That most Hawaiian of parties, the luau, is something that should be put your must-do list when visiting Oahu, way to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture. They allow you to sample island foods, lose yourself in the soft strumming of a ukulele or learn to dance the hula to the beat of a koa drum. It's not hard to find the best places on the island to sample poi, fresh pineapple and kalua pig. Kick off your shoes, have a mai tai or two and enjoy the experience.
Royal Hawaiian Luau
The Royal Hawaiian Hotel on Waikiki Beach has been welcoming visitors since it opened in 1926. Though many high rise hotels now dwarf the structure, the Moorish design and bright pink color have made the Royal an unofficial icon of Waikiki. Every Monday night, the hotel hosts its own oceanfront luau, called Aha Aina--a Royal Celebration. It is a bit more formal than the traditional luau and one of the most expensive on the island, but if you want to combine island cuisine with first-rate entertainment and table service it is an excellent choice. Discounted rates are available for guests of the hotel.
Royal Hawaiian Hotel
2259 Kalakaua Ave.
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
(808) 923-7311
royal-hawaiian.com/the-resort/dining-entertainment/aha-aina-a-royal-celebration/
Hilton Hawaiian Village
On the western end of Waikiki Beach, the Hilton Hawaiian Village presents its Waikiki Starlight Luau celebration every week from Sunday through Thursday. Guests are called to the meeting place, the Ocean Crystal Chapel gazebo, by the traditional blowing of a conch shell and guided to the luau site. Take part in a pineapple toss, conch shell blowing contest or get your own Hawaiian tattoo. Join the group hula lesson. Enjoy the variety of traditional and mainland style foods, then the show Voyage Across the South Seas that includes Hawaiian, Samoan and Tahitian music and dancing.
Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort Spa
2005 Kalia Road
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
(808) 949-4321
hiltonhawaiianvillage.com/luau/index.cfm
Germaine's Luau
Located near Barber's Point, 27 miles west of Waikiki, Germaine's Luau has been welcoming guests to its private beach sine 1976. This luau is done in a more traditional fashion, from the imu ceremony (unearthing of the pig from the underground oven) to the Samoan Slap Dance. The western-facing beachfront location is perfect for watching the colorful Hawaiian sunsets. Tickets for the luau can be purchased online or through various tourist desks throughout Waikiki. Bus transportation from designated hotels in Waikiki to the site is included.
Germaine's Luau
91-119 Olai St.
Kapolei,Hawaii 96707
(800) 367-5655
(808) 949-6626
germainesluau.com/
Paradise Cove Luau
The most extravagant beachfront luau on the island is the Paradise Cove Luau, held on the grounds of the Ko Olina Resort on Oahu's western shore. A replica Hawaiian village sits on the property, with the various huts giving guests the chance to learn lei making, weave a hat or basket out of palm fronds or play the Hawaiian version of checkers using black and white stones on a large flat rock. Guests can dress in grass skirts and face paint and participate in the hukilau ceremony--the bringing in of the fishing nets. The imu ceremony is traditionally done, with chants and drum beats. Dinner is a combination of traditional fare including poi (taro starch) and haupia (coconut pudding) and western dishes for those not so adventurous. This luau is a favorite of families because of the variety of activities and the opportunity for hands-on experiences. Bus transportation from Waikiki is provided.
Paradise Cove Luau
92-1089 Aliinui Drive
Kapolei, Hawaii 96707
(800) 775-2683
(808) 842-5911
paradisecovehawaii.com/
Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center, located on the north shore of Oahu, is a well-done theme park where guests can explore several Polynesian cultures at the same time. The center is really several different villages including Hawaiian, Tahitian, Samoan, Fijian, Tongan and Aotearoan (New Zealand). Each village is authentically recreated and gives guests the change to learn crafts, talk story and get to know each culture. Authentic South Pacific and Hawaiian food recipes are used. Considered the most authentic of Oahu's luaus, the Alii Luau operates Monday through Saturday and can either be purchased on its own or as part of one of the Polynesian Cultural Center packages. Transportation from selected Waikiki Hotels is included. Note: No alcohol is served or allowed.
Polynesian Cultural Center
55-370 Kamehameha Highway
Laie, Hawaii 96762
(800) 367-7060
(808) 293-3333
polynesia.com/alii-luau/index.html
