The small historic town of Lahaina is nestled between the calm waters of the Auau Channel and the fertile peaks and valleys of the Mauna Kahalawai. It is located on the north-western coastline of the Island of Maui in the State of Hawaii, and is often referred to as the ‘Jewel in the Crown of Maui’. Characterized by bountiful freshwater streams, fertile volcanic soil, lush green valleys, crystal clear seas and hot sunny days, Lahaina is surrounded by spectacular scenery and overlooks the neighboring Island of Lana’i. This town of just under 10,000 inhabitants (2000 census) boasts a vibrant and interesting heritage, and welcomes approximately 2 million visitors annually, making Lahaina, one of Maui’s most popular island destinations. Lahaina provides visitors with a variety of outdoor activities including fishing, sailing, scuba diving and whale watching, while nearby the Ka’anapali Golf Course awaits the keen golfer. Other attractions include the Whaler’s Village Museum which charts the area’s whaling past through its collection of artifacts, murals and exhibits, and the Sugar Cane Train which takes visitors on a tour that re-visits Maui’s early sugar cane industry. Known for once being the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Lahaina today can be easily appreciated through walking the ‘Historic Trail’. This self-guided walk leads visitors along Front Street, the town’s lively main area which is full of wooden fronted shops and art galleries, and visits several historic locations. These include the U.S. Seaman’s Hospital, Hale Pa’ahao (Lahaina Prison), Lahaina Customs and Courthouse, and the Pioneer Inn which is recognised as the oldest hotel in Hawaii. Look out for the restored Baldwin House which was built in 1834/35, the old Banyan Tree that is located in the Courthouse Square, the Chinese Wo Hing Museum, Hale Pa’i (House of Printing) and the remains of the Old Fort where it is still possible to see original cannons. One other interesting historical attraction is the Lahaina Lighthouse which can be found standing at the edge of the harbour. Constructed in 1840 at only 3 metres high, the lighthouse became the first lighted navigational aid in the Hawaiian Islands. The original lighthouse was built of wood and required almost continual repairs until it was eventually replaced in 1917 with a reinforced concrete structure. The attractive Lahaina Harbour is the departing point for many day tours, including whale watching excursions, as well as the daily ferry services to the nearby islands of Moloka’i and Lana’i.
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