Lahaina

Lahaina is a historic town on Maui's western shore in Maui County, Hawaii. It lies on the leeward coast and faces Lahaina Harbor. The town center, especially Front Street, is known for its waterfront shops, restaurants, and galleries.

In the 19th century, Lahaina was a major whaling port and a commercial and cultural hub of the Hawaiian Kingdom before the shift of royal and commercial activity to Honolulu in the mid-1800s. The harbor and streets developed as the town grew.

Lahaina preserves a number of historic landmarks. The Lahaina Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Notable sites include the Lahaina Banyan Tree in Banyan Tree Park, the Baldwin Home Museum, the Wo Hing Museum, and the remnants of the old Lahaina Fort.

Today, Lahaina is a popular tourist destination and serves as a gateway to West Maui. Its economy centers on tourism, shopping, dining, and marine activities from the harbor, including whale watching, sunset cruises, and excursions to nearby beaches and resorts along the coast.

The town experiences a warm, tropical climate with a distinct dry season in summer and relatively light rainfall compared to windward areas. Its coastal setting and historic character attract visitors year-round.