Maria Lanakila Catholic Church
A historic Catholic church in Lahaina, Maui, miraculously untouched by wildfires, serving as a symbol of hope and resilience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience a spirit-filled Mass
Maria Lanakila Catholic Church
Best Time
Experience a spirit-filled Mass

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Catholic church in Lahaina, Maui, miraculously untouched by wildfires, serving as a symbol of hope and resilience.
"Truly a house of God. Rarely have I felt so close."
🙏 Witness a Miracle
Visit to see the church that miraculously survived the Lahaina fires, a powerful symbol of hope.
🎶 Enjoy Local Music
Experience beautiful singing and hymns, sometimes in native languages, during services.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Miraculous Survival
Lahaina, Maui
This historic Catholic church miraculously remained untouched by the devastating wildfires that swept through Lahaina.
Beautiful Architecture
Interior and Exterior
A simple yet stunning concrete church with beautiful statues and a serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful sanctuary.
Community Gathering Space
Church Grounds
Hosts community events like 'Lights for Lahaina,' fostering reflection, healing, and resilience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Beacon of Hope
Community and Reflection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🙏 Witness a Miracle
Visit to see the church that miraculously survived the Lahaina fires, a powerful symbol of hope.
🎶 Enjoy Local Music
Experience beautiful singing and hymns, sometimes in native languages, during services.
💖 Feel the Welcome
Parishioners are known for being welcoming; you'll feel like part of the local assembly.
🏛️ Admire the Statues
Appreciate the detailed statues, including a notable one of Damien of Molokai.
Tips
from all over the internet
🙏 Witness a Miracle
Visit to see the church that miraculously survived the Lahaina fires, a powerful symbol of hope.
🎶 Enjoy Local Music
Experience beautiful singing and hymns, sometimes in native languages, during services.
💖 Feel the Welcome
Parishioners are known for being welcoming; you'll feel like part of the local assembly.
🏛️ Admire the Statues
Appreciate the detailed statues, including a notable one of Damien of Molokai.
🕊️ Peaceful Atmosphere
The church offers a serene and spirit-filled environment for quiet contemplation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Maria Lanakila Catholic Church for its spiritual atmosphere, welcoming community, and the profound inspiration derived from its miraculous survival of the Lahaina wildfires. Many describe attending Mass as a deeply moving experience, highlighting the beautiful singing and heartfelt homilies. While the church itself is a beacon of hope, some visitors note that the surrounding areas are still in recovery.
"One of the best experiences I have ever had at church. Such a beautiful setting. Small, local assembly, windows looking out at the Maui countryside. Beautiful singing, wonderful homily. We felt so welcome and wish we could go here every Sunday. Truly a house of God. Rarely have I felt so close."
Aaron B (Foodie Dad)
"A stunningly gorgeous church and service. Was truly a blessing to get to attend and enjoy Mass here on vacation!"
Stephanie Butcher
"Beautiful Catholic Church! We were so fortunate to have visited this Church on our recent vacation to Maui. It was the site of a miracle when it survived the Lahaina fires, untouched, a few years ago. We stopped in around 3:00 on a Sunday afternoon and we're delighted to participate in a beautiful Sunday service with the local parishioners. Highly recommend a visit to this Church!"
Thomas Soptick
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maria Lanakila Catholic Church is located in Lahaina, Maui. If you are driving, it's accessible via local roads. Parking availability can vary, especially during services or events.
Yes, the church is a well-known landmark in Lahaina and is generally accessible to visitors. It's advisable to check for any temporary access restrictions due to ongoing recovery efforts in the area.
From Ka'anapali, you can drive south towards Lahaina. The journey is relatively short. Consider using a GPS app for real-time directions.
Maui has a public bus system (Maui Bus) that may have routes serving Lahaina. Check the Maui Bus schedule for routes and stops closest to the church.
While the church itself miraculously survived, surrounding areas may still be undergoing recovery. It's wise to stay informed about local conditions and follow any guidance from authorities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required to visit Maria Lanakila Catholic Church. It is a place of worship and is generally open to visitors during specified hours.
Visiting hours can vary, especially as the church is an active place of worship. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current hours, particularly if you wish to attend a service.
There is no admission fee for attending Mass. Donations are always appreciated to support the church's operations and upkeep.
Yes, the church is often open for visitors to quietly admire its architecture and serene atmosphere outside of Mass times.
While generally open, visitors are expected to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Its most remarkable feature is its miraculous survival of the 2023 Lahaina wildfires, standing untouched amidst widespread devastation. It's considered a symbol of hope and resilience.
You can expect a spirit-filled and welcoming experience, often with beautiful singing and homilies. Some services may include hymns in the native Hawaiian language.
Visitors often admire the beautiful statues, including one of Damien of Molokai, and the overall serene and spiritual ambiance of the church.
Absolutely. The peaceful atmosphere and the church's history make it an ideal place for quiet contemplation and prayer.
Yes, the church grounds have hosted events like 'Lights for Lahaina,' focused on reflection, healing, and community resilience.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's important to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Avoid flash photography during Mass.
The exterior of the church, especially with the surrounding landscape (even if showing recovery), can be very photogenic. Capturing the contrast between the intact church and any surrounding signs of the fire can be powerful.
Drone usage is typically restricted in many areas, especially around religious sites and residential areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
If you are attending a private event like a wedding, it's best to ask the couple or the officiant for permission before taking photos.
The soft light of early morning or late afternoon can be beautiful for exterior shots. Interior shots will depend on available light and may require a higher ISO setting on your camera.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
The church's serene interior and the presence of significant religious art, like the statue of Damien of Molokai, create an atmosphere conducive to prayer and reflection. Whether you are Catholic or simply seeking a moment of peace and spiritual connection, the church provides a sanctuary where you can feel a strong sense of the sacred.
📸 Photographers & History Buffs
History enthusiasts will appreciate the church's age, dating back to 1846, and its role as a survivor of significant historical events. The church stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Lahaina and its community. Visiting the church offers a tangible connection to the past and a poignant reminder of the town's resilience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Miracle of Maria Lanakila
The church's construction, described as being made of stone or masonry, is often cited as a factor in its survival, offering greater resistance to fire compared to other materials. Despite the surrounding devastation, where rectory, parish offices, and classrooms were lost, the church structure remained intact, a testament to its enduring presence. This remarkable preservation has made it a focal point for reflection and healing for the community.
Beyond its survival story, the church is a vibrant spiritual center. It continues to host masses, weddings, and community events, providing a sanctuary and a place for people to connect. Visitors often remark on the welcoming atmosphere and the beautiful singing during services, making it a deeply moving experience.
Experiencing the Church Today
Attending a Sunday Mass at Maria Lanakila is a highly recommended experience. Parishioners and visitors alike describe the services as spirit-filled and incredibly welcoming. The choir's performances, sometimes featuring hymns in the native Hawaiian language, add a rich cultural and spiritual dimension to the worship. This sense of community and warmth makes visitors feel like they are part of the local assembly, even if just for a short while.
Even outside of Mass times, the church is a place of peace. Its doors are often open, inviting visitors to step inside, feel the warm air, and absorb the tranquil atmosphere. The presence of statues, such as the one of Damien of Molokai, adds to the spiritual richness of the interior. For those seeking a moment of respite or a connection to something greater, Maria Lanakila offers a profound and memorable experience.
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