Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
that can reach 40 knots on waves that grow to eight feet or higher. It's an extreme
sport reserved for only the world's most competent paddlers.
Of all the places around the globe where the conditions align for an epic down-
winder, the Maliko Run on Maui's North Shore is considered to be the granddaddy
of them all. Beginning in protected Maliko Gulch 1.5 miles past Ho'okipa Beach
Park, the 8.5-mile downwind run goes all the way to Kahului Harbor while paral-
leling the fabled stretch of Maui's North Shore. Along the two-hour journey (the
world's best complete the feat in a little over an hour), paddlers will pass the reefs of
Ho'okipa and Kanaha and view the beaches of Pa'ia from the water. In the distance,
towering Haleakala stands stoically above the rows of sugarcane fields and flecks of
residential homes. While admittedly challenging, the run provides an island vantage
point which will only be seen by an experienced few.
While Maliko Runs are a favorite after-work or weekend activity of the island's
water sports community, over 200 hundred racers will all gather in the Naish In-
ternational Paddleboard championship held at Maliko every July. The event gives
Maui locals the chance to compete against some of the world's biggest names in
paddleboarding such as Jamie Mitchell, Dave Kalama, and Kai Lenny. It's a unique
island event which embodies island resident's love for the ocean and adventure.
If you're an avid, experienced paddler well-versed in the nuances of the ocean,
Moore Water Time
(
www.moorewatertime.com
)
can provide a shuttle that will
transport you and your board from Kanaha Beach Park or Kahului Harbor to Maliko
Gulch so that you can have your car waiting for you at the end of the paddle.
•
Mile Marker 11:
Postcard-perfect Upper Puohokamoa Falls. There is only enough park-
ing for 10 cars, but taking the trouble to find a spot is worth it.
Upper Puohokamoa Falls
At a narrow bend in the road at mile marker 11 (just past the Garden of Eden), gentle Puo-
hokomoa Falls is as scenic as they come. Unfortunately, there are only enough parking
spaces for about 10 cars and you need to be agile enough to climb a small rock wall to
access the trail. If you're lucky enough to find a parking spot and are fit enough, the re-
ward is a swimming hole of tropical simplicity. On the Garden of Eden side of the bridge
you'll notice a rock wall toward the back of the parking area, where you can circumvent
the concrete barrier (at the time of last visit, no signs warned against entry). A short trail
will bring you to the edge of the pool. Signs warn against diving or jumping into the pool,
