Boogie Boarding and Bodysurfing in Maui

Bodysurfing and "sponging" (as boogie boarding is called by the regulars) are great ways to catch some waves without having to master surfing—and there's no balance or coordination required. A boogie board (or "sponge") is softer than a hard, fiberglass surfboard, which means you can ride safely in the rough-and-tumble surf zone. If you get tossed around (which is half the fun), you don't have a heavy surfboard nearby to bang your head on, but you do have something to hang onto. Serious spongers invest in a single short-clipped fin to help propel them into the wave.

Best Spots

D.T. Fleming Beach (Honoapiilani Hwy., below the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, 96761), in West Maui, offers great surf almost daily along with some nice amenities: ample parking, restrooms, a shower, grills, picnic tables, and a daily lifeguard. However, caution is advised, especially during winter months when the current and undertow can get rough.

Kamaole III (S. Kihei Rd., 96753), between Kihei and Wailea, is another good spot for bodysurfing and boogie boarding. It has a sandy floor, with 1- to 3-foot waves breaking not too far out. It's often crowded late into the day, especially on weekends when local kids are out of school. Don't let that chase you away; the waves are wide enough for everyone.

If you don't mind nudity (officially illegal, but practiced nonetheless), Little Beach (On Makena Rd., first entrance to Makena State Beach Park; climb rock wall at north end of beach, 96753) on the South Shore is the best break on the island for boogie boarding and bodysurfing. The shape of the sandy shoreline creates waves that break a ways out and tumble on into shore. Because it's sandy, you only risk stubbing a toe on the few submerged rocks, not a reef floor. Don't even think about boogie boarding at neighboring Big Beach—you'll be slapped like a flapjack onto the steep shore.

On the North Shore, Paia Bay (Just before Paia town, beyond large community building and grass field, 96779) has waves suitable for spongers and bodysurfers. Park in the public lot across the street and leave your valuables at home, as this beach is known for break-ins.

Canoe Races

Polynesians first traveled to Hawaii by outrigger canoe, and racing the traditional craft is a favorite pastime on the Islands. Canoes were revered in old Hawaii, and no voyage began without a blessing, ceremonial chanting, and a hula performance to ensure a safe journey. In Lahaina in mid-May, the two-week Festival of Canoes (808/667-9193. www.visitlahaina.com) includes a torch-lighting ceremony, arts-and-crafts demonstrations, a chance for canoe enthusiasts to observe how Polynesian vessels are rigged, and the launching of a "Parade of Canoes."

Equipment

Most condos and hotels have boogie boards available to guests—some in better condition than others (but beat-up boogies work just as well for beginners). You can also pick up a boogie board from any discount shop, such as Kmart or Long's Drugs, for upward of $30.

Auntie Snorkel. You can rent decent boogie boards here for $5 a day, or $15 a week. 2439 S. Kihei Rd., Kihei, 96753. 808/879-6263.

Honolua Surf. "Waverider" boogie boards with smooth undersides (better than the bumpy kind) can be rented from this surf shop for $8 a day, or $35 a week (with a $100 deposit). 2411 S. Kihei Rd., Kihei, 96753. 808/874-0999.

West Maui Sports and Fishing Supply. This old country store has been around for more than 20 years and has possibly the best prices on the west side. Boogie boards go for $2.50 a day or $15 a week. 1287 Front St., Lahaina, 96761. 808/661-6252. www.westmauisports.com.