Lahaina is the largest census-designated place in Maui, Hawaii, and has become very popular as a tropical getaway for both locals and tourists. With so many people visiting the area, many tours and activities have become a well-known and sought-after destination by most vacationers. If you are thinking about going to Lahaina during your Maui vacation, here are some of the best things to do in Lahaina that you should add to your itinerary to make your Hawaii vacation unforgettable.

Visit the Banyan Tree Park

To honor the 50th anniversary of the Protestant mission in Lahaina, the Banyan Tree was brought to Hawaii on April 1873 and was planted by Sheriff William Owen Smith. Today, the Banyan Tree in the Courthouse Square, now renamed as the Banyan Tree Park, is considered the largest in the United States. It stretches over 200 feet, stands 60 feet tall, and has 16 big, major trunks rooted on the ground.

To help ensure its sustenance, the Lahaina Restoration Foundation has installed an irrigation system in the park. The tree park is a nice place to hang around in if you want to go for a walk with your kids and the whole family.

Ride the Waves at the Break Wall

Located in the middle of Lahaina, the Break Wall in Lahaina Harbor is always filled with people learning how to surf from some of the local surf schools in the area. Most lessons are conducted on the inside right part of the Break Wall because waves are more manageable and break more often than any of the other waves in the area.

With varying wave sizes available, the Break Wall is a nice place for both beginners and experienced surfers. Aside from surfers, there are also many spectators and photographers in the area to watch the surfers riding the waves. Whether you prefer to surf or just watch the brave people riding the waves, it is a cool place to go for some surfing fun.

Sail Aboard Catamarans and Go Snorkeling or Whale Watching

One of the must-do things in Lahaina is sailing across Hawaii’s blue waters on a catamaran. Aside from boat rides and sailing, there are many other water activities that you can sign up for and can be included in your catamaran sailing itinerary.

• Whale and Dolphin Watching – witness the beauty of these majestic creatures of the sea by signing up for morning or sunset cruises.
• Snorkeling – you can be swim alongside the fishes and other underwater creatures of Lahaina by joining snorkeling tours.
• Parasailing – if you are up for some extreme sports, parasailing will surely get your blood pumping.
• Sunset Sailing – for a more laid back experience in Lahaina, Hawaii, let yourself and your loved one enjoy watching the beautiful Hawaiian sunset on a sailboat.
• Dinner and Champagne Cruises – eat, drink and be merry in the middle of the ocean by signing up for some of the dinner and party packages offered in the area.

Stroll and Shop Around Front Street

Indulge in a fun and immersive experience by walking around the scenic oceanfront view on Front Street. One of the must-see spots in the historic town of Lahaina, this is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs and other local goods and foods. Apart from shopping, Front Street also hosts a wide variety of restaurants and art galleries that will satisfy all of your senses.

From island fashion pieces and water sports apparels to local artworks and mouth-watering seafood specials or local cuisines, there so many amazing experiences awaiting both the locals and the tourists.

And if you are looking for the best Maui restaurants to try in the area, here are our top recommendations:

• Fine Dining – Fleetwood’s on Front Street, Lahaina Grill, Gerard’s, Japengo
• Local and Affordable Cuisine – 808 Grindz Cafe, Gazebo at Napili Shores, Honu Seafood and Pizza, Leilani’s On The Beach, ABC Stores
• Cafe and Snack Shops – Hawaiian and Village Coffee, Ono Gelato, Island Vintage Coffee, The Coffee Store, Cool Cat Cafe

Visit the Kohola Brewery

Up for some happy hour with only the best beers and lagers on the island? Visit the Kohola Brewery and have a first-hand experience on how Kohola concocts their award-winning beers. Their 30-minute guided public tour is open for visitors of ages 21 and above. Each group is strictly limited to 8 people per batch, but by signing up for their brewery tour, you get to learn about the basics of beer brewing, and you get to see the brewhouse, cellar room, and Kohola’s entire brewery.

Dive Underwater in the Atlantis Submarine

If you are looking forward to experiencing the beautiful paradise that is found under the waters of Hawaii, sign up for the Atlantis Submarine tour. Aside from Atlantis’ environmentally safe submarines, they have also provided self-sustaining habitats to the thriving marine life of the West Maui waters. Their 1 hour and 45-minute tours are perfect for the whole family, that even kids and seniors can enjoy.

Want to explore more of West Maui?

Hike the Kapalua Coastal Trail

If you are into hiking and nature trails, Kapalua’s coastal trails are the perfect places to visit. This is the perfect trail to hike if you are looking for a leisurely activity where you can take in the natural beauty of Lahaina’s tropical beaches and lava formations. Prepare to witness majestic waves pounding on the coastlines and cliffs, the beautiful beaches of Kapalua, DT Fleming and Oneloa, beachside resort villas and residences, and if you visit during the winter months, you might be lucky enough to spot some whales and sea turtles offshore.

Visit the Beautiful Beaches in the Area

Just north of the town of Lahaina, it is a popular destination for beachgoers, with a wide variety of resorts and condominiums along the beachfront. Kaanapali Beach is famous for the paved walkway that stretches its complete length and is lined with boutique shopping, tasty food and drinks. And aside from the scenic beaches along the Kapalua Coastal Trail, the closest beach that you can play in the warm Hawaiian sunshine is the one that fronts our Kahana Village vacation rentals. With the white sandy shore just 40 feet from most of our oceanfront condos for rent, you can easily drift asleep to gently crashing waves and catch glimpses of whales frolicking in the background!

The Hawaiian Islands thrives with so many wonderful creations, both natural and manmade. So if you have the opportunity to visit this paradise escape, especially the historic town of Lahaina, make the most of your visit by signing up for the many Maui activities that are open for everyone. And if you are still looking for the best place to stay in West Maui, be sure to check out our 2 and 3 bedroom beachfront vacation rentals!