Want to attend a luau on the Big Island but are having difficulty deciding? Find out 7 of the most exciting Big Island luaus for families with kids of all ages. Keep scrolling for all the info!
This post about the best Big Island luaus was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Traveling to the Big Island should be on every tourist’s list. One of the best things to do in Kona to get a full Hawaiian culture experience is go to any big island luaus.
Aside from being the largest of the Hawaiian islands, it is also home to the most active Hawaiian volcano, Kilauea.
Besides checking out Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (which is a MUST), tourists can enjoy many other activities on the island.
That said, it’s no wonder that culture and festivity thrive on the island. Specifically, luaus on the island have become a way to socialize and meet new people.
However, figuring out which luaus are best for your travel is always challenging. Some luaus are best for couples, while some are great for families with kids.
We’ve put together a list of all the great luaus on the Big Island to help you figure out which ones are ideal for your stay.
For luaus outside the Big Island, you can visit our luau guides for Oahu, Kauai, and Maui.
Get all your Hawaii luau questions answered HERE.
Don’t have time to read many Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting the Big Island.
Popular Big Island Tours/Activities
- Manta Ray Snorkeling Tour (you can ONLY do this on the Big Island)
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour (this is the BEST way to see lava if you aren’t renting a car)
- Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour (this is a cool adventure for teens and adults)
- Swim with Dolphins (this is a unique experience for kids of all ages and adults)
- Kona ATV Tour (we love this one because they also do cultural activities)
- Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)
Favorite Big Island Resorts/Hotels
- Hilton Waikoloa Village (this is a mega resort where you can swim with dolphins or just enjoy their massive pool area)
- Courtyard by Marriott’s King Kamehameha Beach Hotel (this is a moderately-priced Kona hotel right on a little lagoon)
- Fairmont Orchid (this is a swanky resort with an awesome pool area and beach)
Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii?
One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.
Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary, complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.
How to Choose the Best Big Island Luau for Your Trip
Deciding which luau is best for your trip to Hawaii can be challenging.
For families traveling together, luaus with open bars might not necessarily sit right. They tend to attract a rowdier crowd and don’t usually have as many hands-on kids activities as other luaus.
On the other hand, couples traveling together look forward to meeting new people and partying. The luaus with open bars often provide more bang for your buck so that it can be a good deal.
It all depends on what you’re really looking for.
When choosing the right luau for your trip, it’s important to consider each travel companion’s preference.
Families with young kids and grandparents might prefer luaus that end earlier, while young couples might like to party into the night.
Regardless, the Big Island has a variety of luaus great for any type of traveler.
Finding a Luau in Kona
Kona is a sunny town that stretches almost two-thirds of the west side of the island of Hawai’i. Coffee farms and historical landmarks line this expansive area.
In addition, the town itself is known for its nightlife, shops, and restaurants. A walking tour of the place will tell you its rich history and stories.
That said, there’s no question that Kona seems to be home to most of the luaus on the island. So, chances are this is where you’ll find the best luau on the Big Island for your family.
Looking for more things to do in Kona? Check out my full Kona Travel Guide!
Voyagers of the Pacific Luau with Buffet
The Voyagers of the Pacific Luau is held at the Royal Kona Resort in downtown Kona. Many people say the Royal Kona Resort Luau is the best luau on the Big Island.
This Royal Kona luau is the most affordable luau we’ve come across, which makes it perfect for tourists looking for more bang for their buck.
Like most luaus on the island, the luau is set along the oceanfront overlooking Kailua Bay.
Before the start of the festivities, classes like lei making, crafts, and hula lessons keep guests occupied. This is one of the reasons people say it’s the best luau in Kona, Hawaii. You can read my honest Royal Kona Resort luau review HERE.
Then, the iconic Imu Ceremony happens, where the unearthing and presenting of the roasted pig happens.
Afterwards, the guests can enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet filled with a variety of Polynesian dishes and treats like the Pineapple upside-down cake and coconut cake.
Mai Tais, wine, beer, and other refreshments are also available.
After the hearty feast, the show begins.
Drums beat to the sensational hula dancers’ steps as they tell the tales of Hawaii’s rich culture through music, song, and dance. Lastly, the Samoan fire knife dance closes the show.
The Luau occurs every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday and usually costs around $99, excluding taxes.
You’ll definitely want to book this Kailua Kona luau for your trip to the Big Island! Check out the latest prices and more details.
Island Breeze Luau
Second on our list from Kona is the Island Breeze Luau, which is one of the more popular luaus on the island.
While it might not be the cheapest option, Island Breeze Luau is popular because of the quality, food, and location of the show.
The show is on the grounds of Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, right next to Ahu’ena Heiau, King Kamehameha’s former estate.
Children can enjoy hula lessons and get Hawaiian tattoos (temporary, of course) prior to the show.
Aside from this, the show includes the arrival of the “royal court” by an outrigger canoe, providing visitors with a backdrop of paddlers, boaters, and the Hualalai volcano.
It’s definitely a fun, authentic luau on the Big Island.
Before the show, the traditional unearthing of the pig happens, and the 22-dish dinner buffet is served. Aside from the delicious Polynesian delicacies and dishes served, the luau also includes an open bar.
After dinner, the show begins with the arrival of King Kamehameha by an outrigger canoe while performers offer an oli.
Afterward, guests are brought on a journey across the Pacific Ocean from Fiji to Aotearoa (New Zealand) through dances, chants, stories, and tales from Hawaii, Tonga, and Samoa.
The Luau is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays and usually costs around $141, excluding taxes. Check out the latest prices and more details.
Hoʻomau-A Mai Grille Luau Show
Enjoy dinner under the stars for a Polynesian Luau as you have never experienced before. You’ll get dinner from Mai Grille Restaurant at the Waikoloa Beach Golf Course. The chef was actually voted Best Chef in 2018.
Their performers will take you on an incredible journey through paradise, stopping at exciting locations such as Tahiti and New Zealand, to name just a few!
Kids ages 4 and younger are totally free. Check out the latest prices and more details.
Sunset Luau
Sunset Luau at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa is one of the popular luaus among adults because of its high-quality menu and full open bar.
The Sunset Luau overlooks the ancient fishponds of ‘Anaeho’omalu Bay’. The sun sets over the bay while torches are lit.
The show begins with a Hawaiian chant to welcome guests. Then, guests witness the unearthing of the kalua pig.
After dinner, guests take a musical journey through Polynesia with the dances of Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand, and Samoa. Like other luaus on the island, the show ends with a spectacular Samoan Fire Knife Dance.
The Sunset Luau happens every Monday & Wednesday. A show usually costs $117, excluding taxes.
Luaus on the Kohala Coast
The Kohala Coast is where guests can find some of the islands’ best resorts. That said, it’s no wonder that many luaus happen in this part of the island.
Driving past the rugged lava fields of the coast will immediately tell you of the coast’s amazing history. We’ve also listed a couple of luaus on this part of the island!
Hawaii Loa Kohala Luau
One of the best places to stay on the Big Island is the gorgeous Fairmont Orchid Resort. This is their on-site luau. Read our full Hawaii Loa Luau review.
There’s a lei greeting, a hosted cocktail bar, traditional Hawaiian games, an incredible all-you-can-eat buffet, and a fantastic show.
The whole thing lasts about 3 hours.
It’s only available on Saturdays, so you’ll want to book well in advance to secure your spot. Check the latest rates and more information.
Mauna Kea Luau
If you’re up for a fool-proof way to enjoy an evening, visit Mauna Kea’s Luau. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on the Kohala Coast holds this luau every Tuesday and Friday.
Every guest will feel festive and local because of the luau’s use of traditional wooden plates and aloha attires. Guests enjoy the soothing sounds of the water with the soulful guitars while they enjoy their buffet dinner.
The buffet dinner serves traditional imu-roasted kalua pig, island fish, laulau, lomi salmon, sashimi, and piles of Hawaiian fruit. Also, guests are treated to a beautiful show that has stood the test of time.
Mauna Kea’s luau started 1960 for Newsweek Magazine and has stayed since. Kids and adults alike can celebrate the beauty and culture of The Big Island through delicious dishes, dancing to the “Hukilau”, and the magnificent fire dance.
Tickets cost around $117, excluding taxes. One notable difference this luau has from the others on the list is that it doesn’t offer an open bar.
Legends of Hawaii Luau
The Legends of Hawaii Luau happens at the Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort. Because it happens at a Hilton resort, this luau guarantees world-class performers and great food.
Aside from the great show, guests can also learn about ‘Kapa Stamping’ and Coconut Husking at the local artisan market before the event starts.
While most of the luaus listed occur outdoors, the Legends of Hawaii Luau happens on an amphitheater.
After the local artisan market, guests can begin the dinner buffet.
At exactly 7:00, the Hilton Waikoloa luau show starts with professional dancers dancing to the beat of the energetic drums. The Polynesian folk music plays while the Hula dancers and fire performers tell the story of the Hawaiian Islands.
While this luau is quite expensive, it promises professional performances, great food, and culture.
If you’re one for comfort and a more luxe show experience, this luau is for you. At $140 per ticket, it’s definitely more on the expensive side.
This luau happens every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday. Check the latest rates and more information.
What to Expect at Luaus
Luaus dated as far back as 1819, when King Kamehameha II removed the religious requirement that women ate meals separately.
Today, luaus celebrate culture, gathering, food, and history.
Attending a Hawaiian luau is one of the most popular things on the Big Island.
Frequently Asked Questions about a Big Island Luau:
WHAT DO YOU EAT AT A LUAU?
At most traditional Hawaiian luaus, you’ll find the following items:
Kalua Pork
This is the most well-known Hawaiian luau food. It’s a whole pig that’s been roasted underground in an imu.
The pork is so tender that it falls right off the bone and shreds. Very flavorful!
You can try it at home with my Instant Pot Kalua Pork Recipe!
Poi
So, at whatever luau you choose, they will probably make some sort of joke about poi tasting like wallpaper paste. That’s just to scare you away!
Poi is mashed-up taro root that is fermented. It helps bring out the flavor of fish and meat, so be sure to combine them and use them more like a condiment!
Chicken Long Rice
If you have a picky eater in your family, they will likely like Chicken Long Rice!
It’s long noodles with bits of chicken sprinkled in. It tastes a little like chicken soup without the soup.
Huli Huli Chicken
If you like barbecue chicken with an island twist, you’ll love Huli Huli Chicken!
You’ll also see roadside stands selling Huli Huli Chicken or at fundraisers around Oahu.
Try my oven-baked Huli Huli Chicken Recipe!
Lau Lau
This is a traditional Hawaiian food, but not all luau menus have it. It’s usually pork or fish wrapped up in ti leaves and steamed.
Lomi Lomi Salmon
This is very similar to ceviche, where it’s chopped up raw fish mixed with diced tomatoes and onions.
Macaroni Salad
Yes, it’s just what it sounds like. Basically macaroni noodles with a lot of mayonnaise and usually some shredded carrots.
This is another option for picky eaters. Personally, I love mixing in a bit of Huli Huli Chicken when I eat it. So tasty!
Haupia
These little white squares are like creamy coconut jello. They are cold and make a refreshing palate cleanser! Plus, kids usually enjoy eating it!
WHAT TO WEAR TO A LUAU?
I know when people are packing for their trip to the Big Island, they always ask about what to wear to a Big Island Hawaii luau. So, here are my top picks:
Luau Dresses
At the best luaus on the Big Island, you’ll either get a shell lei or a purple orchid lei as you arrive.
If you think you’ll be taking many photos, you’ll want to remember that the lei will stand out against your dress.
For fun tropical dresses, my top picks are this one and this one. Putting on a Hawaiian dress always makes me feel happy, and like I’m on vacation! Check out the latest prices and more details.
But you don’t need to buy a new dress! Look in your closet for something brightly colored or a white dress; it always looks nice.
As for shoes, I tend to always wear sandals. You probably won’t want to risk heels, especially if the luau is on grass or near the beach.
Aloha Shirts
Men often get a shell lei and a purple orchid lei, or sometimes they get a black kukui nut lei.
While men can wear any type of shirt, a Hawaiian shirt is always more memorable! If you want to order ahead of time, this one and this one are fun picks! Check out the latest prices and more details.
Men can easily pair Aloha Shirts with khaki pants or shorts. Or linen pants or slacks of any kind.
Hawaiian Clothes for Kids
And don’t forget about your kids! While they can wear anything they like, it’s much cuter if they wear Hawaiian print!
I love matching Aloha shirts and shorts sets like this for boys and adorable Hawaiian dresses like this for girls.
Found the best Big Island Luau for your trip?
It’s normal to find that some luaus differ from others. It’s important to pick the best luau in the Big Island that will best fit your and your companion’s personalities and interests.
Most of Hawaii’s luaus are fascinating to watch, but the true local experience is one that is rare. That’s why finding the best luau in Hawaii’s Big Island for your family is important.
We hope that our little list helped you decide which Big Island Luaus to add to your list!
If you want to learn more about other luaus in Hawaii, you can read about them in my other posts. Get to know more about the Ka Wa’a Disney Aulani Luau, Grand Wailea Luau, Paradise Cove Luau, and Sheraton Kauai Luau.
Overall, luaus are there to celebrate Hawaiian culture around the islands of Hawaii.