How big is the island of maui?
Updated: September 20, 2024Overview of Maui’s Size
Maui, known as "The Valley Isle," is the second-largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago. It spans approximately 727.2 square miles (1,883 square kilometers). The island is roughly 26 miles wide and 48 miles long, with a varied topography that includes coastal plains, lush valleys, and towering volcanoes.
Geographic Features
Maui's landscape is diverse and distinct, contributing to its overall size and appeal. Here are some of its key geographic features:
Haleakalā Volcano
Haleakalā, a massive shield volcano, dominates Maui's southeastern region. It covers a substantial portion of the island, with its summit standing at 10,023 feet (3,055 meters) above sea level. The surrounding Haleakalā National Park encompasses 33,265 acres (134.7 square kilometers).
West Maui Mountains
The smaller but equally significant West Maui Mountains, also known as Mauna Kahalawai, are located in the northwestern part of the island. This area is characterized by deep valleys and steep ridges, with Puʻu Kukui reaching an elevation of 5,788 feet (1,764 meters).
Coastlines and Beaches
Maui boasts over 120 miles (193 kilometers) of coastline, featuring more than 30 miles (48 kilometers) of pristine beaches. The island's diverse beaches range from golden sands to black and red volcanic sands, each contributing to the island's allure and size.
Population and Urban Areas
Maui's population is concentrated in a few key areas, with the largest towns being Kahului, Wailuku, and Lahaina.
Kahului
Kahului, located on the northern shore, is Maui's largest town and commercial hub. It is home to the island's main airport and serves as the primary gateway for visitors. The town's infrastructure and amenities cover a considerable area, contributing to the island's overall size.
Wailuku
Wailuku, adjacent to Kahului, is the county seat and a significant cultural center. It is known for its historic buildings and proximity to the lush ʻĪao Valley, which adds to the island's geographic diversity.
Lahaina
Lahaina, on the western coast, was once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii. Today, it is a vibrant tourist destination with a rich history and numerous attractions. The town's layout and development span a considerable area along the coast.
Natural Reserves and Protected Areas
Maui is home to various natural reserves and protected areas that contribute to its size and ecological significance.
Haleakalā National Park
Haleakalā National Park, mentioned earlier, covers a vast area and includes diverse ecosystems ranging from coastal rainforests to alpine deserts. The park is a crucial part of Maui's geographic and ecological landscape.
Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve
Located on the southwestern coast, the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve protects unique marine and terrestrial ecosystems. The reserve covers approximately 2,045 acres (8.3 square kilometers) and is renowned for its lava fields, tide pools, and coral reefs.
Waikamoi Preserve
The Waikamoi Preserve, situated on the northeastern slopes of Haleakalā, encompasses over 5,230 acres (21.2 square kilometers) of pristine rainforest. Managed by The Nature Conservancy, it is home to numerous rare and endangered species.
Climate Zones and Vegetation
Maui's diverse climate zones and vegetation further illustrate the island's complexity and size.
Coastal Zones
The coastal areas of Maui experience a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. These zones are characterized by sandy beaches, coastal vegetation, and abundant marine life.
Upcountry Maui
Upcountry Maui, located on the slopes of Haleakalā, has a cooler climate and fertile soil, making it ideal for agriculture. This region is known for its farms, ranches, and lush vegetation.
Rainforests
The northeastern part of the island, particularly the Hana region, is home to dense rainforests with high rainfall. This area features lush vegetation, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
Unique Measurements and Comparisons
To put Maui's size into perspective, here are some unique measurements and comparisons:
Comparisons to Other Hawaiian Islands
- Hawaii (Big Island): The Big Island is the largest in the Hawaiian archipelago, covering 4,028 square miles (10,430 square kilometers), which is significantly larger than Maui.
- Oahu: Oahu, home to the state capital Honolulu, is 597 square miles (1,545 square kilometers), making it smaller than Maui.
- Kauai: Kauai, the Garden Isle, is 552 square miles (1,430 square kilometers), also smaller than Maui.
Comparisons to Other Islands Worldwide
- Mallorca (Spain): Mallorca, the largest island in the Balearic Islands, covers approximately 1,405 square miles (3,640 square kilometers), making it about twice the size of Maui.
- Tasmania (Australia): Tasmania is significantly larger, covering 26,410 square miles (68,401 square kilometers), dwarfing Maui in comparison.
- Martha's Vineyard (USA): Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts is much smaller, at 87.48 square miles (226.6 square kilometers).
Rarely Known Small Details
Maui's size and characteristics can be further appreciated through some lesser-known details:
Historic Land Divisions
Maui was historically divided into districts called "moku," each with unique geographic and cultural attributes. The primary moku on Maui are Wailuku, Kula, Lahaina, and Hana. These divisions still influence local culture and land use.
Road to Hana
The Road to Hana, a scenic highway that winds along Maui's northeastern coast, is 64.4 miles (103.6 kilometers) long. The journey offers a microcosm of Maui's diverse landscapes, from coastal views to lush rainforests.
Population Density
Despite its size, Maui has a relatively low population density compared to urban areas. The island's population is around 167,000, resulting in a density of approximately 230 people per square mile (89 people per square kilometer).
Unique Flora and Fauna
Maui is home to unique species such as the Hawaiian goose or nēnē, and the silversword plant (ʻāhinahina), which grows only on the slopes of Haleakalā. These species highlight the island's ecological significance and contribute to its natural beauty.
Ultimately, Maui's size is best understood not just in terms of square miles or kilometers, but through its rich tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and ecosystems. The island's dimensions are a testament to its diverse and dynamic nature, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
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