But explore all of Lahaina's Front Street. 505 Front Street is reminiscent of a New England coastal whaling village from the 1840's. It's home to shops and restaurants, but Lahaina was an important center of the 19th century whaling industry and one reason why sailing ships set sail for Hawaii.
And of course, there's the Lahaina Small Boat Harbor from which various tours and excursion boats operate. If you're looking for a spur of the moment adventure wander down to the harbor. There' always something popping up.
Lahaina Activities
People come to Lahaina for the weather, the beach and resort activities, water sports, nearby scenic wonders, historical sightseeing, the whale watching, and to be close to the waves. (More about Lahaina beaches)
There are two general types of visitors: those who come to chill out and relax and those who come to play and try something new. Somewhere along the way, the different types switch places, so no matter what you're planning you're going to have fun.
To see what's at your hotel's front door in and around Lahaina, just check "Hawaii Activities." They're a Honolulu company that sells tours, event, and activity packages online. You can learn a lot while you're looking through their offerings, and probably find something that suits you just fine. (More about Lahaina activities)
Shopping in Lahaina
To stock up on bulk supplies or food, you might want to check out Kahului and Wailuku. You can get little items without the trip to the windward side in Lahaina.
Lahaina is your place to find local artwork and various crafts, and needless to say, shopping can be a big part of the day. There are lots of amazing shops to visit, so when the sun's high, stay off the beach and browse the nooks and crannies around town.
Toward the northern end of town at Lahaianaluna, there's the Pioneer Sugar Mill, still in operation, and just up the road you can board the Sugarcane Train (the Lahaina-Kaanapali & Pacific RR). This vintage 1800's steam railroad used to shuttle between the cane fields, the sugar mill, and the docks. Now it's a passenger train that brings visitors back in time for a memorable journey up the coast and back again.
If your staying up the road, you can zip down to Lahaina at any time day or night for some entertainment, a special meal, shopping, or just to savor the special feeling of this intriguing town. Enjoy Lahaina.
Quick Facts about Lahaina
- Lahaina is about 27 miles from Kahului Airport, a 45 minute drive.
- Honoapiilani Hwy. is Route 30 in West Maui and runs parallel to Front Street in Lahaina.
- "Lahaina" means "cruel, or fierce sun" so bring your sunblock.
- Friday night is "Art Night," when all the galleries and shops in Lahiana stay open late and the town throws a party. Try to arrange a couple of hours and drop by.