Kanaha Beach Park

About This Spot

Maui's premier kite spot and one of the most consistently windy places in North America, sitting on the north shore right beside Kahului Airport (OGG). Side-shore NE/ENE trade winds funnel between Haleakala and the West Maui Mountains, so it blows hard and clean — typically 15-25 mph, often building through the morning to full strength by 11am-noon. Season: windiest and most reliable roughly March/April through October (summer trades are the lock); November-February is more variable with occasional flat days and winter fronts. Check the Kahului Airport and Kahului Harbor wind sensors live before driving down. Water & layout: a reef sits ~500m offshore, creating a large flat-to-choppy lagoon inside that's the smoothest, steadiest launch on the island — ideal for beginners and freeride/foil. The outer reef offers wave riding 1-2 miles out for those comfortable going downwind/offshore on E winds. Distinct zones: Naska/Old Man's and 'School Beach' for beginners and lessons; Ka'a Point / 'Pro Pool' (Kite Beach) for big air and advanced riders. Loads of schools and instructors operate here. Access & rules (important): kiting is permitted 11am-8pm only (mornings reserved for windsurfers); park gates open ~6am-8pm. Parking at the Keyhole lot and campground; entry roads are rough and can flood in winter. Use the single designated launch — keep it clear, come through the Pro Pool and drop your kite downwind of the launch zone, or land at Teach Beach and walk back when crowded. Must be able to self-launch/land. ENE winds (under ~50°) get blocked by the tree line at the launch, making it gusty/wind-shadowed — drift launching advised. Hazards: shallow reef (don't tumble on the outer reef), strong wind, heavy non-kiter traffic — swimmers, families, and fishermen line the beach and the inner pond (DO NOT ride through the pond: kids swim there, plus rocks and kite-eating trees). Jetski lifeguards enforce rules and assist rescues. Warm water, boardshorts/shorty all year.