Maria Lanakila Catholic Church

Maria Lanakila is a historic Catholic church on Waineʻe Street in central Lahaina. Its pale façade, circular window and tall pointed bell tower make it a distinct landmark, but it remains an active parish rather than a walk-through museum. The church and rectory were spared when the August 8, 2023 wildfire devastated Lahaina, giving this old building a more recent story of survival.

Don’t assume the doors are open for sightseeing. This is an active place of worship, and casual visitor access isn’t clear, so confirm access with the church before planning an interior visit and give services space. Popular Masses can fill up, and parking can be difficult; arrive early if you plan to attend.

From the street, look for the pointed bell tower, the circular window and the statue of Mary holding the child above the main gable. For a photo, step back far enough to fit the tower and front gable together; a closer frame picks out the statue and circular window.

Maria Lanakila means “Our Lady of Victory.” Father Aubert established the parish in 1846, and its history records a dedication on September 8, 1858. The stone church standing here today replaced an earlier adobe building and grass-hut chapels, and was completed on May 4, 1873.

The first bells, sent from France, were lost in South America. A second set made it to Hilo but never reached Lahaina. The third shipment finally supplied the bells that still call the parish to Mass.