Hawaii, United States' 50th State, is one of the most beautiful island archipelagos in the world. With gorgeous natural landscapes and constant warmth, it is easy to see why Hawaii is consistently rated as one of the best vacation destinations in the world.
So, where to go? Our first pick is Lahaina, on the island of Maui. You’ll be one of the more than two million people who visit Lahaina annually. Why do so many people visit this place? Simply put, there is just so much to do!
Lahaina is an important center of Hawaiian History and boasts a rich culture, captivating natural beauty, and entertainment galore. With so many wonderful places and activities to explore, and so many Lahaina vacation rentals to choose from, we don’t want you to miss a thing. So, check out the best of Lahaina below:
1. Beach Time!
Hang out at Ka’anapali Beach and Napili Beach. Ka’anapali Beach is considered “the beach” of Maui – with beautiful, paradisaical sands stretching for miles. Enjoy practically every beach and water-related sport under the sun here: go snorkeling, enjoy a relaxing sunset cocktail cruise, paddle a stand up paddleboard, soar along an exciting zip line, explore the deep in a submarine, watch the dolphins or majestic humpback whales, or catch the biggest fish of your life – whatever adventure you crave, Lahaina has options for you! Find an oceanfront vacation home rental in Maui to stay close to the beach.
2. Banyan Tree Park
No trip to Lahaina would be complete without a stop at the massive Banyan tree. The little seeding was a gift from missionaries in India and was planted on April 24, 1873, in observation of the 50th anniversary of the first American Protestant Mission in the town. Today, the park features a massive banyan tree, nearly 60 feet tall, that covers nearly 200 feet, and is the largest banyan tree in Hawaii.
Now, what about Kihei? Kihei, HI is another lovely town on Maui that is known as one of the sunniest places on the island – with only about a foot of rain per year. As the climate is very hot and dry, it was once called Kama’ole, which means ‘barren’. Today, however, Kihei is anything but barren and boasts a wide variety of attractions, activities, and Kihei vacation rentals for visitors of all ages.
Here’s our favorite pick for an afternoon in Kihei, Hawaii:
Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary
A division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA), the sanctuary aims to protect the humpback whales and their Hawaiian habitat through education, research, resource protection, and outreach. The Visitor’s Center offers exhibits related to all aspects of these majestic creatures, including humpback whale songs, weather and climate change, coral reef health, native Hawaiian plants and culture, and more.
Want to explore other islands? Add Koloa to your itinerary. On the Island of Kauai, Koloa is famous as the birthplace of the sugarcane plantations on the Hawaiian Islands. When you’re there, stop by the Allerton Garden and feast your eyes on some of the most majestic trees in the world. Find a Koloa vacation rental or condo without booking fees or processing fees on HomeEscape.
If you want a quiet respite, head north on the island of Hawaii to Waimea. Away from the crowds, Waimea offers unprecedented access to the Big Island. Check out Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to explore a lava tube, active volcanoes & craters.
Finally, if Big City living is your go-to, then Honolulu is the destination for you. Honolulu offers all the amenities of a world-class city with the tropical sunshine of a Hawaiian Island. For day activities, check out the Dole Pineapple Plantation (just don’t get lost in the maze on the island). For surf enthusiasts, only the famous North Shore of Oahu will do (don’t worry, warning signs are posted along the beach for particularly intense surf).
Don’t forget accommodations! HomeEscape offers the most affordable vacation rentals in the Hawaiian Islands. Check out our selection to save on your next vacation.
About HomeEscape: HomeEscape connects homeowners and property managers with travelers who seek the space, value, comfort, and amenities of vacation home rentals as an alternative to hotels and resorts. With detailed property descriptions, photos, and a list of amenities and nearby attractions, HomeEscape makes it easy to find and compare properties all over the world.
