Lahaina Banyan Tree Park

Lahaina Banyan Tree Park is a historic Maui landmark tied to Lahaina's past, the 2023 wildfire and the town's ongoing recovery.

Lahaina Banyan Tree Park, Maui

Editor's Note: Due to a fire that occurred on August 8, 2023, this beautiful banyan tree was heavily damaged, but thankfully many sections of the tree survived. We are leaving these pictures up for all of us who have made memories here and would like to remember the Lahaina banyan tree park as it used to be. New pictures will be posted after the town is rebuilt.

Located right on Front Street in Lahaina on Maui is this amazing banyan tree. Imported from India, it was planted in April 1873 and measured just 8 feet (2.5 m) in height back then. Today, it is over 60 feet (18 m) high and looks like a mini forest with several tree trunks.

The amazing thing about banyan trees is that they also grow sideways. Roots grow down from the tree trunk until they reach the ground and form a new trunk. The banyan tree in Lahaina now has 12 major trunks, in addition to its huge core. The tree covers an area of 200 feet (61 m) and shades two-third of an acre.

So even though it looks like there are at least a dozen trees in this park, it’s just one single tree. The Lahaina banyan tree is one of the largest in the world. Below it are several benches where one can relax.

Key Features

Historic tree: Banyan planted in Lahaina in 1873
Massive canopy: Aerial roots formed multiple supporting trunks
Front Street setting: Located in historic Lahaina near the harbor
Community landmark: Longtime gathering place for events and rest
Wildfire damage: Severely affected by the August 2023 fire
Recovery symbol: Surviving sections represent resilience and hope
Access limits: Public access may be restricted during recovery
Respectful visit: Follow closures, fences and local guidance
Cultural context: Connected to Lahaina's broader historic district

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Lahaina Banyan Tree Park located?

Lahaina Banyan Tree Park is located at 649 Wharf Street in Lahaina, near Front Street and Lahaina Harbor.

When was the Lahaina banyan tree planted?

The banyan tree was planted in 1873 and became one of Lahaina's most recognized landmarks.

Was Lahaina Banyan Tree Park damaged by the 2023 wildfire?

Yes. The park and banyan tree were severely damaged during the August 2023 Lahaina wildfire, though parts of the tree survived.

Is Lahaina Banyan Tree Park open to visitors?

Access can change during recovery. Visitors should check current County of Maui guidance before going and should respect fences, closures and posted signs.

Why is the Lahaina banyan tree important?

The tree is important for its age, size, historic setting and meaning to Lahaina residents. Since the wildfire, it has also become a symbol of resilience and recovery.