The Best Private Schools in Lahaina, Hawaii
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Lahaina. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Seabury Hall
Independent School
Seabury Hall is Maui's premier independent college preparatory school, serving students from across the island including Lahaina. The school offers a rigorous academic program with extensive Advanced Placement courses, outstanding arts programs, and competitive athletics. The 30-acre campus in Upcountry Maui features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts center, visual arts studios, and athletic complexes. Known for its exceptional college placement record and small class sizes, Seabury Hall consistently ranks as one of Hawaii's top private schools. The school provides transportation options and serves as the educational choice for many West Maui families seeking the highest quality college preparatory education.
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Montessori School of Maui
American Montessori Society
Located in Upcountry Maui, Montessori School of Maui serves families across West Maui including Lahaina with its renowned Montessori approach. The school offers programs from toddler through middle school, emphasizing hands-on learning, independence, and individualized education. The 8-acre campus features spacious classrooms, gardens, athletic fields, and specialized learning environments. With accreditation from the American Montessori Society, the school provides a holistic education that nurtures each child's natural curiosity and development. Many Lahaina families commute for this highly-regarded educational experience known for its strong academic foundation and nurturing environment.
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Sacred Hearts School
Catholic Diocese of Honolulu
Sacred Hearts School is a Catholic parochial school located in the heart of Lahaina, serving students from preschool through 8th grade. The school offers a comprehensive academic program rooted in Catholic values while incorporating Hawaiian culture and traditions. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school provides individualized attention and strong foundational education. Facilities include modern classrooms, a library, computer lab, and outdoor play areas. The school emphasizes character development, community service, and academic excellence while maintaining deep connections to Lahaina's cultural heritage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Lahaina, Hawaii
What are the primary private school options available for families in Lahaina, Hawaii, and what are their key educational approaches?
In Lahaina, the primary private school options include Sacred Hearts School (a Catholic, faith-based K-8 institution), Montessori School of Maui (offering Montessori education from toddler through middle school, located in Makawao but serving West Maui), and Seabury Hall (a prestigious college-preparatory day and boarding school for grades 6-12 in Makawao). While Lahaina itself has limited on-island options, families often consider these nearby schools, which require commuting. Sacred Hearts provides a structured, values-based education in town, while the others offer specialized pedagogies and rigorous academics a short drive away in Upcountry Maui. Availability can be limited, especially at Seabury Hall, which has a competitive admissions process.
How does the cost of private school tuition in Lahaina, Hawaii, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options exist?
Tuition for private schools serving Lahaina families is generally at or above the Hawaii state average due to the high cost of living and operational expenses on Maui. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $8,000-$12,000 for elementary grades at schools like Sacred Hearts to over $30,000 for upper grades at Seabury Hall. Most schools offer need-based financial aid and scholarships. Importantly, Hawaii has the "Promise Scholarship" (HB 2544), a state-funded program that provides scholarships for students to attend eligible private schools, which can significantly offset costs. Parents should inquire directly with each school's admissions office about aid applications and deadlines, which are often early in the calendar year.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Lahaina-area private schools offer that leverage the local Hawaiian environment and culture?
Private schools serving Lahaina deeply integrate Hawaiian culture and the island environment into their curricula. Sacred Hearts School incorporates Hawaiian language (ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi), music, and values into its daily routine. The Montessori School of Maui emphasizes land-based, hands-on learning in its outdoor classrooms and gardens. Seabury Hall offers renowned visual and performing arts programs, advanced STEM courses, and unique electives like Marine Science and Hawaiian Studies, often utilizing Maui's ecosystems as a living laboratory. Many schools also participate in cultural events like May Day (Lei Day) celebrations and community service projects rooted in ʻāina (land) stewardship, providing an education deeply connected to Maui Nui.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Lahaina area, and how competitive is admission?
The enrollment timeline for Lahaina-area private schools is highly structured and begins early. Most schools, especially Seabury Hall, have application deadlines between December and February for the following academic year, with notifications sent in March. The process usually includes submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, standardized test scores (for older grades), and a family interview or student visit day. Admission competitiveness varies: Seabury Hall is highly selective, while Sacred Hearts and Montessori School of Maui have more accessible processes but may have waiting lists for certain grade levels, particularly in the lower grades. Due to limited seats, especially post-2023 Lahaina wildfires, applying as early as possible is strongly advised.
For families in Lahaina, what are the key considerations when deciding between the local public schools and private school options, especially regarding educational continuity and community?
Key considerations include educational philosophy, class size, and program continuity. Lahaina's public schools, like Lahainaluna High School, offer strong programs and deep community roots. However, private options often provide smaller class sizes, specialized teaching methods (like Montessori), or a specific religious foundation. A major factor is the K-12 pathway: Sacred Hearts ends at 8th grade, requiring a transition for high school, whereas Seabury Hall offers a 6-12 continuum. The commute to Upcountry schools (30-60 minutes from Lahaina) is a significant logistical and financial factor. Furthermore, private schools can offer more stability in curriculum and faculty, which some families value. The decision often hinges on whether a family prioritizes a close-knit, localized public school community or a specialized private education that may involve a broader island community.