Maui’s North Shore lures surfers for its big open ocean swells—and has a notable draw for paddlers too. Along the Maliko Downwind Run, consistent winds allow paddlers to zip atop the ocean’s surface with 20-25 knot winds at their backs. Considered by some to be a magic carpet ride when it comes to downwinders, the full eight-mile run begins in Maliko Gulch and ends in Kahului Harbor (where smart paddlers stash their shuttle vehicles). Each May, some of the world’s best SUP and outrigger canoe paddlers race this legendary downwinder during the OluKai Ho’olaule’a, a celebration of Hawaiian spirit.
