We went on a little road trip today and the first stop was Ho'okipa State Beach Park.
Maui is considered the birthplace of kite boarding and its older cousin, windsurfing. Hundreds come to this “Wind Mecca” to experience the consistent side-shore trade winds, warm water and designated kite-boarding areas. The reason is to keep kite surfers away from the swimming areas and the crowded windsurfing access. All take care when launching at these areas because this beach is a very popular one and gets very busy, especially on weekends. This beach has been called the windsurfing capital of the world and is popular with daredevil surfers as well. However, it is not recommended that you swim here.
As word got out to the international windsurfing community about the unbelievable windsurfing to be had in Maui, and Ho’okipa in particular, Maui became the premier vacation destination for wind-surfers world wide, and Paia became their headquarters. Today, Paia is blessed with thriving boutiques and restaurants, and has a very enjoyable international atmosphere
Next we stopped in the town of Paia. Though tiny, Paia made a significant contribution in the success of the sugar cane industry. Back in the 1880s, the primary branch among the biggest sugar mills in the region was erected near the unassuming Paia town. The popularity of the sugar mill, owned by Alexander and Baldwin Company, attracted Asian and European expatriates who were also involved in the cane industry.
In time, these foreign dwellers proved to be instrumental in the much-needed development of the sleepy town. The Sugar Mill closed at the end of September 2000, but the town has become a tourist must see. A “Fish Burger” is also a must at the Paia Fish Market Restaurant. I recommend the Mahi. Yum!
Seems to be getting late, so I will continue tomorrow describing the fun time seeing the Lava Flows at Ahihi-Kinau (La Pérouse Bay)
Aloha,
Flat Niamh
No comments:
Post a Comment