Old Lahaina Courthouse stands on Wharf Street beside Lahaina Harbor and the famous banyan tree. Its history spans court business, customs work and government offices during the Hawaiian Monarchy. The Lahaina Heritage Museum upstairs has displayed objects, photographs and exhibits on Native Hawaiian culture, whaling and the town’s past. From upstairs, you can look out toward the harbor and tree. Allow about 30 minutes to explore, then stop by the gift shop; a donation helps support the museum.
From courthouse to customs house
A violent windstorm in 1858 destroyed Hale Piula, the building that had served as a courthouse and palace for King Kamehameha III. The courthouse that followed was built using stone from the earlier structure and opened in 1860. It took on several roles, including courthouse, customs house, post office and government offices.
Its position beside Lahaina Harbor suited its customs work with whaling and commercial ships. The building also housed a jail and the governor’s office. A section of the old fort can still be seen beside the courthouse.
The Lahaina Heritage Museum
The Lahaina Heritage Museum is upstairs. Its exhibits cover Lahaina’s history and culture, from pre-contact Hawaiʻi and the Monarchy through missionary, whaling and plantation periods and early tourism. Objects, photographs, educational panels and videos help tell that story; some displays have also included interactive features.
The material extends beyond the courthouse’s legal history. Exhibits have included items used by Native Hawaiians, tools from the whaling era and furniture from the building’s courthouse years. The collection and displays give you several ways to explore the town’s past in a compact space.
The flag-raising and the banyan tree
On August 12, 1898, the Hawaiian flag was lowered and the American flag raised at the courthouse as the United States annexation of Hawaiʻi was formally concluded. The event is a significant part of the building’s history and is presented alongside its changing civic roles.
The courthouse is next to the banyan tree planted in 1873. The harbor and tree can be seen from upstairs, and the tree makes an easy pairing for a visit. A gift shop is on the lower level. The building has also housed the Lahaina Arts Society galleries and visitor information.
FAQ
How long should I allow for a visit?
About 30 minutes is enough for a short visit to the museum.
Is there an admission fee?
No admission fee is noted. There is a donation box to help maintain the museum.
What can I see in the museum?
Exhibits have covered Lahaina and Hawaiian history, Native Hawaiian culture, the whaling era and the building’s former courthouse use.
Where is Old Lahaina Courthouse?
It is at 648 Wharf St in Lahaina, beside Lahaina Harbor and the banyan tree.
