for learning the sport and has a nice landing zone. A little farther out from the protected reef, Kite Beach offers more challenging conditions for intermediate and skilled kite surfers. Maui’s Flash Beach, Ka’a Point, Waipuilani Park, and Waiehu Beach also promise stellar opportunities to harness the wind.
Kailua Beach is the go-to place for kite surfing on Oahu. Situated on the southeast side of the island, the bay is buffeted with steady year-round winds and has a nice wide sandy beach for launching. Beginners generally stay toward the inside part of the bay, since the winds are calmer. Depending on conditions and the skill of the rider, kites can be played out some 20-80 feet in the air. As the wind picks up, you may find yourself addicted to cutting through the crystalline blue waters at top speed. Kite surfing is a blast at Mokuleia Beach Park, Sunset Beach, and Flat Island as well.
As a kite surfer, you’re constantly dealing with wind, sea spray, and the sun’s blinding glare. Sunlight reflected off the water causes serious eye strain, and can be a huge distraction in this fast-moving sport. Boost performance, comfort, and visual clarity with kite surfing sunglasses from Maui Jim. Equipped with PolarizedPlus2® technology, our lenses block intense horizontal glare from the water and shield the eyes from UVA and UVB rays. Enjoy amazingly crisp detail and clarity when you’re riding, even during peak UV-intense hours.
©2022 Maui Jim, Inc. Lahaina, Hawaii