In ancient times Luaus or ‘aha aina’, were Hawaiian feasts held at sunset to celebrate special occasions such as a boy coming of age or someone performing a great endeavor. As part of the celebration, a pig was roasted in an oven or ‘imu‘ below ground. A ceremony took place when the pig was lifted from the oven, and then the party began.
Present day Hawaiian families continue the custom, celebrating birthdays, graduations, and weddings with a Luau. Unless you have friends in Hawaii, you are not likely to be invited to attend a private one, but never mind that, there are plenty of Luaus held nightly just for visitors
Ali’i Luau
Ali’i Luau, presented by the Polynesian Cultural Center on the island of Oahu, has won the prestigious Kahili Award, given to honor excellence in the preservation of the Hawaiian Spirit. Admission to the Polynesian Cultural Center is required in order to experience this luau, so come early and enjoy the attractions it offers. You can explore the seven villages representing Polynesian culture; enjoy native music, a canoe ride, arts and crafts, or a demonstration of fire starting while waiting for the Luau to start.
At the Luau you’ll be greeted Hawaiian style with a smile and a lei, then escorted to your table. Drinks are served while you wait for the celebration to begin. First is the solemn Imu Ceremony and then the Ali’i (Royal) Court arrives. A performance by musicians and dancers takes place while you enjoy your luau feast.
The entertainment begins with the hula hahiko, an ancient, sensual dance, followed by a musical journey through Hawaiian history. After dark, you’ll be taken across the park to the amphitheater, where you’ll be treated to the Horizons Polynesian Review featuring over 100 native performers.
There are four luau packages from which to choose, prices starting at $80.00 per adult, and $56.00 per child aged 3 to 11.
To purchase tickets you may call toll free (808) 293-3333 local or toll free (800) 367-7060 national.
Old Lahaina Luau
Located oceanfront at 1251 Front Street in Lahaina, Maui, Old Lahaina Luau is a traditional Hawaiian Luau. “We are not affiliated with a hotel,” says Julie Yoneyana, spokesperson for Old Lahaina Luau. The Luau is our business.” Guests receive a fresh flower lei greeting, a tropical drink and a personalized souvenir program. Photographers are on hand to take pictures.
Guests watch as the Kalua pig is unearthed from the imu and then they are treated to a royal buffet feast. “Native ingredients are used, modified a bit for palatability,” says Yoneyana.
At sunset the entertainment begins. “Our show actually tells you the history of Hawaii, through the ancient hula dance, with costume changes for different periods and music.” Old Lahaina Luau has won the coveted ‘Kahili Award’ and the ‘Keep it Hawaii Award’ presented by the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau. “We’ve won a lot,” says Yoneyana. The Old Lahaina Luau has been featured in many magazines, and television shows including Food Network and Travel Channel. Celebrities who have come to partake include Donald Trump, Robin Williams, Kenny Loggins, Eddie Van Halen, and Valerie Bertinelli.
Reservations are required and will be guaranteed with a confirmation number by calling (808) 667-1998 or toll free (800) 248-5828. The luau is put on nightly, with times varying with the seasons. April 1st thru September 30th, the luau begins at 5:45pm and ends at 8:30pm. October 1st thru March 31st, it begins at 5:15pm and ends at 8:00 pm. The price for adults is $85.42 including tax. The price for children 12 years and under is $54.17 including tax. Gratuity is additional.
Paradise Cove Luau
Located on the grounds of the Ko Olina Resort, the Paradise Cove Luau encompasses 12 beachfront acres. This luau offers a range of cultural activities including Hukilau, Shower of Flowers, arts and crafts, demonstrations, storytelling, games of skill and daring, and a Royal Court Procession.
After the sunset imu ceremony the feasting begins. A Hawaiian Buffet offers a wide selection of native dishes, or, you can opt for the Royal Ali’i Service which provides preferred seating and table service. A Deluxe Package is available for those who prefer individual dining needs, with a customized menu. The Deluxe Package also includes Royal Box Seating, a souvenir arrival photo, and a special Paradise Cove Souvenir gift.
A Polynesian Show is performed with native music, Tahitian and Samoan dances, and ends with a fire knife dance.
Make advance reservations by calling (808) 356-1800 or toll free (888) 349-7888. Three packages are offered starting at $73.00 per adult 19 years and older, $63.00 per youth 13 to 18 years, and $53.00 per child four to 12 years. The luau is performed nightly.
Round trip transportation is available from Waikiki for $10.00 per person.
Royal Hawaiian Luau
The Royal Hawaiian Luau, located at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, is the only luau held on Waikiki Beach. More formal than the others, the luau features Oceanside seating, fresh flower lei greeting, Mai Tai cocktail, all you can eat Hawaiian buffet, authentic Hawaiian music and entertainment, and a Polynesian dance show.
You may call toll free (888) 909-0010 to make reservations. The luau is held on Monday only, beginning at 5:30pm. The price per adult is $94.88. Children 5 years to 12 years are $52.71 per child. Less than 5 years are free.
Kauai Coconut Beach Luau (Hiva Pasefika)
The Kauai Coconut Beach or Hiva Pasefika Luau is located on Kauai, the oldest and most northern of the main Hawaiian Islands. Held at the Resort Quest Hotel at Makaiwa, this luau is the recipient of the “Keep It Hawaii” Award presented by the Hawaii Visitor and Convention Bureau and the Kahili Award for “best show” and “most authentic”.
The evening begins with a lei greeting, torch lighting ceremony and traditional Imu Ceremony, followed by an all-you-can eat buffet and unlimited Mai Tai’s. Then begins the Hawaiian song and dance show, taking you on a voyage of discovery from Tahiti to Hawaii, featuring conch shells and pulsing drums. Tahitian dancers in traditional Ote’a costumes hula to the rhythms of Toere. Nifaoti” or fire dance of Samoa and Hawaiian Wedding Song are other features.
The luau begins nightly except Monday, at 5:30pm. Dress is casual or don your aloha wear. There are photo opportunities and arts and crafts demonstrations. A traditional morning ceremony takes place at 10:45am in front of the Luau pavilion when the chefs prepare the Kalua Pig in the imu.
The cost per adult over 19 years old is $68.00. Teens 13-18 years are $45.00 per person. Children 3 to 12 are $35.00 per child, and seniors over 60 years are $62.00 per person. Prices include tax. Add $10.00 per person for premium front row seating. You may call 1-877-661-6655 or 1-808-661-6655 for reservations.
References:
Julie Yoneyana, Old Lahaina Luau, 1251 Front Street, Lahaina, Maui,
1-800-248-5828, www.oldlahainaluau.com, [email protected]
Coconut Beach Luau, http://www.best-luaus.com/
Royal Hawaiian Luau, http://www.vacationidea.com/hawaii/royalhawaiianluau.html
Polynesian Cultural Center, www.polynesianculturalcenter.com
Old Lahaina Luau, www.gohawaii.about.com/od/mauiluaus/a/oldlahainaluau_p.htm
Kahili Award, www.alternative-hawaii.com
