Pāʻia
The world capital of windsurfing and kitesurfing — on a strong trade wind afternoon, 30–50 world-class riders transform the bay into an open-air performance that no arena seat can replicate. Watch from the upper lookout before descending. The beach itself is not for swimming (powerful shore break and rip current), but May through September the right side of the bay calms enough for snorkeling, and Hawaiian green sea turtles regularly haul out on the sand to bask. A 45-minute stop with a very high payoff-to-effort ratio.
Free, no reservation. Located on Hwy 36, 3 min east of Paia toward Hana. Upper lookout parking area provides the best viewing angle; a second lot gives beach access. Natural stop at the start or end of a Paia / Road to Hana day.
Best windsurfing action noon–4pm when trade winds peak. Turtles and snorkeling best in calm summer mornings. Do not swim year-round — shore break and rip current are serious even when the water looks calm.