Kiteboarding in Maui

Catapulting up to 40 feet in the air above the breaking surf, kiteboarders hardly seem of this world. Silken kites hold the athletes aloft for precious seconds—long enough for the execution of mind-boggling tricks—then deposit them back in the sea. This new sport is not for the weak-kneed. No matter what people might tell you, it's harder to learn than windsurfing. The unskilled (or unlucky) can be caught in an upwind and carried far out in the ocean, or worse—dropped smack on the shore. Because of insurance (or the lack thereof), companies are not allowed to rent equipment. Beginners must take lessons, and then purchase their own gear. Devotees swear that after your first few lessons, committing to buying your kite is easy.

On the Sidelines

If you're not inclined to go kiteboarding yourself, live vicariously by attending Red Bull's King of the Air (Hookipa Beach Park, 96779. 808/573-3222. www.redbullkingoftheair.com) showcase contest each fall. Contenders travel from as far as Poland and Norway to compete in this world-class big air and freestyle kiteboarding contest.

Best Spots

While Hookipa Beach provides awesome spectating, the steady tracks on Kanaha Beach (Amala Pl., Kahului, 96732) make it the premiere spot for learning. Specific areas are set aside for different water activities, so launch and land only in kiteboarding zones, and kindly give way to swimmers, divers, fishermen, and paddlers.

Lessons

Aqua Sports Maui. "To air is human," or so they say at Aqua Sports, which calls itself the local favorite of kiteboarding schools. They've got a great location right near Kite Beach, at the west (left) end of Kanaha Beach, and offer basic through advanced kiteboarding lessons. Rates start at $210 for a three-hour basics course taught by certified instructors. Amala Pl., near Kite Beach, Kahului, 96732. 808/242-8015. www.mauikiteboardinglessons.com.

Hawaiian Sailboarding Techniques. Pro kiteboarder and legendary windsurfer Alan Cadiz will have you safely ripping in no time at lower Kanaha Beach Park. A "Learn to Kitesurf" package starts at $225 for a three-hour private lesson, which includes all equipment. As opposed to observing from the shore, instructors paddle after students on a chaseboard to give immediate feedback. HST is in the highly regarded Hi-Tech Surf Sports store, located in the Triangle Square shopping center. 425 Koloa St., Kahului, 96732. 808/871-5423 or 800/968-5423. www.hstwindsurfing.com.

Kiteboarding School of Maui. Call KSM, one of the first kiteboarding schools in the United States and the first on Maui, for one-on-one "flight lessons." Pro kiteboarders will induct you at Kite Beach, at the west (left) end of Kanaha Beach, providing instruction, equipment, snacks, and FAA guidelines. (Seriously, there are rules about avoiding airplanes at nearby Kahului Airport.) Rates start at $290 for four hours or $490 for two-day private lessons. KSM is the only school that offers retail gear as well as instruction. Thirty percent of your lesson cost can be applied to gear purchase. 22 Hana Hwy., Kahului, 96732. 808/873-0015. www.ksmaui.com.