Conversations about windsurfing in Maui begin and end with the mention of Ho'okipa Beach. Long considered the greatest spot for windsurfing in the world, it is definitely the epicenter of the sport in Maui. Also a popular beach for surfers, in the winter months Ho'okipa can be crowded (not only in the water but also on the beach), though there is obviously a good reason why. Nowhere else will you get rollicking waves mixed with perfect offshore winds – the beach has redefined the sport, and is the capital of not only Maui windsurfing, but of the entire Pacific Ocean. Though not invented here, Ho'okipa is synonymous with the sport, its most popular home since the sport's inception in the 1950's.

Of course, there are other good, though not perfect spots for windsurfing in Maui. Not coincidentally, they often are the premier locales for surfing too. Of course, windsurfers have to pay attention to their launch spot, whereas surfers are bereft of this issue, thus restraining Maui windsurfing to a few less beaches than surfers will have access too. For novices, windsurfing Maui is one of the best places to learn the sport, though there are far fewer schools who offer wind surfing lessons as compared to surf schools. But there are more than a few dotting the island, ready to make clear to you the secrets of catching a wave (and, ahem, holding it) while windsurfing Maui swells.

The northern shores of the island are the best for Maui windsurfing, nearly year round. Ho'okipa is the most of them all reserved for the most experienced.

Kanaha Beach is another great locale for windsurfing Maui, located on the North Shore and near the airport. One of the main beaches near the busy city of Kahului, it is a mix of beginners, experts, travelers, and locals. Taking to the waves first people taking lessons who can go out before 11am. otherwise its required to wait until 11am before launching. By afternoon when the wind typically fills in, the entire beach is awash with experienced windsurfers. Kiters are not allowed to launch here but must launch further west down the beach. Wing Foiling is allowed to launch at both Windsurfing and Kitesurfing beaches.