Lahaina

Maui is the second largest Hawaiian island, but relatively unpopulated leaving most of the island home to rain forests, beaches, and Haleakala, the world's largest dormant volcano.  Maui's main city is called Lahaina situated on the western side of the island. It's a pretty little place, formerly the capital of the Hawaiian kingdom and often called "the jewel in the crown of Maui".  With only one main street, it is completely walkable in an afternoon and full of boutique shopping and eateries. 

The view of Lahaina as we tender into port.

Front Street runs length ways along the coast and is the only really "big" street in Lahaina.  Looking upwards, there's only rolling green mountains beyond.

Banyan Tree Park is right behind the old courthouse and home to the largest banyan tree in Hawaii (it was planted in 1873, so its had plenty of time to grow).   It's a natural gathering place for artisans, tourists, and live music.

It's all about art here in Lahaina.  There are a ton of galleries, jewelry boutiques, and even a tattoo parlor or two.

Front Street from the...uh...front.

Don't forget to look up and check out the charming storefront signs.

A sample of some of the old style buildings in the area.

A restaurant with a view.

Although most of the shoreline has been built up along Lahaina, there are still little gaps remaining where one can go down to touch the sea.

And there's even a few little sandy pockets of beach to enjoy.

Need another reason to visit Lahaina?  How about the most gorgeous sunset on the trip!