The second largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, Maui derives its name from the Polynesian demigod who wrestled the islands of Hawaii from the ocean floor, then snared the sun and forced it to slow its passage, allowing the Hawaiians more time to fish and grow taro. Today, Maui retains the magic and enchantment of its legendary beginnings. Here you'll find jungles of wild guava and lush groves of mango and monkey pod trees, dramatically serrated canyons and valleys, secluded coves and serene vistas of mountain slopes, unspoiled beaches and clear blue sea.

Previously nicknamed the "Valley Isle", Maui is actually two islands joined together by a fertile peninsula. Noted as an island of scenic contrasts, Maui's modern bustling suburbs fade into broad fields of waving sugar cane. Quiet powder fine beaches lie at the foot of spectacular Haleakala the world's largest inactive volcano towering 10,032 feet above sea level. This mammoth crater is large enough to hold all of Manhattan Island. West Maui's dramatic Iao Valley is highlighted by the famed "Needle" (a knife shaped peak soaring 2,250 feet above sea level), as well as the historic whaling seaport of Lahaina...once the center of the Pacific's whaling industry, Lahaina retains much of its 18th century provincial charm. Great humpback whales are often seen rolling, blowing and lazily surfacing just yards off shore a favorite sightseeing attraction for seafarers.

At Maui's eastern tip lies the charming, slumbering little village of Hana an emerald green paradise of forests, flowers, ferns and sugar cane fields, surrounded by cascading waterfalls. It is very easy to lose count of the waterfalls outside your window as you drive the hairpin turns of Hana highway.

For the cosmopolitan life, there's Lahaina town. Once a thriving whaling port in the mid-1800s, this is the home to the largest Banyan Tree in the United States. Browse through Lahaina storefronts and art galleries, and dine in a range of restaurants from casual to gourmet.

Maui...an island that blends the beauty of natural tropical settings with the comforts of contemporary luxury. After leaving this island paradise, you're sure to say as the island residents do, "Maui no ka oi" "Maui is the best".