4 Best Luaus to Experience on the Big Island This Year
Aloha, fellow adventurers! If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii this year, you won’t want to miss out on the vibrant and unforgettable experience of a traditional luau. From mesmerizing hula dances to mouthwatering feasts, luaus offer a unique glimpse into Hawaiian culture and hospitality.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the 4 best luaus on the Big Island that promise an evening filled with entertainment, delicious food, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking for new experiences, these luaus are sure to delight your senses and immerse you in the spirit of aloha.
Understanding Luaus
Luaus come from old Hawaiian traditions. They were first called ‘aha’aina. These events were special celebrations for important times and chiefs. With new Western influences, these traditions changed and became more festive and welcoming.
Now, luaus are a favorite way to enjoy the spirit of Hawaii. They show you a bit of the islands’ history, stories, and food. The fancy costumes and the rhythmic drumbeats make the experience exciting. Each part of a luau helps you feel the true Aloha spirit.
How to choose the best luau
To pick the best luau on the Big Island, think about some important things. Check the location. Look for how real the Hawaiian culture is. Also, note the types of entertainment, such as hula and fire dancers. The quality of food matters too. Dishes like kalua pork and poi are a must. Don’t forget the overall vibe of the place.
Find luaus that offer fun cultural activities. A full open bar with Mai Tais is a bonus. Stunning sunset views can make your experience even better. Consider good places like Mauna Kea Beach Hotel or Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort. You can book a Luau at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel here. They will help you have an amazing Hawaiian night.
Top Luaus on the Big Island
1. Voyagers of the Pacific Luau
If you’re looking for an unforgettable Hawaiian experience, the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau at the Royal Kona Resort is a must-do. Held four nights a week, this luau lets you pick the day that works best for you.
As soon as you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a beautiful shell lei and a refreshing tropical drink, setting the tone for an evening of cultural immersion. With stunning views of Kailua Bay as your backdrop, you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet featuring traditional island dishes.
The highlight of the night is the Imu ceremony, where you’ll witness a pig being roasted in an underground oven, just like ancient Hawaiians did. As you savor your meal and sip on a Mai Tai, you’ll be treated to an impressive Polynesian stage show that brings the rich culture of the islands to life.
It’s the perfect mix of great food, culture, and breathtaking scenery for a memorable night on the Big Island! Book your spot for the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau here.
2. Island Breeze Luau
If you’re searching for the best luau in Kona, make sure to check out Island Breeze Luau, right in the heart of downtown. This luau is a favorite for both locals and visitors, offering an unforgettable experience with performances that showcase the diverse cultures of Polynesia. From the fierce Fijian war dances to the graceful Hawaiian hula, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The night reaches its peak with the thrilling Samoan fire and knife show that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Plus, you’ll get to indulge in a delicious Hawaiian buffet, complete with an open bar to keep the good times flowing.
Set against a stunning oceanfront backdrop, Island Breeze Luau also gives you a chance to interact with the cast during fun preliminary activities. It’s an ideal choice for families looking to experience a true taste of Hawaiian culture in a lively, laid-back atmosphere. Check out availability for Island Breeze Luau here.
3. Hale Hoaloha Luau at the Mauna Lani
The Hale Hoaloha Luau at the Mauna Lani, Auberge Resort is a truly unique experience that immerses you in both history and culture. Held at the picturesque Kalāhuipuaʻa, a site rich with history where ancient Hawaiians perfected aquaculture and where King Kamehameha once relaxed and worked in the fishponds, this luau sets the stage for an unforgettable evening.
Guests are greeted with a traditional Oli (chant), creating a sense of connection to the land and its heritage. The evening unfolds with exciting activities, followed by the dramatic unveiling of the pig from the imu pit, which is then served up in a delicious Hawaiian buffet.
As the night continues, you’ll be treated to a vibrant mix of traditional and contemporary Hula dances, capped off by the thrilling Samoan Siva Afi—an exhilarating fire knife dance that will leave you in awe. It’s a beautiful blend of history, culture, and entertainment that you won’t want to miss. Book your Hale Hoaloha Luau experience here.
4. Hawaii Loa Luau
If you’re looking for an authentic and entertaining luau experience on the Big Island, the Hawai’i Loa Luau on the Kohala Coast is a must-visit. This three-hour evening event offers a delicious buffet featuring classic Hawaiian dishes like tender kalua pig, fresh seafood, vibrant salads, and tropical fruits—perfectly paired with unlimited drinks from the open bar.
As you dig into your feast, enjoy a captivating performance that tells the story of Hawai’i Loa’s journey across the Pacific, bringing the discovery of the Hawaiian Islands to life through music, dance, and storytelling. It’s not just about the show, though—this luau also offers hands-on demonstrations where you can learn about traditional Hawaiian crafts and the art of hula.
Plus, with family-friendly activities and a menu that appeals to all ages, it’s a fantastic choice for groups and anyone wanting to experience the heart of Hawaiian culture. Reserve your spot for the Hawaii Loa Luau here.
Table Comparing the luaus
Here’s a comparison table for the top luaus on the Big Island:
| Luau Name | Location | Setting | Cultural Highlights | Cuisine | Family Friendly | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Voyagers of the Pacific Luau | Royal Kona Resort, Kailua Bay | Oceanfront at Royal Kona Resort | Hawaiian hula, Fijian, Tahitian, and Samoan fire-knife dance | Kalua pig, lomi-lomi salmon, poi, cocktails | Yes | Stunning oceanfront setting, fire-knife dance |
| Island Breeze Luau | Kona Beach Hotel | Outdoor at Kona Beach Hotel | Hawaiian legends through hula, Maori and Fijian performances | Traditional Hawaiian dishes, cocktails | Yes | Interactive show, great for families |
| Hale Hoaloha Luau | Mauna Lani, Auberge Resort | Oceanfront at Kalāhuipua’a | Imu ceremony (underground pig roast), Hawaiian music and dance | Kalua pig, poi, haupia dessert | Yes | Imu ceremony, sunset views over the Pacific |
| Hawaii Loa Luau | Mauna Kea Beach Hotel | Kauna’oa Bay, outdoor | Traditional Hawaiian hula, music, and artisans demonstrating crafts | Traditional Hawaiian dishes | Yes | 50+ years of tradition, under the stars, cultural immersion |
What to Expect at a Luau
Attending a luau is more than just fun. It’s a way to feel the warmth of Hawaiian friendliness and learn about the islands’ rich culture. When you arrive, you will receive a warm Aloha and get a lovely lei. This lei shows welcome and care.
You will enjoy lively shows that feature both traditional and modern Hawaiian hula. The performances come with exciting drumming and beautiful singing. A great part of many luaus is the fire dance. Here, talented dancers perform with flaming knives in an impressive display.
Planning Your Luau Experience
Planning your luau on the Big Island in advance helps you enjoy the day more. Choose the right luau, book your spots, and arrange how to get there. A bit of planning can make your experience even better.
This section shares important details and tips for planning a smooth and memorable luau on the Big Island.
Best time of year to attend a luau.
The Big Island of Hawaii has a nice climate all year. This makes it a great place for a luau anytime. Still, some months have the best weather for outdoor parties.
From June to August, summer brings warm days and long evenings, perfect for beautiful sunsets. The shoulder seasons, which are April to May and September to October, also have good weather and fewer people.
Whenever you go to a luau, remember to embrace the Aloha spirit and enjoy the friendly Hawaiian hospitality.
Tips for making reservations
To hold your place at one of the Big Island’s popular luaus, you need to book ahead. This is especially important during busy times. Luaus can fill up quickly because many people want to go.
When you make your booking, think about where the luau is, what kind of luau it is, and if you have any special food needs. Most luaus let you book online. You can check out their menus, seating plans, and compare prices that way.
When you book in advance, you can enjoy and look forward to the fun of a Hawaiian luau. This includes amazing Hawaiian hula dancing, a tasty feast, and the friendly spirit of Aloha.
Transportation options to get to luaus
Getting to your luau on the Big Island can be fun. There are different ways to travel, depending on where your luau is and where you are starting from.
If you are in Kona, you can find many luaus just a short walk from hotels and resorts. For luaus that are farther away, like the ones at Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa or Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, renting a car can help you have more freedom and ease.
You can also use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft on the Big Island. These services can be a good choice instead of taxis or rental cars. Just keep in mind that how available they are can change based on where you are and what time it is.
Luau & Activity Combos on the Big Island
Enhance your Big Island luau experience by adding more fun activities. There is a lot to see on the island. You can explore volcanic landscapes and even swim with sea creatures.
Here are some ideas to pair your luau with amazing adventures:
- Manta Ray Night Dive or Snorkel: See manta rays swimming in the water during a night adventure along the Kona Coast.
- Explore Volcanoes National Park: Visit the powerful Kilauea and Mauna Loa, which are two of the most active volcanoes in the world.
- Relax on the Kohala Coast: Enjoy your time on beautiful beaches, snorkel in clear waters, or play golf at top-rated courses along the lovely Kohala Coast.
Alternatives to Traditional Luaus
While luaus show a part of Hawaiian culture, there are other cool experiences that can teach you more about the islands’ heritage. Here are some ideas:
- Attend a Pa’ina: This is like a luau but is usually smaller and more personal. A pa’ina is about community and shared moments, often with local musicians, storytellers, and artists.
- Visit a Cultural Center: Check out living history museums like the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu or the Kauai Museum. Here, you can learn about traditional crafts, music, dance, and important events in history.
- Take a Hula or Lei-Making Class: Get involved in Hawaiian culture by joining hands-on workshops to learn hula dancing or make lovely, fragrant leis.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, joining a traditional luau on the Big Island is very important for anyone going to Hawaii. These cultural events are a great mix of fun, food, and Hawaiian traditions that create a memorable time.
Whether you pick the exciting Voyagers of the Pacific Luau, the colorful Island Breeze Luau, the charming Hale Hoaloha Luau at Mauna Lani, or the real Hawaii Loa Luau, you will enjoy it. And for added convenience and a hassle-free booking process, you can always reserve your luau tickets through Viator.
It is also good to plan your luau well. Think about the best time to go, book your spot early, and check your transport options. Make your trip even better by mixing a luau with other activities on the Big Island for a truly unforgettable vacation.
Additional Resources
For more details on planning your Big Island luau, check out these websites:
- Go Hawaii: This is Hawaii’s official tourism site. It has a full guide on luaus, with schedules, costs, and reviews.
- TripAdvisor: Here, you can find real reviews and ratings from travelers about different luaus on the Big Island. This can help you choose the best option.
- Hawaii Magazine: This online magazine shares helpful articles and tips for enjoying Hawaiian culture, especially luaus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which luau is the best on the Big Island?
Picking the “best” luau really depends on what you like. However, many enjoy the Island Breeze Luau, the luau at the Royal Kona Resort, and the luau at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. These options get great reviews for being real and for their fun performances.
What is the #1 thing to do Big Island Hawaii?
A luau is a top thing to do on the Big Island. But you also have to visit Volcanoes National Park. It has active volcanoes and unique landscapes that visitors should not miss.
How much is a luau on the Big Island?
The price of a luau on the Big Island changes based on where it is, the time of year, and what activities are included. Usually, you can plan to spend between $100 and $200 for each person.
Are luaus really worth it?
Luaus provide a deep insight into Hawaiian culture, food, and fun. If you want to enjoy a bit of Aloha and have a night you won’t forget, a luau is definitely a good choice.
