4 posts
Hi fellow wind warriors. Maui is calling my name. I am planning to go in december. Can anyone give me some recommendations on where to stay, sail, hire gear etc. I am an intermediate flat water sailor at present. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
WA
1419 posts
Hi longfur,
December might not be the best time to visit Maui at you're skill level. The wind is far more fickle and the swell can be HUGE. Kanaha would be the only spot to sail as the reef is a little further out so the swell will be smaller there. The most windy time of year to visit is their Summer (May-July/August) Not a lot of swell, but you will probably sail on sub 5.0 sails every day.
Your brand preference will determine where you get your kit from. Last time we were there we got a mini van (unlimited miles) and 2 sets of kit (2 Boards, 4 sails and associated booms masts etc) for $100 a day (Neil Pryde Maui). I'm sure the price is almost the same everywhere. It pays to book early for a van.
Accomodation will also depend on budget. In and around Paia is good if you are going to Sail Hookipa or Sprecks, but the commute to Kanaha every day has to be well timed to avoid "peak" hour when the road between Kahalui and Paia becomes a car park. There are backpackers, self catering units, fully serviced units and 5 star accomodation. If you are taking a partner that does not sail, then where you stay may be more important to them.
We stayed in Kaui Plaza (Clean, self contained units), right near Mama's Fish house and just east of Paia.
At least if you go in December you may see Jaws in action!
Enjoy
WA
61 posts
westoz has it spot on with times to go. june - august for reliable wind but not much in the way of waves. december may see 40-60% of the time sailing. of course you could get super lucky, or super unlucky.
For other flat spots, you could checkout kihei on the south of the island. The water is not so good, but it is totally protected from north swells. Kanaha is the best bet. even spreaks is reasonably flat when there is swell around. But if you like it flat, kanaha is better.
It you are on vacation mode for a week or two, and want to eat out and do touristy things with a chick in tow, you may have more evening luck in lahina. Although its a 40 minute drive to kanaha each day. Otherwise, go to paia.
Neil pryde maui and hawaiian island are pretty good for equipment. So is simmer style if you are around paia. There are 2 big hostels which are not bad in paia, let me know if you want numbers, but kuau plaza as westwind said is a good choice.
There are some cheap car rentals, maui cruisers, good karma if you want something that "should" make it around the island. But if you are over 25, then budget cars or those kind of players are not that much more and up at the airport.
NSW
807 posts
"sounds like Maui is only for experienced advanced sailors."
No way. Anyone can sail there.
Go there for sure, but in the windy season.
