The island of MAUI aui was created millions of years ago by two volcanoes that flowed together to form this island known as the "Valley Isle". In Legend, however the island was named after demi-god Maui, who is said to have pulled the Hawaiian chain from the Pacific while he was on a fishing expedition., the second largest in the Hawaiian chain, is Oahu's fastest-growing rival, attracting roughly a third of all visitors to the state. Opponents of plans to extend Kahului Airport to accommodate jumbo jets fear things are going too far. What were remote, unspoiled beaches twenty years ago, around Kaanapali and Kihei for example, have been swamped by ugly, sprawling resorts,

 

and Lahaina, once "whaling capital of the world", is now just another tourist trap. Traffic clogs the roads, and most towns consist of little more than a succession of malls. On the other hand, the crowds come to Maui for the good reason that it's still beautiful. This is probably the best equipped of all the islands for activity holidays – whale-watching, windsurfing, diving, sailing, snorkeling and cycling. Temperatures along the coast can be searing, especially at Lahaina, but it's always possible to escape to somewhere cooler. Upcountry Maui, on the slopes of the mighty Haleakala volcano, is a delight, well away from the bustle; Makawao and Paia here make good alternative hangouts, although they're short on accommodation. The tortuous road out west to Hana does not quite merit its legendary status, but with its waterfalls and ravines it outclasses anything on Oahu. Whichever explanation you prefer, magical Maui is known for its indescribable sunsets, water sports, multi-colored beaches, lush rainforests alive with waterfalls, quaint fishing villages, serpentine road to charming Hana, rolling hills with sprawling ranches, world-class golf and tennis, Haleakala crater, and historic Lahaina Town, the former government and whaling capital of Hawaii. Maui is also known for its spectacular resorts, where guests receive the finest in services, accommodations, and amenities. When island residents refer to their home, they say: "Maui no ka oi," which means "Maui is the best."