Hawaii Windsurfing
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Hawaii Windsurfing -- described as a surfboard with a sail attached.
You can harness the wind and fly over the waves. Maui rules the islands
for sail sports.
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Why is Maui considered the best location for windsurfing?
It is because of an accident of geography. The consistent trade winds coming from the northeast speed up near Kahului by the venturi effect between the two mountains. This causes it to be windier than the general trade speed. And, the shoreline orientation is perfect.
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You need to know that in Maui, no beginner is allowed out into the seas until after 11:00 a.m. This is strictly enforced by the locals.
If you visit Ho'okipa, the mecca of windsurf spots, don't try to windsurf unless you are advanced. Beginners should head over to Kanaha Beach near Kahului Airport for the best place to learn.
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If you take a lesson to learn to windsurf you'll learn through a series of tacking and jibing (changing directions into or away from the wind). This is a difficult sport to master so be prepared to get wet! Sorry, I couldn't resist that humor.
Don't be discouraged if it takes some time for you to be streaking through the water riding the wind and waves.
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Windsurfing (formerly known as sailboarding) has limited options on the islands of Kauai and the Big Island.
On Kauai, the higher winds and more reefs favor the experienced boarder.
The exception is 'Anini Beach. There are lessons available at Windsurf Kauai specializing in beginners on the north shore.
County laws prohibit renting boards at the beach so you'll have to pick up a board at another location. Take it to Maha'ulepu or Salt Pond on the south shore.
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A 2 1/2 hour lesson hawaii windsurfing will cost you about $80 per person based on 3-4 people per class. Just as a side note, statistics show that shorter slimmer people appear to learn board balance faster.
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Kanaha has fantastic conditions in Maui. Wailea, although the conditions aren't as good as Kanaha, is also a place to visit. If the surf is high on north-facing shores you're probably better off here.
Lessons are offered to up to 10 people each hour. Pricing is approximately $75 for 1.5 hours of instruction. Stick to early afternoon. Don't forget to wear a t-shirt for that mandatory life jacket and wear reef shoes.
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