Kanaha Beach

About This Spot

Kanaha (aka Kite Beach) on Maui's north shore, just west of Kahului Airport (OGG), is one of the most reliably windy kite spots on earth. Cross-shore ENE/NE trade winds funnel between Haleakala and the West Maui Mountains and blow strong and dense. Best season is the NH summer: June-September is most consistent, with June/July often delivering rideable wind 6 of 7 days, frequently 20-30+ kt and occasionally 40 kt. Trades blow much of the year; winter (Nov-Mar) is patchier, needs bigger kites, and can bring occasional S winds that go offshore on the north shore. Wind typically builds through the morning, reaching full strength around 11am-noon. Water is sheltered by a reef ~500 m offshore, giving relatively flat-to-light-chop riding inside the reef and a wide sandy launch — ideal for beginners and progressing freeriders. Bump-and-jump chop and small swell build farther out; wave riders find more at the reef and downwind. There are three zones: Naska/Old Man's (beginner-friendly, widest sand), Kite/Teach Beach near Kaa Point, and the Boneyard (shallow reef exposed at low tide — cross with care). Access via Kanaha Beach Park; gates open 6am-8pm HST. Critical local rules: the 11 o'clock rule means NO kiting before 11am (water reserved for swimmers/fishers/windsurfers); kite 11am-8pm only. Launch/land on the WEST side of the lifeguard tower to stay clear of windsurfers. FAA rules ban kiting in a 2 nm x 1 nm corridor off the OGG runway, cap lines at 125 ft, and limit kite height to 125 ft. Lifeguards on jetskis enforce rules and run rescues. Hazards: sharp shallow reef, buried rocks, strong currents, very strong gusty wind on big days, and crowds. Use a kite leash and respect right-of-way.