Oahu] What is a Traditional Hawaiian Banquet Luau? 7 Popular Luau Shows to Enjoy on Oahu

Oahu, Hawaii's most popular resort island

The island of Oahu boasts blue waters, white sandy beaches, an abundance of natural environment, and beautiful cities, with Honolulu, the capital of the State of Hawaii, at its center. The most popular island in Hawaii is Oahu.

Hawaii is often thought of as being centered on the Big Island of Hawaii, but in fact, most of the media coverage in tourist magazines and travel programs is focused on the island of Oahu.

Many of the core elements of the Hawaiian Islands community - political, economic, and tourist - are concentrated on the island of Oahu. There is so much to see and do on this island that a visit to Oahu is guaranteed to make you want to stay forever!

This time, we would like to introduce one of the major attractions on Oahu, the luau, a traditional cultural event.

 

What is Oahu like?

First, let's review some basic information about Oahu.

The island of Oahu is about one size larger than the main island of Okinawa, and at 1,545 square kilometers, it is one of the largest islands in the world, with a variety of locations scattered throughout the area to match the size of the island. The number of residents is also large, with a population of approximately 980,000, almost enough to meet the requirements of an ordinance-designated city.

With many popular cities and areas such as Honolulu, North Shore, Kailua, and Ko Olina, the diverse resort environment will satisfy the hearts of all.

 

How to get to Oahu

Oahu is one of the Hawaiian Islands in the Pacific Ocean.

Because of the great distance from Japan, as well as from other countries and continents, access must always be by air. Flights to Honolulu Airport are currently in service from a total of six airports: Haneda Airport, Narita Airport, Kansai International Airport, Central Japan International Airport, Fukuoka Airport, and New Chitose Airport.

It is an easily accessible location for an overseas destination, with a variety of air routes to choose from, including ANA and JAL, as well as LCCs and local airlines.

 

Attractions of Oahu

Oahu has many attractions, but at the root of many of them is its mild climate. The average year-round temperature is 24°C (72°F), and the average high temperature in January, the coldest month of the year, often exceeds 25°C (77°F), making the mild climate a notable feature of the island.

The warmth of the island allows visitors to spend any time of the year in short sleeves, strolling and enjoying activities in a relaxed atmosphere. Many people from all over the world come to Oahu to avoid the cold, and the warmth of the island is the reason for this.

 

Beautiful beaches and vast wilderness

When it comes to an everlasting summer island in a tropical country, many people will turn to the clean ocean.

The blue waters and white beaches of Oahu are more than enough to meet such expectations, and the sparkling shores provide an exquisite contrast. Oahu is dotted with beaches to see in every direction, from Waikiki Beach to the North Shore in the northern part of the island.

Many of these beaches have been ranked among the best beaches in the United States, and it is worth visiting not one, but two or three of them to compare them.

 

One of the world's leading resorts

With such a favorable environment, the number of tourists from all over the world visiting Oahu exceeds 10 million a year in the busiest years.

To accommodate the large number of visitors, Oahu has refined its accommodations and tourist service industry to a high standard since it became a tourist destination in the early 1900s. The level of sophistication and service has reached a level that satisfies all visitors and sets Oahu apart from other tourist destinations.

Led by the ultra-luxury resort hotels that line the Waikiki Beach area, tours and activities are sure to provide a high level of customer service. The spirit of hospitality represented by the word "Aloha" is the reason why Oahu continues to be loved by many people as one of the world's leading resort destinations.

 

Shopping and restaurants are also recommended

Another of Oahu's attractions is the many shopping centers that line the island. The Ala Moana Center, Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, North Shore Marketplace, and many others are large and offer many attractions.

In addition, farmers' markets are held regularly in Haleiwa and Kailua, where you can enjoy not only local produce but also organic local delicacies.

It is no exaggeration to say that shopping on Oahu is more than just shopping; it has reached the realm of entertainment.

And Oahu is also a gourmet destination. From inexpensive B-class gourmet meals such as garlic shrimp and other local delicacies to first-rate meals served in the dining rooms of well-established hotels, there are numerous excellent restaurants scattered throughout the island.

With many Hawaiian pancakes and other sweets available, you will be able to enjoy any situation for lunch, dinner, or a light meal.

 

Enjoy traditional shows on Oahu!

Have you ever seen a luau, the traditional culture of Oahu? Often featured on television and other media, luaus embody the history and culture of Hawaii and Oahu.

Only when you see this will you be able to say that you have truly enjoyed your visit to Oahu.

 

What is a Luau?

The word "luau" means "banquet" in Hawaiian.

In the past, it was a sacred event held to show gratitude to the gods at major milestones such as wedding feasts, canoe launching ceremonies, children's birthdays, and banquets for victories in wars.

Such a solemn luau ceremony has now been transformed into a friendly event for tourists, where you can see traditional dances and songs sublimated into performances.

 

History of Luau

The culture of gathering large numbers of people together to enjoy a feast itself dates back so far that the official date is unknown.

The name lūʻau was given to such a banquet around 1856. There is a record that the word was first used at the wedding of King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma.

In earlier Hawaii, there was a custom that heterosexuals were not allowed to eat together, luaus were held separately for men and women, and even drinking was forbidden. This custom changed in 1819, when King Kamehameha II, who was king at the time, changed the system.

Men and women could now sit together and enjoy drinking, gradually creating the lively luau as we know it today.

 

Luau Attraction

As can be read from the history, the luau is an important culture that still embodies the culture of the Hawaiian Kingdom.

Although the Hawaiian Kingdom ceased to exist in 1893, there is no better content to get a firsthand sense of the Hawaiian spirit that is still strong in the Hawaiian Islands.

That said, you may be scratching your head wondering where to see them, but there are many tourist shows on Oahu.

 

The powerful show will be a memory for a lifetime.

Luau shows are generally held at night.

Most of the performances are accompanied by dinner, and skilled performers give a powerful performance under the stars, lit by twinkling lights.

It is a perfect tour plan to include in the evening after a day of sightseeing, and the luau will surely make your day a full one. The spectacular mood of the luau will surely remain in your memories forever.

 

You can feel the culture of Hawaii.

As mentioned above, luau shows allow visitors to experience the traditional culture of song and dance that has been passed down from generation to generation on the island of Oahu.

Fire dances, hula dances, and other shows utilizing Polynesian culture from Oahu and other islands will give you a taste of the Hawaiian spirit.

The luau show may be the most efficient way for tourists to experience Hawaiian culture.

 

Let's get excited while enjoying dinner!

Since the luau show takes place at night, dinner is served along with the performance. A variety of traditional Hawaiian foods are served as the basic form of the show.

Kalua pig (whole roasted pig), poi (taro paste), lau lau (roasted taro leaves on the bank), poki (chopped seafood), and haupia (coconut milk sweets) are some examples.

In addition, each luau offers an elaborate feast that is sure to please not only the eyes but also the palate!

 

Fun on Oahu
7 recommended luau shows

Oahu now offers luau shows in various locations as a major tourist attraction.

We have selected seven of the highest quality of these shows. All of them are fascinating shows that will give you a taste of the essence of Oahu tourism, so check them out carefully.

 

Polynesian Cultural Center

The best place to see a luau on Oahu is the Polynesian Cultural Center in the North Shore area of the northern part of the island. According to the Hawaiian state government, this is the most popular paid attraction in Hawaii.

 

Show Features

The Polynesian Cultural Center, as its name implies, is a Polynesian cultural center that is home to not only Oahu, but also Fiji, Tahiti, Samoa, and many other islands. The luau shows are a mix of the cultures of these islands, and the spectacular performances are sure to be a sight to behold!

This facility is known for its Kahili Award, which is given to luaus that honor ancient traditions, and if you want to see a prestigious luau, this is the place to visit.

 

About prices and hours

If you wish to see a luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center, you must participate in a package tour that includes a sightseeing tour of the facility and a luau viewing.

Prices are $122.95 for adults and $98.36 for children aged 3-11.

The time schedule is as follows: the tour of the park starts at 12:00 p.m., enjoy a buffet-style meal at 5:00 p.m., and the show is from 7:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.

 

Access

If you join a package tour, a shuttle bus will come to your hotel in Waikiki. A Japanese-speaking guide will also be on board, so be sure to take advantage of this.

 

Magic of Polynesia

Let us turn from the traditional luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center to the more advanced luau at the Magic of Polynesia.

At Magic of Polynesia, you will see an innovative show that combines elements of luau and magic, created by an illusionist with Hawaiian roots named John Hirokawa.

 

Show Features

The Magic of Polynesia show has been running for a very long time and continues to enjoy great popularity.

The experience of enjoying a delicious dinner along with this innovative performance is the perfect activity for a special evening at the resort! From intense dancing to large-scale magic acts without a break, this is sure to be a very satisfying experience.

 

About prices and hours

The Magic of Polynesia offers a variety of packages, but the lowest-priced show-only package is $55 for adults and $38 for children ages 4-11.

The show starts at 19:00 and lasts for 1 hour and 15 minutes before ending at 20:15.

 

Access

The show is held on the second floor of the Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger hotel on Kalakaua Avenue, the main street in Waikiki.

Because of its very good location, it is accessible by foot or other means from anywhere in Waikiki.

 

Hilton Hawaiian Village

Next, I would like to introduce a luau show offered by the Hilton Hawaiian Village, a resort hotel.

The Hilton Hawaiian Village, a famous hotel, is the host of this show, and it is a popular spot to see very high quality shows.

 

Show Features

The main feature of the show here is that it is the only outdoor show in Waikiki, in addition to the high quality of the performances and the sumptuous food.

The original luau is often held outdoors, and it is a great pleasure to be able to see a luau that is close to its original form, and in a realistic format that includes participatory performances.

While there are other outdoor shows in other parts of the world, being able to see them in Waikiki, with its easy accessibility, is still a major attraction.

 

About prices and hours

There are several grades of seats for this show, but the most popular general seating is $111 for adults and $71 for ages 4-11.

The show is performed on every day of the week except Friday and Saturday, and the show begins at 5:30 pm. The show starts at 5:30 p.m. The closing time of the show has not been officially announced, but the last program starts at 7:00 p.m.

 

Access

Hilton Hawaiian Village is also located in a major area within Waikiki.

You can reach the hotel quickly by going from Kalakaua Avenue via Ala Moana Boulevard and Kalia Road!

 

Aha'aina Luau

Next, I would like to introduce another luau that can be enjoyed at a resort hotel in Waikiki.

The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, located in front of Waikiki Beach, is the host of the Aha'aina Luau, which comes from the Hawaiian word for "a gathering for food.

 

Show Features

This luau is not only about singing and dancing, but also about introducing traditional culture. The show begins with an introduction to kapa (bark cloth) making and na lawaia (fishing tackle) making, followed by a feast that includes food, accompanied by the sound of seashells.

A hula and Hawaiian music show that weaves together various profound cultures will unfold and entertain you with a delightful show that is exquisitely composed.

 

About prices and hours

Prices are $187.43 for adults, $105.76 for ages 5-12, and $20.94 for ages 0-4.

The show is held on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with show hours from 5:00 to 8:00 pm.

 

Access

The Royal Hawaiian Hotel is located on the west end of Waikiki Beach and is also very accessible. You can easily visit on foot from within Waikiki.

 

Ka Moana Luau

This Ka Moana Luau is a popular luau in eastern Oahu, a short distance from Waikiki.

The luau is held in a facility called Sea Life Park, and the key point is that you can enjoy a luau that includes a participatory experience in a great location with a spectacular ocean view.

 

Show Features

Here, visitors can enjoy playing the ukulele, making lei wreaths, and hula dancing before the main luau show begins.

In addition to kalua pork (roasted whole pig), which is a standard luau dish, the luau is located by the ocean, so the grilled mahi mahi, a fish dish commonly eaten in Hawaii, is very popular. The main luau show features a spectacular award-winning fire dance performance, making it a very fulfilling and satisfying luau show.

 

About prices and hours

This fee includes admission to Sea Life Park for $104.

The show begins at 5:30 p.m. and ends at 8:30 p.m.

 

Access

The Sea Life Park is a 30-minute drive from Waikiki.

The Sea Life Park is located on the mountain side past Makapu'u Beach Park via the H1 Freeway and Kalanianaole Highway. If you are taking the bus, take the 22 at Kuhio Street, the last stop is Sea Life Park.

 

Fiafia Polynesia Dinner Show

Following the eastern part of Oahu, let us introduce one more luau show from the Ko Olina district, a popular area in the west.

This luau show at the Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club offers thrilling performances, including fierce drumming and fire knife dancing.

 

Show Features

The main attraction of the Fiafia Polynesian Dinner Show is that it is held at a location facing the beautiful seaside of Ko Olina. The show begins with hula dancing to open the show, followed by a series of enthusiastic performances, including an intense fire dance, interspersed with light-hearted talk shows.

Ko Olina is a popular resort area, so we recommend staying here and enjoying a luau show with drinks and dinner.

 

About prices and hours

There are several price ranges for this show, but general seating is $125 for adults and $60 for children.

The show is held every Tuesday, and the main luau show is held from 19:00 to 20:00.

 

Access

Basically, renting a car is a high priority for getting around Oahu, but renting a car is not recommended only for the Ko Olina area.

This is because parking is scarce in the Ko Olina area, and hotel parking tends to be quite expensive. The recommended mode of transportation is the hotel shuttle bus, which runs from Ala Moana Center to the Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club.

You can apply in Japanese, so we recommend that you use this as a proactive way to get the most out of the program.

 

Ka Va'a: Luau at Aulani

Last but not least is Ka Va'a: Luau at Aulani, a show that is very popular because of the appearance of Disney characters.

Attending a dream luau show, which is only possible because the luau is held at the Aulani Disney Resort & Spa, which is owned and operated by Disney, is sure to be the best resort experience you can have!

 

Show Features

This luau show is a spectacular narrative entertainment that tells the story of how the culture of the Big Island of Hawaii came to be. Even if you are not interested in history or cultural origins, it is a different story when it is performed by Disney characters!

The spectacular shows featuring well-known characters will surely deepen your understanding of Hawaii in a delightful way.

 

About prices and hours

Ka Va'a: Lua'u at Aulani is $160 for adults and $94 for ages 3-9.

Show hours are from 17:00 to 20:00.

 

Access

The Aulani Disney Resort & Spa also offers shuttle buses to and from both Waikiki and Honolulu Airport.

Reservations can be made in Japanese, and if you make an application in advance, the driver will also come with Japanese-language skills, so you can travel with peace of mind.

 

Recommended luau and show tours

We have introduced a number of luau shows on Oahu, but was there one that caught your attention?

Of course, this is not the only luau on Oahu, but there are also many other tour-style luau packages available. If you don't want to deal with the formalities of participating in a luau, you may want to try one of these tour-style luaus.

Of course, the quality of this show is as good as that of the luau show discussed above, so you are sure to be very satisfied! Please take a look at this page for more information.

 

Traditional Luau & Hula Hawaiian Show
chief zulu

In addition to the traditional Hula Hawaiian show, this luau show features a fire knife show by a world champion performer.

The main attraction of this event is that you will be able to experience traditional Hawaiian culture such as tattoos and fire making, and deepen your knowledge of the culture of not only Oahu, but of Polynesia as a whole. If you join the tour, you will be provided with seats in the back center of the stage for a very good view, so you can be sure to have a very satisfying luau experience.

 

Traditional Luau & Hula Hawaiian Show
Paradise Cove

This is a luau show that can be viewed at the Ko Olina Resort, the leading resort hotel in the Ko Olina area. In addition to watching a traditional luau and hula Hawaiian show, visitors can also experience net fishing and lei making, which are unique to Hawaii, and are popular for their hands-on tour content.

This is a very unique tour where you can participate in games that evolved from the traditional games of Hawaiian warriors, such as Oihe (javelin throwing), Ulumaika (stone throwing), and Moapahee (wooden dart throwing).

 

Rock-a-hula.

The luau show seen on this tour is an ambitious fusion of luau and rock 'n' roll, as evidenced by the word "rock" in the title.

The luau, blended with the music of famous musicians such as Michael Jackson and Elvis Presley, is intense, fascinating, and uplifting. If you want to enjoy a powerful and artistic luau, this is the tour for you!

 

summary

What do you think about luau shows? The luau show is one of Oahu's most popular events and is truly a lively and spectacular event.

It is no exaggeration to say that no visit to Oahu is complete without seeing a luau, and anyone is sure to enjoy it. Please make sure to visit a luau show at least once and spend some time experiencing the culture of Oahu.

Thank you for taking the time to read this to the end.