Lahaina Hotels

Lahaina, Hawaii

Lahaina, one of Maui’s most popular destinations, is a stunning historic whaling village teeming with art galleries, shops, restaurants and, of course, beaches. Formerly the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Lahaina is in the National Register of Historic Places and has been dubbed the ‘jewel in the crown of Maui’.

Things to Do

Lahaina was an important place to be in during the height of the whaling industry in the 19th Century; a large number of sailors from over 400 ships stopped here, most notably Herman Melville, the renowned author of Moby Dick. These days, visitors can get a taste of the past by strolling down Front Street – now home to Lahaina’s most vibrant restaurants and shops – where they will find historic landmarks like the US Seamen’s Hospital, the Pioneer Inn and Lahaina Prison.

For dining and entertainment, the best venues in town are located on Front Street. The Maui Theater stages a famous production known as Ulalena, which gives the audience an insight into Hawaiian culture. Music lovers hang out at the Cheeseburger in Paradise, where live music and American food draw the crowds. There are many other places to savor the culinary delights Lahaina has to offer, such as Kimo’s and Lahaina Fish Company.

In the winter months, whale-watching tours out of Lahaina Harbor take tourists to the channel, one of the best places in the world to see humpbacks. 

Beaches

With over 30 miles of sandy beaches, Lahaina has something for everyone on a seaside vacation. Some of the best surfing and windsurfing spots can be found here – or, for a more relaxing time, snorkeling and sunbathing are other options. Most beaches are fully licensed with lifeguards, picnic facilities and restrooms.

One of the most popular of these is DT Fleming Beach Park, rated ‘America’s Best Beach’ in 2006. It’s great for boogie boarding, and its sunset views are some of the best on the island. Not far from there is Kaanapali Beach, commonly considered the best beach in West Maui with three miles of white sand and within walking distance of many hotels. Puu Kekaa, on the northernmost section of the beach, is a fantastic place for snorkeling.

Launiupoko Beach Park, near Kaanapali Beach, has a shallow natural pool surrounded by lava rock, perfect for families traveling with small children.

Arts and Crafts

Lahaina has dozens of top-notch galleries and a thriving art market. The Village Galleries, the oldest in Maui, is dedicated to displaying the works of local artists. Also well worth a visit is the Martin Lawrence Galleries, which features a wide selection of pop art pieces.

Every Friday, all the galleries on Front Street open for Art Night, where the public is invited to browse and chat with artists while enjoying some world-class music. Ceramics, handcrafted woodwork and jewelry are also for sale.

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