Planning your first trip to Hawaii and want to know what to expect at a luau in Hawaii? Keep scrolling to get all your Hawaii luau questions answered.
This post about what to expect at a luau in Hawaii 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.
Do you wonder what to expect at a Hawaiian luau?
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, chances are that at some point during your research, you’ve come across the word “luau.” You might wonder what it is and if it’s worth going to.
I’m here to tell you all about family luaus in Hawaii! It’s one of my favorite things about traveling there.
I’ve been going to traditional Hawaiian parties or luaus since I was 10 years old. It’s always been a highlight because I love learning about other cultures when I travel.
It used to surprise me when people told me they didn’t know what a traditional Hawaiian luau was. But now I know that many people think it’s just a fancy dinner. Or they tell me they heard it’s just a tourist trap.
So, since I run a Hawaii travel site, I felt compelled to write a post explaining what a Hawaiian luau experience is and what it’s not. Below, I’ll outline what to expect and showcase a few of the best luaus in Hawaii.
Plus, I included my top picks for the best Ohau luaus in Hawaii Polynesian islands since I know firsthand which ones are worth the hefty price tag!
Is it Worth Going to a Luau in Hawaii?
That seems to be the million-dollar question. And that’s why I put it first in this Hawaii blog post.
While I used to think the answer was a simple yes, I’m now realizing it depends on the Hawaiian vacation you’re planning.
First Trip to Hawaii
If you’re planning your first trip to Hawaii, I definitely suggest booking a family luau venue. It’s an easy way to get an introduction to ancient Hawaiian culture.
You can find a Hawaii luau at an array of price points. And there’s sure to be one near your Hawaii hotel or even onsite at your Hawaii resort.
Frequent Hawaii Traveler
Some families think that since they’ve already done a luau, they never need to do another traditional or modern luau again. That’s a personal choice.
However, there are SO many innovative and unique Hawaiian luaus these days. Some offer a farm-to-table luau feast, theatrical presentations, or a really intimate experience.
So, if your family is interested in traditional foods and Hawaiian culture, it’s worth looking into different luaus in Hawaii.
Honeymoon in Hawaii
If you are planning a honeymoon in Hawaii, attending a luau feast is a top Hawaii honeymoon activity.
They usually ask who is newlywed or on their honeymoon and invite those couples up on stage. You’ll learn a hula dance (or take a hula lesson to learn), or they’ll sing you the Hawaiian Wedding Song!
Plus, it’s a great excuse to imbibe with tropical cocktails, enjoy some traditional Hawaiian dishes, and embrace the aloha spirit during an evening of fun entertainment.
Hawaii with Kids
I think attending a family luau is one of the best things to do in Hawaii with kids. Many offer kid-friendly activities and hands-on crafts before the show.
And if you are heading to Oahu, I highly recommend spending a full day at the Polynesian Cultural Center. There, you can learn about seven different Polynesian cultures, enjoy a luau experience, and experience their Ha: Breath of Life show.
Should I Do a Luau with a Baby or Toddler?
That’s totally your call. I’ve done luau with both kids when they were toddlers and babies, and it’s been a fabulous experience. Babies and toddlers are usually free, and mine always fell asleep partway through the show.
Some luaus let you bring in a stroller so your baby or toddler can sleep while you enjoy the show and make unforgettable memories with your family.
Luau in Hawaii on a Budget?
If you’re visiting Hawaii on a budget, you might want to skip the luau experience. Otherwise, it will eat up a lot of your Hawaii budget.
There are tons of free hula shows in Hawaii, so you’ll still have the opportunity to see hula dancing and take advantage of photo opportunities.
Plus, you can order yourself a Hawaiian plate lunch (usually $8-$10) to sample traditional Hawaiian food at a fraction of the cost of a luau.
Brief History of the Luau
Luaus in Hawaii has been around for hundreds of years and is considered a traditional Hawaiian party because of its celebrations and festivities.
They used to be religious celebrations (called ‘aha’aina). There were lots of restrictions on the foods eaten and who could attend.
Things changed in 1819 when King Kamehameha II removed the religious aspects and pivoted the ‘aha’aina into the present-day luau feast. This was a big societal change as men and women were allowed to eat together.
After that, luaus were mostly for royalty. And then primarily for family celebrations.
It wasn’t until the 1960s that Hawaiian luaus became a tourist attraction. That’s when Hawaii tourism really exploded, offering families and visitors an amazing experience of culture and celebration.
How Authentic is Luaus in Hawaii Today?
There’s a big difference in authenticity between Hawaiian luaus.
Honestly, many luaus are geared toward tourists and feature corny jokes, mediocre dancing, and lots of alcohol.
However, it’s becoming trendy to offer smaller, more intimate luaus. They focus on good food, quality hula dancing, and lots of small group activities.
It’s really important to read luau reviews before booking anything if you’re looking for an ancient tradition like an authentic Hawaiian luau.
What Should I Expect at a Hawaii Luau?
Luau Prices
While the prices of luaus in Hawaii vary, most are in the $100-$125 range. However, luaus at more upscale resorts can cost up to $200 per ticket.
Many (but not all) luaus are free for babies and toddlers.
If you have a large group, you might qualify for a group rate to save money. And be sure to check if they offer a military discount.
How Long is a Luau?
The length of time for luaus can vary, but they’re usually around 5 hours long. Typically, they run from 5 PM to 9 PM, although some invite guests to come as early as 4 PM.
That includes the pre-show activities, plated or buffet dinner, and the show.
If you’re taking a shuttle to/from the luau, that can add an additional hour or more.
Luau Activities
Many luaus offer Hawaiian activities before dinner. These are a great way to get to make Hawaiian crafts or try something new in person.
Some of these activities may include teaching basic hula dancing, lauhala weaving, or learning about coconuts or pineapples. They might unearth the pig in the imu, perform a torch-lighting ceremony, etc.
Luau Seating Arrangements
If you booked a large luau, you should expect to sit at a long, rectangular table with other people you may or may not know. These are communal tables.
Some luaus use round tables instead of rectangular tables. These may or may not be communal, depending on the size of your party.
A few smaller luaus have private tables just for your family.
What Type of Dancing is at a Luau in Hawaii?
Most people think that luaus just feature Hawaiian hula dancing. But it’s actually pretty rare that they only have Hawaiian dancing!
Just about all of them will start with Tahitian dancing. That’s because people from Tahiti voyaged to Hawaii and became the first Hawaiians. Tahitian dancers usually wear big headdresses, coconut bras, and skirts with hip tassels.
Then, they move on to Hawaiian dancing. There are actually two styles of hula dancing: Hula Kahiko and Hula Auana.
Hula Kahiko is an ancient style of dancing. You’ll hear chanting and drumbeats, and the dancing will be more angular. Dancers wear pa’u skirts and greenery on their heads, arms, and legs.
Hula Auana is a modern style of dancing. The music usually features the ukulele and dancers waving their hands for flowery motions. Dancers wear grass skirts or mu’u mu’u dresses and usually flower leis.
And a lot of luaus end with the famous Samoan fire knife dancing. This is performed by men who light the ends of their knives with fire and twirl it around while dancing. It’s super impressive!
Additionally, some luaus include other Polynesian dances from New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga, or even dances from Asia.
What are the Instruments at a Luau?
If you like live Hawaiian music, you’re in luck! That’s a huge feature of luaus in Hawaii.
Hawaiian luau live music usually features the ukulele, ipu heke (double gourd drum), and the steel guitar.
Sometimes, hula dancers also use instruments (called hula implements) while dancing. These implements include the ipu (gourd drum), uli uli (feather rattles), pu ili (split bamboo), kalaau (sticks), and ili ili (rocks.)
Is a Luau Religious?
Not usually. Some luaus will say a Hawaiian blessing before dinner.
Traditional Hawaiian Luau Food
I know a lot of families want to know what type of food is served at a luau. That way, they can make sure there’s enough stuff they like to eat. Or they can Google to find out what everything is before they go!
Here are some of the most popular Hawaiian luau dishes you’ll find at luaus in Hawaii.
Kalua Pig
The most iconic luau food is kālua pig. It’s roasted in an underground oven called an imu. Most luaus will do a whole presentation where they take the kālua pig out of the ground.
Kalua pork has a smoky flavor, and it’s so tender that the meat falls right off the bone. It’s served shredded, and it tastes great dipped in poi or with some rice.
Get my Instant Pot Kalua Pork recipe!
Huli Huli Chicken
Traditionally, huli huli chicken is made by constantly turning it on a spit over a fire or BBQ.
It usually has a bit of a smoky flavor, but it is also sweet Hawaiian BBQ sauce. This tastes great with rice.
Get my Oven Baked Huli Huli Chicken recipe!
Chicken Long Rice
This is usually my go-to meal for picky eaters. It tastes like chicken noodle soup but heavy on the noodles. The noodles are thin rice noodles.
The flavor is pretty mild but tasty.
Lomi Lomi Salmon
Lomi Lomi Salmon kind of looks like salsa, but it’s not spicy, and the flavor is completely different.
Basically, it’s diced up tomato, onion, and raw fish like salmon, and then salt is added.
Macaroni Salad
This is another staple for picky eaters. It’s usually your typical American-style macaroni salad.
Some luaus mix in potato salad (my favorite), and some have shredded carrots, but otherwise, it’s primarily macaroni noodles, mayo, and a tiny bit of spice.
Poi
Poi is probably the most iconic traditional Hawaiian food. It’s fermented taro root that has been pounded into a purple paste.
Usually, it’s eaten with meat, like a condiment! It has a sour/tangy flavor that pairs really well with kalua pork, fish, or chicken.
Another option is to add sugar and a little milk to make it more of a dessert.
Hawaiian Desserts
Yes, there are luau desserts! The most traditional Hawaiian dessert is Haupia. It’s a coconut milk custard that is cut into squares and served cold.
Some luaus also have a pineapple coconut cake or other tropical cake.
Many offer fresh tropical Hawaiian fruits like pineapple, mango, and papaya.
How is Food Served at a Luau in Hawaii?
Most Hawaiian luaus offer buffet dinners with various Hawaiian/Asian food items. This can be nice because you can try a bunch of different items.
Some luaus even invite people back for a second helping. A few luaus have table-side dining with plated courses.
What are Typical Luau Drinks?
Wondering what to drink at a luau? There’s usually a bar that offers Hawaiian Mai Tais, Blue Hawaiians, or other Hawaiian cocktails. Some offer beer, wine, and other spirits.
For nonalcoholic drinks, there’s usually some Hawaiian punch and an assortment of soft drinks.
Are There Vegetarian/Vegan Options?
If you are vegan or vegetarian, you’ll want to contact the luau directly to see what they can do. The same goes for other dietary restrictions.
When Should I Book My Hawaii Luau?
If attending a luau in Hawaii is a priority for you, you’ll want to book one before you go. It’s the best way to get a Hawaii luau deal and pick your ideal luau day.
I always suggest that people schedule their Hawaii luau for the middle of their trip. That way, they have time to get over jet lag (so they aren’t falling asleep during dinner).
And since luaus can be canceled due to rain, it’s nice to have days left in your Hawaii vacation in case you need to reschedule.
What are the Best Luaus in Hawaii?
If by now you’re convinced that you want to add a luau to your Hawaii itinerary, you’re probably asking yourself, “What is the best Hawaiian luau?”
Let me give you a few options for the most popular Hawaiian islands.
Best Luau on Oahu
Oahu has tons of luaus. Many are in the Waikiki/Honolulu area, but my favorites are on the North Shore. See the top-rated Oahu luau here.
POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER
The Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the top attractions in Oahu. Not only do they have a nice luau and theatrical presentation, but you also can participate in tons of cool hands-on activities. Find the best prices here.
I have a full guide to the Polynesian Cultural Center HERE, where you can figure out which ticket package is right for your family.
TOA LUAU
Personally, I’m obsessed with Toa Luau in North Shore Oahu. It’s pretty intimate, and they have a cool Kava ceremony at the beginning. Plus, you get free admission to Waimea Valley.
I think it’s the top luau in Oahu and you can read why in my Toa Luau review. Find the best prices here.
Best Luau on Maui
Most of the Maui luaus are either in Lahaina (West Maui) or Wailea (South Maui.)
MAUI NUI LUAU
The Maui Nui luau at the Sheraton is one of the best luaus in Lahaina/Kaanapali. It’s a sunset, oceanfront luau on Maui. Find the best prices here.
FEAST AT MOKAPU
One of the most unique Maui luaus is the Feast at Mokapu. It’s located at Andaz Maui Resort in Wailea, where you’ll enjoy family-style dining while watching a theatrical presentation. Find the best prices here. You can read my full Feast at Mokapu review HERE.
Best Luau in Kauai
While Kauai doesn’t have as many luau options as Oahu or Maui, there are still some fun options.
LUAU KALAMAKU
What’s cool about this Kauai Hawaii luau is that your family can ride a train around Kilohana Plantation before the luau. You can read my full Luau Kalamaku review to check the details.
The food was outstanding, and the show was a cool theatrical presentation. Find the best prices here.
SMITH FAMILY LUAU
This is one of our favorite luau in Kauai, Hawaii. You can take a boat ride to Fern Grotto before the luau. We’ve got a full Smith Family Luau review that’s worth a read.
Plus, they feature dances from all across Polynesia and Asia. Find the best prices here.
Best Luau on Big Island
If you want a Big Island luau, most of them are in Kona.
ROYAL KONA LUAU
One of the most popular Big Island luaus is the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau at the Royal Kona Resort. You can read my honest Royal Kona Resort luau review HERE. Find the best prices here.
ISLAND BREEZE LUAU
The Island Breeze Luau is often considered the best luau in Kona Hawaii. There’s a royal procession, yummy food, and an awesome Polynesian show. Find the best prices here.
What to Wear to a Hawaiian Luau
I know when people are packing for their trip to Hawaii, they always ask about what to wear to a luau in Hawaii. So, here are my top picks:
Dresses for a Luau in Hawaii
Most luaus will give ladies either a shell lei or a purple orchid lei as they arrive.
If you think you’ll be taking many photos, you’ll want to keep this in mind so the lei will stand out against your dress!
For a fun Hawaiian luau dress, 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! Find the best prices here.
I’m also a big fan of clothing subscription boxes. You can request tropical dresses (or any cute Hawaii vacation outfits) from Wantable.
But you don’t need to buy a new dress! Look in your closet for something brightly colored, or a white dress always looks nice.
As for shoes, I always tend to wear sandals. You probably won’t risk heels, especially if the luau is on grass or near the beach.
Hawaiian Luau Outfits for Men
Men often receive a standard shell lei, 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.
And they can wear sandals or loafers.
Hawaiian Luau Attire 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 my boys. And why not go with adorable Hawaiian dresses like this for girls.
Hawaiian Luau FAQs
A luau is a traditional Hawaiian celebration featuring authentic Hawaiian dishes, music, hula dancing, and the aloha spirit. It’s a fun way to experience ancient Hawaiian culture with your family.
Most luau experiences last about 2-3 hours, including a delicious luau feast and live performances. Some may extend longer for photo ops and socializing.
At a luau, you’ll enjoy traditional foods like roasted pig, poke, and taro leaves, plus hula performances, storytelling, and a festive atmosphere. It’s an amazing experience full of music, dance, and cultural immersion.
Wear comfortable, tropical-inspired outfits like a sundress or aloha shirt with sandals. Bright colors and floral patterns match the festive mood of the event.
Hawaiian Luau Wrap-Up
By now, I hope you have an answer to your question, “What is a luau?” Plus, you now have ideas for the best luau in Hawaii, no matter which island you visit.
Hawaii luaus are fun as long as you pick the right one for your trip!