Lahaina
Lahaina was a historically rich town on West Maui's coast, once serving as the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom and later as a bustling whaling port. Known for its sunny weather, vibrant Front Street, and iconic banyan tree, Lahaina offered a unique blend of history, culture, and oceanfront charm - before being devastated by the 2023 wildfire. This page honors its legacy.
Lahaina, Maui
Editor's Note: Due to a fire that occurred on August 8, 2023, this beautiful town was destroyed. We are leaving these pictures up for all of us who have made memories here and would like to remember Lahaina as it used to be. New pictures will be posted after the town is rebuilt.
Lahaina, the largest town in West Maui, was once the capital of the Hawaiian kingdom and seat of power of the Kamehameha dynasty. During the 1800s, Lahaina became a whaling port.
Starting around 1819, whaling ships from around the world berthed in Lahaina for supplies and recreation. However, the sailor's unruly behavior placed them at odds with the missionaries who started to arrive in 1821. The missionaries tried to keep sailors out of the bawdy houses and Hawaiian women away from the sailors and their ships. After the whaling industry ended around 1860, Lahaina became a sugar town.
Lahaina, which means "merciless sun," refers to the area's hot weather, especially from May to October. Today, Lahaina's center of activity is along Front Street, which has colorful shops, art galleries and restaurants.
One of the attractions in Lahaina is the Banyan Tree Park. In 1873, a banyan tree was planted here to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Christian missionary work in Lahaina. Today, this tree stretches over an area of 200 feet (61 m).
Key Features of Lahaina
- Historic capital: Former capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom and home to significant royal history.
- Whaling and missionary heritage: Played a central role during the whaling era of the 1800s.
- Front Street landmarks: Lined with oceanfront restaurants, art galleries, and shops.
- Iconic banyan tree: One of the largest in the U.S., planted in 1873 and covering an entire block.
- Population: 12,702 (2020 Census)
- Zip code: 96761
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Frequently Asked Questions
Was Lahaina affected by a fire?
Yes. Lahaina was tragically destroyed by a wildfire on August 8, 2023. This page is preserved in remembrance until the town is rebuilt.
What was Lahaina's historical significance?
Lahaina was once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom and an important whaling port in the 1800s. It played a major role in Hawaii's royal and maritime history.
What was Front Street known for?
Front Street in Lahaina was a lively area filled with shops, art galleries, restaurants, and historical landmarks like the Banyan Tree Park.
What is the Lahaina Banyan Tree?
The Lahaina Banyan Tree is one of the largest in the U.S., planted in 1873. It spanned an entire block and symbolized the town's historic charm.
What is the zip code of Lahaina?
The zip code for Lahaina is 96761.