Experience an Authentic Hawaii Luau
A visit to the Islands just isn't complete without going to a luau. Hawaii
visitor luaus are held on four major Hawaiian Islands – Oahu, Maui,
Kauai, and Hawaii's Big Island. They all begin just before sunset, offering
a wonderful way to end your day in paradise.
Oahu Luaus
The
Ali'i Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center is considered
Oahu's most authentic Hawaiian Luau. The center's dedication to preserving
Hawaiian culture can be felt from the moment you enter the luau grounds
and receive your fresh flower lei greeting. As the pig is lifted from
the steaming rocks of the imu (underground oven), you'll watch
the arrival of the Hawaiian royalty, the Ali'i Court, who will ask
you to join them
in a traditional Hawaiian feast. As you enjoy your delicious meal,
the all-Hawaiian show begins with hula kahiko, or ancient dances,
that tell
stories of old Hawaii.
Insider Info: This is a non-alcoholic luau, there are no cocktails served.
Drive-time from Waikiki to the luau grounds in Laie is approximately 1.5
hours, so you may want to make a day of it and go out to the North Shore
early in the morning to enjoy the beautiful beaches and famous surf. Luau
held Monday-Saturday.
*Reservations Required – Click for more info.
The Paradise Cove Luau takes
place on Oahu's beautiful west side on 12 ocean-front acres. This is a
very large luau – hundreds of
people attend. As you enter the luau, you'll be invited to play island
games at the Hawaiian village. Then, it's down to the beach to take
part in the Hukilau, pulling the fishing net from the sea. Over in the
Imu Amphitheater, you'll witness the unearthing of the roasted pig
as the Royal Court parades in to kick off the feast. Sip cocktails and
dine on Hawaiian food as music and dance bring the story of Hawaii to
life, ending with the heart-pounding excitement of the Samoan fire knife
dance.
Insider Info: Booking any of the “Deluxe” packages is well
worth it since you get the choice of either front row seating or elevated
box seats for the show during dinner. Complimentary bus service is provided
with this luau, however be advised the bus can get rowdy. Luau held 7 days
a week.
*Reservations Required – Click for more info.
The Royal Hawaiian Luau is
the only luau held on Waikiki Beach and is offered just once a week on
Monday evenings at the "Pink Palace of
the Pacific" - the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. This is a smaller scale luau
with “family-style” seating with others. Delicious appetizers
are served at your table to share and Mai Tais and luau punch flow all
night. The entertainment varies each week and may include some local
celebrity guests. The best part about this Hawaii luau is the food! This
is perhaps
the best Hawaiian food buffet in the islands.
Insider Info: Seating is first come first serve, so check in early and
be sure to get right in line at the entrance. Unlimited Mai Tais and luau
punch are complimentary, but you can easily order other cocktails, beer
or wine from your server. Luau held on Mondays only.
*Reservations Required – Click for more info.
 Maui Luaus
The Old Lahaina Luau has long been considered Hawaii's best luau.
You'll be treated to a flower lei greeting, premium open bar, all-you-can-eat
luau buffet, and authentic entertainment throughout the evening. Upon making
your reservations, you may choose from traditional seating on the grass
with cushions directly in front of the stage or at regular tables and chairs.
Insider Info: The Old Lahaina Luau sells out at least 3 weeks in advance – don't
miss out, make your reservations early! Seating is pre-assigned and prioritized
by date and time a reservation is confirmed. Luau held 7 days a week.
*Reservations Required – Click for more info.
The Feast at Lele is an elegant dining experience, put on by the same
wonderful company as the Old Lahaina Luau. You'll enjoy a cultural
and culinary journey through the island nations of Tonga, Tahiti, Samoa
and Hawaii. Your evening begins with a flower lei greeting on the beach
in Lahaina. Lele is the ancient word for Lahaina and this is the beach
where the royal family of Maui would feast and entertain. This spectacular
setting offers a panoramic view of the West Maui Sunset. Enjoy intimate
private seating and table service. Before each segment of our show begins,
you will be served an exquisitely prepared dish, reflective of the island
nation it represents, courtesy of our award-winning chef.
Insider Info: All seating is pre-assigned; therefore it is not necessary
to arrive early. An extensive open bar is available to you throughout the
evening and you will enjoy personalized table service by the friendly staff.
Luau held 7 days a week.
* Reservations Required – Click for more info.
Kauai Luaus
The Smith's
Tropical Paradise Luau tropical garden setting
along the Wailua River makes it one of the most spectacular luaus in Hawaii.
Stroll through the meandering pathways of tropical splendor at your own
pace before dinner. Enjoy lagoons teeming with fish, exotic peacocks,
the
endangered “singing tree ducks,” and view over 20 types of
fruit in the orchard. All the traditional luau festivities follow, including
the Imu Ceremony, cocktails and a delicious international buffet, followed
by a colorful festival of dances, showcasing the lively ethnic groups
that have come to call Hawaii home.
Insider Info: The Smith's Tropical Paradise Luau also operates a
Wailua River Cruise to Fern Grotto – you might consider scheduling
yourself on the 3:30pm cruise the day of your luau. Luau held Mondays,
Wednesdays and Fridays.
*Reservations Required – Click for more info.
The Kauai Coconut Beach Luau is held at the Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
in Kapaa. The luau begins with a shell lei greeting and island arts and
crafts before unveiling the featured dish, Kalua Pig. The delicious smoked
pork is removed from an authentic Imu (underground oven) during a traditional
Imu Ceremony and is just part of the many Hawaiian specialties you'll
enjoy at the all-you-can-eat Polynesian buffet. Unlimited Mai Tais and
punch are available throughout the dinner hour. After dinner, the entertainers
will engage you in the special connection between Kauai and the South
Pacific as Hawaiian song and dance take you on a voyage of discovery
from Tahiti to Hawaii.
Insider Info: Premium Seating gets you closer to the show. Children 2
years old and younger are admitted free. Luau held Tuesday, Wednesday,
Thursday, Friday, and Sundays.
*Reservations Required – Click for more info.
Hawaii's Big Island Luaus
The Island Breeze Luau has been rated the best luau on the Big Island
by visitors, locals and travel writers. Held ocean-front on the grounds
of Kamehameha the Great's former estate, the Island Breeze Luau is a truly
royal Hawaiian experience. Upon arrival, you will be greeted with a shell
lei and invited to participate in Polynesian arts and crafts demonstrations,
meet the performers you will later see on stage and watch the Royal Court
procession arrive in a traditional outrigger canoe. The highlight of the
evening is the spectacular Island Breeze Polynesian Revue including the
dangerous and fascinating Fire-Knife Dance!
Insider Info: The morning of the luau, you may view the placing of the
pig in the imu (underground oven) at 10:15am at the luau site. Children
under 5 years old are admitted free. Luau held Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays
and Sundays.
*Reservations Required – Click for more info.
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