LUAUS IN OAHU

Oahu’s Most Authentic & Popular Luaus

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Oahu Polynesian 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.

The Best Oahu Luaus

There are a lot of luaus across Oahu but we have chosen some of the best Luaus we think you should consider. Take an evening and enjoy a Hawaiian celebration with great food, music, song, and dance.

Oahu Luaus Reviews

An Introduction To A Luau

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.

Royal Lahaina Luau Activity Evening Hula

The Best Luaus On O’ahu For You

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.

Lei Greetings
In ancient times, Hawaiians gave lei to their local ali‘i (chiefs) as a sign of affection and loyalty. If wishing to make peace, warring ali’i would sit side-by-side weaving lei for each other.
Hula Dance
The hula was originally a form of worship to the gods performed by highly trained men. It was banned by missionaries in the 1800s but was still performed in secret until the regulation was loosened in 1851.
Fun Fact
Ancient Hawaiians believed that the heavier a woman, especially a chiefess, the more beautiful she was. Being well-fed denoted her wealth and rank.

Hula Dancer Girl at Sunset Luau

Oahu Luau FAQs

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:
- Cultural experience: Lu’aus offer an authentic and immersive Hawaiian cultural experience, including traditional music, dance, and storytelling.
- Unique cuisine: They feature a variety of delicious, traditional Hawaiian dishes that are difficult to find elsewhere.
- Entertainment: The performances at a lu’au are entertaining and engaging, making it a memorable event for visitors of all ages.
- Socializing: Lu’aus are an excellent opportunity to meet and interact with locals and other visitors in a friendly and welcoming environment.
What kind of food is served at a lu’au?
A typical lu’au offers a wide range of traditional Hawaiian dishes, including:
- Kalua pig: A whole pig is cooked in an underground oven called an imu, resulting in tender, smoky meat.
- Poi: A starchy dish made from taro root, pounded and mixed with water.
- Lomi lomi salmon: A cold salad made from raw, diced salmon, tomatoes, and onions, seasoned with Hawaiian sea salt.
- Poke: Raw, marinated fish, usually ahi (tuna), served as an appetizer.
- Laulau: Pork, chicken, or fish wrapped in taro or ti leaves and steamed.
- Haupia: A coconut milk-based dessert with a consistency similar to gelatin.
- Fresh fruits: Locally-grown fruits like pineapple, papaya, and mango are often served.
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:
- Ancient Hawaiian myths and legends: Storytelling is an integral part of a lu’au, often featuring tales of gods, goddesses, and heroes from Hawaiian mythology.
- Hula: Performances include both traditional and modern hula dances, accompanied by live music, chanting, and singing.
- Traditional instruments: Lu’aus showcase various Hawaiian musical instruments, such as the ukulele, slack-key guitar, and traditional percussion instruments like the ipu (gourd drum).
- Cultural customs: Guests can learn about traditional Hawaiian practices, such as lei-making, tattooing, and navigating by the stars.
Attending a lu’au is a great way to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture and enjoy a memorable evening of food, entertainment, and learning.

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