Helen Hunt turns surf babe during vacation on paradise isle of Maui

14 JULY 2008
While many US celebs are enjoying a European break this summer, What Women Want star Helen Hunt has chosen to unwind closer to home. Along with long-term director love Matthew Carnahan the actress has been enjoying the delights of the Hawaiian archipelago.

Based on the second largest island of Maui - known as the 'Valley Isle' due to the narrow plain between its mountain ranges - the energetic 45-year-old has been getting to grips with the American state's favourite sport: surfing. And if she fancies trying her hand at other watersports she'll be spoilt for choice. Scuba diving and snorkelling are also popular activities, as are rafting and submarine tours.

The couple may also plan on heading to Lahaina harbour for a spot of whale watching - 7,000 humpback whales visit the island's warm waters ever year.

Back on dry land there's plenty to do, from horseriding in the mountains to a round of golf on one of the island's 16 courses. Another favourite with visitors is watching the sun rise over the spectacular Haleakala Crater - an active, although currently sleeping, volcano - while checking out the island's stunning waterfalls is also a must.