Lahaina is a historic town located in West Maui. Lahaina was once known as Lele or relentless sun in Hawaiian. This famous place succeeded in transforming Maui into a hot spot with a host of art galleries and a wide array of unique shops and restaurants.
Back in the early 19th century, Lahaina was the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom. It was also the site of a historic whaling village in the mid-1800s during the whaling boom. It was said that about 1,500 sailors took a leave from Maui, including author Herman Melville who immortalized that memorable era in the classic novel Moby Dick.
Now, Lahaina is on the list of the National Register of Historic Places. Tourists can still feel the Lahaina of old when they stroll down along Front Street, as well as when they go to historic shops such as the US Seamen’s Hospital, the Pioneer Inn, and Hale Paaho or Lahaina Prison.
One of the most iconic sites in Lahaina is the enormous Banyan Tree located at the Banyan Tree Square. This Banyan Tree is considered the largest in whole of the United States. This tree was planted in the late 19th century to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the arrival of the first missionary in Maui.
Located just directly behind the Banyan Tree is the Old Courthouse. It was constructed in 1859.
Strategically located as well was the Old Jailhouse. The old jail is now the home of the Lahaina Arts Society.
Lahaina is also known for its wide variety of entertainment and activities for tourists. The place is known for its many fine restaurants where you can taste the famous Hawaii Regional Cuisine.
Lahaina has the perfect luau party where you can eat and drink heartily while watching the traditional dances of Polynesia.
The winter months are just as wonderful as the summer months in Lahaina. You can catch the amazing whale watching tour from the Lahaina Harbor. The harbor is the best place where you can catch humpback whales.
Lahaina is indeed a place that is rich with historical background. What a great experience to see humpback whales and tour this historic town!