Maui, also known as the Valley Isle, is the second largest island in the Hawaiian chain. The shape of the island is unique in the chain as it is composed of two volcanic mountains connected by a land mass known as an isthmus. Both of the volcanoes are active but eruptions have not occurred in hundreds of years so the area is relatively safe in that respect. The isthmus is the direct reason for the nickname Valley Isle as it is a very fertile and beautiful area with lush greenery. This area of the island is the most highly populated and remains the center for commerce and industry.

The main source of income for the island is tourism but a thriving sugarcane and pineapple industry resides on the island as well. Few people realize it but the Dole pineapple factory is located on Maui and provides thousands of jobs for the residents. As part of the tourism industry, there are several luxury hotels and condo buildings on the island as well. These provide the main accommodations for the tourist industry and bring in millions of dollars worth of revenue for the residents and island itself.

The picturesque landscape was at one time being actively destroyed by loggers harvesting the heavily wooded areas. The new laws enacted some fifteen years ago have banned such practices and the natural beauty of Maui is now protected by law.

Like many of the other islands, Maui discovery is credited to British Sea Captain James Cook and party. There is a heated debate that the Polynesians were the first to discover the area and there has been artifacts discovered that support this contention but the debate remains heated nonetheless.

Water Sports
Like all islands in the chain, Maui is known for its incredible surfing and other water sports. The world championship of surfing is held in Maui each year and thousands flock to the island for the event. The water is perfect for surfing but known to be a bit dangerous for swimming during certain times of the day. It is best to stay in the areas protected by the lifeguards as they are trained to determine the best times for swimming. Deep sea fishing is popular in the region and charters run constantly to bring the best in fishing to the tourists. Package deals allow for a pleasant afternoon on the boat and some trophies are landed during that time as well.

Island Diversity
For the most part Maui is inhabited by natives but the island has also become popular with other countries as well. Maui is a famed spot for Spain transplants as well as US voyagers.

Activities
Besides the water sports one can take part in many entertaining activities during their visit to Maui. The Road to Hana is one of the favorite past times in the area. The fifty five mile road takes passengers through some of the most beautiful land to be seen. Visits to the volcano craters also peek a lot of interest as reenactments of primitive ceremonies are held several times throughout the day.

Whale watching is a favorite activity among tourists. Many of the remaining humpback whales visit Maui in the winter months and spend the season mating. Tours in small boats take you right to the whales and get you closer then you could ever imagine.