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The Maui Island, also called the Valley Isle, with population of about 120,000 and area — 1,886 sq km, is second largest island in the state of Hawaii, separated from the Island of Hawaii by the Alenuihaha Channel and from Molokai by the Pailolo Channel. The city of Wailuku with population of around 17,000 is the largest town and the county seat of Maui County, which includes the islands of Maui, Kahoolawe (uninhabited), and Molokai (pop. about 10,000) with entire population of about 130,000. The principal ports are Kahului (pop. around 17,000) and Lahaina (pop. about 15,000). The region of Maui Island includes many smaller communities and travel destinations, such as Kihei (pop. about 15,000), Kalaupapa, Hoolehua, and others.
The Island of Maui is made up of two mountain masses, which constitute the east and west peninsulas, connected by an isthmus. The highest point on the Island is the Haleakala volcano (3,055 m) in Haleakala National Park. In the west, Puu Kukui rises to 1,764 m. Over the millennia Maui's geography has changed drastically. Formed by six different volcanoes, the islands of Maui, Moloka'i, Lana'i and Kaho'olawe were once a single landmass known as Maui Nui ("Great Maui"). Rising sea levels eventually separated the islands, though they are still legally linked today - all are part of Maui County.
The Island's chief industries are cultivation of sugarcane and pineapples, and of course — tourism. The varied landscape has led to an equally varied society: The central Maui town of Kahului/Wailuku is the Island's business center; West Maui, with the sprawling beaches and upscale hotels of Ka'anapali and the historic whaling town of Lahaina, is one of Maui's major resort areas. South Maui is home to the Island's other main resort district, Wailea; and while the tropical north shore of Maui does not offer hotels, visitors can choose from a collection of bed & breakfasts and rental homes. Maui is the only island in Polynesia to be named after a god, and rightfully so. Visit east Maui's Haleakala Crater (the largest dormant volcano in the world), and you'll find a desolate landscape that is nonetheless home to the beautiful silversword - a member of the daisy family that has, due to its isolation, evolved into a plant like no other in the world. The lush rainforests and bogs of the nearby West Maui Mountains are home to a network of trails, cultural spots and stunning points of interest. From the historic churches and arts culture of Kahului, Wailuku and Pa'ia to the verdant pasturelands of Upcountry Maui on Haleakala's massive western flank (where you can take a side trip to the Tedeschi Winery to sample pineapple wine); from sleepy Hana's rich Hawaiian history to the cultural shows and art galleries of Lahaina — like its namesake, this island is a magical, powerful place.
The Maui Island offers the finest variety of accommodation, dining, tours, sports, shows, cultural events & entertainment, nightlife, attractions, sightseeing, and all other genuine points of interest in the second largest island of Hawaiian group!
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