Things to Do in Lahaina: See What Belongs on Your Maui Bucket List

Lahaina is one of Maui’s most beloved destinations, known for its history, beaches, and culture. After the 2023 wildfires, the town is in recovery, and parts of Front Street and the iconic Banyan Tree remain closed.

Even so, there are plenty of things to do in Lahaina Maui that continue to welcome visitors with open arms. From dining and luaus to snorkeling, whale watching, and chocolate tastings, supporting these businesses helps the community rebuild.

Travelers will still find incredible things to do in Lahaina across North Lahaina, Kāʻanapali, and Kapalua. Every adventure here now carries added meaning, blending joy with the spirit of resilience. So pack your bags and dive into our guide to the best things to do in Lahaina—your unforgettable Maui bucket list starts now!

Walk the Lahaina Pali Trail

If you’re wondering what to do in Lahaina that combines outdoor adventure with a glimpse of history, the Lahaina Pali Trail delivers. Once part of the ancient King’s Highway that connected communities across Maui, this rugged 5-mile hike (10 miles round trip) is steeped in stories from the Kingdom of Hawaii while rewarding you with jaw-dropping island views.

The trail climbs about 1,600 feet over rocky terrain, so sturdy shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water are non-negotiable. From the ridgelines, you’ll spot sweeping panoramas of the central valley, Molokini, Lānaʻi, and Kahoʻolawe, and in whale season, you might even catch humpbacks breaching offshore.

With much of the Lahaina Historic Trail still closed or damaged from the 2023 wildfires, visitors looking for alternatives can turn to the Lahaina Pali Trail. This historic route not only carries echoes of the Kingdom of Hawaii but also rewards hikers with panoramic views, offering a powerful way to experience both Maui’s past and its breathtaking natural beauty.

While it doesn’t pass landmarks like the Baldwin Home or the historic street in Lahaina, the Pali Trail offers a different way to connect with the island’s heritage. You’ll be walking the same route travelers once used centuries ago, making every step a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.

Dine and Celebrate With Local Flavor

Foodies, this is where your Maui bucket list gets tasty. When it comes to dining in Lahaina Maui, you’ll find everything from oceanfront tables with sunset views to full-on feasts that double as cultural experiences.

For a laid-back but unforgettable meal, grab a seat at Mala Ocean Tavern or Kimo’s Maui, where the Pacific laps just steps from your table. Fresh seafood, island-inspired cocktails, and that golden-hour glow make these spots essential stops when you visit Lahaina.

But no trip is complete without a Lahaina luau. The Myths of Maui Luau at Royal Lahaina Resort serves traditional Hawaiian dishes alongside mesmerizing hula and storytelling that transports you through centuries of Polynesian culture. It’s equal parts dinner and show—so come hungry and ready to be wowed.

Looking for something unexpected? Head to Coco Deck’s magic night, where your evening includes a four-course meal paired with sleight-of-hand illusions and island flair. It’s one of those things to do Lahaina that surprises visitors in the best way.

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth

Looking for the kind of treat that cools you down and makes your Instagram pop? Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice is a must. With flavors ranging from tangy lilikoi to creamy piña colada—and toppings like mochi, azuki beans, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it’s one of those lahaina activities that’s pure joy in a cup.

Chocolate lovers won’t be left out either. Head over to Maui Kuʻia Estate Chocolate, where you can tour the cacao farm or sample flights of rich, velvety chocolate while learning how it’s crafted from bean to bar. Supporting this local gem is one of the sweetest ways to visit Lahaina.

Whether you’re grabbing shave ice between beach stops or sipping chocolate under the shade of West Maui’s palms, indulging your sweet tooth definitely belongs on your list of things to do in Lahaina. Ululani’s lines get long in the afternoons, so swing by earlier in the day—or embrace the wait as part of the experience.

Shop and Support Local Artists

One of the most rewarding Lahaina activities is diving into the island’s creative scene. From paintings inspired by crashing waves to blown-glass masterpieces, the town has long been a hub for makers and dreamers.

Swing by Moana Glass by Ryan Staub, where the energy is as fiery as the furnaces. You can watch skilled glassblowers at work or roll up your sleeves in a hands-on class with a local artist to create your own keepsake—it’s one of those art galleries that doubles as an experience.

And don’t skip Lahaina Cannery Mall, which offers a cool, shaded break from the Maui sun. Inside you’ll find boutique shops, small art galleries, and even cultural events alongside a food truck lot for when shopping inevitably works up an appetite.

Bask on Lahaina and West Maui Beaches

Soft sand, turquoise waves, and palm trees swaying in the breeze, oh my! It’s no wonder that beach-hopping tops nearly every list of things to do in Lahaina Maui.

Kaʻanapali Beach is the showstopper—a long, golden stretch that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or strolling the boardwalk lined with resorts and restaurants. For something calmer, Baby Beach is ideal for kids thanks to its shallow, protected waters, while Baldwin Beach offers a classic wide shoreline perfect for picnics and boogie boarding.

Adventurers should check out Launiupoko Beach Park, a local favorite where you can try beginner-friendly surfing or even attempt a cliff jump if you’re feeling bold. And if snorkeling is on your bucket list, head to Kahekili Beach Park or join an excursion out of Lahaina Harbor for access to some of Maui’s best reefs.

Just north of town, the waters of Honolua Bay are legendary for both snorkeling and surfing, framed by lush jungle that feels worlds away. Add in the dramatic backdrop of the West Maui Mountains, and you’ve got picture-perfect views to pair with every swim, snorkel, and sunset during your stay in West Maui.

Spot Humpback Whales in Season

If you’re making your travel plans between November and March, consider yourself lucky—you’ll be visiting during peak season for humpback whales. These gentle giants migrate to Maui’s warm waters every winter, and seeing them breach, slap their fins, or glide past your boat is one of those unforgettable things to do in Lahaina.

Tours depart daily from the Māla boat ramp, Lahaina Harbor, and Kā‘anapali Beach, giving you plenty of ways to set sail. You can go classic with a catamaran ride, keep it thrilling with an eco-raft, or even take a dive below the surface with the Atlantis Submarine for a totally different perspective.

If you’re looking for recommendations, whale watching tours with Sail Maui get rave reviews for their intimate, sail-powered approach, while Atlantis Submarine lets you view marine life eye-to-eye without even getting wet. Either way, you’re in for a marine matinee that’s equal parts educational and awe-inspiring. Morning tours usually offer calmer seas, while afternoon sails often mean dramatic lighting for photos. Bring binoculars if you have them, but don’t stress—when a 40-ton whale breaches, you won’t miss it.

Paddle, Snorkel, and Surf the Shoreline

Ocean adventures are some of the most unforgettable Lahaina activities, and the shoreline here delivers them all. Whether it’s surfing, paddling, or snorkeling, this stretch of Maui coast is a playground for every type of water lover.

Surf schools like Lahaina Surf Shack and Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy make catching your first wave surprisingly easy. Instructors are patient, the waves are beginner-friendly, and you’ll leave with bragging rights (and maybe a few epic wipeout stories) to check off your list of what to do in Lahaina.

Kayaking tours offer a slower pace, gliding you along the coast with stops to snorkel colorful reefs and swim alongside sea turtles. It’s peaceful, scenic, and the perfect way to combine fitness with sightseeing. For underwater explorers, few spots beat Honolua Bay or the volcanic crater at Molokini. Both are legendary for crystal-clear water, thriving marine life, and that magical feeling of floating in an aquarium built by nature.

Cruise Into a Maui Sunset

Few experiences are as magical as watching the sky over the island of Maui melt into shades of orange and pink while the ocean sparkles around you. For travelers searching for unforgettable things to do in Lahaina Maui, a sunset sail is the perfect blend of relaxation, scenery, and island-style celebration.

The Maui Sunset Sail on Alihilani from Maalaea Harbor is a fan favorite for good reason. This luxurious 65-foot catamaran offers a smooth two-hour cruise through the Auʻau Channel, framed by Lānaʻi, Kahoʻolawe, and the dramatic West Maui Mountains. You’ll enjoy cushioned seating, open deck trampolines, and shaded lounges, all while soaking in panoramic views.

Onboard, the 2-Hr Alihilani Sunset Sail with Open Bar keeps the island vibes flowing. Think gourmet appetizers, local beers, crisp wines, and handcrafted cocktails (yes, Mai Tais included). Between December and March, seasonal whale sightings add an extra wow factor, and dolphins often play alongside the boat year-round.

What Else Will You Discover in Lahaina?

Lahaina may be healing, but its spirit of aloha continues to shine brighter than ever. From historic sites to breathtaking beaches, there are still countless things to do in Lahaina Maui that make this corner of the island unforgettable.

As you plan your Hawaii vacation, it’s the perfect time to explore recovery-friendly travel, support the community’s rebuilding efforts, and savor the experiences that remain open. Make planning easy by securing deals and bundling Maui attractions and hotels into exclusive vacation packages through Tripster.

Whether you’re exploring the resorts on the south side or venturing along the rugged coastlines of West Maui, every adventure here becomes part of Lahaina’s ongoing story. So book your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to experience Maui like never before!

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