Secrets is a great kiteboarding and wingsurfing location on the North Shore of Maui. It’s an ideal spot to get away from the crowds at Kanaha Kite Beach’s usual launch. The outer reefs protect it, but with a decent sized swell, some fun waves make it into the inside. Since the launch isn’t completely safe, this spot is for intermediate riders and above. The North Shore of Maui is perfect for a family holiday. The area is safe, and there are endless activities. You will be in just boardshorts on most days, but it’s worth bringing a wetsuit top or spring suit for the colder ones.
IDEAL DISCIPLINES: Kiteboarding | Wingsurfing
CLOSEST AIRPORT: Kahului Airport (OGG).
DISTANCE TO LOCATION: Secrets is 15 minutes away from the airport.
TRANSPORT TO LOCATION: Renting a car is the best way to get around.
BEST SEASON: December through March is for good waves but has less consistent wind. May through September is best for consistent wind but not as many waves.
WIND RANGE: The wind ranges between 15 and 30 knots.
WATER TEMPERATURE: The air and water temperature are both around 80° F. Usually no wetsuit is needed but it’s recommended to bring a wetsuit top or spring suit for the colder days.
OFF-SEASON: November through March has less consistent wind.
LOCAL RULES/SAFETY HAZARDS: Kiteboarding on Maui is not allowed until after 11am. If there are surfers in the water, make sure to keep a safe distance. Maui has many official rules for kiteboarding, so be sure to look up the list of rules before going out.
LODGING RECOMMENDATIONS: There are not many hotels on the North Shore. The closest hotels would be in Kahului, but the best option is Airbnb or renting a house in Paia, Spreckelsville or Haiku.
LOCAL CUISINE: The North Shore has great options for many types of fish, poke and acai. Prices typically range from $10-$15. If you are eating out for every meal, plan on spending at least $30 per day. There are many grocery store options in Kahului and a small grocery store in Paia. Paia Fish Market in Paia has excellent fish along with other American food. Kuau Store has amazing poke bowls and Paia Bowls has delicious acai and smoothie bowls.
LOCAL SHOPS/SCHOOLS:
Maui Kiteboarding Lessons by Aqua Sports Maui https://mauikiteboardinglessons.com/
Maui Kite Riders https://www.mauikiteriders.com/
Complete Kiteboarding http://www.completekiteboarding.com/
Flash Kiteboarding School https://www.kitehi.com/
LOCAL RESOURCES:
https://mauikiteboardingassociation.com/mka-rules/ Helpful rules and regulations kiteboarders need to follow
WHY KADEN SPONHAUER RECOMMENDS THIS SPOT:
I have been to Maui for kiting several times, and Secrets has recently become one of my favorite spots. There is never anyone else out, and the waves can be really fun. If you are looking to break away from the crowds, I recommend trying Secrets.
THE ONE THING EVERYONE MUST DO: Take a day off kiting to explore the island. Drive the road to Hana, hike to a waterfall or drive to the top of Haleakala.
NON-WIND ACTIVITIES: Go surfing, foilsurfing, hiking, mountain biking, swimming in a jungle swimming hole or drive to Hana or Haleakala.
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