Windsurf or Kitesurf Ho'okipa on Maui, Hawaii

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Even if Windsurfing didn’t originate in Hawaii the islands are considered home to the sport. The surface water sport was refined in the mid 1960’s by an aeronautical designer and a traditional wave surfer in California but far and away finds its greatest participation and following in Hawaii. You can travel to Maui’s Hookipa Beach which is considered the home of the “Maui Air Force” and observe the accomplished windsurfers performing jumps, inverted loops, spinning maneuvers and other acrobatic moves. There are a number of competitions staged all over Hawaii year round for windsurfers to compete in speed races, freestyle maneuvers and big wave riding that allows for different configurations or “classes” of the sailboards. Many of the beaches throughout the Hawaiian Islands offer windsurfing lessons accommodating everyone from beginners to the more accomplished boardsailors that want to refine their skills. Sailboard rentals are available both on and off the beach ranging from ½ day to weekly arrangements. There are four distinct surf breaks at Ho'okipa. Pavilions is the break furthest east, off the lookout parking. West from it, facing the main parking, is Middles break. Pavilions is mostly a right but also has a shorter left, and Middles is usually surfed as a left. The area between the two, which is in the channel, catches fewer breaking sets and is sometimes referred to as Girlie Bowls. Next further west is Green Trees, followed by The Point, facing the lifeguard tower and the narrow sand beach launch. It is the most popular break for windsurfing, and generally breaks as a right. With the prevailing trade wind direction being east to east-north-east, these are most frequently starboard tack down-the-line conditions (wind from right when standing on the beach). Yet further west, past the rocky point, is Lanes, which generally breaks as a left. Under relatively rare conditions, known as Kona, the prevailing winds become southwest, creating port tack down-the-line conditions at Lanes (wind from left when standing on the beach). This only occurs a few days out of every year. If you have ever dreamed of being able to fly like a bird all the while dodging ocean waves then windsurfing may just be the pursuit that needs inclusion on your list. Whether your dream would be satisfied by staking out a prime viewing spot on the sandy beach or donning a wetsuit and attempting to ride a sailboard yourself consider making trip to Hawaii to discover the depths of your passion for the sport.

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