Surfing

Although Waikīkī and the North Shore of Oʻahu are legendary surf spots, Maui has its own share of famous beach to experience the “sport of kings.”

To watch pro surfers in action, head to Honolua Bay and Hoʻokipa Beach near Lower Pāʻia during winter big wave season. East of Hoʻokipa, you’ll find Maui’s most famous surf spot for big wave surfing: Peʻahi, also known as "Jaws.” During big swells, surfers are towed into Peʻahi’s massive waves by jet-skis. This technique has lead to the emergence of a new sport called “tow-in surfing.”

For first-time surfers, Maui offers lessons at far-less intimidating surf spots in West Maui and South Maui, at beaches in Kāʻanapali, Lāhainā and Kīhei. Another option for first-timers is stand-up paddle boarding, which uses larger boards for surfers to stand upright on, using a paddle to maneuver. Maui is also famous for another form of surfing: windsurfing. Hoʻokipa Beach on Maui's northern shore is considered the windsurfing capital of the world. 

No matter which style of surfing you want to try, lessons are highly recommended for your safety and the safety of your fellow beachgoers and surfers.