Also known as the Valley Isle, Maui is a dream destination! Adventure awaits around every tropical scented turn, verdant peak, and glittering coastline. Maui has some of the most diverse landscapes in the world, and each area offers a different experience to guests and locals.
On the western shores of Maui lies the ever-sunny and arid Lahaina (pronounced “Luh–hi–nuh“). Traditionally called Lele, meaning “relentless sun”, Lahaina used to be the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom.
With the rise of the whaling industry, missionaries, and eventually agricultural plantations, Lahaina became a bustling port town. Today, much of the history of the town is preserved in its historical sites and folklore. In fact, one of my favorite free things to do on Maui is to go on a self-guided walking tour of historic Lahaina.
Lahaina makes the perfect home base to explore all of the spectacular beaches on the west side of the island – from Ka’anapali to Kapalua Bay. And this area is full of beautiful Airbnbs and vacation rentals offering a much better value than Maui’s big resorts.
But with so many rentals to choose from, deciding exactly where to stay on Maui can be overwhelming! That’s why I have hand-selected 10 of the best Airbnbs in Lahaina and the surrounding areas. I hope this list helps you find the perfect vacation rental for your Hawaiian holiday!
Note: If you’re still deciding where to stay on the island, make sure you check out our list of the best Airbnbs on Maui.
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The Beaches of Lahaina and Maui’s West Side
Lahaina
Lahaina has shorter stretches of beach than other places on the island. However, most of the areas are good for beginner swimmers and surfers.
Launiupoko is the first sandy beach in Lahaina. You’ll know it by the groups of local families and bouncy castles sure to be there on the weekends. It is great for longboard surfing and swimming and kids will enjoy playing in the sand.
On the edge of Lahaina Town is Lahaina Baby Beach. It is a local favorite for those with young children for its calm waters due to being protected by an exposed reef.
Kamehameha Iki Beach, located in front of 505 Front Street, is a historical site with a traditional hale (house) and heiau (temple). The beach is light-colored and powdery, great for sunbathing or building sandcastles. On the north side, the shorebreak has consistent small waves; however, the south shore break has bigger waves and can be dangerous.
Additionally, Lahaina Harbour is the launching point for many of the island’s boat tours and activities. Located directly behind the Banyan Tree and Courthouse, you will see all manner of vessels lined up at the slips. And then just a bit further down the street, you can take spectacular photos as boats launch and sail through the harbor.
Ka’anapali
Leaving Lahaina and traveling further west down Honoapi’ilani Highway, residential areas suddenly turn into the meticulously landscaped resort area of Ka’anapali. Sprawling complexes of highrise condominiums and palatial villas flank evergreen golf courses.
The Ka’anapali community can almost exist independently of the surrounding areas with just about anything an eager tourist could want – gourmet international cuisine, high-end shopping, placid turquoise beaches, and convenient shuttle services.
Ka’anapali Beach is one of the most famous in the world! It is traversed by an almost 3-mile long boardwalk connecting all of the high-end resorts and Whalers’ Village Shopping Mall. Abundant water sports and activities are available here, depending on the season.
As may be suspected, this stretch of beach can be quite crowded with tourists and activity operators. However, a bit further west but still connected to Ka’anapali Beach is Hanaka’o’o (Canoe) Beach. It is much less crowded with calm waters and average conditions for snorkeling. There are also lots of BBQ grills, covered pavilions, and restrooms for public use.
Napili
Beyond Ka’anapali lies Napili. With fewer crowds and larger properties interspersed in residential areas, Napili is a great place for those traveling with young children who are interested in slightly more upscale accommodation. There are still lots of shops and dining options, but the beaches and streets are quieter.
Napili Bay is one of the most beautiful in West Maui. It has golden sands, calm waters, and a thriving colorful reef. This beach is great for snorkeling or simply wading in the gently lapping waves.
Kapalua
Kapalua is where the wealthy go to stay in West Maui. Palatial resorts, like the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua, rise above the slightly more hilly landscape, punctuated by pine tree-lined championship golf courses. Guests in Kapalua bask in expanded amenities, like extensive shuttle services, onsite recreation courts, and special access to the golf courses. From their hilltop perches, the villas and resort suites in this area have some of the most spectacular and unobstructed views of Maui.
Kapalua Bay is a quintessential Hawaiian beach with its golden sands and turquoise waters. With a gentle shore break and calm conditions, it is ideal for snorkeling and diving to explore the vibrant underwater world.
In contrast, D.T. Fleming Beach and Oneloa Bay (Ironwoods) Beach both have rougher, windier conditions. They are both located near the Ritz-Carlton and are good for body boarding or surfing but not really great for swimming with little ones.
Further out, Honolua Bay is famous for its big wave surf in the winter months. However, for the rest of the year, the protected reef is great for scuba and snorkeling with excellent visibility a bit off the rocky coastline.
Best Things to Do in and Near Lahaina
There is no shortage of activities in Lahaina and the surrounding area. Of course, we can’t list them all, but here are a few of my favorites to start.
Things to do in (and near) Lahaina:
- Take a day trip to Lana’i to snorkel and watch the dolphins .
- Take a stroll through Lahaina’s colorful past on the Lahaina Historic Walking Tour.
- Take home a unique piece of local artwork from one of the art galleries on Front Street.
- Get a birds’ eye view of Maui with UFO Parasail.
- Traverse the road less traveled by ATV with Maui Off-Road Adventures.
- Engage all of your senses in a dramatic retelling of Hawaiian history at ‘Ulalena.
- Experience private mountainous trails by horseback with Ironwood Ranch.
- Test your nerve with a zipline tour over Ka’anapali – one of the best things to do on Maui with kids!
- Dine on the elegant farm-to-table fare at Merriman’s
- Be mesmerized at Warren & Annabelle’s Magic Show
Best Vacation Rentals & Airbnbs in Lahaina
1. Lahaina Green Villa
If you’re traveling with a large group, there’s no need for separate Airbnbs in Maui – you can all be comfortable together in the bright and airy Lahaina Green Villa! This roomy Lahaina vacation rental sleeps 12 in six bedrooms, four of which have beautiful ensuite bathrooms and private lanais.
There is a huge kitchen and living area including seating for 10 in the dining area, where everyone can gather for meals or games. Additionally, there is a 3000-square-foot outdoor area perfect for BBQs and lounging in the sunshine. To top it off, there are two jacuzzi tubs and a sauna for relaxing after a busy day.
The Lahaina Green Villa is situated across the street from a sandy beach. It is perfect for snorkeling, boogie boarding, or wading in the calm waves.
This Airbnb is also just a short walk to the main area of Lahaina Town, making it easy to catch a show or enjoy group excursions. Grocery stores, a myriad of shops, and access to roads going to other parts of the island make this rental an ideal choice for a large group vacation on Maui.
One of my favorite nearby restaurants is Fleetwoods on Front St. Owned by Mick Fleetwood of the legendary Fleetwood Mac, the restaurant boasts nightly live music with spectacular sunset views.
Bring your whole group to enjoy a lovely night out in Lahaina – dining on their delectable seafood menu and sipping tasty cocktails. Or if you need an afternoon reprieve from the heat, I highly recommend visiting from 11 am to 4 pm on Fridays for their special discounted Aloha Friday menu.
2. Oceanfront Studio in Lahaina Shores Resort
If your focus is on activities and sightseeing, but you still want a comfy place to rest your head at night, look no further than this oceanfront studio in Lahaina Shores Resort. Although it is a studio, this Lahaina vacation rental still feels open and bright with sea-hued decor, natural woods, and white linens.
Enjoy a restful night’s rest to the sound of ocean waves in the king-sized bed. In the morning, enjoy your meal cooked in the fully equipped kitchen on your private balcony. Or perhaps, take a swim on the protected stretch of beach fronting the resort.
One benefit of renting an Airbnb in a resort complex is that you can take advantage of resort amenities, like a 24-hr front desk, daily housekeeping, and concierge services. Lahaina Shores Resort also has an oceanside pool and jacuzzi and gas grills available for use. Plus, the beach is protected, making it nearly private and uncrowded for use by resort guests (and you, of course).
This Maui Airbnb also has a prime location because the Lahaina Shores Resort is situated at the beginning of Lahaina’s Front Street. You’ll be just a short stroll away from one of the most unique luaus in Hawaii. Feast at Lele takes diners on a journey through the four major Polynesian islands – Hawaii, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Samoa, or Tahiti – with food, music, and dance. Whereas most luaus are buffet style, guests of Feast at Lele are seated at private tables on the sand to enjoy a gourmet 5-course meal.
3. Luxury Oceanfront Rooftop Penthouse
You couldn’t ask for a better sunset vantage point than from this 5th-floor oceanfront penthouse!
Watch as the orange glow changes to starry skies while lounging on the expansive lanai of this posh Maui Airbnb. Enjoy a BBQ lunch with family and friends as the sea turtles splash below and boats sail past. Open the panoramic doors to the ocean breeze and gaze at Moloka’i and Lana’i in the distance.
This luxury vacation rental sleeps up to six in two spacious bedrooms and a queen sleeper sofa in the common area. The kitchen is fully stocked and boasts state-of-the-art appliances seamlessly integrated into the modern furnishings of the newly updated condominium. With plenty of luxurious seating and open space indoors and out, this is a great place for families to enjoy their stay on Maui.
This Airbnb is also just a short walk to all of the delicious restaurants and fun activities on Front Street.
4. The Aloha Cottage
Looking for a home away from home for your Maui holiday? The aptly named Aloha Cottage in the Puamana gated community may be for you.
Bask in the tranquil shades of blue and soft white decor in the modern country furnishings of this cozy Lahaina Airbnb. Each room is luxurious and carefully decorated with local touches while the furnishings have that distressed, lived-in feel that makes the space inviting.
There is plenty of space for families to relax over two floors with 2 bedrooms and bathrooms and a gorgeous, pristine kitchen and dining area.
The lushly landscaped Puamana Community is quiet and uncrowded, affording an experience beyond the hustle and bustle of tourist areas. It is located just a 2-minute walk to the ocean and a short drive to all of the area’s attractions. You can easily enjoy a dinner and show out in Lahaina and then retreat to the quiet luxury of the Aloha Cottage for a good night’s rest.
5. Westin Resort Villa
Welcome to the Westin Resort Villa in sunny Ka’anapali! This one-bedroom villa is fantastic for couples or small families vacationing in Maui. Enjoy all of the comforts of home like a full kitchen with updated appliances, a high-end king-sized bed in a separate bedroom, and an in-room washer and dryer.
The comfy living area invites relaxation with calming neutral tones and plenty of seating for everyone. And envelope yourself in cool ocean breezes from the private lanai.
As part of three Westin Resorts on one property, guests of this Maui Airbnb enjoy a full range of amenities that will ensure your stay is exceptional. Several pools dot the lushly landscaped grounds, perfect for taking a dip with the whole family or enjoying some quiet adults-only swimming. Or, sink your toes in the sand at adjacent Ka’anapali Beach and watch the breathtaking sunset.
You can also take advantage of the extra perks like the Westin’s concierge services, pampering from attentive staff, and an hourly free shuttle service to Whalers’ Village and Lahaina Town.
Whalers’ Village is a beachside shopping and dining outlet accessible via an oceanside-lighted pathway from the Westin Resort. Fancy a high-end shopping spree for resort wear or specialty souvenirs? Want to taste some gourmet treats found only on Maui? Seeking the perfect spot for a beachside dinner with live Hawaiian music? Whalers’ Village has everything you need!
6. Noah’s Hideaway Bed & Breakfast
A honeymooner’s paradise awaits at the Koa Suite of Noah’s Hideaway Bed and Breakfast. Privacy and romance abound in the cozy room overlooking the 14th hole of the Ka’anapali Golf Course.
Snuggle up with your lover in the king-sized bed or take a relaxing soak in the large stand-alone bathtub. Muted tones contrast with natural dark woods throughout the space, encouraging guests to relax in the slow island pace of Maui.
At this Airbnb, you’ll start your day off right with breakfast served poolside, including several hot and cold options. Then you can beat the heat with a dip in the pool or soak away the worries of the day in the hot tub. Relax in the sauna or get competitive at the billiards table in the recreation room. Whatever your choice, there will never be a crowd as the entire property never has more than 4 guests.
Since you’re overlooking the course, you may as well tee off at the picturesque Ka’anapali Golf Course. There are 36 holes over two courses offering endless vistas. Rates including a shared golf cart and club and shoe rental are available. Even if it’s your first time, no worries! There are qualified instructors to help you tee off in paradise.
7. Napili Bay Villa with Hot Tub
Located just 200 steps from the bay, the Napili Bay Villa is light and bright with tasteful touches of the tropics.
With an open floor plan designed with plenty of comfy seating, a state-of-the-art kitchen, and a large dining room table, the common areas of this Maui Airbnb are set up for jovial get-togethers. You won’t lack privacy in any of the 3 bedrooms either. Each room is furnished with solid teak and wood furniture and adorned with lavish bedding and linens.
You’ll probably spend most of your time outdoors on the private lanai outfitted with a BBQ grill, hammock, and hot tub. With lots of natural light and tasteful decorations in calming hues, your stay at this Lahaina vacation rental will be restful and peaceful.
Best of all, Napili Bay is nearly at your doorstep. Snorkel with sea turtles (just don’t touch them!) or try standup paddleboarding in the placid waves of this protected area. Or perhaps you just want to walk along the sandy beach and collect shells and sea glass. Napili Bay is ideal for a calm and restorative day in Maui.
8. Turtle Bay Condo at Napili Point
This first-floor one-bedroom Turtle Bay condominium has been tastefully decorated with handpicked rustic wood furnishings and ocean-themed artwork to give the space a true island vibe. With lots of windows and a position fronting Honokeana Cove, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views and a cool sea breeze from the living room or on your private oceanfront lanai.
The bedroom is perhaps the most unique on my Lahaina vacation rental list. Solid wood furnishings with distressed finishes bring a bit of shabby chic sophistication and function to the space. And, behind the posh king-sized bed with luxurious linens is a floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall picture of the crystal blue Pacific waters. You’ll feel as if you’re always in the ocean, whether on the sand outside or sleeping peacefully inside.
This Maui vacation rental has also earned the distinction of Airbnb Plus, meaning it has been personally inspected for quality and accuracy. Rentals of this level also have a more personal and unique style of decor and hospitality.
9. Kapalua Golf Villa with Panoramic Ocean View
This part of Maui is world-renowned for its picturesque golf courses. After a stay in this Kapalua Golf Villa with ridiculously beautiful panoramic views, it will be easy to understand why.
The resort property is nestled on 16 acres adjacent to two championship golf courses and offers a full range of luxe amenities including door-to-door shuttle service to Kapalua beaches, shopping, and restaurants. There are also four swimming pools, tennis courts, and BBQ areas. There are even hiking trails just above the villas to get a higher vantage point on the unforgettable coastline.
Inside the Airbnb, you’ll find open and airy living spaces decorated with soft colors and punctuated with colorful artwork.
The bedrooms are tropical and ocean-themed, encouraging tranquility within the folds of the plush bedding. The bathrooms are spacious with plenty of counter space to accommodate everyone and the living room boasts abundant seating. And, of course, the private lanai is perfectly outfitted with seating to comfortably gaze at the beauty of the horizon from sunrise to sunset.
There are many fantastic dining options in Kapalua worth checking out, and one of my favorites is Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar. Their authentic Japanese seafood and sushi menu is expansive, but I highly recommend the Sansei Shrimp Dynamite and the Panko Crusted Ahi Sashimi Roll. Pair them with one of their signature cocktails – it will surely be a meal to remember.
10. Avalon by the Sea – Plantation-style Villa
Last up on my list of Lahaina Airbnbs is the most palatial of all the properties – the Avalon by the Sea.
Each of the 4 bedrooms in this posh Maui vacation rental is flooded with natural lighting from expansive windows and offers the highest level of comfort with plush bedding and upmarket furnishings.
With space for up to 8 people, the common areas offer a range of lounging options to accommodate everyone. And with 6 bathrooms, there will never be a wait when your group is getting ready for the beach or night out in Lahaina.
Where this Airbnb truly stands out are the unexpected upgrades and perks. Everyone will enjoy time in the Maui sun on the deck and in the infinity pool overlooking the lush landscape all the way down to the ocean. Or, perhaps you might enjoy a movie with the whole gang in the media room with a state-of-the-art home theater.
And this property is also a part of the Airbnb Luxe program, meaning you can take advantage of some of the additional add-ons like having your host order a personal chef to cook a farm-fresh meal in the gourmet chef’s kitchen.
Whatever your fancy, a stay at Avalon by the Sea is sure to be outstanding!
We hope this helps you find the perfect Airbnb in Lahaina! Do you have a favorite Maui vacation rental? Let us know all about it below.
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