Heading to Maui with kids? One of the top things to do in Maui is experience a traditional Hawaiian luau. Find out the best kid-friendly luau in Maui.
This best Maui luau post 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.
Planning a Maui vacation and wondering which luau to book? I’ve been to more luaus than I can count (seriously, it’s a lot), and I’m here to help you pick the perfect one for your family.
Here’s the thing about Maui luaus. They’re all different. Some are big resort shows with hundreds of people. Others are tiny and intimate. Some serve gourmet plated dinners while others have massive buffets.
And honestly? There’s no single “best” luau because it really depends on what you’re looking for.
I’m Marcie, a Hawaii travel expert and certified Hawaii Destination Specialist. I’ve visited Hawaii over 40 times since I was 10, and I’ve made it my mission to find the best family-friendly experiences on every island.
On my podcast Hawaii Travel Made Easy, I share all my insider tips for making your Hawaii vacation incredible.
Want more Maui planning help? Grab my free 7-day email course on planning a trip to Maui or check out my comprehensive Maui Travel Guide for Families.
Quick Luau FAQs
Are luaus worth it in Maui?
Absolutely, especially if you enjoy cultural experiences and want to learn about Hawaiian traditions through food, music and dance. Maui has everything from kid-friendly buffet luaus to upscale dinner shows.
As a professional tourist who’s attended luaus across all the islands, I can tell you that Maui’s luau scene is really special.
Do Maui resorts have their own luaus?
Yes! If you don’t want to leave your resort, several Maui hotels host luaus right on property.
You’ll find them at the Grand Wailea, Royal Lahaina Resort, Hyatt Regency Maui, Sheraton Maui, Westin Maui, Andaz Maui, and Marriott Wailea Beach Resort.
Should you tip at a Maui luau?
Most luaus include gratuity in the ticket price, but if you have exceptional table service or bartenders who really take care of you, it’s thoughtful to tip extra.
For buffet-style luaus with minimal service, tipping isn’t expected since it’s usually already included.
How to Pick the Right Maui Luau for Your Family
Location matters more than you think. If you’re staying in Wailea, driving to Lahaina for a sunset luau means you’ll be driving back in the dark after a few mai tais. Not ideal.
Think about what kind of experience you want. Do your kids need a kids’ menu? Are you celebrating something special and want an elevated experience? Do you want traditional Hawaiian focus or pan-Polynesian entertainment?
Budget is real. Luaus range from around $100 per person to over $300 for premium seating at luxury venues.
Ready to find your perfect luau? Let’s break down every option by area.
West Maui Luaus (Lahaina, Kaanapali, Kapalua)
Most of Maui’s luaus are on the west side, which makes sense because the sunsets over the ocean here are absolutely stunning.
Old Lahaina Luau
If I had to pick just one luau to recommend, this would be it. I went to the Old Lahaina Luau right after it reopened in March 2024 (they were closed following the devastating Lahaina fires in August 2023), and I was blown away by everything.
The food was incredible, the oceanfront location can’t be beat, and the way they tell the story of Hawaii through traditional hula is so powerful.
This is Maui’s most authentic luau. Instead of a pan-Polynesian show, they focus entirely on Hawaiian culture and history. You won’t see Samoan fire knife dancing here, but you will see the most beautiful traditional and modern hula you’ve ever experienced.
The food here is outstanding. Forget sad, dry buffet luau food. They bring multiple courses to your table including kalua pig, island fresh fish, chicken long rice, poke, and tons of other dishes.
You can choose between traditional mat seating (closer to the stage, sitting on the ground with low tables) or regular tables and chairs.
The pre-show activities are excellent too. You can watch traditional Hawaiian games, learn to weave ti leaves, and see the imu ceremony where they unearth the pig from the underground oven.
Book way ahead for this one. Like, months ahead. It sells out constantly because it’s that good.
Location: Oceanfront in Lahaina
Price: Around $230 per person (ages 13+)
Best for: Anyone who wants an authentic Hawaiian cultural experience
Book the Old Lahaina Luau on Hawaii Activities
I talked all about what to expect at Hawaiian luaus (and specifically this one) on episode 6 of the Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast.
Myths of Maui Luau at Royal Lahaina Resort
This is Maui’s longest-running luau, and honestly, it’s fine. Not my top pick, but if you’re staying at the Royal Lahaina Resort and want something convenient, it works. You can read my full review.
The beachfront setting at Kaanapali is beautiful. The show covers dances from Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, New Zealand and other Polynesian islands, ending with fire knife dancing that always gets the crowd excited.
What I do appreciate about this luau is that it’s more budget-friendly than many others (usually around $185-$200 per person), and they have the only dedicated kids’ menu at a Maui luau. Your picky eaters can get chicken nuggets, mac and cheese, and hot dogs instead of kalua pig.
They accommodate dietary restrictions well if you call ahead. And kids under 5 are free, which is a nice bonus for families with little ones.
Location: Royal Lahaina Resort, Kaanapali
Price: Around $185-200 per person
Best for: Families staying at Royal Lahaina or on a tighter budget
Check prices for Myths of Maui Luau
Drums of the Pacific Luau at Hyatt Regency
The Drums of the Pacific puts on an energetic, theatrical show that’s heavy on the excitement factor. This is one of the few luaus that features dances from the Tuamotu Islands in French Polynesia, which is pretty cool.
The production value here is impressive. The fire knife performance is one of the best on Maui, and kids usually love how dynamic and fast-paced the show is.
They recently updated the luau grounds, and the oceanfront setting at the Hyatt Regency is gorgeous. The buffet has a good variety including traditional luau fare plus more familiar options.
One fun activity is their Polynesian fashion show where you can learn different ways to wear a pareo (sarong). These make great lightweight souvenirs to bring home.
Location: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort, Kaanapali
Price: Around $210 per person
Best for: Families who want high-energy entertainment
Book Drums of the Pacific on Hawaii Tours
Maui Nui Luau at Sheraton Maui
The location here is what makes this luau special. It’s right on the beach at Black Rock, where you can watch the sunset torch lighting ceremony and cliff divers jumping from the famous rock.
The show itself covers Hawaiian and Polynesian culture with good fire knife dancing. The entertainment company Tihati Productions has been family-owned for over 50 years, and they really know what they’re doing.
Here’s something unique about this luau: you can skip dinner and just buy show-only tickets. They call it cocktail seating, and it’s significantly cheaper (around $40-60 depending on age).
This is perfect if you have super picky eaters or if you’d rather eat dinner elsewhere and just enjoy the sunset show.
The pre-show activities include hula lessons and Hawaiian lawn games.
Location: Sheraton Maui Resort at Black Rock, Kaanapali
Price: Around $198-228 per person (or $40-60 for show-only cocktail seating)
Best for: Families who want a great beachfront location and the option to skip dinner
Check availability for Maui Nui Luau
Wailele Polynesian Luau at Westin Maui
If you’re staying at the Westin Maui, this on-site luau is super convenient. While it’s not right on the beach, it’s very close to Kaanapali Beach.
The stage and Aloha Pavilion were recently redesigned. The show features the story of Pele (the goddess of fire), plus one of Maui’s most extreme fire knife dances called Siva Afi.
They do an excellent job with dietary accommodations. Check their website and you’ll see they clearly list options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary restrictions.
The kids’ buffet has familiar favorites like pizza, spaghetti, hot dogs and cookies. It’s also ADA accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Location: Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kaanapali
Price: Around $200-220 per person
Best for: Guests staying at Westin Maui who want convenience
Check availability for the Westin Maui luau
Tales of Kapa Moe at Ritz-Carlton Kapalua
This is one of Maui’s newest luaus (opened in 2023), and it’s beautifully done. The Ritz-Carlton brought in Hawaiian Cultural Advisor Clifford Nae’ole to ensure authenticity, and it shows.
The show is held in the newly renovated Aloha Garden Pavilion with a covered area (great if it rains). What makes this luau really special is the storytelling. They weave traditional Hawaiian stories with gorgeous handmade costumes, an aerial performance, and dramatic fire knife dancing.
The location in Kapalua is more remote than the Kaanapali and Lahaina luaus, so this is best if you’re staying in the area or don’t mind the drive.
Location: Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Price: Around $249 per person (all ages 13+)
Best for: Travelers staying in Kapalua or those who want a more intimate, authentic experience
South Maui Luaus (Wailea)
The south side of Maui has some absolutely gorgeous luaus, especially if you’re staying in the Wailea or Kihei area.
Feast at Mokapu at Andaz Maui
This is my favorite Maui luau. Full stop.
The Feast at Mokapu is luxury meets luau. Set on the pristine lawn at Mokapu Beach at the Andaz Maui in Wailea, the oceanfront location at sunset is magical.
The elevated menu by Executive Chef Isaac Bancaco is sophisticated without being pretentious. This isn’t your typical buffet luau food.
Yes, it’s pricey (starting around $280 for adults, $140 for kids), but you get valet parking included, a commemorative photo, multi-course chef-plated meal, handcrafted cocktails from the open bar, and an incredible show.
The performance takes you through Hawaiian history and culture with beautiful storytelling. The pre-show activities are fun, and the whole experience feels special without being stuffy.
This is absolutely where I’d take someone for a special occasion or if they really wanted the best of the best.
Location: Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
Price: Around $280 per adult (standard seating), $140 per child
Best for: Special occasions and travelers who want an upscale experience
Book the Feast at Mokapu on Hawaii Tours
If you’re planning a Wailea trip, definitely check out my comprehensive Maui Travel Guide for all my favorite family-friendly restaurants, beaches and activities.
Grand Luau at Honua’ula (Grand Wailea)
The Grand Wailea is one of Maui’s most stunning resorts, and their luau lives up to the property’s reputation. Read my full review.
What I love about this luau is how they focus on Hawaiian mythology and storytelling. The show brings to life stories about mermaids, ancient gods and goddesses, and Polynesian voyagers.
It’s different from other luaus because it mixes traditional dancing with more theatrical, impressive feats.
If you’re staying at the Grand Wailea, you can check in early to get your wristbands and then hang out at the pool bar or beach until doors open. This is genius because you don’t waste vacation time standing in line.
The menu is extensive with allergy-friendly dishes and solid vegetarian and vegan options. The oceanfront setting overlooking Wailea Beach is one of the prettiest on the island.
The luau runs 5-7 nights per week and sells out quickly.
Location: Grand Wailea Resort, Wailea
Price: Around $220-260 per person depending on seating
Best for: Families who love storytelling and want a beautiful oceanfront setting
Check Grand Wailea Luau availability on Hawaii Tours
Te Au Moana at Marriott Wailea Beach Resort
This is another excellent Wailea option, also produced by the respected Tihati Productions family.
Te Au Moana means “The Ocean Tide,” and the luau is all about how the ocean connects Hawaiians and Polynesians across generations.
The grassy oceanfront setting is beautiful, and the show includes skilled Polynesian dancing plus a thrilling fire knife performance.
The pre-show activities are some of the best I’ve seen. You can play ancient Hawaiian games, get temporary tattoos, decorate kapa, and learn hula. Kids especially love these hands-on experiences.
You’ll get a fresh flower lei or wooden fishhook necklace when you arrive. The family-style dinner is served at your table, which is nice because you don’t have to navigate a buffet line with kids.
Free self-parking is included, or valet is available for $55.
Location: Wailea Beach Resort Marriott, Wailea
Price: Around $230-310 per adult depending on seating
Best for: Families staying in Wailea who want great pre-show activities
Book Te Au Moana on Hawaii Tours
South Maui Shows & Luaus (Kihei)
Kihei has fewer traditional luau options, but there are a couple of unique experiences worth considering.
South Maui Gardens Hula Show
This isn’t a traditional luau with a meal included, but it’s a really cool alternative, especially for families on a budget or with picky eaters.
South Maui Gardens is a gorgeous hidden oasis in Kihei with a weekly hula show (usually Wednesday, Friday and Sunday evenings).
For around $100 per person, you get a beautiful performance featuring Hawaiian hula plus dances from New Zealand, Tahiti, and Samoa, including fire dancing.
Here’s what makes it different: there’s no assigned seating and no meal included. You can buy food from the amazing food trucks on site (there are over 10 options including Sweet Hula, Thai Me Up, and Kitoko Maui), or you can pre-order a gourmet luau plate. You bring your own beach chairs or use the picnic tables.
The show is about an hour long, which is perfect for kids with shorter attention spans. The setting is intimate and laid-back, and honestly, some families prefer being able to choose their own food over a buffet.
This is also the most budget-friendly option if you’re just doing the show without pre-ordering food.
Location: South Maui Gardens, Kihei
Price: Around $100 per person (food separate)
Best for: Budget-conscious families and those who want a more casual experience
Book the South Maui Gardens Hula Show on Viator
Gilligan’s Island Luau
This is Kihei’s most traditional luau experience, held at the Maui Nui Golf Club. It’s a smaller, more intimate venue (about a quarter the size of most other Maui luaus).
The show takes you through various Polynesian cultures with storytelling, audience participation, and fire knife dancing. The buffet includes kalua pig, teriyaki beef, mahi mahi, and other Hawaiian and local favorites. Open bar is included.
I’ll be honest: reviews for this one are really mixed. Some people love the intimate setting and attentive service. Others feel it’s cramped and the food quality is inconsistent. It’s definitely not my top pick, but if you’re staying in Kihei and really want a traditional luau experience close by, it’s an option.
Location: Maui Nui Golf Club, Kihei
Price: Around $159-199 per person depending on seating
Best for: Travelers in Kihei who want a traditional luau nearby
Check availability for the Gilligan’s Island Luau
Other Maui Luau Options
Maui’s Finest Luau
This is a smaller operation with locations in both Paia and Wailea (at Mulligans on the Blue). Reviews are very mixed, and information about current operations is spotty. They advertise BYOB (bring your own beverages) with a full Hawaiian buffet included.
If you’re considering this one, I’d recommend calling ahead to confirm they’re operating and to understand exactly what’s included. The price point is lower than resort luaus (around $150-250), but that’s partly because you’re bringing your own drinks.
Location: Paia or Wailea
Price: Around $150-250 per person
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers willing to take a chance on a less-established operation
What Happened to Feast at Lele?
If you’ve been researching Maui luaus, you might see the Feast at Lele mentioned.
This was one of my all-time favorite luaus, a beautiful fine-dining experience right on the beach in Lahaina where you sat at private tables and enjoyed a five-course meal paired with Polynesian performances.
Unfortunately, the Feast at Lele was destroyed in the devastating Lahaina wildfires in August 2023. It’s closed indefinitely. The same owners run the Old Lahaina Luau, which thankfully was able to reopen in March 2024.
Capture Your Luau Memories
Before I forget, here’s my #1 tip for any Maui vacation: book a professional photo shoot with Flytographer. Save $25 when you use my link!
Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book Flytographer. They’re so easy to work with, super affordable, and it guarantees that I’m actually IN some of the vacation photos.
You can even schedule a quick photo shoot at your luau before the show starts. Trust me, you’ll treasure these photos.
More Maui Planning Resources
Feeling overwhelmed by all the choices? That’s exactly why I offer Hawaii travel consultations. As a professional tourist and Hawaii travel expert, I can help you plan the perfect Maui itinerary tailored to your family’s interests and budget.
Here are some other free resources to help with your planning:
- Free 7-Day Email Course: How to Plan a Trip to Maui
- Free 5-Day Email Course: How to Save Money in Hawaii
- Maui Travel Guide for Families
- Hawaii Island Hopping Guide
Listen to more Maui tips on these podcast episodes:
Book Your Maui Adventures
Need a rental car for getting to your luau? I always recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental for the best rates.
Looking for other Maui activities? Check out:
- Best Maui Boat Tours
- Where to Eat on Maui with Kids
- Kid-Friendly Road to Hana Stops
- Molokini Snorkeling Tours
Ready to Experience a Maui Luau?
The bottom line? You really can’t go wrong with most Maui luaus. Whether you choose the authentic Hawaiian focus of Old Lahaina Luau, the luxury experience at Feast at Mokapu, or the budget-friendly option at South Maui Gardens, you’re going to have an incredible evening.
My top three picks:
- Old Lahaina Luau for the most authentic Hawaiian cultural experience
- Feast at Mokapu for a special occasion or upscale experience
- Maui Nui Luau at Sheraton for the best location at Black Rock
Book early (like, months early for Old Lahaina Luau), bring a light jacket for the ocean breeze, and get ready to eat way too much delicious food while watching the sunset over the Pacific. That’s what Maui vacations are all about.
Want help planning the rest of your Maui trip? Book a consultation with me and let’s create the perfect itinerary for your family.
Looking for more fun things to do on Maui? Check out the best Maui boat tours, where to eat on Maui with kids, kid-friendly Road to Hana stops, Haleakala sunrise tour review, and Molokini snorkeling tours!
P.S. Join our Hawaii Travel with Kids Facebook group to get connected with other families planning a trip to Hawaii!