Best Luau in Oahu

A luau is a typical Hawaiian holiday and celebration of life, which can be held for many reasons. But regardless of why the celebration is held, luaus will always include traditional food and lots of fun in family homes.

If you're a traveller in Hawaii and want to be part of this curious and beautiful tradition, you can visit one of the luaus that are held all over the main islands by locals for tourists. If you're planning what to see and do on Oahu, don't hesitate to include a luau-related activity on your bucket list. Here's a breakdown of the different types of shows, as well as prices and services included, so you can choose the one you like best and feel part of the local culture.

The first choice for those wishing to witness one of the luau celebrations is to attend one of the traditional dance and music shows. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the island's culture as you interact up close with the local culture's tribe of warriors and hula dancers and enjoy an evening in true Hawaiian style.

Traditional performances usually include a lei welcome, an artistic fire knife dance number and poi balls. In addition, you can participate in a variety of native activities such as headband weaving, hula lessons and much more. As you can see, fun is guaranteed.

The price of the show includes a cocktail reception and a grand traditional Hawaiian feast including pineapple glazed chicken, seasonal fish and kalua pig. You can learn all about the legends of the different tribes through exciting and moving theatrical performances and marvel at the art and culture of the Luau.

Interesting facts:

• Duration: 2 hours.
• Price: from €130

This type of show is characterised by the fusion of Hawaiian culture with components of modern culture, resulting in an original and completely unique show.

The most famous of these is The Legends in Concert Waikiki® 'Rock-a-Hula', which brings together tributes to different international artists such as Elvis Presley, Celine Dion and Michael Jackson. It is one of the most successful and internationally renowned.

These shows are usually held at the Royal Hawaiian Center on Oahu, and you have the option to purchase VIP treatment by upgrading your rate and receiving cocktails, premium seating, dinner or backstage access.

It's a great option for those who want to get an introduction to this type of celebration, take advantage of an affordable rate and have fun. So, if you are travelling with children on Oahu, consider this alternative as it is very convenient.

Interesting facts:

• Duration: 2 to 3 hours.
• Price: from €70

This proposal is quite different from others offered on the island. It is a 2 hour cruise at sunset, with a truly majestic landscape. The boats vary according to the company but generally have a capacity of around 1500 people, so they have great comforts.

As you cruise the beautiful Hawaiian waters, you'll enjoy a 5-course dinner, where you'll savour both meat and seafood. But the best part is undoubtedly a world-class luau show while you enjoy your meal.

Note that on Fridays, a fireworks show is held at the end of the ride, so you'll gain an extra hour of sailing and a completely magical evening.

This option is definitely one of the best sunset cruises on Oahu and is not to be missed.

Interesting facts:

• Duration: 2 hours.
• Price: from €100

This option is for those who are looking for a Luau experience but do not want a massive or popular event. This proposal is completely intimate, allowing only a small group of 40 attendees.

The event is usually held at the Imperial Hawaii Resort, where you will explore a day of different cultural activities, an authentic Luau dinner with delicious options and a traditional Polynesian show.

You can, for example, learn how to make shell necklaces and indulge your senses with an impressive blend of Hawaiian culture and dance.

Traditional menu options include Kalua Pig cabbage, Shoyu chicken, macaroni salad, chicken long rice and more. But of course, there's no shortage of Haupia drizzle cake, a Hawaiian classic.

And last but not least, the price of the show also includes Mai Tai, a cocktail typical of this fascinating culture.

Interesting facts:

• Duration: 2 hours and a half.
• Price: from 140€.

This Hawaiian experience option focuses on a world-class entertainment and buffet dinner with delicious options. If you are looking for a choice of culinary experimentation over a typical Hawaiian feast and authentic cultural dance, this option is for you.

These shows take place onthe best beaches of Oahu, where you can learn about the history of the Polynesians' arrival to the Hawaiian Islands, how their cultures evolved and how they have been distributed throughout the different territories.

Afterwards, the hula dances will begin and the fire dancers will perform jaw-dropping choreographies.

The food is prepared by a renowned chef, where you will combine the different dishes with original and personalised cocktails to enhance the flavours and improve this gastronomic experience even more.

Interesting facts:

• Duration: from 1 to 3 hours.
• Price: from 150€.

If you want a more complete experience and not just a luau, you have the option of combining it with a full day tour of the Waimea Valley. This tour is an immersive afternoon of Hawaiian culture that you will remember forever.

Attractions include dance performances, a traditional dinner and entrance to Waimea Valley. You will tour the incredible Waimea Falls, one of the best hikes in and around Oahu, and swim nearby.

Definitely a completely authentic and wild experience in the middle of Hawaii.

You'll also have access to a tour of the botanical gardens, and you'll be able to enjoy the beautiful flora that make up the botanical gardens.

The day will continue with a dinner of traditional Hawaiian flavours and specialties for the occasion, while enjoying traditional Polynesian dancing and professional cultural performances.

Don't miss out on the chance to savour the best tropical cocktails while enjoying the natural and unspoiled surroundings on the island of Oahu. Combine a luau experience with a day of discovery of the Waimea Valley.

Interesting facts:

• Duration: 5 hours.
• Price: from €130

This type of show is for those looking for an exclusive experience in the middle of Kilohana Plantation on Kauai, a 25-hectare agricultural park.

This is an unforgettable evening where you can sample the most delicious island cuisine and enjoy a wonderful Hawaiian storytelling-themed show.

The evening begins with dinner at a prestigious restaurant, such as Gaylord's.

Typically, the menu includes four courses, including prawns, Pacific blue crab, local field green salad, Hoisin-glazed pork ribs and dessert options such as profiteroles with vanilla ice cream, among others.

After dinner comes the entertainment, with front row seats to enjoy the wonderful Luau Kalamaku show, which is based on an homage to Kauai mythology.

The show is about an hour long, where you can marvel at various live Hawaiian music artists. There will also be performances by graceful hula dancers, fire poi ball twirlers and fire knife dancers.

Interesting facts:

• Duration: 4 hours.
• Price: from 200€.