Experiences You Should Have

Surfing in Maui with Garrett Lisi


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Podcast Interview with Surfer & Theoretical Physicist Garrett Lisi
Garrett Lisi, a famous theoretical physicist, has been someone I've been following for a long time. What I've always admired about Garrett is how he embraces experiences instead of stuff. I first found out about Garrett after his TED talk 10 years ago, and we've been in touch since. Science isn't Garrett's only love, surfing his one of his many passions.
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Learning How to Surf and Stand Up Paddle Surf in Maui
The summertime is the best time to learn how to surf in Maui. If you have more than 2 weeks to commit to surfing, Garrett recommends that you buy a board over 8 feet on craigslist and committing those weeks to really learning how to surf. If you have less than 2 weeks, then rent a board at Hi-Tech and they'll talk to you about where to go. Winds do kick up in the summertime in the afternoon, so it's recommended to go surfing in the morning or right before sunset. By going surfing at these times you're also avoiding the sun when it is at its worst.

Top Maui Surf Spots for Beginners:

* The Cofe
* Grandma's
* Launiupoko
* Thousand Peaks
* Kaanapali Beach

Average surfboard rental is about $30 a day.

Instead of traditional surfing you can try stand up paddle surfing. Make sure that the board is stable enough that you can balance on it. I made that mistake and tried a board that I could not get my balance on, and I could not stand up on this board, even though I stand up paddle board a lot on rivers and lakes here in Bend, Oregon. What's great about stand up paddle surfing is that you're already winning once you're standing on the board, now you just need to catch the wave!
Best Beach in Maui to Surf and Bring a Toddler To:
We were just in Maui and found Launiupoko and it is the perfect spot to bring your baby or toddler to because there is an awesome wading pool protected by the waves. Have one parent stay behind with your toddler while the other surfs or stand up paddle board surfs just right ahead.
Surfing Attire and Coral Reef Safe Sunscreen

You will want to wear a rash guard and a surfing hat. Maui has a real problem with sunscreen, bad sunscreen is getting into the water and upsetting the coral reef. Most sunscreen is all bad for the coral reef. Oxybenzone is a common ingredient in sunscreen and it hurts the coral. If you're hitting the waves, use Zinc Oxide or find a coral reef safe sunscreen like Badger.
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Experiences You Should HaveBy Gail Lovelace Menasco