Nestled between the waters of Auau Channel towards Lana'I Island and the strong peaks and valleys of Mauna Kahalawai, is the historic town of Lahaina. This town, sometimes known as the jewel in Maui's crown, is one of the most visited spots in the area.

In fact, about 83% of Maui's visitor population (2 million people), visit the town of Lahaina annually.

Lahaina is known for having quite a history that has led to a diverse cultural population. Over one thousand years ago, Polynesian settlers came to the town of Lahaina to build a home. The area was perfect as it offered numerous freshwater streams, fertile soil, beautiful weather, and pristine valleys. The area is still as beautiful today as it was back then. At least 18,000 people call the town of Lahaina home on a full-time basis. Millions more visit the area each year.

The scenery and the entertaining options are what keep people coming into Lahaina each year. From the colorful waterfront to the world-famous Front Street, it is easy to see why this area of Hawaii is as popular as it is. You will find plenty to do and see when visiting the town of Lahaina. Below are a few of the most popular options.

Jodo Mission
The town of Lahaina is home to the Jodo Mission, the largest Buddhist community outside of Japan. Located against the splendid West Maui Mountains, the Jodo Mission offers a temple, a bell tower, pagodas, and a small park where a statue of Buddha is located. This is one of Lahaina's busiest attractions.

Lahaina Hongwanji Mission
The Hongwanji Mission was built in 1910 and was originally a temple and a small school. Today, the Mission shows off the history of the Japanese community in Lahaina. The temple at Hongwanji is home to the annual August O-Bon Dance. This dance offers a celebration of life and death, thousands of candles, and the pounding of rhythmic drums.

Moku'ulu-o-Lele
Located on Front Street in the Downtown area of Lahaina, is Moku'ula, one of the most historic parts of the island. Moku'ula is a small island that eventually became a park. Around the island was a set of sacred ponds (Mokuhinia). This spot has been home to giant lizards, Maui Chiefs, and Kamehameha Kings. After the 1900's, the area was turned into a park. Today, some of the ponds and other historical artifacts are being unearthed in a restoration project.

Old Fort Walls of Lahaina
The Old Fort Walls are the last of ruins of a fort that once stood near the courthouse and overlooking the now defunct canals in Lahaina. The fort was originally created to help protect the town of Lahaina. Canons had been shot at Reverend Richard's home when he convinced the King to ban women from the ships that would come into the area. Visitors that would come to the area assumed the fort was for aesthetics and not for protection. Eventually, the fort was torn down and provided bricks to the area prison. The old ruins that were once part of the fort walls are all that remain.

Other points of interest in the town of Lahaina include:
Carthaginian Floating Museum
Lahaina Lighthouse
Luakini Street
Brick Palace
Masters Reading Room
Seamen's Cemetery
Pioneer Inn
Wo Hing Temple

These are just a few of the places to visit in the town of Lahaina during your vacation on the beautiful island of Maui.