You’ll struggle to find a more quintessentially Hawaiian activity than a ‘luau’, with many taking place across the island of Oahu and its famous capital Honolulu.
(Photo: Ka Moana Luau)
(Photo: Viator.com)These traditional feasts accompanied by live music and hula dancing help draw large numbers of visitors to the Central Pacific archipelago every year. Typically featuring a buffet dinner, drinks, Polynesian dancing and a music show, the family-friendly events leave visitors with memories that are sure to last a lifetime. If you’re looking for one to attend on Oahu, we’ve picked out 5 of the best luaus that the island has to offer.
Ka Moana Luau Dinner and Show at Aloha Tower
Experience a unique oceanfront luau with Polynesian dancers and a tropical-themed buffet that will immerse you deep in Hawaiian culture. After check-in, head inside the venue to take part in a number of cultural activities including lei making, temporary tattoos, hula, and drum lessons, coconut-headband weaving and a coconut tree-climbing demonstration. Later, sit down to an island-style farm-to-table buffet dinner while traditional music rings in your ears. Following dinner, an award-winning production highlighting the vibrant traditions of Hawaii and Polynesia will begin, culminating with the Polynesian Sword of Fire dance. Guests can upgrade to include hotel transfers from Waikik. From $128 per person.
Immersive Luau: A Polynesian Cultural Experience
(Photo: Oahuex.com)
Taking place at a venue in the town of Hauula at the north end of Oahu’s east coast, this luau is renowned for its interactive elements that allow guests to take part in various Polynesian practises and rituals. Beginning with a meet and greet, your hosts will then jump straight in to preparing the Hawaiian style “Imu” rock oven. While the food is cooking, the cultural activities begin, with guests invited to learn how to weave and make a Ti leaf lei, worn by ancient Hawaiians to symbolise prosperity and luck, as well as join in with a Samoan fireknife dance and drumming. Later, guests will be served traditional Hawaiian food, not just from the Imu but catered food as well from famous local food truck. Fat Poi. From $165 per person.
Paradise Cove Luau
Taking place at the beautiful Ko Olina Resort at Paradise Cove, this 5.5-hour Hawaiian luau offers stunning majestic coastal views, authentic Hawaiian fare and entertainment from Hawaiian musicians, hula dancers, and fire twirlers. Guests can choose from three dining packages to customise the experience, and round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels is included too. Guests can also take time to peruse the Hawaiian Village to see traditional arts, crafts and games, as well as participate in “Hukilau” fishing techniques fishing invented by the ancient Hawaiians. From $142 per person.
Rock-A-Hula Luau Buffet and Show Ticket
(Photo: Viator.com)
Attend the popular Rock-A-Hula show at the Royal Hawaiian Theater, which includes a a welcome Mai Tai cocktail and a luau buffet. The 4-hour experience starts with a cocktai and fresh Maui Gold pineapple, which can be savoured while listening to relaxing Hawaiian music. Afterwards, take the chance to pick up some dancing skills with a hula lesson courtesy of an experienced instructor before sitting down in a premier section of the venue for the grand show. Later, there’ll be an opportunity for a meet-and-greet with the show’s all-star cast known as Legends Artists. From $132 per person.
Chief’s Luau Admission
Hosted by Chief Sielu, Original World Fire Knife Dance Champion, and his tribe of ‘warriors’, this 3-hour event at Wet ‘n’ Wild Hawaii invites guests to immerse themselves in island culture. Set against a gorgeous 50-foot backlit cascading waterfall, guests can watch a Polynesian show, learn headband weaving, or take a hula lesson, before tucking in to a Hawaiian feast, including pineapple glazed chicken and kalua pork. Upgrade to include a hotel pickup and priority access to the show. From $137 per person.