If you're looking for an authentic taste of Hawaiian culture and cuisine, you'll find a heaty helping in Lahaina. Nearly all of the hotels here have on-site dining options rich in the flavors of the islands. Many boast luaus, lei-making, and other activities that delve deeper into the culture of the islands. With prime picks at every price point, you can manage a vacation to Lahaina on almost any budget.
When to Visit Lahaina, Hawaii
Maui offers comfortable temperatures year-round with highs in the 80s and lows ranging from the mid-60s to the low 70s. However, the precipitation levels change dramatically by season. The summer months are the driest and predictably the most popular for tourists on vacation. If you prefer to avoid the crush of the crowds, the best times to visit are in April and May or September to November.
If you're in town for Halloween, prepare for an All Hallows Eve unlike any other. Between 20,000 and 30,000 people flock to the city for the occasion, known as the Mardi Gras of the Pacific. Don't miss the costume parade, bead throwing, and other highlights.
If you're surfing, opt for a winter visit. Though you'll find the beaches a bit busier thanks to the influx of snowbirds, you'll find the best surf conditions of the year in these months. The whale watching from Lahaina Harbor is excellent in winter as well. Though seasonal rain showers are frequent at this time, they're typically short-lived and often followed by breathtaking rainbows that make the precipitation well worth it.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Lahaina, HI:
Lahaina by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Lahaina, HI. You can use these illustrations to calculate the cheapest time period to book in Lahaina for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotels in Lahaina, Hawaii
4 Star Average Prices: $279.01
Travelers who are looking for luxury will find just what they're after in Lahaina. The Montage Kapalua Bay resort spans 24 tropical acres and includes three restaurants and a full-service spa. The spacious accommodations include between one and four bedrooms. Even the most modest residence here has a full gourmet kitchen, spacious living room, private lanai, and personal laundry facility.
The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea welcomes guests with the traditional lei greeting. This resort carefully caters to your every need. Ice water, Evian spritzes, chilled towels, and sunscreen are available at the pool and beach. Children have access to organized programs throughout the day and toys, games, books, and DVDs for their leisure time. Every day brings a new selection of fitness classes, scuba clinics, canoe excursions, and other activities. You'll never have a dull moment.
At the Andaz Maui Resort, you'll find four decadent restaurants and bars, an ocean-view spa, and amenity-packed guest rooms with minibars, private balconies, and complimentary Wi-Fi. You can take part in fitness classes, relax by the infinity pool, and take an outrigger canoe or kayak out from Mokapu Beach. Though these luxuries are enough to keep any guest content on-site, you'll also enjoy access to an assortment of excursions for added fun.
Affordable Hotels in Lahaina, Hawaii
3 Star Average Prices: $243.97
Visiting the exotic escape that is Maui doesn't have to translate to an exorbitantly expensive endeavor. There are several affordable hotels on the island that will give you a taste of paradise at a manageable price. One of the most budget-friendly picks is the Maui Beach Hotel. Guest rooms are equipped with mini-refrigerators, LCD cable TVs, and complimentary internet access. A free shuttle is available for transportation to and from the airport and any other destination in a three-mile radius. On-site, you can enjoy the Rainbow Terrace Restaurant, Lokelani Lounge, and rooftop pool.
At the Maui Seaside Hotel, you'll find low-priced rooms with triple-sheeted beds, complimentary Wi-Fi, and personal refrigerators. On-site dining will give you a taste of local Hawaiian cuisine, while the sparkling outdoor pool offers the perfect place to soak up the ambiance.
Privacy and affordability come together at Hotel Moloka'i where guests stay in quaint bungalows equipped with kitchenettes and private lanai. You'll find an outdoor pool, gift shop, and grill located on-site for your convenience. Concierge service is on-hand to help you personalize and plan your vacation with the perfect tours, excursions, and activities.
The Days Inn Maui Oceanfront is an affordable option with amenities like free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. The oceanfront location and stunning views offer all the extras could you need when you're planning a Maui visit on a budget.
The Best Discounts in Lahaina, Hawaii
Many hotels in Lahaina, Hawaii, offer special pricing for select guests. The Maui Beach Hotel offers a discounted rate for government employees and members of the military. AARP and AAA discounts are available at the Maui Seaside Hotel. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka'anapali, Days Inn Maui Oceanfront, Hotel Moloka'i, Aston at Papakea Resort, Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, and Kohea Kai Maui have special offers exclusive to AAA members.
Government and military discounts are available at the Wailea Beach Resort Marriott Maui, Fairmont Kea Lani Maui, and Grand Wailea a Waldorf Astoria Resort. Seniors can save at the Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas, Marriott's Maui Ocean Club Molokai Maui & Lanai Towers, and Kaanapali Beach Hotel.
Best Value Hotels in Lahaina, Hawaii
Lahaina's value hotels are mid-priced for the island and don't skimp on their comforts. You'll enjoy all the island's highlights without dipping too deep into your savings for the privilege. The Napili Kai Beach Resort features spacious rooms with features ranging from in-room refrigerators to fully equipped kitchens. The on-site dining options are rich with local flavors, like poke nachos and seafood chowder. With four pools, two whirlpool tubs, an 18-hole putting green, and a weekly mai tai party, there's always something to enjoy.
Sitting on 40 oceanfront acres, the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa offers a rich taste of the local culture. You can learn hula dancing, practice lei making, and participate in a Polynesian luau. Back in your room, you'll enjoy a private lanai, soft bathrobes, and luxury bath products. For even more pampering, head to the Marilyn Monroe Spa for all the indulgences you could want.
With two 11-story towers, the Westin Maui Resort & Spa Ka'anapali offers a variety of accommodations with your choice of an ocean or mountain view. Rooms feature mini-refrigerators, pillow top mattresses, and white tea-scented amenities. The on-site dining options include a little bit of everything including a beach bar, open-air café, burger bistro, and Polynesian luau. The Heavenly Spa offers a full complement of services when you need a little extra pampering, you can pack in as much luxury as you want.
Spread over 26 acres, the Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas offers studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom accommodations. Even a studio can comfortably sleep four with a king size bed and queen size sleeper sofa. The villas are equipped with full kitchens and laundry facilities for all the comforts of home. The hotel's pampering amenities include six heated pools, four whirlpool spas, three restaurants, two markets, and a full-service spa, so you'll find yourself wanting for nothing at this destination.
Things to See and Do in Lahaina, Hawaii
Lahaina's highlights lean heavily toward its natural delights. One of the most popular attractions in the town of Lahaina is its Banyan tree, planted in 1873. The massive tree covers more than two-thirds of an acre and stands 60 feet tall. Even the town's architecture is sourced straight from the island. The historic jail, open to tours, is constructed from coral bricks that were first used in the town's old fort. The homes and buildings in town feature thatched roofs, coconut fiber lashings, and wooden posts. You'll even see yard décor made from seashells.
The beaches are naturally a top highlight of Lahaina. Ka'anapali Beach has three miles of soft white sands and rich blue waters. It's ideal for paddle boarding and surfing. Napili Beach features a crescent-shaped cove that's a popular pick for snorkeling and swimming. D.T. Fleming Beach Park is ideal for both swimming and surfing. Here you'll find a wealth of conveniences including showers and restrooms, so you can stay here comfortable all day.
Exploring Lahaina, you'll find dozens of art galleries beckoning you in to appreciate their pieces. For one-of-a-kind souvenirs, you can't do better than the paintings, sculptures, and jewelry available here. For more shopping and an ample range of dining options, hit Front Street. This is where you'll find the most happening spots on the island.
Lahaina, Hawaii is a stunning choice, filled with peaceful views and laid-back delights. If you're looking for an island escape that's not yet overrun with tourist kitsch, this is a great choice. Enjoy sun, sand, art, and culture in one unforgettable spot from a hotel that's perfectly suited to meet your needs.
Lahaina, HI summarized
West Maui has a strip of densely populated beaches, with Lahaina as the only real town along the sunny and green shoreline. The census-designated place is one of the prettiest communities in all Hawaii, with its Front Street as one of the Top Ten Greatest Streets in all of America. It once served as the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, but Lahaina has barely outgrew the peace and quiet of its tropical village, which can be a good thing. Lahaina's main oceanfront street is surrounded with timber-decorated buildings; surfers spin into the beach's thin fringe; the signature palms sway to both sides of Lahaina's mighty and towering banyan tree; and West Maui's mountains govern the skyline. The view out to sea from Lahaina's coastline is superb. If you have the time, consider taking a ferry toward the island of Lanai; Hulopoe Bay's main beach is a delight. Expeditions to the bay will give you glimpses on Lahaina's reputation as the former center of the whaling industry.
FAQs about hotels in Lahaina
How much does a 3 star hotel in Lahaina cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Lahaina has been $243.97 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 4-5 star hotel in Lahaina cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Lahaina has been $279.01 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Verified reviews of the city of Lahaina
Below are reviews of the city of Lahaina, HI from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Great restaurants and million dollar views!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great restaurants and million dollar views! Paradise baby!
Roger T., from 01-Aug-2023
"Beautiful & Clean"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beautiful and clean.
Marlene S., from 20-Jun-2022
"Lahaina Highlights"
Score
5.0 / 5
Lahaina is a tourist stop. Lots of shops and good restaurants along the Main Street. The Lahaina port is the jumping off point for whale watching, snorkeling and fishing. Free parking is limited and subject to a three hour period. Tuesday is the day the island cruise ship stops at Lahaina. It is well worth visiting at least once during your stay on Maui.
Bennett G., from 27-Feb-2014
The average traveler rating of the city of Lahaina, HI shown above is
4.7 out of 5 based on 3 reviews