Popular Windsurfing Spots in Hawaii

Created in the 1960s, windsurfing had grown into one of the most popular pastimes in Hawaii. This unique sport combines some of the elements of sailing and surfing. The first windsurf board was patented in 1968 by the two creators of windsurfing, Hoyle Schweitzer and Jim Drake.

Like so much aerial dancing, the maneuvers of windsurfing portray a certain sense of grace along with the excitement that it dishes up. The warm water swirls around windsurfers almost in synchrony with the freshly scented air that rushes past them as they glide along on their amazing journey through the brilliant waters.

Optimal wave and wind conditions for windsurfing can be found at Ho’okipa Beach Park on Maui. Maui is Hawaii’s second largest island, and is well-known for its beautiful beaches, gorgeous sunsets, and exotic displays of nature. The park is located on the north shore of this island and has been referred to as the “Aspen of Windsurfing.” This area is better suited for experienced windsurfers due to the strong currents and surf. Typically, the winds start out light and easy in the morning and increase steadily throughout the day.

Kailua Bay on Oahu offers optimal wave and wind conditions for windsurfing. Oahu is Hawaii’s third largest island, and is noted for being the “Gathering Place.” Kailua is located a mere 15 minutes away from downtown Honolulu. Kailua, predominately a beach community, features trade winds that are excellent for windsurfing. This is the spot where one of the best windsurfers of all time, Robbie Naish, grew up.

Optimal wave and wind conditions for windsurfing can be found at Anini Beach on Kauai. Kauai is Hawaii’s third largest island, and is noted for being the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands. Anini Beach is located on the north shore of Kauai and offers a safe, protected area for water sports. Anini Beach is noted for featuring Hawaii’s longest reef. Equipment rentals and lessons are offered at the beach.

Optimal wave and wind conditions for windsurfing can be found at Diamond Head Beach and Fort DeRussy Beach in Waikiki. At Diamond Head Beach, the trade winds typically blow parallel to the shore. Fort DeRussy Beach features along stretch of pure white sands that are popular for windsurfing.

Novice windsurfers can find safer conditions in the waters located by Lahaina or Kihei in Maui. The waters and trade winds are gentler here than in other locations.