Your Updated Guide to West Maui

After the fire that devastated Lahaina on Aug. 8, 2023, the West Maui community is still in the process of healing and rebuilding. The unprecedented disaster left deep scars, not only in the landscape but also in the hearts of its residents. In the immediate aftermath, conflicting messages emerged regarding tourism. Some locals urged travelers to avoid Maui altogether; others asked tourists to stay out of Lahaina specifically but to continue supporting the rest of the island’s economy.  

Despite the loss of our beloved town, West Maui remains a lively area with much to offer. The spirit of aloha is as strong as ever, and there are still numerous beautiful and inspiring places to explore. From the serene shores of Olowalu to the luxurious retreats in Kapalua, the region is rich with opportunities for adventure, relaxation and cultural experiences, whether you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodations, delectable dining options, or thrilling activities. Here, we’ve compiled some of the best places to stay, dine, and play, from a Lahaina native’s perspective. 

Nāpili Bay is a favorite for snorkeling thanks to the crystal-clear waters. Pick up lunch from a local eatery for a beach picnic. 
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Nāpili 

Every Wednesday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon, stop by the Nāpili Farmers Market for Maui-grown produce; locally made products like Hawaiian honey, organic kombucha, and baked goods as well as artisanal crafts. Afterward, pick up a coffee from Island Vibes Café or enjoy brunch at The Gazebo Restaurant, which despite its always-long line, is worth the wait. Work off those morning treats at Madre Maui pilates studio or satisfy your beauty needs at Sugar Mamma Studio, both in Nāpili Plaza. For more of a thrill, explore less-traveled roads on an ATV tour with Maui Off-Road Adventures. For a healthy lunch, enjoy vegetarian and vegan dishes at A‘a Roots and, for dinner, dive into Filipino fare at Joey’s Kitchen.

Olowalu 

The tentalows have twin beds with pillows and linens.
Photo: Maryrose & Reid Hicks (Wanderlustyle)

On the drive to the West Side, you’ll find the tiny oceanfront oasis of Olowalu. Budget accommodations are available at Camp Olowalu, which offers tent and car camping, “tentalows” for glamping, cabins for large groups, beach access, and kayaking adventures. To catch up on the culture here, and get a 10% discount on their stay, guests can volunteer with Kīpuka Olowalu. Don’t miss Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop, renowned for its epic sandwiches prepared with locally made bread and unforgettable pies. For adrenaline seekers, Maui Paintball offers an exhilarating challenge. 

READ MORE: Your Guide to Olowalu, Maui

Lahaina 

Mala Ocean Tavern offers oceanside brunch, happy hour with live music, dinner and late-night events on the weekend.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Although the majority of Lahaina was lost in the fire, a few pockets remain. Take a farm or factory tour at Maui Ku‘ia Estate Chocolate. Shop local vendors at the Lahaina Arts Society Fine Arts Fair on Fridays and Saturdays or the Maui Gift & Craft Fair on Sundays. Enjoy cultural programming at the Lahaina Cannery Mall and experience an authentic lū‘au at the award-winning Old Lahaina Lū‘au. Support local eateries like Las Islitas—where the birria tacos are a must-try—and Mala Ocean Tavern, which offers oceanside brunch, happy hour with live music, dinner and late-night events on the weekend. 

Honokōwai 

Stop by Honokōwai Okazuya & Deli for mouthwatering plate lunches.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

For a variety of flavors, check out the Honoapi‘ilani Food Truck Park, where you can order Thai, Mexican, Hawaiian and more. Across the street is Java Jazz for coffee, eclectic fare and live music, and Pizza Paradiso, which serves pizza and Mediterranean cuisine and hosts late-night events like karaoke on Wednesdays and Saturdays, open mic night on Thursdays, house music on Fridays, and trivia on Sundays. Locals’ favorite eateries include Honokōwai Okazuya & Deli, for mouthwatering plate lunches, and the Honokōwai Farmers Market for organic produce and made-to-order vegetarian meals. This area is also home to boutique hotels and oceanfront vacation rentals, giving visitors a range of cozy and scenic lodging options. 

READ MORE: Don’t Miss Sergio’s, a Hidden Gem in West Maui

Kā‘anapali 

You can spend an entire day in West Maui. Just be sure to stay for sunset.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Named the best beach in America and No. 10 in the world by Tripadvisor last year, Kā‘anapali Beach is an iconic location for water activities like swimming, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, skimboarding, parasailing, and boat tours. Its 3-mile stretch of powdery white sand is also home to popular hotels like the Outrigger Kā‘anapali Beach Resort and The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka’anapali. After a day at the beach or by the pool, head to Whalers Village for dining at iconic restaurants like Leilani’s on the Beach and Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman. While there, you can shop at locally owned boutiques like Keani Hawai‘i, Sea Adora Island Couture and KaiAloha Supply, and maybe even learn something new at the Hawai‘i Wildlife Discovery Center. Whalers Village also features weekly entertainment in the ‘Ohana Courtyard, team-building puzzles at Maui Escape Rooms and body art at Banyan Tree Tattoo. 

READ MORE: This is the No. 1 Snorkeling Spot on Maui

Kahana  

This region serves as West Maui’s watering hole with hot spots like Dollies Pub and Café for hand-pressed pizzas, two happy hours, and all the sports one could watch. Experience Hawai‘i’s largest craft brew company, Maui Brewing Co., at its first west-side location; it offers brewery-to-table dining and often incorporates beer in its recipes. Complete an evening out with dinner at the Miso Phat sushi bar. 

Kapalua 

D.T. Flemming Beach.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

For higher-end accommodations, check into a five-star resort like The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, or Montage Kapalua Bay. Both are along the Kapalua Coastal Trail, a pleasant nearly 2-mile walk, and close to some of West Maui’s best beaches, including Kapalua Bay, D.T. Fleming Beach Park, and, for surfing and snorkeling, Honolua Bay. Stop by the Kapalua Labyrinth, the largest of its kind on Maui, at Makāluapuna Point for a peaceful walking meditation. Then enjoy a round at Kapalua Golf or soar to new heights at Kapalua Ziplines. End the day at one of Kapalua’s premier restaurants: Taverna for Italian fare, Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar for Japanese dishes, or Merriman’s Kapalua for farm-to-table cuisine.

READ MORE: See Maui’s Best West Side Beaches

Born and raised in Lahaina, Ashley Probst left Maui to study journalism at Chapman University and explore the world before returning to her roots. When she isn’t writing, she runs a tarot reading business and continues to travel whenever possible. 

This story was originally published in our Fall 2024 issue, which you can buy here. Better yet, subscribe and get HAWAIʻI Magazine delivered to right to your mailbox.