Lahaina, Hawaii

Whether you’re trying to catch a glimpse of the sunset or attempting to explore the local culture of Maui, Lahaina is the place to be. The town is located right alongside the oceanfront and has easy access to historic Hawaiian sites (including the infamous Banyan tree), Front Street shopping, and great fresh seafood. It’s one of the few places where you can be standing on the beach with the sand between your toes and turn around to see colossal mountains behind you. Lahaina has something to offer each family member, and aside from being formally known as Lele, which the locals joke about referring to as the “relentless sun,” it's not a bad place to spend the evening (or better yet, your year).

You can probably guess that living in a popular seaside town in Hawaii isn’t cheap - and you’re right. Most of the locals complain about the rising prices and the expensive cost of purchasing daily necessities. However, if you’re choosing to relocate to Hawaii, Lahaina is a cheaper option compared to other oceanfront neighborhoods. It can also feel kind of touristy at times, with lots of visors and Nikon cameras attached to tacky floral shirts of those passing by. This should be expected of Hawaii though. You are choosing to live in one of the most popular and talked about vacation spots in the country.

In an old, historic remodeled house. Most streets are quiet, with either old couples or small families living and commuting to work on foot. There aren’t a ton of ranges in style, as most houses have just been touched up from their original farmhouse or Victorian-style structure. Happening neighborhoods include Olowalu, Launiupoko, Napili, and Crater Village. Almost all of these are within walking distance from Front Street dining and shopping. The houses are cute, quaint, and simple. There isn’t a lot of space for expansion, but who needs a backyard when you have the ocean practically at your doorstep?

If you're curious about what everyone does on the island when they aren't in the ocean check out the calendar of events.

We highly recommend visiting Lahaina and staying in the community in a VRBO rather than a hotel to get a feel for what it's like to live among the locals. You can receive discounted fares on travel via our partnership with Expedia as well.

C’mon, it’s Maui, for god sake. And while housing has been in short supply since the fires, it remains a beautiful island with great seafood, exquisite scenery (beach AND Mountain views), and friendly local culture, Lahaina is a great spot to relax, kick your feet up, and live differently, assuming you can handle the island fever. If you’re searching for a Hawaiian escape, Lahaina is a good choice.