Remove Images2009 SUMMER GUIDE
Cool outdoor activities plus classes, camps, events and more
May 21, 2009
- William Carlos Williams
Summer's almost here, and that means two things (well, actually it means lots of things, but we're sticking with two): blockbuster movies and outdoor fun. We've decided to combine those seemingly disparate diversions in our second annual Summer Guide. First, we offer a look at five activities you may want to try (or do again), each with its own cinematic theme. Then you'll find a run-down of summer events, workshops and classes for adults, keiki and families (excluding July 4 festivities, which we'll highlight in a future issue) to fill those long, lazy school-free days.
So grab the sunscreen, crack open a cold beverage and rejoice—the season of sizzle has arrived.
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Back in the Paddle
From uncoordinated newbies to seasoned surfers, stand-up paddle boarding is making waves
By Jacob Shafer
Go to the beach on any given day, and here's something you're sure to see: people of all shapes, sizes and ages bobbing on oversized boards, paddle in hand. Some handle their craft deftly, cruising in on waves and pulling up with grace and style. Others look rather more precarious, as though a slight shift or gentle breeze could—and quite possibly will—send them plunging headlong into the water, arms flailing in vain.
Though its origins date back at least to the '60s, stand-up paddle boarding has exploded in recent years, to the point where it may be Maui's most ubiquitous water sport. Because of its rapid ascent, it's tempting to dismiss it as a fad, a passing fancy that won't stand the test of time. But to try it is to become a believer.
The reason for paddle boarding's broad appeal becomes apparent the moment you slide into the water. Whereas some other ocean activities require you to look like an uncoordinated idiot—and to swallow a lot of salt water—before you find your groove, paddle boarding offers instant gratification. Standing up and balancing takes a little practice, but you can sit on your knees and head out with no fear of toppling over.
Once past the break and away from other people, you can safely begin to learn the finer points. Boards vary in size, but they're all long, wide and bulky—basically a cross between a longboard and a kayak. This means getting them from your home or the rental shop to the beach can be an ordeal. But in the water they're relatively steady, which makes standing up just one notch above easy. Keep your knees bent, your feet slightly cocked and a few inches in from the edges and avoid getting turned sideways on a wave, and you'll be paddling upright in no time, falling only when you want to cool off. And you'll feel the burn; this is a solid core workout that'll leave you satisfyingly sore after the first time out.
The next step is learning to ride waves. This takes more skill and precision, especially if you've never surfed before. But again, because you can start on your knees where balance is less of an issue, success and enjoyment come quickly.
Though wildly popular, paddle boarding is not without its detractors. Many surfers have embraced the sport, but others complain that it clogs the water with amateurs on hulking, wave-hogging rigs. The key, as ever, is mutual respect—and knowing your abilities. If you're a wobbly beginner, try to find an uncrowded stretch of water, and don't hop on waves above your pay grade.
Stand-up paddle boards are expensive (expect to spend $1,000 or more, though some used boards can be had for less), so renting is the way to go until you're sure you're in love with the sport. Lots of places offer rentals island-wide, and helpful advice and tips for newbies. Then it's just a matter of heading for the beach, pushing out and joining the happy crowd.
Sky High
Paragliding - a thrilling way to cheat gravity and embrace the sky
By Kate Bradshaw
It's morning. The fog is gone, but the chill is still there. The view is impressive. But the view is not the reason you're here. You're here because you want sky. You've tasted clouds before, and felt true gravity, and the sensation is addictive. Paragliding may prove an adequate fix.
You can see central Maui from your launch site, a gentle western Haleakala slope near Polipoli. When you get to the site—which is slightly lower than usual due to unpredictable Kona gusts—Dexter Binber, who owns and operates Proflyght Paragliding School Maui - 874-5433 or www.paraglidehawaii.com - breaks out the chute that will deliver you to the pasture just above Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm. The chute is connected to a two-person harness by way of a rainbow of Kevlar cords. Binber has been at this for decades; he has flown all over the planet and says Maui is one of the best places to paraglide.
He and a handful of other gliders, including a retired Delta pilot, a wedding photographer and a homemaker, do this every single morning. Most received training from Dexter, but only Dexter and a few others are authorized to accomodate one-time thrill-seekers. In fact, to be able to take tandem passengers, Binber says, one must undergo more schooling than a commercial airplane pilot.
Once the chute is ready to go, he helps you into the harness, which turns into a chair after you're airborne. You wait for a healthy gust. Flowers and grass begin to sway. It's a go.
You jog forward. Despite the force you exert you go nowhere at first, because the gigantic chute behind you has filled with air. But as it lifts, you gain speed and you're off. With every second that passes your feet are considerably further from the Earth. The wind takes you forward—or wherever Binber sees fit to steer—as gravity's ultimate end recedes.
Binber guides the parachute over the tall pines that dot Haleakala's slopes. You can relate to birds at this point, as you circle above the treetops and examine the depths of the forest as you would a coral reef while snorkeling. This is a far cry from skydiving, because at no point are you in freefall. You are partly soaring, partly floating, until the same breeze that gave you air brings you gradually closer to the ground with the help of Binber's steering. The chute eases you onto the grass and you land, however clumsily.
There are many thrills to be had on this island—the vast and varied terrain and the dynamic sea hold an inexhaustible number of ways to release adrenaline. But there are few opportunities for experiencing the sky. This is one well worth trying.
It's a Boot Time
Fitness camp will whip you into bathing suit shape
By Jen Russo
The words "fitness boot camp" may not conjure up images of summer fun, but don't run away screaming just yet. Almost everyone can benefit from this class—and it actually is fun, in a twisted sort of way. Still skeptical? I was too. But after two weeks I'd gained body strength and dexterity, and improved my mile run time by two minutes.
I won't sugar coat it, I am way out of shape. (Put it this way: no one asks me to re-load the 5-gallon jugs on the office water cooler.) While this class didn't solve those problems, it did help re-wire my brain so that working out is now a reality instead of some over-procrastinated "goal."
Still trying to picture what "fitness boot camp" is? Think The Biggest Loser meets Maui. Personal trainer and Maui fitness guru Michelle Wharton of Adventure X Fitness whips you into shape three times a week with 60 minutes of running, core training, agility drills, obstacle courses, strength training, circuits and more. Under the glorious backdrop of the central valley, I cursed my maker while sprinting, hefting medicine balls, doing sit-up after sit-up, squat after squat. I braved windy conditions, torrential rain and hot sun with 16 other intrepid souls at Keopuolani Park. And here's the really weird part: when it was over, I couldn't wait to do it again.
It sounds hard, but it was very doable for everyone in my class. Our fitness levels were varied, but that really didn't seem to matter; everyone struggles with crunches after 20 minutes. My Achilles' tendon was hating "plank," an exercise where you have to hold your body up from your toes and elbows and remain straight; I would rather do an hour of crunches then 5 minutes of plank.
Michelle is an incognito drill sergeant; she can get you to do all the exercises you detest and incorporates humor to take the edge off. She won't be yelling and spitting in your face, though after your third uphill sprint you may wish she would.
I asked Michelle what makes many of us so unhealthy. "Americans are workaholics. It's our lifestyle," she said. "But everyone has to eat and if you are pressed for time and overworked and tired, convenience foods are what you turn to."
Basically we don't prioritize healthy diets and exercise over work, and that packs on the pounds. Most of us go on like this until it's too late, stuck between a rock and hard place by adult onset diabetes and heart disease. Unfortunately, there is no holy grail to get in shape. Michelle says she got into fitness boot camp because she enjoys helping people. "I think it's great to be outdoors, especially here on Maui," she says. "A lot of people plateau on their workouts at the gym. In group workouts, people help motivate each other."
The next Adventure X Fitness Boot Camp runs June 1-26. Cost is $125; call 283-5502 or visit adventurexfitness.com.
Cowgirl Up
A morning in the saddle rekindles childhood dreams
By Kate Bradshaw
Some little girls live to be brides. By age 12 they've already picked out their wedding dresses and have convinced themselves that fate not only exists, but is an infallible matchmaker. I was never one of those. I wanted to be a cowgirl.
In an era characterized by disappearing open space, the Valley Isle is still home to thousands of acres of ranchland. For those whose gigs don't entail rounding up steer, this means that a dose of antiquated adventure can still be easily had by way of horsies. Yes—horsies.
Being astraddle an equestrian lends itself to both pure thrill and profound reflection. Riding a horse among some of the most unfathomably dramatic (and highly imperiled) landscapes on the planet increases these sensations.
Resting at the foot of the West Maui Mountains, just before the road gets mean, is Mendes Ranch. Out here it's hard to imagine that not 25 minutes away is the Costco and Wal-Mart sprawl. The Mendes family, which migrated to the isles in 1886, purchased the ranch in 1943. While they still run cattle operations, they see more dollars from guided horseback tours through the green slopes of Waihee Valley.
The view from the peacock-spotted corral was phenomenal. Two real cowgirls led the tour (one had a Lady Gaga cell phone ring tone…yes, cell reception is fantastic out on the range). It's a spot that offers a glimpse of Maui's past, present and future. The ranch leases much of the 2,000-plus acres of ranchland from a private owner. Not surprisingly, it's another patch of Maui slated for subdivision and development.
The trail ascends to a photo op point with a view of Eki Crater before rambling down to a spot that rests just above the treacherous coastline.
On some of the trail's straight-aways we were told that, if we desired, we could ride 'em like we stole 'em. My horse, Molokai, was game for a full-on gallop, which proved to be pleasantly adrenaline-inducing.
After two or three hours of riding we returned to the corral and I felt my childhood fantasy tugging at my heart. Not such a bad thing, given the profusion of places on-island where ladies can, however temporarily, be cowgirls.
Walk and Awe
Lahaina-Pali trail reveals another side of Maui
By Jacob Shafer
It's an urge that seems crazy to anyone who hasn't lived on Maui or some other topical locale: the desire to get away from white sand beaches and lush vegetation. Sure, that stuff's wonderful, but humans crave variety; every now and then, we just want something different.
"Something different" is the perfect way to describe the Lahaina-Pali trail, a 5-mile trek over the southern end of the West Maui Mountains. The trail climbs over ridges and through gulches to some 1,600 feet above sea level and features breathtaking panoramic views.
Especially at higher elevations, the red dirt trail is dry and arid, lined by windswept grass, thistles and low brush. It's undeniably beautiful, but a far cry from the flowering green opulence (both real and manmade) that punctuates much of the Valley Isle.
The trail can be tackled from either the east or west end. The eastern trailhead is about 2.5 miles south of Wailuku, off an unpaved access road adjacent to Honoapiilani Highway. The western entry point lies west of Maalaea around the 11-mile marker. Starting at the eastern end will put the sun at your back, but it's also a steeper initial climb. The western end offers a more gradual (though still precipitous) ascent, but the sun will hit you square-on and the decent is slippery and uneven (wear sturdy hiking shoes).
Whichever starting point you choose, park a car at either end or arrange to have someone pick you up.
Getting going early is paramount. Once the sun reaches its high point (and even before) there's little shelter from the heat, and the steep climb will have you sweating. Apply sunscreen liberally, and bring more water than you think you'll need—you'll need it.
A plaque at both trailheads informs hikers that they're "Follow[ing] in the footsteps of travelers from over a century ago." Before cars and highways invaded the island, the trail was the main route for foot traffic between Wailuku and Lahaina.
One feature that wasn't available in those days is a good look at the windmills. Though it would take an unauthorized (and thus unadvised) detour off the trail to stand right underneath the towering power generators, you'll get close enough to notice little details, like how they're outfitted with small doors at the base, which caused this writer's mind to conjure up images of magical windmill people (maybe it was the heat).
This isn't a leisurely stroll, but it's accessible enough for anyone in reasonably decent shape who wants to rise early, get a workout and see a different side of Maui.
LISTINGS...
MUSIC/FESTIVALS
Maui Film Festival
What: View films in a cross-section of genres, with something for every taste, at this popular annual cinematic event.
Where: Wailea; Maui Arts & Cultural Center
When: June 17-21
Contact: 572-3456 or www.mauifilmfestival.com
Maui Brewers Festival
What: Suds lovers rejoice—an array of brewers will showcase their wares at this first-ever event, which will be augmented by live music, great grub and other pleasing diversions. Cheers! (21 and over only.)
Who: Maui Arts & Cultural Center
Where: MACC, Kahului
When: May 30, 2:30-6:30pm
Contact: 242-7469 or www.mauiarts.org
Chefs on the Beach
What: Great food plus fine wine plus the beach equals a good time, guaranteed. Proceeds benefit island nonprofits.
Who: Rotary Club of Maui
Where: Sugarman Beach Estate at Honua Kai Lani, Makena
When: May 30, 2-6pm
Contact: 878-6356
Bon Dance Festivities
What: A summer's worth of Obon celebrations featuring performance, music, food, etc.
Who: Various groups
Where: Islandwide
When: June-August
Contact: See our special June 4 Bon Dance issue for more info
Kapalua Wine & Food Festival
What: The 28th annual celebration of culinary delights and top-shelf sippables will feature the usual assortment of upscale goodies
Where: Kapalua Resort, Lahaina
When: June 11
Contact: (888) 227-6054
Maui Calls
What: Annual benefit for the Maui Arts & Cultural Center features gourmet pupus, live tunes, a silent auction and more, with an "vintage aloha shirt" theme.
Where: MACC, Kahului
When: August 14
Contact: 244-7469
Sheep Dawg Music Festival
What: Enjoy a weekend of music, art and community fun; arrive early to claim a camp spot.
Who: Ricochet Productions & MauiDawgz
Where: Camp Keanae, Haiku
When: June 13-14
Contact: www.sheepdawghawaii.com
CAMPS/CLASSES
Maui Invitational Music Festival
What: A nearly three month-long series of weekly workshops for intermediate to advanced musicians of all ages; genres range from gypsy jazz to ukulele to Hawaiian steel guitar.
Who: Arts Education for Children Group
Where: Central Maui
When: Thursday nights through July 4
Contact: 283-3576 or www.aecg.org
Ocean Center Events
What: Maui Ocean Center hosts an array of events, including the ever-popular Sleep with the Sharks, an overnighter featuring hands-on activities, food and a chance to interact with ocean animals after the lights go out.
Who: Maui Ocean Center
Where: 192 Ma'alaea Rd., Ma'alaea
When: Sleep with the Sharks June 12, 26 & July 10, 24; other events held throughout the summer
Contact: 270-7085 or www.mauioceancenter.com
Ohana Gardening & Health Camps
What: Learn about traditional, eco-friendly farming practices, participate in educational games and activities, listen to elder campfire stories and much more.
Who: Kahua Ola Ohana
Where: Various locations
When: Throughout the summer
Contact: www.kahuaola.org
Ocean Discovery Camp; Sun, Surf and Service
What: Kids age 6-12 are invited to a day camp featuring water sports, tide pool exploration, hands-on projects and much more. Also, middle school aged children can participate in outdoor and ocean activities while learning about environmental service.
Who: Pacific Whale Foundation
Where: PWF Discovery Center, Maalaea
When: June 8-July 24; June 22-26
Contact: 249-8811 or www.pacificwhale.org
Weekly Camps
What: Safe, educational for the keiki centered on a variety of themes, including beach, holidays, talent shows, fairy tales, circus, sports, and Disney characters.
Who: Little Explorers
Where: 1050 Lower Main St., Wailuku
When: June-July
Contact: 244-2112
Performance Art Fun
What: Workshops for kids age 7-11, focused on song, poetry, movement, theater, magic, puppetry, storytelling, games and crafts.
Who: MENSCH (Moving Education Nearer to Shaping Children's Hearts)
Where: Pukalani
When: June 22-26; July 13-17; register by June 8
Contact: 573-5313
Group Guitar Lessons
What: Learn to strum solo or in a group, beginners, kids 8 and up and parents welcome.
Who: Joel Katz
Where: Seaside Recording, Wailuku
When: June-August
Contact: 242-2732
Singing Classes
What: Singers of all ages can improve their voices and have some tuneful fun at classes sponsored by the county Parks and Rec Department and led by vocal coach Lani Star.
Where: Hannibal Tavares Community Center, Makawao
When: May 20-July 22
Contact: 878-8888 or www.lanistar.biz
Akaku Video Camps
What: Two sessions—one for ages 8-12, one for ages 13-18—will cover the basics of filming and editing, with completed works aired on channels 52 and 54.
Who: Akaku: Maui Community Television
Where: Akaku's studio offices, Kahului
When: Keiki program runs July 13-17; teen program runs July 20-24
Contact: 871-5554 or www.akaku.org
Nature Adventure Program
What: Keiki age 5-10 years old are invited to participate in hikes, crafts and games centered on a nature-specific theme.
Who: Hawaii Nature Center
Where: Iao Valley
When: June 15-July 31
Contact: 244-6500 ext. 22
Maui Prep Summer Camp
What: Outdoor activities, arts and crafts and more in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Who: Maui Preparatory Academy
Where: Napili
When: June 8-July 3
Contact: 665-9966
Tap & Jazz Classes
What: Everyone from three-year-olds to teenagers can get in step with these dance classes.
Who: Judy's Gang
Where: Wailuku
When: Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays throughout the summer
Contact: 879-8742
Sewing Classes
What: Various sewing classes are offered for kids and teens; learn to make swimsuits, clothing, costumes and more.
Who: Upcountry Sewing Center
Where: Maui Mall, Kahului
When: Throughout the summer
Contact: www.mauisupcountrysewingcenter.com
Bluegrass Youth & Family Music Camps
What: Kids and adults ranging in skill from beginner to advanced can jam on uke, guitar, bass, mandolin and fiddle.
Who: St. John's Episcopal Church
Where: Camp Olowalu, Lahaina
When: Family camp August 14-16; youth camp August 21-23
Contact: 878-1485
Maui Music Conservatory Classes
What: You're never too young to love music—keiki age 3 months to 3 years can feel the beat during a four-week course; piano classes for young children are also offered.
Who: Maui Music Conservatory
Where: Queen Kaahumanu Center, Kahului
When: Throughout the summer
Contact: 283-0100
Summer ARTcamp
What: Arts, crafts, creative movement, dramatic play and more will be offered at this summer-long camp; full- and half-days available.
Who: Maui Hui No'eau
Where: Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center, Makawao
When: June 8 –August 7
Contact: 572-6560 or www.huinoeau.com
Keiki Dance Classes
What: Kids age 8-18 can learn cha-cha, salsa, swing and other styles.
Who: Private Image Dance Studio
Where: Kihei Community Center
When: Saturdays throughout the summer
Contact: 891-8747 www.privateimagedance.com
Boys & Girls Clubs
What: A range of art, sports, computer and other activities, plus excursions.
Who: Boys and Girls Clubs of Maui
Where: Islandwide
When: Throughout the summer
Contact: Central Maui (242-4363); Upcountry (572-6916); Haiku (575-9024); West Maui (667-9314)
Camp Imua
What: A one-week overnight camp serving children with special needs.
Who: Imua Family Services
Where: Camp Maluhia, Wailuku
When: June 7-11
Contact: 244-7467 or www.imuafamilyservices.org
Cultural Enrichment Programs
What: A series of programs offering hands-on education about Hawaiian culture for kids 10-14—cooking, arts and crafts, performance, traditional practices and more.
Who: Hawaiian Canoe Club
Where: Kahului
When: Throughout the summer
Contact: 893-2124 or www.hawaiiancanoeclub.org
Paia Youth Programs
What: Kids of all ages can learn about video editing, radio production and Internet communications as well as sports and creative arts.
Who: Paia Youth and Cultural Center
Where: Paia
When: Throughout the summer
Contact: 579-8354
Arboretum Tours & Work Day
What: Learn about the care and preservation of Hawaiian plants, while harvesting native seed and weeding; tours of the facility are also available for kids 8 and up, with refreshments provided.
Who: Friends of D.T. Fleming Arboretum
Where: D.T. Fleming Arboretum at Pu'u Mahoe
When: Work days held the second Saturday of every month, 8am-noon; tours the last Saturday of every month, 10am-1:30pm
Contact: 572-1097 or www.flemingarboretum.org
SPORTS/WATER ACTIVITIES
International Surfing Day
What: A beach and reef cleanup will be followed by surf clinics, food and fun.
Who: Surfrider Foundation
Where: Paia
When: June 20
Contact: 298-8254
What: Annual surf event for groms 12 and under.
Where: Launiupoko Beach, Lahaina
When: June 13
Contact: 877-2111
Surfing & Water sport Competitions
What: Maui Race Series (throughout the summer); Neil Pryde Slalom (June 6); Pohai Na Keiki Nalu for groms 12 and under (June 13); Da Kine Classic (June 20); Maui Fin Co. Open (July 4); Quicksilver Cup (July 18); Larry Libres Fishing & Diving Tournament (August 8); Ole Longboard Classic (August 15).
Where: Various locations
Contact: 877-2111
Seabury Soccer Camp
What: New and returning players of all skill levels, age 6 to 15, can hone their abilities and get a T-shirt. Non-Seabury students welcome.
Who: Seabury Hall, coach Mark Kane and staff
Where: Seabury Hall, Makawao
When: June 9-13
Contact: 572-7235 or www.seaburyhall.org/soccer
Windsurfing Camp
What: Would be windsurfers age 6 and up are invited for instruction and aquatic fun.
Who: Maui Sports Unlimited
When: May-August
Contact: 280-7060 or www.mauisportsunlimited.com
Aikido Classes
What: Kids from age 6 through high school can get an introduction to and learn the basics of this popular martial art.
Who: Maui Ki-Aikido
Where: Location varies
When: Throughout the summer
Contact: 244-5165 or www.hawaiikiaikido.org
Gymnastics Classes
What: Tumbling, training, introductory martial arts and more for kids age 2-18.
Who: Valley Isle Gymnastics
Where: Kahului
When: Throughout the summer
Contact: 871-6116
Swim Classes
What: Knowing how to swim is essential on Maui; kids age 5-18 can learn basic strokes in a safe, supervised environment.
Who: Hawaii Swimming Club
Where: Sakamoto Pool, Wailuku
When: July 22-August 19
Contact: 357-0883
Maui Surfer Girls
What: From surf clinics and coaching to snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding, hikes and campouts, this group offers a range of activities.
Who: Maui Surfer Girls
Where: Location varies
When: Throughout the summer
Contact: 280-8165 or www.mauisurfergirls.com
Parks and Rec Sports
What: Kids age 5-12 can get active with flag football, soccer, basketball, volleyball and more.
Who: Department of Parks and Rec
Where: Islandwide
When: Throughout the summer
Contact: 270-7403 or www.co.maui.hi.us/youth
STAGE/ART
Cinderella
What: Glass slippers, wicked stepsisters, handsome princes—you know the drill.
Who: Maui Academy of Performing Arts
Where: Steppingstone Playhouse, Kahului
When: May 29-June 7
Contact: 244-8760 or www.mauiacademy.org
The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas
What: If that title doesn't grab your attention, check your pulse.
Who: MauiOnstage
Where: Iao Theater, Wailuku
When: July 10-August 2
Contact: 242-6969 or www.mauionstage.com
MAPA Classes & Performance
What: A series of dance classes for kids of all ages, styles (jazz, ballet, hip-hop, etc.) and skill levels, capped off by performance of Disney's Mulan.
Who: Maui Academy of Performing Arts
Where: Classes at MAPA studio, Wailuku; performance at Steppingstone Playhouse, Kahului
When: Calsses run May 26-July 29; performance runs July 9-19
Contact: 244-8760 or www.mauiacademy.org
Theater Camp
What: Students entering grades 4 through 12 are invited to get acting, dance and vocal training and to participate in a production of Beauty and the Beast.
Who: Theatre Maui
Where: Lahaina
When: Workshops run June 15-July 10; rehearsals and shows run July 13-19
Contact: 661-1168