The Ultimate Guide to the Best Luaus in Maui
Maui, one of Hawaii’s most stunning islands, is known for its gorgeous beaches, lush landscapes, and warm aloha spirit. But one of the most iconic experiences you absolutely can’t miss while visiting is a traditional Hawaiian luau. A luau offers a rich cultural experience full of food, music, dancing, and unforgettable memories.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to choose the best luau in Maui. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, we’ll make sure you’re prepared for an evening you’ll never forget.
Click here to book your Maui luau experience on Viator and secure your spot early—these shows fill up fast!
Related Post: The Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Maui
What Makes a Great Luau?
Not all luaus are created equal, and the best ones offer a well-balanced blend of authenticity, entertainment, and value. Here’s what to look for:
Authenticity
A meaningful luau honors Hawaiian traditions, stories, and history. Look for shows that include:
- Traditional hula (both ancient and modern styles)
- Polynesian storytelling and chants
- Fire knife dancing (more common in Samoan and pan-Polynesian luaus)
- Cultural demonstrations like lei-making, kapa printing, or coconut husking
Want to get in the spirit before you go? Grab a Hawaiian-style shirt or dress to blend right in!
Food (Come Hungry!)
A Hawaiian luau is also a feast. The standout menus feature:
- Kalua pig, slow-roasted in an underground imu oven
- Poi (a staple taro dish)
- Lomi-lomi salmon
- Poke (raw marinated fish)
- Fresh tropical fruit and, of course, Mai Tais and Blue Hawaiians
Pro tip: Some luaus now offer vegan and gluten-free options. Always check ahead!
Setting the Scene
From oceanfront to lush garden settings or luxury resort lawns, the atmosphere makes a huge difference. Sunset views? Ocean breezes? Palm trees swaying overhead? Yes, please.
Entertainment Quality
Beyond food and setting, a great luau keeps you captivated with:
- Live music (slack key guitar is a treat!)
- Talented dancers with genuine passion
- Clear storytelling that ties the experience together
Value for Money
Luaus can range from $100 to $250+ per person. Consider what’s included:
- Open bar? Premium seating?
- Cultural activities pre-show?
- Duration of performance and meal
Family-Friendly or Adults-Only?
Some luaus cater to kids with games and crafts, while others lean romantic and upscale. Choose accordingly!
Detailed Reviews of the Best Luaus in Maui
1. Maui Nui Luau at Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
Best for: A classic beachfront luau with a touch of magic
If your dream is to watch Polynesian dancers sway under the stars as the ocean waves crash nearby, this is the one. Held right on Kaʻanapali Beach, the Maui Nui Luau offers a lively, colorful show complete with an imu ceremony, lei greeting, and dances from across the Pacific.
Highlights:
- All-you-can-eat buffet with traditional Hawaiian favorites
- Stunning sunset views
- Cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock (weather permitting)
- Holiday-themed menus on special nights
Insider Tip: Arrive early to catch the sunset from the beach—it’s epic.
Book your stay at Sheraton Maui Resort for the ultimate luau-and-lodging combo.
2. Te Au Moana Luau – Wailea Beach Marriott
Best for: Families and cultural depth
Te Au Moana translates to “The Ocean Tide,” and that spirit flows through the entire performance. This family-friendly luau in Wailea blends traditional Hawaiian storytelling with modern flair, featuring dancers who portray the history of fishing, gathering, and Polynesian voyaging.
Highlights:
- Fire knife performance finale
- Lei or necklace greeting
- Three-course, family-style plated meal
- Oceanfront seating in beautiful Wailea
Why we love it: It’s cultural, family-friendly, and incredibly scenic.
Bring along a light travel wrap or shawl—nights can get breezy near the ocean!
3. Gilligans’ Island Luau – Kihei
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers or those looking for a smaller crowd
Tucked away in Kihei, Gilligans’ Island Luau offers a more laid-back experience in a cozy venue. It’s great for families or folks looking for something casual, authentic, and unpretentious.
Highlights:
- Hula from Hawaiʻi, New Zealand, and Tahiti
- All-you-can-eat Hawaiian buffet
- Smaller crowd = more intimate vibe
- Includes dinner, drinks, and entertainment
Pro Tip: This one’s best if you have a rental car. Free parking is a plus.
Need a rental car? Compare deals here for easy Kihei access.
4. Myths of Maui Luau – Royal Lahaina Resort
Best for: Families and first-timers
A classic beachfront luau, the Myths of Maui pulls out all the stops—live drumming, fire-knife dancing, and a festive vibe that’s perfect for families.
Highlights:
- Kids’ buffet options (yes, picky eaters rejoice!)
- Optional VIP upgrade for front-section seating and early buffet access
- Emphasis on Hawaiian myths and legends
- Great views and casual resort ambiance
Pro Tip: General admission is great, but the VIP upgrade is worth it for better seats and shorter lines.
5. Feast at Mokapu – Andaz Maui at Wailea
Best for: Luxury travelers and food lovers
This is more than a luau. Feast at Mokapu is a culinary and cultural experience. Held on the immaculate lawn at the Andaz Maui, this show offers a deep dive into Hawaiian history and values, accompanied by gourmet food and unlimited handcrafted cocktails.
Highlights:
- Plated ʻohana-style meal (locally sourced, beautifully presented)
- Premium seating upgrades available
- Focus on Hawaiian values and connection to the land
- Gorgeous sunset views
Worth it? 100% yes…if you’re up for a luxe splurge.
Travel in style with a resort-ready tote bag to carry your essentials in chic aloha fashion.
6. Wailele Polynesian Luau – Westin Maui Resort
Best for: Fire show lovers and Kaʻanapali guests
Set on a beautiful oceanfront lawn, the Wailele Luau delivers big with energetic dances, a vivid storyline, and jaw-dropping fire knife performances.
Highlights:
- Kahiko hula and storytelling of Maui the demi-god
- Gourmet buffet with dessert station and tropical drinks
- Consistently high entertainment value
- Located at the Westin on Kaʻanapali Beach
Good to Know: This one’s very popular—book early!
Staying nearby? Book your room at the Westin Maui for front-row convenience.
7. Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise – Pride of Maui
Best for: Sunset lovers and ocean explorers
Craving a luau on the water? The Pride of Maui Sunset Luau Cruise is for you. Instead of a resort lawn, you’ll be sailing near Molokini crater on a luxury catamaran, sipping craft cocktails, enjoying BBQ, and watching a live hula show under the stars.
Highlights:
- Open bar with craft beer, blended drinks
- Generous buffet: BBQ ribs, chicken, veggies, and more
- Whale watching (in season!)
- Gorgeous sunset views from the deck
Perfect for: Something a little different and super romantic.
Don’t forget motion sickness bands if you’re not used to being on the water.
How to Choose the Right Luau for You
Still not sure which one fits? Let’s break it down a little more.
Couples & Honeymooners
- Go for: Feast at Mokapu, Sunset Cruise, Maui Nui Luau
- Why: Romantic settings, plated meals, dreamy views
Families
- Go for: Te Au Moana, Myths of Maui, Gilligans’
- Why: Kid-friendly meals, lively shows, and cultural variety
On a Budget
- Go For: Gilligans’, Myths of Maui (general admission)
- Why: Great value, still big on experience
Luxury Seekers
- Go for: Feast at Mokapu, Wailele Luau
- Why: Gourmet food, stylish setups, VIP seating
When to Book & Tips for the Best Experience
- Book Early: Many luaus sell out weeks (or even months) ahead.
- Arrive Early: Better seating, more time for activities and pre-show fun.
- Dress Code: Think “aloha chic”—resort wear, tropical prints, sandals. Bring a light sweater or shawl.
- Allergies or Dietary Needs? Let them know in advance—most are accommodating.
- Weather Warning: Most luaus are outdoors. Check the cancellation policy and have a backup plan just in case.
Honorable Mentions
- Royal Lahaina Luau (Myths of Maui): A budget-friendly, solid option with oceanfront views.
- The Feast at Lele (Lahaina) – Intimate, upscale, but on pause due to recent events.
- Community Luaus & Local Events: Ask around when you arrive—churches or schools sometimes host their own, offering a raw, authentic experience for less.
Final Thoughts: Is a Luau in Maui Worth It?
Absolutely, 100% yes.
A luau isn’t just dinner and entertainment—it’s a celebration of culture, a feast for the senses, and a chance to connect with the heart of Hawaiʻi. Whether you go traditional or luxe, you’ll walk away with full bellies, big smiles, and memories that last a lifetime.
And let’s be real—you can’t not go to a luau when you’re in Maui. It’s one of those bucket-list experiences that captures the magic of the islands.
Ready to pick your perfect luau?
Here’s a quick recap:
- Classic Vibes: Maui Nui Luau
- Cultural & Family-Friendly: Te Au Moana
- Small & Intimate: Gilligans’ Luau
- Big Family Fun: Myths of Maui
- Luxury Experience: Feast at Mokapu
- Epic Fire Show: Wailele Luau
- Something Different: Sunset Luau Cruise
Still have questions? Drop them in the comments…we’d love to help!
And if you’ve been to a Maui luau before, share your favorite experience.
🌐 Explore top-rated Maui luaus and reserve your spot now on Viator.
