Legend has it that the demi-god Maui climbed to the top of Haleakala Crater, where he lassoed the sun and held it captive until it promised to slow down its passage over the Hawaiian Islands. Today, trekking to Haleakala's summit is not an act of divine dominance over cosmic bodies, but a mere mortal's desire to witness its soul-stirring wonders - viewing a sunset or a sunrise from atop this dormant volcano is one of life's truly majestic experiences.

There are also, of course, many down-to-earth activities on this enchanting island, like visiting the historic areas of old Hawaii's kingdom, whale-watching, and surfing. "The Valley Isle," with its fantastic lunar-landscaped volcano, a lush valley, marine life, rainbows that burst across the sky every day, and serene palm-fringed coves, is the most beautiful of the most remote chain of islands in the world. It's no wonder that people like Hollywood moguls who can travel wherever they want continue to return here again and again. No one can resist Maui's spell!