October 27 2019

Beach Activities

Barbara 2020, Uncategorized

Chuck Johnson first started working at the Maui Kaanapali Villas back in 1986. Chuck has been a big supporter and sponsor of the MKV Annual Shuffleboard Tournaments and Mai Tai Parties and other fun activities at our Maui home. Please introduce yourself when next on propertyj.
In 2013 Chuck Johnson was a Lifetime Achievement Award nominee. His nomination was based on an estimate of over 200 open ocean and beach rescues

The following was submitted by Chuck himself.

I was living in Lahaina at the time and one of my roommates wanted to introduce me to a friend of his that owned a beach concession. I had the day off so I figured why not. When we arrived at MKV I remember thinking this was one of the most beautiful places I had ever been. It wasn’t just the golden sandy beach or the warm crystal clear ocean, it was something more special than that.

My friend introduced me to his friend and before I knew it I was working at the beach shack. The interview went something like this…….Do you know how to swim ? Do you get sunburnt easily ? Would you like a job? Thats kinda how Maui used to be. I was already working two jobs. I was crewing on a 67′ sailing catamaran leading scuba tours to Lanai and in the evenings I worked as an entertainment manager at a nightclub in town. Both were fun jobs but I really wanted to give this beach job a try. Well my luck was about to change, a little for the worse but a lot for the better. The owner of the beach shack decided he was going on a sailing adventure around the world and the beach shack was probably closing. I went back to work on the sailboat. About four weeks later I received a phone call asking me if I would come back to MKV and help organize the Beach Shack. I couldn’t say yes fast enough.

their wI mentioned earlier that there was something special about this property, more than just the natural beauty.
I remember the first time I walked across the property and noticed a large group of people. They were all sitting in the lawn area talking and laughing. I thought to myself these people really have it figured out. I was a little bit hesitant but I walked over and introduced myself. I already knew these folks were homeowners and very successful people, but I was surprised that this group already knew who I was, they had done their homework. They instantly made me feel comfortable and welcomed me to the property. I never could have imagined the friendships that would be created in the years to come. That was over thirty years ago. And still today one of the best parts of my Job is meeting new owners and seeing old friends every year.

Heres a little bit about our Beach ShackI

Our Hours of operation are from 9AM – 5PM seven days a week

We offer just about everything one needs for a fun day at the beach. We are also ready to answer any questions or concerns our island visitors may have. We can tell you where to snorkel or where to have dinner. We seem to be the place where people come to just hang out and talk story. I can see why, it’s beautiful at the Beach Shack. We also give free mini lessons or instructions on almost everything we rent. We want our for our guest to feel comfortable with their water sports activities and have a fun and safe time. I even once had a guest ask how to use a chair, no kidding.

We have Cabanas, Stand Up Paddle Boards for rent or lessons, Single Kayaks and Double Kayaks, Snorkel gear, Snorkel floatation Belts and Life Vests, Boogie Boards, Beach Chairs, Sunscreen, Underwater Cameras.
We also offer, by appointment only, a very unique and once in a lifetime activity for our guests, a chance to go sailing with our local sailing champion, Captain Chuck Johnson. I take people out on one hour personal sailing adventures. We use a 17′ Hobie Getaway Catamaran the cost is
$85 for the hour and can usually hold a family of up to four depending on weight. (weather permitting).
I’ve been sailing in Hawaii at a competitive level for many years. I usually do most of the sailing but if
someone is interested  in learning to sail I do that too.
I actually taught sailing and windsurfing at the high school for 7 years what a blast that was.
It’s quite an experience that very few ever get to enjoy, I love it when  someone tells me “thats the funnest thing I’ve done on our vacation”.
Although I’ve been introducing people to sailing for over 30 years I  still enjoy the thrill almost as much as our customers.
The smiling faces and the connection people make with the ocean are the best parts of my job.

We have sand toys for the keiki and pool noodles for use free of charge.

During off season we do offer military and kamaaina discounts.

We also have discount snorkel gear coupons that guests receive from the front desk when they check in.

Our direct phone number is (808) 667-5545

At the Beach Shack, our philosophy is simple. You’re greeted with a smile and treated with true Aloha Spirit.
We want our guests to have a safe enjoyable vacation and return for many years to come.