Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
advanced surfers can paddle out on the North Shore if the conditions are right. Lesson rates
are $160 for a private lesson, $220 for two people, and $90/person for private groups of
three or more.
Surf Spots
Although there are a number of secret spots scattered around the coastline, the two main
Hana surf breaks frequented by visitors are
Koki Beach
and
Hamoa Beach,
both on
Haneo'o Road 1.5 miles past the town of Hana. Due to its easterly location Hana gets
waves any time of the year. Since the waves are often the result of easterly windswell,
conditions can be rougher than elsewhere on the island. Koki is more exposed to the trade
winds and the strong currents can often be challenging. The steepness of the wave here
is better suited for shortboards than for longboards. Koki is where many of Hana's
keiki
(children) first learn how to pop up and ride.
Around the corner at Hamoa, the protected bay offers a respite from the trade winds.
Whereas Koki breaks fairly close to shore, the wave at Hamoa breaks farther out over a
combination of sand, reef, and rocks. On moderate days, this is a good place for riding a
longboard or a stand-up board since the wave isn't as steep, but the largest waves are re-
served for locals and experts. There are no lifeguards at either beach in Hana.
Despite the fact that the trade winds blow almost every afternoon for the majority of the
summer, most windsurfers flock to the island's North Shore in winter. Summer windsurf-
ing is reserved for spots such as Kanaha Beach Park in Central Maui where wind takes
precedent over waves. Here on the North Shore, the world's best all flock in droves to
Ho'okipa Beach Park for the chance to combine the trade winds with waves regularly
reaching over 20 feet in height. Don't expect to see any windsurfers during your morn-
ing drive to Hana, however, as there is a local law that prohibits windsurfing before 11am.
Seeing as the trades don't usually start blowing until noon, however, rarely is this ever a
problem for those who want to get out on the water.
Windsuring Spots
Sprecklesville
is a local sailing spot that offers conditions less crowded than Kanaha or
Ho'okipa. It's an advanced location, so if you're still new to the sport, it's best to stick
to the area around Kanaha. If you're a competent sailor, however, the launching point at
