There are few more quintessentially Hawaiian activities than a luau, with a large number taking place on the island of Oahu and its famous capital of Honolulu.
(Photo: Viator.com)
These traditional feasts accompanied by live music and hula dancing help draw huge numbers of visitors to the Central Pacific archipelago every year. Typically featuring a buffet dinner, drinks, a Polynesian dance and music show, the family-friendly events deliver memories that last a lifetime. If you’re looking for a luau to attend on Oahu or its famous state capital of Honolulu we’ve picked out 5 of the best.
Paradise Cove Luau
Taking place at the beautiful Ko Olina Resort at Paradise Cove, this 5.5-hour traditional Hawaiian luau offers stunning sunset coastal views, authentic Hawaiian fare and entertainment from Hawaiian musicians, hula dancers, and fire twirlers. Guests can choose from three dining packages to customise your experience, and round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels is included. Guests can also take time to peruse the Hawaiian Village to see traditional arts, crafts and games, as well as participate in the Hukilau on the beach and learn the net fishing techniques of old Hawaii. From $107 per person.
Ka Moana Luau at Sea Life Park with Dinner & Show
(Photo: GetYourGuide.com)
Experience award-winning entertainment and a one-of-a-kind show in the unique setting of Sea Life Park, Hawaii’s premier marine experience park, situated a scenic 20-minute drive from the vibrant neighbourhood of Waikiki. Doors open late afternoon and, once inside, guests can take part in a number of cultural activities including lei making, temporary tattoos, a hula lesson, coconut-headband weaving and a ukulele lesson. Later, diverse dinner selections will be served up by Sea Life’s executive chef. Following your meal the show begins, navigating through Polynesia on a way-finding adventure, culminating with the Polynesian Sword of Fire dance. Admission to Sea Life Park is included in the ticket price. From $108.
Toa Luau at Waimea Valley
Spend an afternoon immersed in Hawaiian culture with dance performances, dinner, and entrance to the enchanting expanse of Waimea Valley. During the day you’ll get to hike to Waimea Falls and swim in the pool at the bottom, before exploring lush botanical gardens and seeing the colourful blooms that make your flower lei. Later, you’ll sit down for dinner and be dazzled with traditional Polynesian dancing and cultural performances, including captivating fire knife dancing, while you taste Hawaiian specialties and sip tropical cocktails. Entrance to Waimea Valley is included with your luau ticket. From $127.
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 luau buffet and a welcome Mai Tai cocktail. The 4-hour experience starts with a delectable cocktail and fresh Maui Gold pineapple, served family style, which you can savour while listening to relaxing Hawaiian music. Afterwards, you can take up the chance to pick up some skills with a hula lesson courtesy of an experienced instructor before sitting down in a premier section of the venue for the amazing show. Later, there’ll be an opportunity for a meet-and-greet with the show’s all-star cast known as Legends Artists. From $114.
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 stunning 50-foot backlit cascading waterfall, you can watch a Polynesian show, learn headband weaving, or take a hula lesson, before tucking in to a delicious Hawaiian feast, including pineapple glazed chicken and kalua pork. Upgrade to include priority access and convenient pickup for a hassle-free experience. From $157 per person.
