Best Luau Shows in Kauai

Luau shows are an island tradition, where I promise you won't be bored, as it is one of the best things to do on Kauai. There are many options with a variety of locations to choose from such as beaches, sugar cane plantations, luxury hotels, golf courses, gardens and other outdoor spaces. In addition, each host makes sure to add a differential element to create a unique experience. It is an activity that offers alternatives for all ages, since it is generally a family plan.

These types of shows differ because some have been modernized, while others maintain ancestral traditions. The most famous is the Luau Kamaluka, due to its journey through the history of the ancient Polynesians. On the other hand, the oldest is that of the Smith family, who have been organizing this type of experience on the island for generations. It has become a source of tourism, so every day there are more options. I recommend filtering through the best ones, as the luau imitations tend to be boring, disorganized and with low quality food.

A luau is a Hawaiian tradition that takes place on most of the islands of the archipelago, and Kauai is no exception. On the other hand, a Kamaluka Luau is an exclusive event that takes place in the Kilohana plantations. It is different because it is inserted in the history of the first Tahitians who populated Hawaii. Overall, it is a representation of the local culture, which takes you on a theatrical journey through its cuisine, dances and music.

It is considered a unique experience, as the other luau shows on the island are different. This one has a more modern format and is combined with other activities such as tastings at the farm buffet, handicraft workshops and train rides through the sugar cane areas. Its main attractions are hula dances, fire dances that represent the dangers the Polynesians went through, Carioca and Tahitian chants, as well as exuberant scenery and typical costumes.

These types of experiences range from 152 euros and usually include access to the Hawaiian banquet, tropical drinks and even seats with privileged views. It is recommended to book in advance, as it is one of the most coveted in Kauai. For a souvenir of the experience, you can visit the arts and crafts fair offering handmade souvenirs such as Lei ornaments, pottery, jewelry and Hawaiian clothing.

An oceanfront luau is one of the best things to do on Kauai, especially if you want to experience a paradise vacation. It ' s usually merged with beach parties and is highly recommended if you're looking for things to do on the island at Christmas because it offers holiday decorations and activities.

Generally, it includes rounds of Hawaiian dishes such as poi, kalua pig, salmon, among other local delicacies. Keep in mind that these are massive events, so it is advisable to book in advance and arrive early. Prices for these types of experiences vary depending on the beach, service provider, travel season and what is included in the show. They usually range from 115 euros per person and the best places to enjoy are:

• Poipu Beach: offers an exclusive atmosphere, ideal for the whole family. Being one of the safest beaches for any age, it is ideal if you are looking for things to do in Kauai with kids. You may enjoy outdoor dining, cocktails at the bar and a variety of cultural performances. Keep in mind, there's one that takes place directly on the oceanfront, as well as another more luxurious experience at the Sheraton Kauai Resort.
• Courtyard Kauai at Coconut Beach: takes place on a private beach, so it's second to none. The show program itself is very similar to other luau's on the island, but the experience is more private. Also, it is one of the few locations where the pig is dug up, a ceremony that consists of bringing out the meat cooked in banana leaves in a subway oven. Additionally, these grounds used to be surfed by Hawaiian royalty, so you can learn little-known stories.

If you want to be transported to an authentic traditional luau, the island of Kauai is the ideal place to relive some elements of that experience. They are very different from other tourist options found on the island today, as they offer the opportunity to participate in traditional ceremonies and practices. Keep in mind that these types of shows have been disappearing from the archipelago, although you can still find certain ancestral activities such as digging up the pig at the Luau Makaiwa at Coconut Beach, or the Lei salute of the Luau Kamaluka.

The original luau were called paina or ahaaina, but over the years they were modified and adapted to other cultures of the archipelago. They were simpler and were held in temples or houses. In addition, the food was pork baked on the ground, so there was little variety. Hula dancing and ukulele playing were part of the usual program, although they were for Hawaiians only. Occasionally, visitors loitering on the island were entertained if they had a close acquaintance who knew the host.

Kauai's plantation luau shows are a wonderful experience that takes place in the sugar cane fields. You can enjoy stories of old Hawaii, as well as experience the harvesting process on local farms. In addition to the Luau Kamaluka, there are other options available on the island that I promise you are worth the trip.

They are ideal if you plan to spend at least 3 days on Kauai, as they include special effects, outdoor scenery and activities in the middle of the plantations. Additionally, you can learn about the history of the industry, as the island was one of the main production centers in Hawaii. You can extend the experience by visiting the Grove Farm Homestead Museum, a museum that preserves machinery from 1860.

On the other hand, a very famous luau is Hawai'i Alive Luau, held at the Kauai Marriott Resort and is one of the best things to do on the island at night. The show starts after sunset, after which you can enjoy a tour of the plantations, participate in the coffee tour, visit the tropical fruit trail or ride the local train. It is one of the most economical experiences, starting at 75 euros and is held on Kalapaki beach in charge of an ancient Polynesian family.

Most luau shows on the island usually include a Hawaiian dinner at an unlimited banquet. However, some offer better prices and tastings, the final choice will depend on your preferences. You will find cheaper shows without dinner, but I do not recommend you to go for that option. The local gastronomy and the appetizing luau dinners are part of the traditions of this type of experience. Leaving without eating is like living the activity half-heartedly.

In general, the most famous for its delicious appetizers and pleasant cocktails, is the Luau Kamaluka show. There are other options such as the Princeville Makai Luau, where kalua pork, teriyaki chicken, Hawaiian poi and fried rice are usually served. These are typical delicacies that you must try, especially if you plan to attend this type of traditional event and also want to start a gastronomic tour of the city. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best things to do in Kauai if you want to get to know the local lifestyle through the palate.

A unique experience is to participate in the Smith family's tropical garden luau. This is a family group that has been preparing cultural shows of this type for more than 50 years. Undoubtedly, the dances, music and traditions have a warm touch with a strong historical charge. The tropical party is held on the banks of the Wailua River, so the views are breathtaking.

They are differentiated by its privileged location, in addition the dance shows are held in an outdoor amphitheater. It is known as Pele Amphitheater and is surrounded by beautiful vegetation. In addition, the dances not only include hula, but also dances from other Pacific islands such as Tahiti and Samoa. Another interesting fact is that it has a capacity for 600 people and was built in honor of the goddess Pele, who preserves fire and the local volcanoes.

It is one of the oldest luau, ideal to learn about the history and evolution of this tradition. You can even learn the meaning of each dish, while enjoying the feast. It is one of the best things to do in Kauai, since before the show you can take a cruise on the Wailua River to see some places of interest.

If you don't want to leave the comfort of your hotel, or prefer a luxurious option, I suggest you take advantage of the luau shows performed at local hotels. Of course, there are alternatives for all budgets and preferences, the most outstanding ones are:

• Luau Ka Hikina: held at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort and the show takes place in an open-air theater, with privileged views of the ocean. Polynesian dances delight the spectators, in addition to the ancestral reception with Lei handicrafts and the fair to buy souvenirs.
• Aulii Luau: it is very similar to the previous one, but it differs because the show takes place by the sea. You will be able to connect with the energies of the water, while enjoying the classic itinerary of this type of experience. In addition, Hawaiian dishes are not the protagonists, since it is usually offered a banquet where Japanese food predominates or a combination with the dishes of the island.

Luau shows are magical and memorable, and can be enhanced if you combine the experience with a cruise on the Wailua River. You can enjoy the beauty of Hawaii's oldest island, while being encouraged to delve into its history, culture and cuisine. It is ideal if you plan to spend 3 days in Kauai, as it combines two of the best things to do on the island in one day.

Most options divide the experience, but on some boat tours you can enjoy small samples of luau traditions. For example, hula dances, Carioca chants and costumed performances. However, the full experience is on land, as there is more stability for the dancers and for setting up the stage structures.

Some luau shows invite spectators to actively participate in certain activities, so you can feel the Hawaiian essence. You can sign up for local chores and crafts, such as making Lei crafts, learning the hula dance, aiming spears like a pro and weaving traditional headbands and garments. It's even possible to dig up the dinner pig and explore acrobatic dances.

The best options to experience an interactive, audience-participatory luau show are:

• Princeville Makai Luau: this is a traditional island luau show, with some additions. In addition to tasting the banquet food, you can participate in the imu ceremony, which consists of slow cooking the pork in a subway oven. The most curious thing is that this show is held at the Ocean Course at Hokuala, and includes temporary tattoo stands, spear throwing and weaving classes.
• Luau Kalamaku: it is a show about the history of the first Polynesians, ideal if you are looking for things to do in Kauai with children, since it has a craft fair where you can learn how to make Hawaiian necklaces and tattoos.
• Chief's Luau: if you want to take advantage of the best tours and excursions in Kauai, you can venture out to explore the island of Oahu. Located forty minutes away, a luau show is performed here by a famous Hawaiian comedian. The show has a jocular tone and is a fun experience with the chance to learn hula and explore craft making.

• Beware of unauthorized or low-quality luau, which are different because they are held in clandestine-looking locations. Generally, an authentic luau is held in natural locations that connect with Hawaiian spirituality.
• Book in advance, as it is one of the most sought after experiences in all of Hawaii. If you are looking for things to do in Kauai for Christmas, you can take advantage of this themed show, although being high season it sells out sooner.
• Choose the type of luau that fits your tastes, budget and itinerary. As you can see, there are different options that vary according to the menu, location, duration, price and program of the show.
• Wear comfortable clothes, as this is an informal event.
• Take advantage of the cultural activities, a way to actively participate in the experience.
• If you plan to go with children, consider that they tend to extend late into the night, so they may become fatigued. Also, it is important to consider their diet, as some shows cater to dietary requirements if advance notice is given.
• The luau is a tradition that has spread to New Zealand, Tahiti and Brazil, but nothing compares to those offered in the Hawaiian archipelago.