Your trip is planned and now you want to book one of the best luaus in Hawaii, it’s a common question and rightfully so.
Choosing the wrong one could mean a disaster for your vacation and many before you have asked the question, “Where are the best luaus in Hawaii?”
I have scoured each island to bring you the most comprehensive list of luaus along with all the links you will need to research price, reviews, location, and of course, the menu.
The memories and souvenirs you will take home will last a lifetime so don’t wait until the last minute to make a reservation.
The luaus in Hawaii today are somewhat different from those in ancient times. Back then, men and women were forbidden from eating together due to a cultural kapu (taboo). This practice changed when King Kamehameha II abolished the rule by choosing to dine alongside women, which some believe marked the start of the modern luau tradition.
Luaus today are celebrations not just reserved for tourists or visitors, locals throw luaus for many special occasions including weddings, graduation, birthdays, and baby luaus. You will find many similar foods no matter which luau you end up at, these include- kalua pork, lau lau, poi, poke, haupia, lomi salmon, and opihi.
If you are ever given the chance to help out with the preparation be sure to volunteer. The day before a luau is filled with hard work, lots of laughs, and lots of “taste testing”.
Best Luaus On O’ahu
Alii Luau (Polynesian Cultural Center)
The Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu is a world-class operation that delivers a luau experience like no other. You can choose from multiple different packages that range from just the Hawaiian luau to those that include award-winning shows. All of them include the self-guided experience through the villages. If you want to include a show be sure to see the current selection and book early for a discount.
The premier packages include benefits such as preferred seating, reserved canoe rides, and kukui nut lei greetings. If you are looking for a luau and show then this is the best luau in Hawaii for you.
Useful Links
Pricing, Reviews and Booking Information
Germaine’s Luau
One of the best luaus in Hawaii since 1976! Germaines luau brings together tourists and locals in a low-key, fun-filled event out in Kapolei. They are competitively priced and are usually the least expensive luau on Oahu, still, check for discounts as they do come up from time to time.
Located right on the water’s edge and surrounded by palm trees this luau transports you to another place and time.
Useful Links
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Paradise Cove Luau
Rated Hawaii’s best luau multiple years running by the Star Advertiser, Hawaii’s largest newspaper publication. Paired with the Travelers Choice Award from Trip Advisor you can’t miss with this choice for an authentic luau in Hawaii.
Located oceanfront on 12 acres there is lots of room to stroll around and take in the breathtaking sunsets on the west side of Oahu. Locals often refer their mainland friends and family who request the best luau in Hawaii for their vacation.
Participate in a Hukilau along the water’s edge and witness an imu ceremony showcasing the traditional underground oven still used today throughout the islands.
Useful Links
Pricing, Reviews and Booking Information
Waikiki Starlight Luau
Located within the beautiful Hilton Hawaiian Village, right on the waters edge. Live music from some of Hawaii’s top talent which gets you in the mood for a delightful experience. Beautiful hula dancers and world class fire knife dancers will entertain you under the stars of Waikiki.
Be sure to book your package early as this one sells out often. From the lei greeting, mai tai punch, and quality dining, this is one of the best luaus in Waikiki.
Useful Links
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Experience Nutridge (#1 on Trip Advisor)
If you are looking to experience an authentic luau up high up in the Koolau Mountain range then this may be the one for you. Overlooking Diamond Head, Waikiki, and the entire coastline the views can’t be beaten and judging from the number of sunset photos customers take it is breathtaking. Intimate, authentic, and highly rated on multiple review platforms it’s one to check out.
A mixture of traditional Hawaiian food with local influences all served in a small group setting amongst the rainforest. The consistent comment of “one of the best luaus in Hawaii” on review boards makes this a must-look.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Toa Luau
Located deep within the Waimea valley botanical gardens on the North Shore of Oahu, a unique experience for the whole family. Multiple packages are available with a kava ceremony, cultural activities, and more available to all levels. If you have a preference for up and close seating then be sure to see the seating chart provided.
Bonus tip: When you purchase your ticket for the luau you also get same-day admission to Waimea Valley, they recommend about 2 hours to explore.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Chief’s Luau
Chief’s luau is another top-rated and reviewed luau in Hawaii that provides a unique experience to guests. The production has been created by a world-champion fire knife dancer and is sure to wow. Funny, engaging, and a great experience for the family along with some delicious food.
When you want to get out of Waikiki and experience something fun its always nice to have transportation to and from one of the best luaus in Hawaii. A small additional fee but maybe worth it after an evening at the luau?
Bonus tip: They have partnered with nearby Wet-n-Wild water park to offer guests a special promotional rate.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Ka Moana Luau
Top-rated and reviewed Ka Maona luau provides an immersive experience with amazing ocean views. Lei making, hula lesson, coconut headband weaving, and lots of tasty samplings make this a blast before it even begins. The menu also has one of the most extensive list of traditional and local foods found at any luau.
Bonus tip: Each luau guest gets free general admission to Sea Life Park, AND it’s good for up to 1 year so you can go the day or month after.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Hale Koa Luau
One of the few luaus in Waikiki with a dedicated area and some covered seating for inclement weather. In addition to the great food that comes with any luau, there is also coconut tree climbing, poi-ball swinging, and lei-making on site.
The Hale Koa Hotel is an Armed Forces recreation center and all events require a valid Active/Retired U.S. Military/DoD ID card or sponsor to attend. A truly unique luau experience in Hawaii offering tribute to those who have served or are serving in the Armed Forces, a favorite among generations of military families.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Diamond Head Luau
This is the only luau in the State of Hawaii offering farm-to-table cuisine, so if fresh, healthy food is a top priority then be sure to look further. They have a wide selection of delicious salads, fruit plates, and fresh fish, in addition to traditional luau cuisine.
Enjoy cultural activities, entertainment, and a Mai Tai cocktail, right on Waikiki beach. Sunsets for days.
Bonus tip: Admission to the Waikiki Aquarium is included with your luau ticket purchase, be sure to come early so you can see the aquarium prior to the show.
This luau has a standard, deluxe, and VIP package option available depending on what you are looking for.
Mele Luau at Coral Crater
The newest luau on the island of Oahu is located in Kapolei about 40 minutes from Waikiki and only a few minutes from Ko’Olina. They are billing themselves as the most eco-friendly luau in Hawaii. Using compostable and recyclable dinnerware they are also sourcing it locally for reducing shipping impact on the environment.
All the “traditional” luau fare is included in the price with pre-show activities, pupus, and an all-you-can-eat buffet, along with a luau show and fire dancing. You have a couple of options for seating depending on how much you want to spend and where you want to sit. They also offer private luau shows for groups up to 500.
Best Luaus On Maui
Old Lahaina Luau
Founded back in 1986 with a rich history of growth and partnership this Lahaina luau continues to grow in size and quality. A dedicated luau facility offers chair and traditional seating based on your ticket preference.
Each show comes with a traditional lei greeting, cultural activities, extensive menu, and ends with an award-winning hula show. Highly rated from multiple review sites with an average of 4.5 stars, “one of the best luaus in Hawaii” is a common comment.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Feast at Lele
Temporarily Closed Check Website Directly
Going beyond just the normal luau menu of Hawaiian and local cuisine the Feast at Lele ventures further into the Pacific. A sit-down 5 course meal with flavors from, Aotearoa, Tahiti, Samoa, and Hawaiʻi.
Thousands of reviews as the best luau in Maui on the top review sites insure a quality show every time. Pair the show and cuisine with a clear view of the romantic Lahaina sunset and you won’t go wrong.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Drums of the Pacific – Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
Winner of multiple luau awards and billed as the “Most Exciting Luau on Maui”, expect a lot of fire and action. This luau is located within the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa but is open to anyone who purchases a ticket.
The longest-running show in the islands for over 40 years their commitment to the culture and authenticity is evident in the quality production run by Tihati productions.
Bonus tip: You can reserve a show for a private event, perfect for conferences and wedding parties.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Te Au Moana Luau – Marriott Wailea Beach Resort
One of the few luau shows on the Wailea side of Maui, top-rated by multiple review sites and Travelers Choice by Trip Advisor. Located on the grounds of the oceanfront Marriott Wailea Beach Resort you are sure to get a top-quality experience with each Wailea sunset.
Run by the top entertainment company in Hawaii, Tihati Productions, you are in for a quality luau experience.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Maui Nui Luau at Black Rock – Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
Located within the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa on the beautiful Kaanapali beach you just can’t beat the location. Kids under 5 are free with 2 paying guests along with table side service.
An extensive 3-course meal is served just a stroll away from the famous cliff diving spot of Black Rock. The entertainment is produced by Tihati productions who represent the top luau shows in the state. Extensively reviewed with top marks on Google and other platforms.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Wailele Luau – The Westin Resort & Spa Ka’anapali
Located on the oceanfront grounds of The Westin Resort & Spa Ka’anapali in the Aloha Pavilion. They lay claim to the “Most Extreme Troupe of Fire Knife Dancers!” on Maui and the State of Hawaii. If an intense show along the Ka’anapali coastline is what you are looking for then this may be the one for you.
Well-reviewed on multiple major platforms the entertainment features dancing from New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, Samoa, and of course Hawaii. If you are staying in the Ka’anapali area be sure to check for the complimentary shuttle service from several nearby hotels.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Best Luaus On Kaua’i
Smith Family Garden Luau
A fourth-generation family-run business the Smith Family Luau is rated one of the “Best Luaus in Kauai”. Entertainment includes Hula dancing, Tahitian drum dances, Samoan fire knife dancers, and they may even pull you on stage.
The menu is extensive with vegan and gluten-free options for guests with dietary restrictions. All the authentic fixings are included for a traditional Hawaiian luau feast.
Bonus tip: This is one of the few luaus that you can book without the meal if you just want to take in the show after having dinner somewhere else.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Luau Kalamaku at Kilohana Plantation
Top-rated by several review sites this Kauai luau offers some unique options which picking your package. Go traditional with dinner and a show, upgrade to dinner at Gaylord’s and be escorted to your seats for the show, or just show up for the show and take care of dinner on your own. Options are always good.
The show is held on the historic Kilohana plantation making it a perfect day trip to take in some local history before the luau show. An extensive menu with traditional and local cuisine topped off with multiple dessert options.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
‘Auli’i Luau in Sheraton Kauai Resort
Located on beautiful Poipu beach and a part of Sheraton Kauai Resort the breathtaking beauty of this spot truly needs to be experienced firsthand. The menu includes some interesting poke selections that seem to be direct from the local fish store.
The luau show is quite extensive with dancing from multiple Polynesian islands and music throughout the ages. Fire knife dancing, Tahitian drums, and music from the 1950s doesn’t cover half the show!
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Ahi Lele Luau Fire Show
When they say “luau fire show”, they literally mean fire with every show. This luau is weekly so be sure to book early enough if you want to attend. Reviewers use terms like “family show”, “small and authentic”, and “family run with lots of fire” so if that is what you are looking for take a closer look.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Best Luaus On The Big Island (Hawaii)
Island Breeze Luau at Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel
Located on the estate formerly owned by Kamehameha the Great on the shores of Kamakahonu Bay, now the grounds of Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel. One of the few luau shows with a royal court showcases the various levels of royalty and protocol with each grand entrance. An extensive menu with many reviewers noting the selection and well-organized show.
Bonus tip: This luau allows you to purchase digital pictures from the website, so if you missed a shot maybe they have it.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Voyagers of the Pacific Luau at Royal Kona Resort
Located at the historic Royal Kona Resort the Voyagers of the Pacific production is full of sunset views that the Kona coast is famous for. It is no surprise that this luau is commonly reviewed as “one of the best luaus in Hawaii”.
Each show begins with an arts and crafts demonstration that you can get up close to watch. Follow by an all-you-can-eat dinner mixing traditional Hawaiian dishes with Asian influences. The show follows right after with a fiery dance show and music along the water’s edge.
Bonus tip: Many luaus allow for kids to eat free with paying adult but it’s usually 5 and under. This show allows for ages 6-11 per paying adult.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Sunset Luau At Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
Located within the amazing Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa this luau features dancing, music, and activities for the whole family.
Live music and dancing from around the Polynesian islands, Tahiti, New Zealand, Hawaii, and Samoa mean hula and fire knife dancing will keep you entertained until it’s time to eat. The hotel executive chef oversees the preparation of a wide assortment of traditional Hawaiian cuisine in addition to other local influences.
Bonus tip: If you stop by the Kamehameha court around 8 am in the morning you can watch a traditional imu being prepared for the pig. It will be cooked all day in preparation for the luau show that evening.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Legends of Hawaii Luau at Hilton Waikoloa Village
Located at the Hilton Waikoloa Village and rated the top luau on the Big Island by Hawaii Magazine readers. Start off your evening with some Hawaiian language and hula lessons as you prepare for the evening.
After the torch run and luau feast, you will be entertained with coconut husking right before the main show, Legends of Hawaii. The option to purchase show-only tickets is available in case you choose to eat before.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Hawaii Loa Luau at Fairmont Orchid
Located at the Fairmont Orchid hotel, ocean views and privacy at this location are world renowned. The luau feast is prepared by the hotel’s award-winning culinary team, both traditional and unique. The poke station is probably the largest and most unique of any luaus on the Big Island.
The show’s production focuses on the voyaging that early Polynesians did while exploring the Pacific. Hula dancing and array of costumes will move you along the timeline as the story unfolds.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
The Kona Village Luau
The Kona Village Luau is a remarkable event featuring exquisite cuisine, live music, enchanting songs, and captivating dances. Held at the Kona Village, alongside a tranquil lagoon and amidst lush gardens, the Luau is a celebration of the rich heritage of Kona Village. Guests can enjoy an exceptional menu that showcases the diverse flavors of Hawaii’s Island.
As a Rosewood hotel, Kona Village provides an unparalleled luxury experience. To learn how to book this exclusive property and access elite benefits, check out this Rosewood Elite Travel Agent guide.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
Best Luaus On Lānaʻi
Luau at Four Seasons Resort Lanai (by request only)
The option to have a luau at Four Seasons Resort Lanai may not be public but in true Four Season fashion, they go above and beyond for special requests.
While it is hard to find information on the luau setup itself you only need to look at the solid 5-star reviews on multiple platforms to know it will be a top-shelf experience. If you are interested in doing something special you only need to contact the hotel staff to make arrangements.
Pricing, Reviews, and Booking Information
So, did we miss one? Which one is your favorite and what made it special? Let us know in the comments below
