Catch Some Air on a Kiteboard

From the technological advances of windsurfing, paragliding and wakeboarding has come a hot, new water sport that some people call kiteboarding and others call kitesurfing. No matter what you call it, this is an extreme sport that takes wind, guts, the right equipment and a lot of practice.

Here's how it works: The kiteboarder, standing on a kiteboard, which looks like a small surfboard or wakeboard with straps, is pulled across the water by a big kite. Sounds easy enough, but it'll take a little practice to coordinate the moves. Kiteboarding schools on the island are happy to provide instruction.

Maui is a good location. Long known as a premiere site for windsurfing, the island's nearly year-round trade winds, warm waters and gorgeous beaches are an equal draw for kiteboarders. Popular kiteboarding sites include the west end of Kanaha Beach Park near the Kahului Airport, Kihei beaches and west side areas above Lahaina.