I figured there’s no better time than now to write a Lahaina travel guide since I’m stuck here for the time being. I mean there could be worse places right?! Plus this has given me a lot of time to push the publish button on several posts.
A Travel Guide to Lahaina Maui
Location
Lahaina 🔵 is located on West Maui about 45 minutes away from the airport without traffic. I always encourage and recommend renting a car to explore the island. Top activities like driving the road to Hana and Haleakala Summit require your own wheels.
You will fly into Kahului OGG airport 🔴. The drive is as scenic as it gets. You’ll have coastal views most of the way. You’ll see several surf breaks and the people swimming at the beaches as you drive by.
History OF LAHAINA
Walking around Lahaina town you can still spot remains of bricks that used to be an old fort, the historic courthouse and even the old Lahaina jail. Yes the ones where the walls are only about 10 feet high because no one could throw their “ball and chain” over it.
Today Lahaina is a hotspot on Maui and without a doubt my favorite Maui town. Lahaina’s main drag Front Street is packed with lively restaurants, bars, art galleries and boutique shops.
I don’t make enough money to rely solely off my blog just yet therefore I work in a restaurant to support my travels and to make a living. I happen to bartend at 2 of the hottest restaurants/bars in town, on the rooftop at Fleetwoods and Down the Hatch. If you are in the area please stop by and say HI! 👋. Of course only when we’re opened again.
WHERE TO EAT IN LAHAINA
Lahaina has a buzzing food scene and provides some of the best views for ocean side dining that Maui has to offer. There are restaurants for every type of budget and craving. Here are a few of my favorites.
Down the Hatch
- Budget friendly
- The BEST breakfast on Maui
- Fun atmosphere
- Live Music
- Chive TV playing all day
- Must try the Lobster and Crab Stuffed Grilled Cheese
- Takes care of the locals
Fleetwoods on Front Street
- The only rooftop in Lahaina
- Phenomenal views of Lana’i, the West Maui Mountains and the ocean
- Best craft cocktails, high end spirits, and wine selection on the island
- Is owned by the legendary rockstar Mick Fleetwood himself
- Hands down the best live music you can get. So much talent from every artist that plays here.
- Must try the Ultimate Surf and Turf
- Did I mention bad ass bartenders?!
Prison Street Pizza
- Budget friendly
- The perfect crust to cheese to sauce ratio
- Chill vibes
Tiki Tiki Thai
- Friendly staff, they always treat us like family
- I come here for the Avocado Green Curry!
Mala Ocean Tavern
- Dining right on the ocean, you’ll often see turtles
- Best place to brunch. Brunch 7 days a week from 9 am to 2 pm.
- Bloody Mary’s
- Must try the Ahi Bruschetta
Star Noodle
- Asian fusion, the noodle soup bowls are out of this world
- Budget friendly
- Fast, efficient and tasty
- Knowledgable staff
Well that’s just to name a few. For a bigger selection and more detailed guide of the best restaurants
READ NEXT: The Best Restaurants in Lahaina
lahaina Shopping
There are plenty of shops and art galleries in Lahaina that will keep you busy for an entire afternoon. Whatever it is your looking for, swim suits? Art? Souvenirs? You’ll be able to find it as you cruise up and down Front Street. Here are a few of my favorites.
Shops
- Manakai Swimwear
- Pakaloha Bikinis
- Going Left
- Volcom
- Honolua Cookie Company
Art Galleries
- Peter Lik
- Kush Fine Art
- Morrison Hotel Gallery
- Andrew Shoemaker
Where to Stay in lahaina
Most visitors stay at resorts in Ka’anapali or Kapalua which is 10-20 minutes north of Lahaina. If you want to keep costs down and be able to walk to town there are a few places I’d recommend staying.
Aina Nalu
Aina Nalu is a beautiful oasis tucked away on a back street in Lahaina. The resort itself is a quaint oasis in the middle of town. The pool is big and theres plenty of room and beds to lounge around in. The pool is a must when staying in Lahaina because it gets so hot.
This Airbnb is walking distance to all the things to do in Lahaina, nightlife, must eat restaurants and activities. A top stay for this Lahaina travel guide.
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Lahaina Inn
The Lahaina Inn is located in the heart of Lahaina town. It can be found above a wonderful fine dining restaurant. Lahaina Grill is a staple in Lahaina and worth the splurge.
The hotel is small only having 12 rooms and is tastefully decorated. Walkable to all the activities in Lahaina.
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Old Lahaina House
The Old Lahaina House is located a block away from the best beaches in Lahaina and walking distance to things to do in Lahaina at night, restaurants, and a beginners surf break. This is a great option of where to stay in Lahaina if you are on a budget and like to be in the center of the action.
Lahaina Shores Beach Resort
Staying here also gives you access to the swimming pool and hot tub. A great escape in the middle of Lahaina’s heat.
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The Plantation Inn
Adults only, so nice stay for couples on their honeymoon.
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what to see in lahaina
- The infamous banyan tree
- The cutest public library you’ll ever see
- Mala Pier
- Baby Beach
- The boardwalk
- The harbor
- Old Lahaina Jail
- 505 Beach
lahaina Activities
- Sunset ceremony at Fleetwoods
- Whale watch if its whale season (December 15-May 15)
- Sunset dinner cruise
- Feast at Lele Luau
- Deep sea fishing excursions
- Day trip to Lana’i
- Surfing
- Old Lahaina Luau
Lahaina travel guide tips
- Lahaina meaning…Lahaina in Hawaiian is called Lele which translates to ‘cruel merciless sun’. It is very, very hot with little cloud coverage most of the year especially in the summer months. Try to take shade under the banyan tree and in one of the many bars that litter Front Street.
- People walk to work so move over for those of us who aren’t shopping 🙂
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