Should You Kayak or Paddle Board on Maui?

If you are looking for the perfect water sport to enjoy in Maui, there are two different options that come to mind. The first is kayaking which allows you to explore the waters off Maui from a seated position. The second option is paddleboarding, which provides you the flexibility to explore from either a standing, kneeling or seated position and gives you a good workout at the same time. Which one of these water sports would be best for your vacation? Read this blog post to find out!

What is Kayaking?

Kayaking is a water activity that involves using a smaller canoe shaped boat to cut through the water. Kayaks can be used for both recreational and competitive purposes.

When you kayak, you will sit in a cockpit and use a paddle to propel yourself forward. With it’s small structure and quick propel, it allows you to explore different areas of the water and even go under bridges or through caves.  They can be easy to maneuver and are perfect for those who want a more intimate, relaxing experience on the water. However, even kayaks are limited in where they can go on the island.

What is Paddleboarding?

Paddleboarding, also known as SUP (stand up paddleboarding), is a relatively new water sport that has gained in popularity in recent years. When you paddleboard, you will stand on a board and use a paddle to propel yourself through the water.

Paddleboarding is great for those who want an active experience on the water. It’s a great workout, as you will be using all of your muscles to paddle and balance on the board. In addition, paddleboarding is a great way to explore different areas of the water and see Maui from a new perspective. The standup position allows you a better view for watching the activity just below the surface of the water.  Once you master your balance on the board, you can even look for a few mellow waves to ride into shore. 

If you are looking for an exciting and active way to enjoy Maui’s waterways, then paddleboarding is the perfect choice for you.

Where to go Paddleboarding on Maui

Paddleboarding offers a variety of different experiences depending on the spot you choose. Here are a few of our favorite paddleboarding spots on Maui:

• Ka’anapali Beach: This world-famous beach is a great place for those who want to paddleboard in calm waters. The wide-open space and beautiful scenery make it a popular spot for paddleboarders.
• Olowalu Beach: Olowalu is home to one of Maui’s largest and healthiest reefs, which makes this one of Maui’s more beautiful spots to paddleboards. While getting a bit of exercise, you will be able to watch colorful sea life playing beneath the surface. During the calm of the early morning is one of the best times to enjoy the waters off Olowalu Beach.
• Kamaole Beach Park: Easy access and relatively shallow waters makes Kamaole Beach Park one of our favorite spots for paddleboarding on Maui.

To get the most out of your paddleboard experience, it is best to go paddleboarding on calm days. Experienced paddleboarders may like the challenge of battling waves, but for most of us, paddleboarding is best when the water is calm. Also, when the water is calm, it is easier to see below the surface and watch the activity of marine life that lives in the waters just off the shores of Maui. Paddleboards are easier to transport when compared to kayaks. So grab your board and get ready for some fun on the water.

Where to Get Gear For Paddleboarding on Maui

Paddleboarding is an excellent way to explore the island of Maui. Visit any Boss Frog location for stand-up paddle board rentals. Each can be rented by the day or the week. Visit us online or in-store for our selection of paddleboards!