When I think about visiting the Big Island of Hawaii, the excitement and beauty of a Hawaiian luau always stand out. Experiencing a luau lets me enjoy traditional food, music, and dances that share the culture and history of Hawaii.
Finding the best luaus on the Big Island helps me make the most of my trip. I want to know which luaus are truly worth my time.
Legends of Hawaii Luau
When I visited Legends of Hawaii Luau, friendly staff welcomed me and set up a beautiful open-air event. The show takes place at the Hilton Waikoloa Village, so it’s easy to find.
I enjoyed the live music and watched performers share stories about Hawaiian culture. The dances were lively and fun, especially the fire knife performance.
I liked how the show included legends from the islands and explained their meanings. The food was a highlight for me, with a buffet offering classic Hawaiian dishes like kalua pork and lomi lomi salmon.
I enjoyed trying a mix of flavors and traditional foods in one place. This luau is good for families, couples, and solo travelers.
The atmosphere felt welcoming, and I never felt rushed.
Rating: 4.3 (1439 reviews)
Location: 69-425 Waikōloa Beach Dr, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738
Contact: (808) 886-1234
Website: Visit Website
Hawai‘i Loa Lū‘au
I recently spent an evening at the Hawai‘i Loa Lū‘au, and it was both welcoming and full of culture. The event takes place at the Fairmont Orchid, surrounded by open grounds and a great view of the night sky.
Check-in started at 5:30 pm, and early activities kept everyone entertained. The buffet dinner was one of my favorite parts, with a wide range of local foods like poke, kalua pork, garlic shrimp, and options for kids.
The dessert table had banana bread and chocolate lava cake. There was also an open bar, which made the night feel even more relaxing.
The show started after dinner. Performers told stories of Hawai‘i through music and hula.
A fire dance finale grabbed everyone’s attention. I liked that we each received a kukui nut lei as a keepsake.
If you want to sit closer to the stage, you can pay extra for preferred front row seats and get a small souvenir photo. The staff made the whole night feel smooth and fun.
Rating: 4.7 (77 reviews)
Location: Plantation Estates, 1 N Kaniku Dr, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 326-4969
Website: Visit Website
Voyagers of the Pacific Lū‘au
When I arrived at Voyagers of the Pacific Lū‘au, I immediately noticed the oceanfront setting. The luau overlooks Kailua Bay, and the sunset view was beautiful.
I relaxed with a Mai Tai as I listened to the waves. The buffet dinner included roasted pig and a variety of Hawaiian dishes.
I enjoyed trying everything, and the food tasted fresh with local ingredients. The open bar added to the festive mood.
The entertainment stood out for me. Music, hula dancing, and a dramatic Samoan fire knife dance kept everyone watching.
The performers shared stories about Hawaiian and Polynesian culture, making the show more meaningful. The atmosphere felt friendly and inviting.
Rating: 4.2 (983 reviews)
Location: 75-5852 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 427-2452
Website: Visit Website
Island Breeze Lū‘au – He ‘Ohana Kakou
I went to the Island Breeze Lū‘au in Kailua-Kona and had a fun evening. The luau is set by Kailua Bay, so you can watch the ocean as you eat and see the sunset.
Watching the performers dance with the waves in the background felt very Hawaiian. Dinner was buffet style, with classic Hawaiian food and some tasty Polynesian dishes.
I tried a little of everything. The staff kept things moving smoothly and were friendly every time they came by our table.
The show was exciting, with fire knife dancers, hula, and music from different Polynesian cultures. The dancers’ energy made everyone clap and cheer.
They hold the luau outdoors, so dress for the weather and bring a light jacket just in case.
Rating: 4.1 (730 reviews)
Location: 75-5660 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 326-4969
Website: Visit Website
Mauna Lani Lū’au – Hale Hoaloha
When I arrived at the Mauna Lani Lū’au, the sun was just starting to set, casting a warm glow on the ocean and mountains. The setting felt peaceful and welcoming.
I checked in, grabbed my welcome cocktail, and settled in for the evening. The luau started with traditional Hawaiian games and music.
I loved hearing the live band and watching hula dancers while I enjoyed dinner. The buffet had local favorites like ahi poke, kalua pork, and coffee-rubbed roast striploin.
There were plenty of options for both adults and kids. The imu ceremony stood out for me.
I watched how staff used the traditional underground oven to cook the pig. After dinner, the show began, featuring stories, music, more hula, and an exciting fireknife dance.
Rating: 4.8 (17 reviews)
Location: 68-1400 Mauna Lani Dr, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 326-4969
Website: Visit Website
The Mauna Kea Lū‘au
When I visited The Mauna Kea Lū‘au, I could hear the ocean waves while steel guitars played softly in the background. The open-air setting felt calm and welcoming, with tables full of Hawaiian foods like kālua pig, island fish, and tropical fruits.
I saw families laughing and trying poi, while children learned to dance hula to classic songs like the “Hukilau.” My favorite moment was watching the fire dance, which was exciting and drew everyone’s attention.
The staff made me feel at home with their friendly hospitality. The area around the luau is beautiful, with the beach and hotel just steps away.
It’s a good idea to make reservations since the luau gets busy, especially on weekends.
Rating: 4.3 (160 reviews)
Location: 62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Dr, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 882-5707
Website: Visit Website
Waikoloa Beach Sunset Luau
I went to the Waikoloa Beach Sunset Luau and had a fun time. The evening started right by the ocean, and the sunset views were beautiful.
The whole event felt lively and welcoming. There was a buffet dinner with classic Hawaiian food.
I got to try dishes like kalua pork and lomi lomi salmon. The food was fresh, and there was plenty for everyone.
The entertainment was the highlight. Hula dancers and fire knife performers took the stage.
The host explained the meaning behind each dance, which I appreciated. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, and the crowd joined in for a few dances.
The setting was relaxed, with friendly staff and an easy check-in process.
Rating: 4 (61 reviews)
Location: 69-275 Waikōloa Beach Dr, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738
Contact: (808) 886-6789
Feast & Fire Luau, OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa
I spent an evening at the Feast & Fire Luau at the OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa. The experience felt truly special.
The show happens right by the ocean, with views of Keauhou Bay and the sound of waves nearby. Sitting under the hala trees gave everything a peaceful feeling.
The event began when someone blew a conch shell and lit torches. I enjoyed watching the dancers and listening to music as the sun set.
The fire dancers put on an exciting show, and everyone seemed to have a good time. The lively atmosphere made the evening memorable.
Dinner stood out for me. I tried slow-cooked Kalua pork, fresh local fish, and soft taro rolls with Hawaiian sea salt and butter.
For dessert, I sampled malasadas, which are fluffy donuts dusted with sugar and cinnamon. You can also order drinks from the full bar, including Mai Tais.
Before the show, guests can explore Hawaiian arts and crafts. I left feeling like I learned something new about the culture and enjoyed a great meal at the same time.
Rating: 4.1 (225 reviews)
Location: 78-128 Ehukai St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 930-4914
Website: Visit Website
Pilikana-A Kona Inn Luau
I had a great time at the Pilikana-A Kona Inn Luau. The location is right on Ali‘i Drive, so it’s easy to find and has beautiful ocean views.
The evening felt warm and inviting from the start. The performers shared stories, dances, and music that taught me more about Hawaiian culture.
The lively but comfortable atmosphere let me relax and enjoy the show. The staff greeted everyone with a friendly attitude and made sure guests had a good experience.
I noticed the group hosting the luau also helps with other community events and weddings in the area. The smaller crowd meant I could see the show from any seat.
This made the experience feel personal and different from some of the bigger luaus on the island.
Rating: 4.7 (3 reviews)
Location: 75-5744 Ali‘i Dr Sute 223, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 664-1264
Website: Visit Website
What Makes Luaus on the Big Island Unique?
When I attend a luau on the Big Island, I notice it feels different from luaus on other Hawaiian islands. The stories, dances, and food reflect the Big Island’s unique history and landscape.
Cultural Traditions and Local Legends
At luaus here, performers connect deeply with the island’s roots. Hula, chants, and storytelling share legends of Pele, the volcano goddess, and tales of ancient chiefs.
These stories help me feel closer to the island’s spirit and history. Many shows highlight the Big Island’s past, including the arrival of Polynesians and later influences from Asia and Europe.
Hosts often welcome me with a lei and invite me to join simple traditional activities, like learning a basic hula move or watching poi pounding. Each part honors local heritage.
Fire dancers put on thrilling performances influenced by Polynesian traditions. These shows are a favorite for many visitors and have deep cultural roots on the Big Island.
For examples, I often check out what Big Island luau shows offer in their performances.
Distinctive Big Island Cuisine at Luaus
I look forward to the food at Big Island luaus. The island is known for its fresh, local ingredients.
I get to try traditional dishes like kalua pig, cooked in an underground oven called an imu, and lomi lomi salmon. The island’s rich soil means more local vegetables and unique twists on familiar favorites.
Many luaus serve extras I haven’t seen elsewhere, such as sweet bread with taro, grilled local fish, and honey from Kona’s own bees. Desserts like haupia (coconut pudding) and fruits like papaya and mango are usually offered.
Coffee grown on the island, fresh sugarcane juice, and macadamia nuts help set Big Island luaus apart. Menus often reflect the mix of cultures that have shaped the island.
To see what is available at some luaus, I check guides to Big Island luau food and entertainment.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Luau Experience
I want to help you enjoy your luau from the moment you arrive. Knowing how to dress and what to bring can make your experience easier and more fun.
Being prepared for activities helps you get the most out of your evening.
What to Wear and Bring
I always choose simple, light clothes for a luau because Hawaii can be warm and humid, especially at sunset. Aloha shirts, sundresses, or a casual blouse with shorts work well.
I make sure my shoes are comfortable, usually sandals or flats. Sometimes the ground is grass or sand, so heels can be tricky.
I bring a light sweater or jacket because it can get chilly after sunset. Insect repellent is useful, especially for outdoor luaus.
I also pack sunscreen, even for evening events, since the sun can still be strong at the start. For extras, I bring a fully charged phone or camera for photos, and some cash for tips or souvenirs.
A small bag helps me keep my things together, so I can relax and enjoy the show.
Participating in Activities and Entertainment
When the luau begins, I join in the interactive events that happen before the main show. These activities include lei making, hula lessons, or learning about Hawaiian crafts.
I find these activities fun and a good way to learn more about the culture. I always listen when the host tells stories or explains what’s happening.
This context adds meaning to the dances and songs later in the evening. If the performers invite me to dance, I say yes!
They often encourage guests to join them for a simple hula. It’s memorable even if I don’t have experience.
I watch the main show closely, especially the fire knife dancing and live music. These performances are unique to luaus on the Big Island.
I also sample the food and try something new from the buffet. For more details about luaus and highlights, there’s a helpful guide to Big Island luaus.
