Hookipa Beach - Maui, Hawaii

Watch the Windsurfers at Hookipa Beach in Maui.  Maui is a beautiful place to visit, filled with gorgeous beaches and some of the most beautiful land in the world. One of the favorite pastimes of the people on Maui (as with the other Hawaiian Islands) is surfing.

Hookipa Beach, located along the Hana Highway on the north shore of Maui is renowned for the great surfing and windsurfing available. In fact, it is one of the best places in the world for the sports. It boasts four separate surf breaks.

Because of the great surf and the strong winds that hit the north shore, Hookipa Beach is often the site of competitions for windsurfing.

However, visitors to the beach should be aware that the surf is extremely strong here, and only those who are experts should attempt these extreme water sports. The waves that the windsurfers regularly ride are at least 15 ft tall.

In the winter months, the waves out at the mile markers (where the expert surfers are towed to ride monster waves) are reported to reach massive heights of 25 to 30 ft (and sometimes more). Beginners or those who are just there to see the sights should stay near the shore, where they can watch with binoculars. It is quite a spectacle to see the professionals tame these waves – or take a spill trying!

The beach area offers more than just the surf. Those who just want to swim will find an area that is protected from the waves by a coral reef. The water there is calmer and perfect for taking a dip. Be aware, however, that the beach has no lifeguard. As always, use your own judgment and common sense when entering the water. If there are any signs warning you to stay out of the water because of surf conditions, you must obey them for your own safety.

You will find restrooms, as well as outdoor showers and picnic facilities. Two parking lots are available to the public, but you will still want to get to the beach early. It is a nice place to spend the day and have a picnic with your friends and family.

This is a beautiful beach, and you can spend hours just sitting on the sand and watching the crashing waves. It is hypnotic and a great way to unwind – the sound of the ocean is sure to relax you!