Hoʻokipa is one of the most famous windsurfing beaches in the world. The consistent trade winds and powerful surf that funnel along Maui's north shore create near-perfect conditions for board sports, and on any given afternoon you are likely to watch professionals from a dozen countries launching off waves while spectators sit on the grassy bluff above.
The beach itself is beautiful — a wide arc of golden sand with good swimming when conditions are calm, though the surf can be powerful enough to make swimming inadvisable much of the year. Non-surfers should be cautious in the water. The car park above has good viewing spots and is a fine place to watch the action. A covered pavilion and showers are available.
Hoʻokipa is on the Hāna Highway about 3 kilometres east of Pāʻia, the funky north shore town with the best coffee and breakfast spots on the island.