Hit the Beach… List of Top Surf Shops on Maui

While visiting Maui, you will notice there are a ton of surf shops that sell clothing you won’t find anywhere else on the globe.  Most tourists know about some of the name brand stores like Billabong and Quiksilver, but I thought I would shine the spotlight on some of my top recommendations for finding those one-of-a-kind board shorts, t-shirts, sunglasses, and more.

Hi-Tech Maui: Hands down my favorite surf shop on Maui. Before leaving Maui to attend my freshman year of college, I must have spent close to $500 at Hi-Tech replenishing my wardrobe.  They offer all the latest is surf fashion, windsurfing gear, surfboards, and body boards at their two locations in Kahului (Triangle Square) and Paia.

Maui Tropix (MauiBuilt): It’s hard to go a day on Maui without seeing a rainbow, palm tree, and at least one car with a MauiBuilt sticker on the windshield.  This brand showcases artwork and designs influenced not only by Hawaiian themes, but more specifically Maui themes.  Purchase a shirt highlighting Maui towns, beaches, words, and landmarks.

Honolua Surf Company: You could argue this surf shop differentiates itself from the others by offering more clothing that can be worn in a professional setting.  Pick from beautiful aloha shirts, dresses, and fashionable pants/shorts.  Also keep an eye out for themed Honolua Surf stores targeted toward wahine (women) and keiki (kids).

Local Motion: This has probably been the most popular local surf brand in the Hawaiian Islands over the last 30 years.  The iconic palm tree used in the Local Motion logo can be seen on countless hats, shirts, tank tops, surfboards, and swimsuits.  You can find Local Motion stores in Kihei, Lahaina, and Wailuku (Ka’ahumanu Mall).

Second Wind, Sail, & Surf: This is your shop if you are an avid water sports enthusiast.  I don’t know for certain, but Second Wind may have the largest selection of surfboards, windsurfers, and kite surfing boards on Maui. The staff is made up of diehard beach bums who were probably professional surfers/windsurfers at some point in their lives.  They are very helpful and will provide great insight on equipment to buy and beaches to try out.   I personally bought my first surfboard at Second Wind (they have a large selection of used boards upstairs to the left).

20-156:  This small store makes my list because of the symbolism surrounding the brand.  The numbers represent the latitude and longitude of the island of Maui.  The store is located right below LuLu’s restaurant in Kihei.  Like I said, the store is very small (doesn’t have much of a selection), but you are bound to find atleast one or two shirts that you will immediately buy for a family member or friend back home.

[Image source: www.secondwindmaui.com]