Maui is nicknamed "Valley Island", since it is enclosed between two large extinct volcanoes (Haleakala and Puu Kuku) separated by a central valley. This is the second largest island and most developed of the Neighbor Islands. It is renowned for its many beautiful beaches, some of which are among the best in the world for fans of surfing and windsurfing. As the most frequented tourist sites are concentrated in the seaside resort of West Maui, you can easily find a 'zone of peace in the mountainous interior or on the east coast, covered with rain forests, eucalyptus plantations and herds of livestock. Most of the tourist infrastructure is located in Lahaina, Kaanapali and Kihei. Head

instead to Haiku, Kula or Hana if you want a little 'peace of mind.  Large beaches are mediocre, but it is difficult to escape the charm of a beach called Slaughterhouse Beach (beach abattoir): a hot summer paradise for lovers of bodysurf at Honolua Bay, in north-west coast of Maui. This is an excellent beach for snorkeling; it is also possible to spot turtles and reef fish. The waters of Hookipa Beach, close to Paia, are among the most appreciated in the world for windsurfing. Given the strong currents, dangerous fringes of the waves and the presence of coral sharp as a razor, the beach is reserved only to bodysurfer expert, but you can learn some trick just observing. The stretch of East Maui is dominated by of Haleakala (literally "House of the Sun"), the largest dormant volcano in the world, the top 3000 m. along the flanks of the volcano, with a moon, climb the magnificent trails that come to the edge of the crater, from where you can admire the wonderful spectacle of dawn. The leeward side of Haleakala, moist, rugged and covered by magnificent and lush vegetation, is along the Hana Highway, a famous coastal road that passes next to waterfalls and through stretches of jungle and tropical peaceful agricultural centers. The area the plateau on the western slopes of the volcano boasts some of the most beautiful rural landscapes of Maui, with rain forests, rolling hills, green, gardens and cared for wine cellars. Interesting excursions that can be made to Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area in the Kula Forest Reserve.