Things to Do in Lahaina: A Deep Dive Into Maui’s Cultural and Creative Heart

Lahaina is not merely a coastal town, it’s filled with stories of royalty, ocean voyages, sacred traditions, and vibrant artistry. 

Those who visit are often struck not just by the scenery, but by the town’s living soul. Lahaina invites visitors into immersive moments that can’t be replicated elsewhere on Maui.

There are plenty of memorable things to do in Lahaina and we’ll share some of our favorites. 

Front Street, Lahaina

Image credits: This Hawaii Life

Stroll Down the Boardwalk at Ka’anapali Beach

When you’re in Lahaina, this is definitely one of the top things to do in Lahaina town. A walk along the  Ka’anapali Beach offers more than retail therapy. 

After that, you can head to the beautiful Kahekili Beach that has calm, shallow waters, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling. 

On both spots, you find numerous beachside restaurants that serve fresh seafood, including traditional and authentic dishes like poke. 

Shape Fire and Glass at Moana Glass by Ryan Staub

If you’re someone who usually opts for unique things to do in Lahaina or any place that you visit, here’s our #1 pick.

Coming down into Lahaina on the main road lies a studio filled with molten creativity: Moana Glass glassblowing studio and art gallery. Visitors don’t just view artwork here, they can become part of the process. It’s the only furnace glassblowing studio in Lahaina, where guests can step behind the flame and create their own glowing, special piece of  art. 

Ryan Staub and his team offer private glassblowing lessons for singles, couples, families, and groups. Whether it’s an anniversary keepsake or a spur-of-the-moment artistic itch, shaping a personal piece from 2,000°F glass is unforgettable. 

If you’re not into glass blowing, don’t miss out on their beautiful gallery filled with unique pieces that make the best souvenirs, stunning statement pieces for your home or artistic accents such as lighting, chandeliers and illuminated blown glass sinks.

Glassblowing Lessons, Moana Glass

The gallery is filled with professionally made works, such as oceanic forms, wave sculptures, coral-inspired sculptures, each echoing the spirit of the island!

Booking ahead is wise, especially in peak season. Walk-ins are welcome but remember that the space fills quickly. You’ll leave not just with a creation, but with a fond memory.

D.T. Fleming Beach Park

This public beach is perfect for adults and kids. It’s popular for snorkeling, with the possibility of turtle sightings. Given the designated areas for swimming and surfing, you can plan these water activities and more. 

Kapalua Labyrinth

After exploring the beach, you can head to the beautiful Kapalua Labyrinth that’s specially made for meditation and reflection. It offers beautiful views of the ocean and the coastline.

Dine Beside the Pacific: Oceanfront Culinary Experiences

Those who prefer casual but tasty bites will find plenty of food trucks and casual eateries serving poke bowls, loco moco, and fresh malasadas.

If you prefer a place where you can sit down and relax while enjoying your meal, you can visit restaurants like Honu Oceanside or Mala Ocean Tavern. 

Set Sail on a Sunset or Whale-Watching Cruise

The harbor is being rebuilt.  All boat tours pick up from Ka’anapali beach or Mala Ramp.  It’s your launchpad to sea-bound adventure, whether you opt for sunset catamaran sails or winter whale-watching tours.

‘Alihilani Sunset Sail

Between December and April, humpback whales migrate through the Au’au Channel. Vessels from Lahaina offer front-row seats to witness breaches, tail slaps, and blowhole spouts from just yards away. Most tours include snacks or dinner, and the golden-hour lighting makes every frame Instagram-worthy.

Snorkel and Swim with Sea Turtles

Just south of Lahaina lies Olowalu Reef, one of Maui’s healthiest and most accessible snorkeling spots. It’s home to massive coral heads, tropical fish, and resident honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles). Early morning visits often offer glassy water and better visibility.

Whether you rent gear from a local shop or join a guided kayak snorkel tour, the marine life here doesn’t disappoint. Please practice reef-safe behavior that includes no touching or chasing marine creatures, or standing on coral.

Attend a Traditional Luau

Lahaina is home to some of the island’s most respected luaus. The Old Lahaina Luau offers an authentic, historical approach to hula and Hawaiian cuisine.

It highlights the storytelling nature of Hawaiian performance of the mele (song), hula (dance), and moʻolelo (stories) tied to the region’s heritage.

(Note: Reservations are usually essential, as the performances are often booked weeks in advance.)

Lahaina Awaits with Wonder, Craft, and Soul

Given Lahaina’s famed culture and history, anything to do with art is one of the best things to do in Lahaina. Every corner of Lahaina tells a story through steam rising from a glowing glass sculpture, waves crashing near a centuries-old courthouse, or the strum of slack key guitar under twilight skies. In this small but richly layered town, there’s no such thing as a typical day.

Whether you’re shaping fire at Moana Glass, listening to chants echoing through a luau, or simply exploring Lahaina for more activities, it offers a unique type of connection.

Let your next journey be one that doesn’t just take you to Hawaii but pulls you into it, breath by breath, color by color.

So, whether you’re looking to learn glass blowing to create yourself a souvenir in Maui or to create a personalized gift for your family or friends, Moana Glass is where you need to be. 

The brand also hosts private events, including corporate events. If you’re looking for an amazing tour or activity in Maui, no matter what your interest lies in, book a tour in Maui to create unforgettable and beautiful memories.