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MAUI
ISLAND, HAWAII : The island of MAUI ,
the second largest in the Hawaiian chain, is Oahu's
fastest-growing rival, attracting roughly a third of
all visitors to the state. Some would say that things
have gone too far. What were once remote, unspoiled
beaches, around Kaanapali and Kihei for example, have
been swamped by sprawling resorts, and Lahaina , once
"whaling capital of the world," is now little
more than just another tourist trap.
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. Finally, the waterfalls
and ravines along the tortuous road out west to Hana
outclass anything on Oahu.
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