Maui, often called the “Valley Isle,” is the second-largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and a breathtaking tapestry of diverse landscapes ranging from the volcanic alpine heights of Haleakalā to the lush, waterfall-strewn rainforests of the Road to Hana. Named after the legendary Polynesian demigod who is said to have lassoed the sun, the island carries a deep cultural heritage that spans from its early settlement by ocean-voyaging Polynesians to its 19th-century history as a global whaling hub and the former seat of the Hawaiian Kingdom in Lahaina. Today, visitors are drawn to its world-renowned beaches, unique black and red sand coves, and the crystal-clear waters of Molokini Crater, which offer some of the best snorkeling and whale-watching opportunities on the planet.