Maui - Hawaii

Maui is known as 'The Valley Island' because of its two large extinct volcanoes divided by a central valley. At 1886 sq km (728 sq mi), Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian island. Maui's larger eastern side is dominated by 3007m (10,023ft) Haleakala, the world's largest dormant volcano. West Maui is overlooked by the West Maui Mountains. The rainy northeast sides of both mountain masses are cut with deep ravines and valleys leading down to the coast. White-sand beaches run along much of the island's western shoreline.

Maui's scenery is superb and its landscapes diverse. The island's sunny western coast is lined with gorgeous white-sand beaches, and the warm ocean waters are teeming with humpback whales. The uplands or east coast you will find rainforests, eucalyptus groves and cattle ranches. Maui is renowned for its fine beaches and some of the world's best windsurfing and surf spots.

The resorts are confined to the beach areas of West Maui, where most of the tourist infrastructure is in Lahaina, Kaanapali and Kihei. Head to Haiku, Kula or Hana to escape the tourist scene.