I lived on Maui for over 20 years and in Hawaii for over 40 years and I love Maui.  I live upcountry but frequently visit there.

During the day, Lahaina, is a historical, cultural and tourist destination. The night belongs to grog, nog and a bit of the hair of the dog. Le'ale'a is the Hawaiian word for fun.  Lahaina may one day replace that word in the dictionary.

This is an unobtrusive town; the tallest buildings are churches, is about an hour from Kahului Airport. The history of a simpler time lingers every where. The remnants of a Russian fort, buildings and homes from both the plantation and missionary eras and Moku'ula.

Moku'ula was the home for the royalty of Maui. The tragedy of Moku'ula is now being rectified. This area, which included a natural spring, was covered over to create a park.  The soccer and baseball fields are now being excavated to reveal what once was. Contact the Lahaina Town Action Committee (1-808-667-9175) and ask them about guided and self-guided tours for all of Lahaina.

You can see a free hula show at the Lahaina Cannery Mall and do some shopping there as well. It's a bit of a walk, approximately a mile with nothing but homes in-between, from there to the heart of the Lahaina town. The streets in Lahaina are lined with tourist traps, boutiques, curio shops and restaurants. Lots to be done in a relatively compact area. When I'm looking for gifts I often go shopping here. I've even bought some things for myself. Lahaina tends to be hot so dress comfortably.

Lahaina is where the bulk of Maui nightlife is located, movies, dance clubs and bars. In addition Annabells and Warrens a fantastic, up close, magic show; Ulalena, Hawaii's history told in song and dance and The Old Lahaina Lu'au (see my reviews on these attractions), which is always ranked as one of the best lu'aus, are all located there.  I've seen all three and le'ale'a is truly the word.  I have nothing but the highest recomendations for all of them.

If bar hopping and nightclubs are your things then this is a very safe place to do it. Taxis are never easy but this would be the best place to get one and the crime rate is very low. Music fills the streets at night. Lots of the clubs are open air, on the shore or looking right out onto the ocean. You can also order those wonderful drinks with the fruit salads and umbrellas.

Whenever we tire of the pace of Maui, that is leisure; we often go here to cruise and have some fun.

If you found my guide usefull please vote.  If you didn't find it usefull great no vote on your part.  You can always email and let me know how to improve it.

Aloha,

Kevin Kamalu