
Honeymoon Island (Maina Iti)
Nouvelle-Zélande · Aitutaki
Honeymoon Island, also known as Maina Iti, is the most famous kitesurfing spot in Aitutaki. It is a lagoon motu highly appreciated for its easy access, shallow water, and very calm setting, away from the hustle and bustle of the main island.
The spot attracts both beginners and experienced riders. People come here to ride in a very clean environment, with a beautiful sandy area and access usually organized by boat from Aitutaki.
Historical averages by month — not a live forecast.
The spot most often works with a wind from E to SSE, which generally provides a side-on to side wind depending on the exact orientation on the beach and the side of the lagoon used. Local guides and schools confirm that Honeymoon Island is a very versatile spot, with different navigation areas depending on whether one seeks flat or a bit of chop.
The water surface is especially known for its shallow and flat character. At low tide, one navigates in very shallow water over vast sandy bottoms, making the spot accessible and reassuring for learning. At high tide, some areas gain a bit more volume and can become more irregular, with more small cross waves and chop in the wind-exposed sectors.
Access is made from the sandy areas of the motu, with great ease for rigging and launching when the traffic remains reasonable. Riders often navigate around the motu or along the passages suited to the wind direction. The spot mainly requires good reading of the navigation area, as access is generally by water taxi or private boat, and the organization depends on the operators present on the island.