KANAHA BEACH MAUI INFORMATION, Windsurfing, Surfing, Kiteboarding.

KITEBOARD

SURFING

DIVING

SWIMMING

POND

PLANTS

WILDLIFE

SEALIFE

CANOE

SECURITY

WINDSURF

LIFEGUARDS

CAMPING

LINKS

Kanaha is home to a variety of watersports activities. Fishing, Diving, Swimming, Surfing, Windsurfing, Outrigger Canoes and Kiteboarding. Kanaha is a large beach park that includes several smaller beaches. The geography includes an embayed coastline, open ocean, surf beaches, coves, headlands, wetlands, forests, scrubland, dunes, streams and ponds. Its location on the Kahului bay on Maui's north shore gives it the ideal characteristics that have made it the ideal Kanaha Beach Park - main entrance sign. ocean recreation area. Kanaha has camping areas, barbeques, picnic tables, public restrooms, showers, bicycle paths, nature areas and other amenities. Kanaha has developed areas and undeveloped. Constantly improving and growing with the help of volunteer groups and some county, state and federal funding.

Aerial Photo of Kanaha Beach, from www.bluehawaiian.com

Beautiful, Kanaha Beach Park rests on a peaceful coastal expanse between Kahului Bay and Spreckelsville Beach. Breath-taking views of the West Maui Mountains and Iao Valley await visitors, a swim, a picnic in the shade of the tall trees flanking the beach, or game of beach volleyball can be enjoyed as well. Lae’ula O Kai Canoe Club’s headquarters is maintained at the beachfront pavilion, and windsurfers often make good use of Kanaha's favorable onshore breezes. Street signs along Amala Place point the way: the beach is within walking distance of Kahului Airport and easily-accessible from Hana Highway (36) with ample parking available.

Quote from Maui county website

Kanaha Beach is a model beach park. Many different water users and beach users use the area harmoniously. The beach community includes, swimmers, divers, fishermen, canoe paddlers, windsurfers, surfers and others, all of whom coexist with mutual respect for each other. Kanaha Beach Park is actually a section of coastline with four major beaches, punctuated by rock jetties and headlands and streams. At Kanaha users have segregated themselves into different areas where they enjoy the Beach and ocean. Kanaha Beach Park is a public area that relies heavily on community support for maintenance, cleanup, and restoration. Many local beach users will remember the creation of the swim zone back in 1998 before there were lifeguards there.

Kokua: Kanaha is successful because of the cooperation between all the users. There has always been compromise and dialogue. There is a tremendous amount of volunteer efforts from so many different groups that love Kanaha. The list of volunteer, non-profit, and user groups and clubs that donate their resources are too numerous to mention here. For the most part the efforts of these groups go unnoticed. Kanaha is where it is today because of the community's continuing efforts over the last few decades. Community groups should be appreciated, respected and supported for doing their part to create a better environment for all.

Stay clear of Canoes: Marine rules require windsurfers and kiters to give right of way to canoes. Paddlers and Kiters have worked out a safety agreement that specifies Kiters stay 200 feet away from any canoe. Windsurfers should be on the look out for canoes and be aware that canoes sometimes drag fishing lines behind them which may tangle with windsurf gear.

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KITEBOARDING:
THE BIRTH OF KITESURFING (Kiteboarding)
The modern era of kitesurfing began mid 90's when Laird Hamilton and Manu Bertin gained recognition by kite-surfing on Maui's north shore. Riding surf style boards with footstraps, they captured the imagination of the water sport community. Kanaha is considered to be the birthplace of kitesurfing. Kitesurfing is the natural evolution of extreme wind-powered watersports. Combining traits of windsurf and wakeboard, the powerful air-foils and lightweight boards give the kiteboarder higher performance capabilities than ever before. In its short but exciting history kitesurfing has brought together the most exciting components of other extreme sports. The simplicity of the kite-board concept allows every rider the ability to create their own ride styles that reflect their creative imagination and personal expression. With every new move the definitions are changed and the sport continues to expand in possibility. Nobody knows what kiteboarding will look like in the future. But already at the present time kiteboarding has expanded into snow-kiteboarding and has taken new directions into foil-boarding and land-boarding.

KITEBOARD ZONES:
In order to safely accommodate different beach user groups, there are both formal and informal areas or "Zones" designated to each group. This prevents confusion, and allows different users to get the best access to the different conditions that they require. The Maps below are examples of the Kiteboarding Zone Maps.

Kitewboarding at Kitebeach. view looking east towards Ka'a Point.

Kite Beach (Kanaha)
These Photos were taken in about 2002, just after the kiteboarders cleaned up the area. If you go there today, the trees and native plants are much bigger. After the trash was removed the launch areas were still crowded with cars and the parking areas were minimal forcing beach users to park so close to the beach that kites trying to launch were jammed into the narrow strip of sand between the parked cars and the ocean. The existing parking area behind the launch site was separated from the beach by mounds of trash, when this was also cleared, it became more desirable to park there. Eventually the beach users agreed not to park on or drive over the immediate beach area and stay off the dunes. The launch area was freed from the hazard of parked cars. The launch site could then easily accommodate the increasing number of beach users safely. The area is still under the care of several volunteer groups who restore native vegetation and with the help of the kiteboarding association's volunteers, the perimeter of the beach launch was replanted with native, indigenous, and endemic plants. The plants were donated by local Nurseries, kiteboarding association members, volunteers, and individuals from the community. These restored plants include rare and endangered species of beach flora unique to Maui coastline habitat. The weeds are being managed by volunteers that work regularly in the park (notably Mr.Mike Perry). The natural action of the tides and winter swells has brought fresh sand onto the beach in many places where cars used to park on dirt, rock and trash.
The beach launch at the western side of the storm water canal, formerly part of the Naval Air Station Kahului (NASKA) or (N.A.S.Ka), was used for fuel storage and a pumping station. It is still known to many of the older locals as Naska. Formerly a neglected beach and informal trash dump this area has now been restored to a natural beach that attracts bus loads of tourists and is enjoyed by dozens of kiteboarders and other beach users.

This is a view (looking East) of the Kiteboarder launch area at Kanaha (Kite Beach). Photo: D.Dorn

This is a view (looking West) of the Kiteboarder launch area at Kanaha (Kite Beach). Photo: D.Dorn

Kiteboard Schools,
Kiteboarding is a technical sport and takes some time to master. Lessons are essential for a safe entry into ther sport. Always take kiteboarding lessons from a professional school. They will keep you safe and make sure you have fun. There are specific areas for kiteboarding, like at the western end of Kanaha Beach, and there are areas that are off-limits to kiteboarding. Check out the signs at the beaches and ask the lifeguards or kiteboard instructors. Check out these Kiteboarding schools: Action Sports Maui, HST, Maui Sports Unlimited.

Kite Beach, at Kanaha Beach Park, Maui, Hawaii. Aerial View from www.bluehawaiian.com
Aerial Photo of Kite Beach, Kanaha, from www.bluehawaiian.com

June: Maui Kite Festival, Kiteboarding Contest at Kanaha, 808-877-2111

September: Red Bull King of the Air, Kiteboarding Contest at Kanaha

Kanaha Beach Water Zones Usage Aerial Map

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SURFING

SURFING TRADITION: The Hawaiian sport of kings, called He'e Nalu (Wave sliding) has a long history on Maui. Surfing contests between royalty were a public spectacle and became the stuff of legends. Surfing prowess was aspired to by the Ali'i (royalty) and commoners alike. There was a strict code governing the construction and distribution of surf boards, (Papa He'e nalu). Certain board types were reserved for only the highest ranks. Women and children used the smallest boards. Surfing history is a fascinating subject, much can be found in libraries and online. Some good examples of traditional Hawaiian surf boards are in the collections at the Bishop Museum in Honolulu.

SURF BREAKS; Kanaha has many surf breaks along the offshore reefs. The waves are a long distance from shore, so they are mostly suitable for expert surfers. The paddle out to the wave zone at "Lowers" can take 15 minutes or more depending on your fitness. When surfing Kanaha remember to save your energy because you have to paddle all the way back in at the end of your session. Mornings are best for surf before the conditions get blown out by the afternoon trade winds. Light Kona (southerly) winds create glassy water, ideal for surfing. Strong Kona winds can be too dangerous to surf in, even if it seems calm close to shore. Strong "Konas" will peel back a plume of spray from the wave crest as high as the wave itself. These kind of waves are beautiful but potentially deadly to unwary surfers.

In the middle of Kanaha is the "weird wave", sometimes referred to as the Bermuda triangle. This wave can be pointed out to you by any local. The weird wave is dangerous and should be avoided by all water users. The weird wave breaks almost perpendicular to shore because it is created by a strong current flowing over shallow reef. Not unlike a "hydraulic" Standing wave in a fast flowing river. Surfers have been stuck in the vortex of this wave and been unable to get out. Even some experienced water users have died there. Always surf with a buddy. Don't surf alone.

DIVING & FISHING In the morning the ocean is the domain or the shoreline fishermen and the "Tako" divers. Do not swim close to fishermen, their lines, or nets. Fishermen will often camp overnight at Kanaha to fish for Ulua and Papio.

TAKO is the local name for octopus. Tako is the local name for an octopus ("He'e mauli" in Hawaiian). The Tako divers have been catching octopus at Kanaha for generations. Some divers will tow a buoy to make them more visible, Some will display a dive flag (some divers do not use them at all).

DIVERS HAVE RIGHT OF WAY AT ALL TIMES: (but windsurfers will not launch until 11am) to give the divers the water all to themselves.

August: Larry Libres Memorial Fishing & Diving Tournament, 808-877-2111

SWIMMING, Swimming is allowed on every part of the beach, the water is a warm and inviting 74-76 degrees. There are several dedicated swim zones at Kanaha Beach, and a buoyed swim area right in the middle of the beach. Just 100 yards east of the main lifeguard tower. In other areas be very cautious swimming around watercraft and fishermen. Swimming is usually best in the early mornings before the wind gets too strong. Swimming is not recommended when there is large surf causing a shore break on surge action, or when there has been heavy rain. After rain there may be an increase in waterborne bacteria that can get into open cuts and cause infections. There is also a higher risk from submerged debris. When conditions are dangerous that lifeguards may post a red flag, which means" danger". Another safety tip is: Do not dive head first into shallow water. Do not dive into murky water, because you may hit a rock or submerged object causing a possible head or spinal injury. Stay close to shore when swimming. There are strong currents offshore. If you get caught in an outgoing current (rip) swim across it (not against the current). Then try to make it to shore in another location. Signal for help by waving your arms if you are in trouble.

SWIM ZONE: There is a marked swim zone in the center of the beach in front of the Lifeguard tower. this is the safest place to swim when the lifeguards are on duty. Look for the lifeguard's posted warning signs about possible hazards. There is no windsurfing before 11am so there is plenty of room to swim all along the beach in the mornings. After 11am, it is best to swim in the marked swim zone where the lifeguards can see you.

There is a little known fact that for the last 18 years the windsurfers have provided and maintained the buoys that mark the swim zone at Kanaha. The Maui Boardsailing Association (MBA) has donated time and money every year to inform the windsurfing community of the swim zones, beach rules and rights of all water users. The MBA distributes Maps and Safe Sailing guidelines to visitors and locals to ensure that everyone is informed.

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KANAHA POND: Adjacent to Kanaha is the Kanaha pond, a wildlife (waterfowl) sanctuary, incorporating a

large pond that is home to rare and endangered wildlife, notably the rare Hawaiian Stilt (or Ae'o) The rare Hawaiian Stilt or "Aeo" can be seen at Kanaha Pond

and Coot. Kanaha Pond Wildlife Sanctuary is an important breeding area for endangered Hawaiian duck (Anas wyvilliana), Coot (Fulica americana alai), and Stilt (Himantopus mexicanus knudseni); and the endangered sphinx moth (Manduca blackburni). The pond is also a haven in winter for migratory Canadian geese. Up to 90 bird species have been observed at the pond. There is a public viewing area accessible from the Kahului side with a small parking area. Nature walks around the ponds are sometimes arranged.

Kanaha pond is historically significant. In the early 1700's Kapiiohookalani, King of Maui, ordered the construction of twin fish ponds, one of them is the present-day Kanaha Pond. Stones of the walls of the ponds were passed from hand to hand for half a mile by a long line of workmen, many imported from Moloka'i, according to legend. The ponds were used for storing and fattening fish, because Hawaiian custom prohibited catching or eating fish from the sea during the yearly three-to-five month breeding season. It was permissible, however, to eat fish taken from freshwater ponds. Quote from http://www.birdinghawaii.co.uk/XKanaha2.htm by Christian Melgar

Kanaha Pond, managed by the Department of Land and Natural Resources, is home to many rare and endangered waterfowl such as the Hawaiian stilt or ae'o. Restoration has been ongoing for many years, and continues today. Activities include clearing alien species and planting native Hawaiian plants. Volunteers meet at Kanaha Pond every Tuesday from 8am-noon. Appointment can also be arranged for large school groups and science clubs. For more information on the Tues. trips call Lorna Harrison with the Native Hawaiian Plant Society at (808)572-6338. For information on scheduling large groups or other questions call Fern Duvall, the pond Manager, at (808) 873-3502 or e-mail Fern.P.Duvall@hawaii.gov.

NATIVE PLANTS: native Plants include, indigenous, endemic and endangered species. native plants have persisted despite competition from invasive species. Re-vegetation programs, and weed control have brought back the flora to near pristine condition in many areas. Native plants are best suited to the dry coastal environment and once established thrive here. Natives provide an important part of the coastal ecosystem, Stabilizing dunes, trapping moisture, shading the ground, habitat and food source for native insects and fauna. Kanaha's established flora has become a repository for many species. Seeds are collected here for the reforestation projects on the island of Kaho'olawe and other areas. Indigenous plants are used in traditional Lei making, and for medicine and other practical purposes. Native plant destruction from off-road beach driving has been reduced and controlled with the addition of beach fences and designated driveways and parking areas. The efforts of many hard working volunteers have made all the difference in the revival of Kanaha's Flora over the years. To ensure that Kanaha's natural beauty will be preserved for future generations.

Indigenous and endemic Native Species: These plants occur naturally in Hawaii, either migrating here as seeds floating on the ocean, or carried by birds and wind. The endemic plants have evolved into unique species that are found nowhere else in the world. Many plants are endangered because of the destruction to their natural habitat. Some of the endemic/endangered plants at Kanaha are species unique to Maui. In some cases there are only several hundred individual plants of a single species remaining in the wild, therefore every individual plant is important for the perpetuation of the species. Indigenous or endemic plants at Kanaha include: Iliahialoe (Santalum ellipticum), Naupaka (Scaevola sericea), Dwarf Naupaka (Scaevola coriacea), Pohuehue (Ipomoea pes-caprae subsp. brasiliensis), (ipomoea_indica), Pohinahina (Vitex rotundifolia), Akia (Wikstroemia uva-ursi), Ilima papa (sida fallax), Nehe (Lipochaeta integrifolia), Nama (Nama sandwicensis) Aeae (Bacopa monnieri), Ihi (portulaca_lutea, portulaca molokiniensis), Wiliwili (Erythrina sandwicensis), Loulu (Pritchardia sp.), Popolo (Solanum nelsonii), Hinahina (Heliotropium anomalum var. argenteum), Nena (Heliotropium curassavicum), Ohai (Sesbania tomentosa), Naio (Myoporum sandwicense).

Hawaiian (Polynesian) Traditional Plants: It is believed that this group of plants were first brought to Hawaii by the early Polynesian settlers hundreds of years ago. Chants and oral history tell how these highly valued plants were brought along on the original sailing-canoe voyages from (Tahiti). The best known examples include, Milo (Thespesia populnea), Hau (Hibiscus tiliaceus), Kou (Cordia subcordata ), Ti leaf (Cordyline fruticosa), Taro (), Coconut (Niu) Hala tree (Pandanus tectorus). These trees are considered sacred to Hawaiians and have many uses in traditional culture. The living plant, the wood, sap, leaves, roots, fruits and flowers may be used in a variety of ways. Some woods are used in canoe building, fish-trap making, tools, and sacred objects. The spiny leaves of the Hala tree called "Lau hala" were made into cloth by weaving. The flowers of certain plants have medicinal properties, and the flowers, seeds, sap and bark are sometimes used to make dyes.

Non-native (introduced) Plant species: Some of these plants were deliberately introduced since western contact with the islands. Most plants were introduced for a particular purpose. Some to be used commercially as food for livestock, or for wood for lumbar or charcoal. Some plants were brought purely for aesthetic reasons to decorate ornamental gardens. Due to lack of competition from native plants and insects, introduced plants have often spread quickly and in some cases displaced the natives. Several plant and insect species may have arrived here by accident, hitching a ride here on cargo or luggage, or a transport ship etc. Some plants have gotten out of hand and become a big problem. Some plants are now considered pests, and are listed as noxious weeds, and invasive species. Non-native plants are not all bad. In fact many are appreciated and utilized by the population in positive ways. Many of the flowers of introduced species have found their way into lei making and other traditional crafts. Some examples of introduced plants at Kanaha are: Kiawe trees (Prosopis pallida), Ironwood (Casuarina equisetifolia), Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spectabilis).

For more information on Hawaiian plants go to: Plants of Hawaii Website

Many beachgoers are outdoor enthusiasts who believe in maintaining our natural environment, through active participation in community work days, beach cleaning, trash recycling, and awareness of native flora and fauna. Replanting native plant species, Dune regeneration through stabilization & re-vegetation, and habitat conservation for shoreline and ocean wildlife species. Wherever you see these signs, there have been replantings and restoration work. Do not drive over, or disturb plants in these areas. Stay on trails when walking to the beach and help to preserve the native plants in these areas.

WILDLIFE: (Mammals @ Kanaha Beach):

Mongoose (Herpestes javanicus) were introduced to help control rats. They now run wild all over the island, they probably do more harm to bird species than any rats. Mongoose move very fast and are usually shy, Most people will catch a fleeting glimpse of one when they dart in to the bushes at the edge of the roadway. In several camping areas mongoose have become emboldened and less wary of Man. They will stroll around the campgrounds looking for food scraps.

Feral Cats (Felis silvestris) are abundant in the coastal areas. Most of the cats you see are part of cat communities set up by the humane society. Individual cats have been captured then spayed or neutered to prevent further breeding. Then they are released into one of several "communities" where they are monitored and fed by volunteers. Cat communities are a humane alternative to the immediate destruction of wild cats.

Rats (Polynesian rat, Brown rat, and black rat) and Mice are present in all coastal areas. Kanaha in no exception. Some rats live up in the top of coconut trees. Hence the metal bands you see on many of the coconut (Niu) trees on the island.

Axis Deer, Feral Pigs, Goats, Cows and Horses.

Birds: Native birds, introduced species, and migratory birds inhabit the coastal regions at Kanaha. Kanaha Pond and the Wastewater reclamation facility pond attract many species. Bird watchers have observed over 90 species of birds in the Kanaha area. Feral chickens (Gallus gallus) do run wild in many coastal areas of Maui where they can be seen darting through the bush or running across the trails. They are sometimes caught by children, or adults who use them for sport or food.

Reptiles: Gecko, lizards.

Amphibians: Toads.

Insects: Scorpions, centipede, Sphinx moth, Monarch butterfly, caterpillar, spider, ants, flies, Bees, wasps.

SHORELIFE: Sandturtles, Ghost crabs (Ocypode ceratopthalmus),

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SEALIFE: SEA LIFE, Turtles life year round in the waters off Kanaha, some will occasionally come ashore to build nests and lay egg. If you find a turtle's nest do not disturb it, perhaps you could report its location to the lifeguards so that they can protect it from harm. Turtle species include some endangered species such as the green sea turtle, hawksbill, and leatherback. Turtles (Honu) do their part eating algae and sometimes jellyfish. Unfortunately they occasionally eat trash (perhaps mistaking plastic bags for jellyfish) and get sick. Marine mammals include the Hawaiian monk seal (`Ilio-holo-i-ka-uaua.), Dolphins (spinner, bottlenose, and spotted) (Nai'a in Hawaiian) and Whales (Kohola). All marine mammals are protected from harm or harassment in Hawaiian waters. Do not approach a marine mammal or attempt to interfere with them in any way. Other sea life includes invertebrates like the; plankton, Portuguese man-o-war jellyfish (‘ili mane‘o, palalia,), Octopus (He'e mauli), Spiny lobster (Ula), Urchins (Wana, Ina kea, Ina, Hauke uke, Ula ula, Wana halula), shrimp (Opae kai), starfish (), sea cucumbers (Loli), Corals (Pohaku puna) and shells (Opihi). Moray eel (Puhi), Stingrays (Hihimanu), Manta rays (Hahalua). Fish species include; Tuna (Ahi), Flyingfish (Malolo), Parrot fish (Uhu), Moonfish (Opah), tropical reef fish like the Humuhumunukunukuapua'a (Clown trigger fish), Puffer fish (O'opu hue), and Trevally (Ulua).

SHARKS (Mano) species include, Grey (Mano), Whitetip reef (Mano lalakea), hammerhead, and Tiger shark (Niuhi). Occasionally Hawaiian waters are home to the Whale Shark (which is more shark than whale). Sharks rarely attack humans, however uyou should use caution when entering the ocean. Never go into the ocean if you are cut or bleeding. Stay away from dead fish, fishermen, nets. Stay away from streams and rivers, especially after rain, and when the water is murky from rainfall runoff. Do not swim too far from shore, alone or at night. Do not enter the water if there has been a shark sighting. Follow warning signs and directives of the lifeguards. If you see a shark while swimming, swim calmly to shore, do not splash excessively, and try to keep your eye on the shark at all times.

OUTRIGGER CANOE CLUB:

"Lae Ula O Kai canoe club was founded in 1991. The small group of members worked hard over the years. Instead of the tiny trail to get to the beach we now have a cleared, open space with native/Polynesian plants thriving and a open air Halau Wa`a which we built".

Quote from the Lae 'ula O Kai webpage.

Outrigger Canoe club at Kanaha Beach, Lae 'ula O Kai www.mauipaddle.com/ lae.html

BEACH SECURITY:

Do not leave your valuables unattended. Cameras, wallets and backpacks left on the beach may be stolen. Some times cars are broken into. Lock your valuables in the trunk of your car. Do not leave anything of value in a visible area of your car. Do not hide your keys on the car. People watch where you hide them and gain entry into your vehicle.

Personal Security: Do not go into beach parks alone at night !

KITE CANOE
Kite-canoeing was said to be invented by the legendary Maui himself. The modern sport of kite-canoeing was reinvented by Don Montague and friends on the North Shore and Kanaha Beach.

For information and pictures on the modern Kite-Canoe go to www.kitecanoe.com

For a story/myth about Maui's Kite according to the legend go to Maui's Kite Story

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Windsurfing the warm trade winds at Kanaha Beach Maui. Photo: Action Sports Maui WINDSURFING
Maui is the heart of the windsurfing world because of the reliability of the trade-winds. Maui has the greatest number of windy days of any place on earth (other than Antarctica). The trade-winds blow at a perfect angle to the north shore, making it a haven for every level of rider. Kanaha Beach, located on Maui’s north shore, is the most popular windsurfing beach in Hawaii. Kanaha offers a variety of conditions to suit every level of windsurfer. The "trades" start to blow lightly in the morning, So the beginners usually start at 9am. The winds get stronger during the day, so intermediates generally launch at noon. Advanced riders will revel in the strongest winds that tend to peak in the afternoon. Windsurfing is an ideal family activity. The average person will be up and riding in their first lesson. Advanced windsurfers can tackle the stronger winds in the afternoon.

WINDSURFING AREAS
Aerial view of windsurfers Kanaha Beach. No windsurfing is allowed before 11am. With the exception of beginners who have a special area where they can go from 9am. This rule gives swimmers and divers time to enjoy themselves in peace. There is a marked "swim zone" where no windsurfing is allowed at any time. Lifeguards help enforce the rules. For more information on windsurfing rules on Maui. Pick up a copy of the "Safe Sailing Guidelines" from any windsurf shop.

Click here to go see the 'Safe Sailing Guidelines' Page

Beginner windsurfing lesson at Kanaha Beach. Photo:ActionSportsMaui WINDSURF LESSONS
You can arrange a windsurfing lesson at Kanaha. There are several fine windsurfing schools offering lessons. No experience is necessary. Beginner lessons run in the mornings when the wind is lighter. Advanced lessons run from about noon onwards to take advantage of the stronger trade winds. There are no "Walk up lessons" at the beach so please call ahead to make an appointment and booking.
SCHOOLS: Action Sports Maui, HST Windsurfing School, Maui Sports Unlimited.

WINDSURF RENTAL
Windsurfing in Maui's warm water, No wetsuit required. Photo:ActionSportsMaui There is no rental of equipment at the beach. Windsurf schools will provide equipment for lessons for use during the lessons. All other windsurfing equipment should be rented at one of several large windsurfing stores (in Kahului) close to the beach. The stores are happy to give you roof racks for your car (included in the price of board rental) and help you load up your gear. Maui windsurfing stores have the largest and latest selection of equipment imaginable. Some stores have over 200 boards to choose from. Please do not overstate your ability when renting. The store might send you out with equipment or in conditions beyond your ability. If you are unsure about your skills, they will happily refer you to a school for a refresher lesson.

SHOPS: Hawaiian Island, Kanaha Kai, Hi-Tech, Second Wind, Neil Pryde, Maui Windsurf Co.

WINDSURFING LOCATIONS ON THE NORTH SHORE

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PARA-KITING
Just invented in 2005 at Kanaha beach, The paraglider pulls the kiteboarder, the kiteboard supplies the lateral resistance to keep the paraglider aloft. Paul Franco has been Paragliding since he was five, and kiteboarding since 2000. Monte is a former Hanglider designer/test pilot. They are both experienced certified instructors in paragliding and Kiteboarding. So this hybridized sport is a logical step for them. Easy!!
Rider- Paul Franco, Flyer - Monte.

CAMPING
The County of Maui has only one park for camping, Kanaha beach park, close to the Kahului airport. The park has areas for individual campers and groups. Each camper is charged $3/day ($.50 for children under 18). There is a time limit of three days. The park, a favorite with windsurfers, has drinking water and restroom facilities. For information, write or appear at the Department of Parks and Recreation, War Memorial Gym, 1580-C Kaahumanu Avenue, Wailuku, Hawaii 96793; phone (808) 243-7389, fax (808) 243-7982.

VOLUNTEERS (special thanks to these volunteers and benefactors).

Mike "John" Perry saved Kanaha from becoming a weed patch (recipient of the volunteer of the year award). He has worked thousands of man-hours, caring for the plants of Kanaha.

Anna Palomino from Hoolawa Farms donated native plants for the replanting at the kiteboarder parking area and the kite beach dunes (she is active in numerous community projects relating to Native Plants.

Kim & Forrest Starr are legendary, and have photographed almost every native plant at Kanaha, and so much more.

David & Tracey Nakashima donated Native hibiscus for the kiteboarder parking area at Kanaha.

Gabrielle & Margaret Dorn donated many of the native plants at Kite beach.

COMMUNITY WORK DAY

The beautification and restoration of Kanaha Beach has been on-going for decades, and is only possible with regular support from the community. To volunteer to help Kanaha Beach, call Jan Dapitan at Community Work Day (808)877-2524.

The following organizations have provided funding, volunteered time, or given resources:
Kiwanis, Kiwins, Girl Scouts, Boy scouts, Eagle scouts, Latter Day Saints, Baldwin High School Science Club, Seabury Hall High School, Maui High School, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Americorps (local and national), Lae Ula o Kai Canoe Club, Kiteboarders Association of Maui, Goodfellow Construction, Hoolawa Farms, Maui County Public Works Dept., Maui County Waste Water Treatment Dept., Maui County Parks and Recreation Dept., Maui County Correctional Center, Maui County Police Dept., State of Hawaii Emergency Environmental Workforce, United States Geological Survey Biological Resources Division, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Tri-Isle RC&D, and scores of other individuals, agencies, and organizations.

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LIFEGUARDS
Lifeguard Alfredo. Please always follow the directions of the lifeguards. Lifeguards protect the safety of the public by warning or dangerous conditions and areas. There are designated swim zones that are closely watched by the lifeguards. This is the best place to swim. It also ensures that you will not be bothered by the other water users. Lifeguards will watch the offshore areas and do rescues of surfers, windsurfers, and kiteboarders, however they are not obliged to bring the equipment ashore. If you venture away from shore, do so at your own risk. Lifeguards at Kanaha have a difficult job monitoring all the different activities and areas. Lifeguards will often only patrol during specific hours and may finish at 3.30pm daily. After these times you will be swimming at your own risk. If you need emergency help call 911. The lifeguards are on the emergency response team.

*Lifeguards will post warning signs to warn the public about dangerous ocean conditions.

BEACH SECURITY:

Personal Security: Do not go into beach parks alone at night !

Tsunami
Although extremely rare, Tsunamis (Tidal Waves) are very destructive. Kanaha Beach, like much of Hawaii's coastline is in a tsunami zone. There is a warning system that is tested periodically and scientific data is collected to predict tsunamis better and give some warning. After an earthquake a tsunami may follow. Move quickly to higher ground. Tsunami evacuation maps are available in the Maui phone directory. for more info on tsunamis go to: http://www.prh.noaa.gov/tidal

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OTHER ACTIVITIES YOU MAY SEE AT KANAHA:
Scenic Bicycle tracks connect Kanaha beach to other north shore beaches.

KAYAK FISHING, WIND FISHING, TOW-IN SURFING, BODYSURFING, VOYAGING, WHALE WATCHING, BIRD WATCHING, BICYCLE RIDING, PICNICS, BARBEQUES, WINDSURF COMPETITIONS, KITEBOARD COMPETITIONS, JUNIOR LIFEGUARD TRAINING, JOGGING, ROLLERBLADING, VOLLEYBALL, SUMMER KIDS WINDSURF CLINICS, SKIM BOARDING, CHILDREN'S BIRTHDAY PARTIES, SAILING CANOES, KAYAK SURFING, LONG BOARD PADDLE SURFING, PADDLE-BOARDING, WEDDINGS, TRADITIONAL CEREMONIES, FUNERAL SERVICES, TRIATHLONS, Summer Pals Kids Program. FISHING TOURNAMENTS, STAND-UP PADDLE SURFING.

ACTIVITIES YOU WON'T SEE AT KANAHA:
WAKE BOARDING, WATERSKIING, PARASAILING, THRILL-CRAFT, HUNTING.

Kanaha LINKS

KITEBOARDING ASSOCIATIONS: Maui Kiteboarding Association, Maui Kitesurfing Community.

For more information on Hawaiian plants go to the: Plants of Hawaii Website

Hawaii ecosystems at risk project www.hear.org

Outrigger Canoe club at Kanaha Beach, Lae 'ula O Kai www.mauipaddle.com/lae.html

KITESURFING SCHOOLS: Action Sports Maui, Maui Sports Unlimited.

Red Bull King of the Air Kiteboarding Contest "Kanaha".

Maui Boardsailing Association, 415 Dairy Rd. Suite A, Kahului HI 96732 (808) 871-4981

Anna Palomino from Hoolawa Farms donated native plants, (808) 575-5099

Surfrider Foundation Maui Chapter www.surfrider.org/maui
Contact: P.O. Box 374, Haiku, Hawaii 96708 - Phone: (808) 575-2716 - Email: maui@surfrider.org

Larry Libres Memorial Fishing & Diving Tournament, 808-877-2111

Surfrider protects surf areas and oceans around the world. The local Maui Chapter is Saving Maaleaa, and re-vegetating Ho'okipa. Click here for the SURFRIDER FOUNDATION (Maui Chapter) Website.

All watersports enthusiasts should know accurate and current weather forecasts. Marine Advisories and Marine warnings that will directly affect their operations, and the safety of students and patrons. Click here for the NOAA Website. And follow the links to the NWS (National Weather Service).

The Maui Boardsailing Association represents Windsurfing Schools and Shops. It distributes Sail Safe Guidelines to the public, promotes safety, provides buoys for the Kanaha Swim Zone, and administer the sailing rules. Click here for the MAUI BOARDSAILING ASSOCIATION website.

The MKA has been the watchdog for kiteboarding safety since 1998. The membership includes Kiteboarding schools, instructors, and riders from the general public, The MKA has distributed safety information, guidelines, training information and rules (in five languages) to the public including tourists. Click here for the MAUI KITEBOARDING ASSOCIATION website.

For sight seeing helicopter flights over Kanaha Beach and Maui, go to www.bluehawaiian.com

For Driving Maps to Kanaha and Maui, go to www.driveguidemagazines.com

County Information on Kanaha Beach Park:
http://www.co.maui.hi.us/parks/maui/central/KanahaBeachPark.htm

More Information on Kanaha Beach:
http://www.kanahabeach.com