We enjoy sharing our favorite Hawaii experiences. A lu'au is one of them but we hear mixed reviews from community members so we thought it was appropriate to share details on what you can expect on a luau. Are they a can't miss activity? That is up to you to decide! Enjoy the show!
Oh this is perfect! My husband and I are going to Hawai’i for the first time at the end of August and couldn’t decide if we should go to a luau. Thank you guys so much for the amazing work you guys do. You’re my go to source for all things Hawai’i travel!❤🌴
I think if you have never been to Hawai’i, you should definitely go to a Luau. However, every time we visit the Islands, it is one of the first things we book. Luau’s are an amazing experience and the Ohana feeling is found at each one we have been to.
We had an absolute blast at Old Lahaina Luau about 2 months ago! It was our first time going back since Covid, and even with a few changes the experience was better than ever! Everything was top notch and the staff was amazing! Looking forward to going again!
For our first trip to Kauai we absolutely loved the smith family luau, the best part being the grounds themselves. You walk or shuttle around the whole garden area right next to the river with peacocks 🦚, soursop trees, amazing flora and fauna and we really enjoyed it, as well as the buffet, drinks and live show after. This was in early 2016 so I’m sure it is a bit different now post COVID and more expensive.
@@TheHawaiiVacationGuide the actual grounds were phenomenally beautiful and we were impressed how the literal smith family does indeed do everything, take tickets, serve food and perform in the show.
A of weeks ago we went to the Aulani Luau in Ko Olina and in my opinion it was one of the best Luau we have ever been too. Several years ago we tried the Le Le Luau and we were disappointed with it. The Old Lahaina Luau was great we also went to a hotel Luau at Black Rock and it was great too.
Great photos and information of Luaus across the Islands! Budgets as well as personal expectations influence visitors’ choices of luaus. Yes, I have attended a Luau! 10:5710:57 Looking forward to your next video!! Mahalo🌴🌸🍍
Thanks for the information about Luaus, especially about booking in advance. We booked the one at the Polynesian Cultural Centre last night after watching this video...we're travelling at the start of April and when we went to choose our seats some were already booked.
I am NOT a fan of the Polynesian Cultural Center. I've been a few times, found some untruths. Such as they say the huts were built the same as in the old days (nails?), and the food just wasn't good. The atmosphere was too touristy. However, I have been to Paradise Cove, and that was great. Playing the old Hawaiian games, having good food (mostly) was a nice treat. Not to mention the bus ride to the Cove was pretty memorable and special. Pick and choose, choose well. It's been a few years since I've been back, but my memories take me there often--to Hawaii.
Thanks! We got the question a lot too. We liked your advice during our lunch on the Ko Olina luaus and other Oahu luaus, especially the food quality differences. You should make a comparison video or short!
We did it when we stayed at the Hale Koa in 2019, it was good....but I would not do another. I would say your 1st time in Hawaii give it a try if you want to see one.
This is a great video! thank you! I like the point you make with the question - do Vegas shows appeal to you? I think that question is spot on and really helpful in making a decision about attending a luau. For me, the answer is no, and maybe that's why we haven't attended a luau on our past two trips to HI. This summer, we're traveling to HI for a 3rd time (and now that I've been there, will I ever want to travel somewhere else?!!!). We're still not going to a luau, but instead have booked a Polynesian canoe sunset sail in Oahu, which includes a cultural component. I'm looking forward to this other option!
We're just getting ready to visit the islands for the 4th time. This time, we're going to the Old Lahaina Luau - first one. The other three visits we easily filled with other cultural and vacation activities without wanting to spend that much money on 'just a dinner and a show'. But we thought since this might be our last visit, we'd better check off that box!
My wife and I went to the Paradise Cove Luau in Ko Olina. We saw a beautiful sunset. The show was fun and entertaining. The pork dinner was pretty good. Pro tip - we rented a car, and it was so much easier getting out of there after the show. Instead of having to wait for a shuttle and then make stops at 5 other resorts.
thanks for sharing. I lived in Ko Olina so taking guests to Paradise Cove was my thing. It is a fun show with good activities. It gets crowded at the bar but for a big production show, they do a good job.
I stayed right near Laie on my last trip and almost booked here. Sooo glad we didn't. PCC is owned by the LDS Church and as a loud and proud queer person, I did not want to put a single dollar in the church's pocket, regardless of how many people love it. Would have loved to see the PCC but still, no regrets from me. Plus the dry/non-alcoholic aspect of a hugely expensive was not for us. We did Chief's which was so fun!
Any thoughts on doing the buffet and show at the PCC vs doing the Luau package? For us it's $200 more to do the Luau vs the buffet package, and i'm wondering if it's worth it.
We are going to Maui in April and still debating whether or not to go to Luau. We have two young ones (7 and 3) who are both terribly picky eaters. Im not sure if they will eat anything in the buffet. Also, the wiggly 3 year i doubt will let us enjoy the performance and food. For that reason, we are thinking of keeping Luau for our next Hawaii trip qhen kids are little older.
I recommend finding other cultural activities for them. See our things to do on maui with kids article: thehawaiivacationguide.com/things-to-do-in-maui-with-kids/
From an Australian arriving on Oahu ,this is my take on Luau’s. It’s a big expense ! Keep in mind the dollar exchange rate (at the moment it’s around 70cents - $1 AUD = 70cents USD) Let’s talk about the cost $150 to $280 USD is $230 to $420 AUD. Then you have to get to the Luau , more expense , Uber, Lyft, car hire etc. It’s an EXPENSIVE night out. As for the food , it’s not that exciting. Let’s say your in Waikiki (Aussie perspective) and you are going to spend $300 USD ($460 AUD) for two people. There is the Rock-A-Hula show (approx $130 USD each) it’s a buffet diner and show. Walking distance to all Waikiki hotels. I know what I’m going to !
I am with you as well I am coming from Canada 🇨🇦 and our exchange rate is not great right now either $1.34. This is exactly what I am going to do as well. You can also see free Lula shows in Oahu as well
@@cherylb2966 Enjoy your holiday! 🌴🏖🌺 I’ll be there in May for 14 nights. The Rock-A-Hula show sounds great , Elvis and Michael Jackson impersonators then finished off with a Hula show complete with fire ! The tip is , don’t bother getting the VIP package, just get the Original package. I heard other UA-camrs reviews about it. 🤙
@@RodSwansmad I will be there end of March. I have a friend that lives there she highly recommended the show and said the food was amazing as well. I managed to purchase my tickets through Expedia in Canadian currency so I am very happy with that. You as well enjoy your vacation it is my first and probably my only trip to Hawaii because of the expense.
@@cherylb2966 I’ve been there three times. My number 1 tip for a cheap afternoon! Get one of them yellow catamarans from Waikiki beach , they are near the Sheridan hotel. For a sun set cruise approx 90mins , you can’t go wrong ! Either get the Manu Kia about $50usd with 3 drinks or Na Koke II about $60usd all drinks are complimentary! Best way to see Waikiki from the water , take in Diamond Head , the Sunset and Waikiki lights on return.. I’m doing this the first afternoon I arrive ! They both have web sites to book through , you won’t be disappointed. P.S. Apologies to Jordan and Erika for chatting on this thread ! Shaka baby 🤙
While we loved the PCC adventure and will be going agian, it was a little pushy about promoting the LDS religion. The luau we attended there was very packed but in saying that the food and show were enjoyable (no alcohol due to the LDS association, not a bad thing just wish we knew to not expect it while investing in the experience). ALSO, the bussing accommodations were excellent and our package included a guide; I honestly would have preferred just taking a map and walking and reading at my leisure.
I'm going to say no. Thankful I did a cheap one with the Go Pass so I only paid $50 if we're talking price per activity. I'd only think it's good if you pony up for the quality ones.
We are huge fans of the PCC, have visited many times and encourage everyone we know visiting Oahu to make the full day of it. However, for your UA-cam, you may want to inform your viewers that no alcohol s served at PCC. Not a deal breaker but those looking for a luau/party combo may be disappointed!?!
I have been to Hawaii multiple times and have only been to one luau, Drums of the Pacific, it was amazing, but I am not sure that we need to go again. Having said that, they are a great night out, the food is delicious and frankly the performers are amazing.......I may be talking myself into another when I go back to Maui in July!!! 😂
Jordan, Erica, We have now watched your video three times, my mother and me from the UK. Our Hawaii trip is now one month away!! We are thinking about The Polynesian Centre Luau and going for the Ali'i Lu'au Package for $190 each, we would value your opinion on this greatly, can you help? I haven't been to Hawaii before my mother went in 1978 before I was born.
I have 3 kids uner 13 years old. I looked up the price for the tickets and then asked them if they would be interested. They could care less and would probably not show much interest if we did go. I am going to pass.
We enjoy sharing our favorite Hawaii experiences. A lu'au is one of them but we hear mixed reviews from community members so we thought it was appropriate to share details on what you can expect on a luau. Are they a can't miss activity? That is up to you to decide! Enjoy the show!
Back in the day in the 60s and 70s, went to a few family lu'au on O'ahu. They were authentic, with great local food, imu, dancing, and singing...
I LOVE the polynesian cultural center
This video just reminds me of how much I love this Luau ❤
Oh this is perfect! My husband and I are going to Hawai’i for the first time at the end of August and couldn’t decide if we should go to a luau. Thank you guys so much for the amazing work you guys do. You’re my go to source for all things Hawai’i travel!❤🌴
No and skip hana
@@rdbeazWhy no luau and why skip Hana?
Ha Breath if Life show
Henry: "That one has batteries." Best. Line. Ever.🤣
We loved the Polynesian culture center!
I think if you have never been to Hawai’i, you should definitely go to a Luau. However, every time we visit the Islands, it is one of the first things we book. Luau’s are an amazing experience and the Ohana feeling is found at each one we have been to.
Thanks for sharing!
We had an absolute blast at Old Lahaina Luau about 2 months ago! It was our first time going back since Covid, and even with a few changes the experience was better than ever! Everything was top notch and the staff was amazing! Looking forward to going again!
It’s one of the best on the islands. But sells out fast. Thanks for sharing!
For our first trip to Kauai we absolutely loved the smith family luau, the best part being the grounds themselves. You walk or shuttle around the whole garden area right next to the river with peacocks 🦚, soursop trees, amazing flora and fauna and we really enjoyed it, as well as the buffet, drinks and live show after. This was in early 2016 so I’m sure it is a bit different now post COVID and more expensive.
Smith Family Luau is a classic and a great location. I don’t think it will ever change.
@@TheHawaiiVacationGuide the actual grounds were phenomenally beautiful and we were impressed how the literal smith family does indeed do everything, take tickets, serve food and perform in the show.
It’s a must. The Old Laihana Lu’au is awesome.
It’s a classic!
A of weeks ago we went to the Aulani Luau in Ko Olina and in my opinion it was one of the best Luau we have ever been too. Several years ago we tried the Le Le Luau and we were disappointed with it. The Old Lahaina Luau was great we also went to a hotel Luau at Black Rock and it was great too.
You guys are the best🎉🤙🏽🤙🏽
Great photos and information of Luaus across the Islands! Budgets as well as personal expectations influence visitors’ choices of luaus. Yes, I have attended a Luau! 10:57 10:57 Looking forward to your next video!! Mahalo🌴🌸🍍
Thanks for watching and well said on luau choices.
Thanks for the information about Luaus, especially about booking in advance. We booked the one at the Polynesian Cultural Centre last night after watching this video...we're travelling at the start of April and when we went to choose our seats some were already booked.
I am NOT a fan of the Polynesian Cultural Center. I've been a few times, found some untruths. Such as they say the huts were built the same as in the old days (nails?), and the food just wasn't good. The atmosphere was too touristy. However, I have been to Paradise Cove, and that was great. Playing the old Hawaiian games, having good food (mostly) was a nice treat. Not to mention the bus ride to the Cove was pretty memorable and special. Pick and choose, choose well. It's been a few years since I've been back, but my memories take me there often--to Hawaii.
Great video guys! It's one of the questions my clients ask the most. I'll refer this video to them.
Thanks! We got the question a lot too. We liked your advice during our lunch on the Ko Olina luaus and other Oahu luaus, especially the food quality differences. You should make a comparison video or short!
@@TheHawaiiVacationGuide awe thank you. Great idea! I sure will!
We did it when we stayed at the Hale Koa in 2019, it was good....but I would not do another. I would say your 1st time in Hawaii give it a try if you want to see one.
This is a great video! thank you! I like the point you make with the question - do Vegas shows appeal to you? I think that question is spot on and really helpful in making a decision about attending a luau. For me, the answer is no, and maybe that's why we haven't attended a luau on our past two trips to HI. This summer, we're traveling to HI for a 3rd time (and now that I've been there, will I ever want to travel somewhere else?!!!). We're still not going to a luau, but instead have booked a Polynesian canoe sunset sail in Oahu, which includes a cultural component. I'm looking forward to this other option!
We get a lot of enjoyment by trying other cultural activities. We hope videos like this help visitors find the right activities for their trips.
We're just getting ready to visit the islands for the 4th time. This time, we're going to the Old Lahaina Luau - first one. The other three visits we easily filled with other cultural and vacation activities without wanting to spend that much money on 'just a dinner and a show'. But we thought since this might be our last visit, we'd better check off that box!
You picked a great one for your first one. Have a great fourth trip Marci!
My wife and I went to the Paradise Cove Luau in Ko Olina. We saw a beautiful sunset. The show was fun and entertaining. The pork dinner was pretty good. Pro tip - we rented a car, and it was so much easier getting out of there after the show. Instead of having to wait for a shuttle and then make stops at 5 other resorts.
thanks for sharing. I lived in Ko Olina so taking guests to Paradise Cove was my thing. It is a fun show with good activities. It gets crowded at the bar but for a big production show, they do a good job.
@@TheHawaiiVacationGuide Nice! I'd love to spend more time there. I play golf. We found the Hidden Cove before the show. She's a flight attendant.
I stayed right near Laie on my last trip and almost booked here. Sooo glad we didn't. PCC is owned by the LDS Church and as a loud and proud queer person, I did not want to put a single dollar in the church's pocket, regardless of how many people love it. Would have loved to see the PCC but still, no regrets from me. Plus the dry/non-alcoholic aspect of a hugely expensive was not for us. We did Chief's which was so fun!
Any thoughts on doing the buffet and show at the PCC vs doing the Luau package? For us it's $200 more to do the Luau vs the buffet package, and i'm wondering if it's worth it.
We have an article on it! I like the island nations and Ha show the most thehawaiivacationguide.com/alii-luau-vs-gateway-buffet/
@@TheHawaiiVacationGuide Thank you!
We are going to Maui in April and still debating whether or not to go to Luau. We have two young ones (7 and 3) who are both terribly picky eaters. Im not sure if they will eat anything in the buffet. Also, the wiggly 3 year i doubt will let us enjoy the performance and food. For that reason, we are thinking of keeping Luau for our next Hawaii trip qhen kids are little older.
I recommend finding other cultural activities for them. See our things to do on maui with kids article: thehawaiivacationguide.com/things-to-do-in-maui-with-kids/
From an Australian arriving on Oahu ,this is my take on Luau’s. It’s a big expense ! Keep in mind the dollar exchange rate (at the moment it’s around 70cents - $1 AUD = 70cents USD) Let’s talk about the cost $150 to $280 USD is $230 to $420 AUD. Then you have to get to the Luau , more expense , Uber, Lyft, car hire etc. It’s an EXPENSIVE night out. As for the food , it’s not that exciting.
Let’s say your in Waikiki (Aussie perspective) and you are going to spend $300 USD ($460 AUD) for two people. There is the Rock-A-Hula show (approx $130 USD each) it’s a buffet diner and show. Walking distance to all Waikiki hotels. I know what I’m going to !
I am with you as well I am coming from Canada 🇨🇦 and our exchange rate is not great right now either $1.34. This is exactly what I am going to do as well. You can also see free Lula shows in Oahu as well
@@cherylb2966 Enjoy your holiday! 🌴🏖🌺 I’ll be there in May for 14 nights. The Rock-A-Hula show sounds great , Elvis and Michael Jackson impersonators then finished off with a Hula show complete with fire ! The tip is , don’t bother getting the VIP package, just get the Original package. I heard other UA-camrs reviews about it. 🤙
the free hula shows at the Royal Hawaiian Center are excellent. Oahu is full of cultural activities and free activities around Waikiki!
@@RodSwansmad I will be there end of March. I have a friend that lives there she highly recommended the show and said the food was amazing as well. I managed to purchase my tickets through Expedia in Canadian currency so I am very happy with that. You as well enjoy your vacation it is my first and probably my only trip to Hawaii because of the expense.
@@cherylb2966 I’ve been there three times. My number 1 tip for a cheap afternoon! Get one of them yellow catamarans from Waikiki beach , they are near the Sheridan hotel. For a sun set cruise approx 90mins , you can’t go wrong ! Either get the Manu Kia about $50usd with 3 drinks or Na Koke II about $60usd all drinks are complimentary! Best way to see Waikiki from the water , take in Diamond Head , the Sunset and Waikiki lights on return.. I’m doing this the first afternoon I arrive ! They both have web sites to book through , you won’t be disappointed.
P.S. Apologies to Jordan and Erika for chatting on this thread ! Shaka baby 🤙
While we loved the PCC adventure and will be going agian, it was a little pushy about promoting the LDS religion. The luau we attended there was very packed but in saying that the food and show were enjoyable (no alcohol due to the LDS association, not a bad thing just wish we knew to not expect it while investing in the experience). ALSO, the bussing accommodations were excellent and our package included a guide; I honestly would have preferred just taking a map and walking and reading at my leisure.
I've been to Hawaii so many times I lost count and only went to one Luau.
If that tells you anything.
ps. I'm coming back next Friday! So excited!!!
I’m glad you missed the big storm! Have a safe flight!!
We did the PCC’s haunted lagoon back in 2010 that was a blast, yet they stopped that experience a couple years after our visit.
Hey friends, love your content! Keep it coming.
Just one thing I noticed, Big Island has the KOHALA coast. Kahala is on Oahu.
Great info! Do any have assigned seating? Or is it flat price and first come first serve on seats closest to stage? Thanks!
The premium tickets get you closer to the stage. Standard ticket is farther. The host will seat you when you check-in. Thanks for the question.
Thank you for the informative videos! Best to your family.
We are going to the Big Island in October and are planning to attend a luau. How far in advance should we book our reservation?
A month or more out to get the date you want. Check the cancellation policy. October is a slow month but some luaus are popular
@@TheHawaiiVacationGuide Thank you!
Now how did I. Miss that bakery?
OF COURSE YOU DO A LUAU! ONLY ONE PLACE IN THE WORLD THAT DOES THEM
I'm going to say no. Thankful I did a cheap one with the Go Pass so I only paid $50 if we're talking price per activity. I'd only think it's good if you pony up for the quality ones.
We are huge fans of the PCC, have visited many times and encourage everyone we know visiting Oahu to make the full day of it.
However, for your UA-cam, you may want to inform your viewers that no alcohol s served at PCC. Not a deal breaker but those looking for a luau/party combo may be disappointed!?!
that is a good point, we meant to put it as a caption in the video. It can feel like an expensive luau without a drinks option.
I have be to Hawaii many times but would never go to a Luau I see it as a tourist trap.
I have been to Hawaii multiple times and have only been to one luau, Drums of the Pacific, it was amazing, but I am not sure that we need to go again. Having said that, they are a great night out, the food is delicious and frankly the performers are amazing.......I may be talking myself into another when I go back to Maui in July!!! 😂
Jordan, Erica, We have now watched your video three times, my mother and me from the UK. Our Hawaii trip is now one month away!! We are thinking about The Polynesian Centre Luau and going for the Ali'i Lu'au Package for $190 each, we would value your opinion on this greatly, can you help? I haven't been to Hawaii before my mother went in 1978 before I was born.
Aloha Clare, have fun at the luau! You will enjoy the Alii and the PCC. Plus the drive up there is gorgeous. Have a wonderful time!
@@TheHawaiiVacationGuide Thank You so much, the next thing to arrange is Pearl Harbour.
I have 3 kids uner 13 years old. I looked up the price for the tickets and then asked them if they would be interested. They could care less and would probably not show much interest if we did go. I am going to pass.
that is a good way to do it!
Chiefs lu'au is the best.
I’ve been to several luau’s. Entertainment was good, but Hawaiian food is just plain nasty. Think about it……spam is the favorite food there….hmmmm
No
No it is NOT!
I could do without the dead pig. Everything else is ok.
A great scam to squeeze out a bunch of money for a bit of show and average food.
A tourist trap.
Skip it, save the money.