Best Luaus On Oahu
Oahu’s Most Authentic & Popular Luaus
Hawaiian, Samoan, Fijian, Tahitian… experiencing a Polynesian Luau is a must while in Hawaiʻi!
Nothing says Hawaiian vacation like a luau. This celebration of Polynesian culture is known throughout the world as a fun, entertaining, and delicious way to learn about the people who migrated to Hawaiʻi nearly 1,000 years ago.
There are a lot of luaus across Oahu but we have chosen some of the best ones we think you should consider. Take an evening and enjoy a Hawaiian celebration with great food, music, song, and dance.
Oahu is the perfect destination for a truly unique experience. From relaxing on pristine beaches to exploring ancient Hawaiian cultural sites, there’s something for everyone. But no trip to Oahu would be complete without experiencing one of its famous luaus.
Most luaus proceed like this: First, there is a lei greeting upon arrival followed by a meet-and-greet photo op with the Polynesian performers. Next, visitors are guided to their seats and tropical beverages are served. Once guests have settled in, the pig is removed from the imu (underground oven), filling the air with the delicious smell of roasted kalua pork. Some luaus also have traditional Hawaiian games that can be played by guests of all ages. The food is then served, usually buffet-style. The remainder of the evening is spent enjoying the food and entertainment which includes live music, hula dancing, and a fire knife performance.
Above is a great list of the available luaus. The experience you’ll have at any of these shows is top-notch and host memorable hula performances, great live music, and fantastic fire dancing. The evening will be a highlight of your trip. The differences between each luau offered include the menu’s gourmet achievements, whether drinks are included, preferential seating, and where on-island the luau is hosted. Most luaus are located in the Waikiki vicinity while the Polynesian Cultural Center is located on the Northernmost point of the windward coast.
What is a lu’au?
A lu’au is a traditional Hawaiian feast and celebration, accompanied by Hawaiian music, hula dancing, and other cultural performances. Lu’aus are a way to celebrate important events, such as birthdays, weddings, or community gatherings. They offer a unique opportunity for visitors to experience and learn about Hawaiian culture, history, and cuisine.
Why are lu’aus a must-see?
Lu’aus are a must-see for several reasons:
What kind of food is served at a lu’au?
A typical lu’au offers a wide range of traditional Hawaiian dishes, including:
What is the typical length of a lu’au?
A lu’au typically lasts between 3 to 4 hours. The event usually starts with a welcoming ceremony and the uncovering of the kalua pig from the imu. This is followed by a buffet-style meal, where guests can enjoy a variety of Hawaiian dishes. Afterward, the entertainment portion of the evening begins, featuring hula dancing, music, and storytelling.
What topics are covered by a lu’au?
Lu’aus often cover various aspects of Hawaiian culture and history, including:
Attending a lu’au is a great way to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture and enjoy a memorable evening of food, entertainment, and learning.
If you’re looking for similar activities that are just as exciting and enjoyable, here are some great alternatives: