Lahaina is a town with a notorious past- - - it was the old royal capital of Hawaii and a prosperous 19th century whaling port. Today, Lahaina features restaurants, shops and many of Maui's major art galleries. Much of the town's architecture has been restored to its original look, and any new buildings must conform to the style of those built prior to 1920.

Lahaina Harbor retains the hustle and bustle of earlier times as thousands each day head out for sightseeing, fishing, snorkeling or, in season, whalewatching trips. This view, showing the lighthouse, the recently-scuttled Carthaginian, the old Courthouse, and the Pioneer Inn reflects all the charm of days gone by. Towering over that scene and the sugar cane fields in between are the majestic West Maui Mountains.