We think anyone traveling to any location should take some time to immerse themselves into the Culture of the location they are visiting. This is kind of the point of traveling right? to see and experience things different from your way of life. When visiting Hawaii, one of the best ways to experience the Culture of the Islands is to Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center. Here the focus is on letting visitors know the rich culture and history, not just of Hawaii, but the whole heritage of the Polynesian triangle.
Another must-do attraction in Hawaii is the now Custmary Luau. These popular Feast and Show combos do their best to highlight traditional Hawaiian Hawaiian Customs and traditions but on the whole, have become a little hijacked and are mainly partial tourist traps that offer a great time, but are a bit light on Real Hawaiian values. The Polynesian Cultural Center Luau tries to counter that by being a Traditional first Luau and offering tourist trappings second. Billed as the most traditional Luau on the Island we headed over to see if the Lauua lives up to the Billing and can really still deliver a traditional Luau in these modern tourist ages.
We know it goes against several rules of writing but the short answer is no, not really, but they give it a good go and it’s still an incredible Luaua and well worthy of our Top Spot on the best Luaus in Oahu.
- Attraction – Polynesian Cultural Center
- Location – Laie, Oahu North Shore
- Type – Cultural Exhibits/living Museum, Luau Feast, and Polynesian Show
- Prices – Center – Adult – $69 – Child (11-4) – $56 – Child (<3) – Free
- Prices – Luau – Adult – $140-$270 – Youth (7-17) – $112-$216 – Child (<3) – Free
- Rating – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 Stars
Check out our Live Blog where we report on our recent Trip to the Cultural Center and the Luau, along with a heap of other Oahu Adventures.
A Visit to the Culteral Center is made up of three components the Main Center, or what is known as the Irlans of Polynesia. The Luau Feast, and the Luau Show, HA Breath Of Life. In our Review of the Polynesian Cultural Center Luau, we focus on the latter two elements. We have a full in-depth review of the Islands of Polynesia here, but while many people come to see the center and enjoy its exposé to the Polynesian way of life, the Luau elements add significant extra costs so we want to really focus on whether these are worth it?
Polynesian Cultural Center – Islands of Polynesia
The main area of the Polynesian Cultural Center is the Islands Of Polynesia. This is a living Museum focussing on the lifestyles and cultures of various ancient Polynesian cultures. As you walk around the grounds there are various presentations, demonstrations, and colorful characters all there to immerse you into the Culture of the Islands.
It’s a fantastic day out and anyone coming for the Luau should make time to visit the center and explore the exhibits, if nothing more than to just enjoy the wonderful landscaping, gardens, and beautiful traditional buildings. It is such a wonderful location, with dense tropical foliage and meandering waterways.
There is always something going on, Tahitan weddings, Hawaiian Canoes, Temporary Tattoos, Intimidating Haka Dances, and even the incredible Fire Dancing Displays. It is one of the best experiences on the Island.
However this is not the focus of this review, here we are looking at the Luau Itself, not the Cultural Presentations. Take a look at our FULL review to see if the Center is something you want to really take in, our just something to have a quick look at before the Luau. In this review, we are focussing on the evening events the Dinner Feast and Show, which are additional extras added onto the Cultural Centers Entry Fee.
Polynesian Cultural Center Review
Polynesian Cultural Center Luau Review
The Islands of Polynesia are available to anyone purchasing a Luau Package, which we look at below, in fact, you actually get a 3-day pass to return anytime you like, but the main focus for this Review is the Luau so let’s get into that.
We are going to look at the Luau with two eyes, one based on Tradition and the other on how the Luau ranks against the competition, regardless of whether it’s strictly traditional.
For those attending the Luau after a day at the Center, or those arriving just for the Luau itself the Order of events is pretty regimented. Whereas the Islands can be explored at your own pace the Luau is tackled in a set order. So let’s take a look at how the evening will play out. This is pretty much identical regardless of which Luau Package you have selected.
No-Alcohol and Location
There are a couple of points we need to raise now about the Polynesian Cultural Centers Luau, as these could be show-stoppers. No matter how good the Luau is, these are big points that need to be raised, so we figure it’s best to bring them up before we get too invested.
the first big issue with Polynesian Cultural Centers Luau. There is NO Alcohol Served. The Center is run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and they do not permit alcohol. This means no alcohol is permitted anywhere on the site and is a 100% T-Total event. Now we like the odd tipple, and initially, the thought of doing a Dry Luau seemed completely off the table. However, the event was that good we really didn’t miss it…well not much…at least not enough to seriously diminish the enjoyment.
This also leads nicely into the other issue. It’s not very convenient. Laie is not the center of the universe for tourism on Oahu and getting to and from the event is challenging. The fact it’s dry really helps with this, as we were able to drive to and from the event with no issues. Still, this was helped by the fact we were staying on the North Shore. And anyone in this area, Haleiwa Waimea, Turtle Bay, etc… You will be fine, we had a short 20-minute ride back to our accommodation in Waimea. However, the majority of tourists to Oahu stay in Waikiki.
This is a good 1:15hr+ drive and not on the easiest roads especially after darkness has fallen. You can add transportation to your package for $26.00, which takes the fuss out of the trip, but could take over 2 hours each way. It’s going to be a long day, whatever option you choose.
Is it worth it? It is undoubtedly a fantastic Luau, easily the best on the Island, but it’s one heck of a trip. If you are spending any part of your trip over on the North Shore…Which you should, then it’s a great option, bordering on a must-do! But you have to weigh it up if you are coming from Waikiki as the journey takes a lot out of your day, but then at least you won’t be arguing over who is the designated driver!
Order Of Events
As the Day’s activities at the Cultural Center draw to a close, many people begin to file out of the center, but for those of us with Luau Packages the Main Attractions are only just beginning. As the sun starts to set the activities move to one of several Luau Dining Areas.
There are two separate dining options for the Luau. The Gateway Buffet, a cheaper Dining option that offers more in the way of Western-style foods, and the Alii Luau Package, which offers a more upmarket dining experience and one that focuses heavily on Traditional Luau Foods.
IMU Ceremony
The first event is the IMU ceremony. An IMU is an underground earthen oven used by Hawaiians. A Fire is lit and then the meat, usually a whole Pig, is buried on top resulting in a long slow cook perfect for succulent flavourful meat. This is an early method of BBQ and produces pork similar to Pulled Pork.
As Hawaiians have enormous respect for both the food and the Animal that provided it the unearthing of the IMU is performed as part of a ceremony. At some Luau’s this is almost an afterthought, but the IMU Ceremony at the cultural Center is done with a lot of care and attention.
The Various layers of the Oven are removed eventually revealing the whole pig cooked to perfection (more on this later) and then led off under reference to be tonight’s meal…or at least one part of it. A good IMU Ceremony is really important for both the authenticity factor and the overall enjoyment. It is clear from the number of people at the ceremony and the amount at the Show later, that not many people take in the ceremony. weather that’s ignorance or the fact they were unaware where or when it was we are not sure, but make sure you hint it out as it’s really important to the Hawaiian Culture, and really just quite fascinating.
Probably one to avoid for Vegetarians, but still important to understand as the practice is from a time when we had less choice about what we ate.
Arrival and Music
Arrival at the Dining venue is very cordial with a well-mannered Maitre d’ taking your name and assigning you a server and table. There are 3 different Dining areas and depending on the package you booked will depend on the setting. We attended on the Alli Luau Package and were assigned the Hale Ohana, some guests will be seated in the Hale Aloha, and we are not 100% sure what triggers the different Halls, but the overall experience is similar. If you book the Gateway Buffet then you will be seated there.
In the Hale Ohana, we were greeted with a Flower Lei on Arrival. Only Alli Luau guests get the Flower Lei which was stunningly beautiful and fragrant. Super Ambassador Guests get an Upgraded Kukui Nut Lei but we honestly prefer the Flower Lei. The Kukui nuts are great as they can be taken back home whereas the Flowers will die in a few days, but if you really want the Kukui Nut Lei, you can always get one from an ABC Store.
While you await the meal, and during certain parts of the experience toy are treated to relaxed and mellow Hula Music and Dancing. The dancers were impeccably presented in beautiful traditional purple Dresses and performed flawlessly. After a hard day exploring the islands, it was bliss to relax in a cool dining area with some wonderful relaxing music.
We were offered a Virgin Pina-Colada naturally we accepted and resisted the urge to ask for a drop of rum, and just took in the beautiful setting, excellent pre-show, and waited for the Feast.
Luau Feast
We will go into detail below about the various dining options, but the food on offer here is far beyond the regular Lui Food. While it’s all the same stuff, IMU Pork, Lomi Lomi Salmon Ahi Poke, etc… the quality is miles above most Luaus with only the Diamond Head Farm to Table offering giving it a run for its money.
The Gateway Buffet is large and offers more Western-style options that may be a little more the tastes of some. But we come to Luau’s for the real deal so loved the super high-quality traditional offerings at the Alii Luau. Both are Buffet Style, with diners able to head on up and help themselves to as much as they like.
There are Soda Fountains and tea and coffee but as we stated, absolutely no alcohol.
Photos and Relocations
After the feast, there is time to mingle with guests and get the all-important Photos of the night. there are several set-piece areas near waterfalls and lit with Tiki Lamps where you can grab that perfect couple or family shot. You get a free digital photo included with the package or just save the hassle and take your own.
The sun will have now set and you can take some time to explore the grounds by tiki lamps. The main islands are now closed off but there are still beautifully lit waterfalls and stunning architecture to explore.
HA Breath Of Life – Luau Show
The final act of the day is the Ha-Breath of Life Luau Show. We have seen a lot of Luau Shows, but nothing comes close to the HA!
Packages
There are several ways to experience the Polynesian Cultural Center, and you do this by choosing a certain package.
- Islands of Polynesia – Basic Package with NO Luau
- Gateway Buffet Package – Basic Luau Package
- Aliʻi Lūʻau Package – Premium Luau Package
- Super Ambassador Lūʻau Package – Ultra-Premium VIP Package
- Islands of Polynesia & Hā: Breath of Life Package – Just the Islands and the Show…No Feast
Remember when you buy your package Seats are assigned at booking so the earlier you book the better the chance of great seats. Our gold seats were practically front row!
Gateway Buffet Package
- Adults – $139.95
- Children – $111.96
- Under 4 – Free (May need to sit on an adult’s lap)
Use Code “early10” if booking 10 days in advance to save 10%
This is the most basic Luau Package. This gets you a day ticket into the grounds and Islands, along with a 3-day pass to return any time in the next 3 days, as do ALL Packages. On top of this with the Gateway Buffet, you get access to the Gateway Buffet, and Silver-Level Seating at the HA: Breath of Life Show.
The Silver Seating is pretty decent but some sections are better than others so it’s best to make sure you book early.
Gateway Buffet
The Gateway buffet is housed in the brand-new dining space at the Cultural Center. Towering ceilings and gigantic murals make this ultra-modern space a fantastic spot to dine. If anything it is more luxurious than the Luau Hale’s. The Buffet is huge and offers a large selection of Island Style and American Buffet Foods.
There is more focus on foods we all know rather than the more authentic Luau-style foods available at most Luaus particularly the Alii Luau at the Center. Lots of the traditional foods are there, but there are some more familiar items too.
There is a huge Salad Bar, with various styles of cold items, Tossed Green Salad, Beets and yogurt Salad, Mushroom Citrus Salad, Li Hing Mui Quinoa Salad, Hawaiian Mac Salad, and `Ula Uala Poke along with various dressings and toppings.
There are Carvery stations with Whole Grilled Kona Kanpachi Fish and Top Sirloin Roast carved fresh. The entre selections range from Seafood, Pork, and Beef Dishes and some Tasty Chicken Wings with various Vegie options as well.
- Mango Habanero Chicken Wings
- Adobo Fried Chicken Wings
- Garlic Brown Sugar Roast Chicken with Pineapple Relish
- Hawaiian Style Sweet & Sour Chicken
- Furikake Panko Crusted Catch of the Day with lemongrass beurre blanc
- Crispy Shrimp with sweet chili garlic aioli
- Fried Calamari
- Kalua Pork
- Char Siu Pork Ribs
- Spicy Pork Belly
- Kalbi Stir Fry
- Mixed Veggie Ratatouille – V
- Kabocha and Broccolini Tofu Stir-fry -V
- Blanched Asparagus with Lilikoi Glaze- V
- Steamed Bok Choy with sauteed mushrooms – V
- Mixed Veggie Ratatouille – V
- Kabocha and Broccolini Tofu Stir-fry – V
- Blanched Asparagus with Lilikoi Glaze – V
- Steamed Bok Choy with sauteed mushrooms – V
The Poke Bar is always popular with a selection of amazing Poke, Fresh Ahi Sashimi, Spicy Fish Poke, Kimchi Tako Poke, Shrimp Poke, California Poke, Ahi Shoyu Poke, and Lomi Lomi Salmon. If you don’t know what Poke is, then you really should learn. The Buffet is a great place to try one of Hawaii’s most delectable delicacies!
Desserts are the weak point of Hawaiian Cuisine, at least in our opinion, but the Gateway Buffet remedies this by largely ignoring the traditional and just dishing up the classics!
- Laie Vanilla Panna Cotta with raspberry lychee compote
- Pineapple Cobbler
- Mochi Chocolate Chip Cookie
- Mango Cheese Cake
- Chocolate Souffle
- Scooped Ice Cream of the Day
- Pineapple Soft Serve
Kheki (Kids) will also find some more basic options for them in case they can’t find anything in the main Buffet, but we always encourage parents to try and expose them to new foods, a buffet is perfect as if they don’t like it they can always leave it a grab something else. Sweet pulled pork on pretzel sliders, Fries, Chicken Tenders, and Mac and Cheese.
As you can see there is a HUGE selection and lots of really tasty treats are lined up for you in the gateway. Honestly, we think this is a delicious-sounding option, but we like to keep things traditional and prefer to opt for the more classical Alii Luau Option, this is a great option for those who are not that adventurous in their dining habits.
This is really the only Luau we know that offers such a large selection of foods to ensure there is something for all, most of the rival Luau focus solely on the Luau foods, and while there are normally some kind of more western friendly options these are normally low quality and just there to fill people up. This buffet has the largest selection of foods from any rival and still retains a really high quality.
Authenticity – Not very…The menu definitely caters to the Western Tastes, Ancient Hawaiians did not eat Ratatouille, Mac and Cheese, Fried Calamari, and Mango Habanero Chicken Wings during their Luau Feasts!
We know for some, eating foods outside their comfort zones is challenging and we understand the Luau menus are not for everyone. So this Gateway gives you are really good…er, Gateway into trying a few new Luau foods while still dafe in the knowledge there will be something else to eat so you are not hungry and get your full money’s worth…but we have to dock it points on Authenticity.
Full menu here including basic Allergen information.
Alii Luau Package
- Adults – $189.95
- Children – $151.96
- Under 4 – Free (May need to sit on an adult’s lap)
Use Code “early10” if booking 10 days in advance to save 10%
The Alii Luau Package is what we consider a REAL Luau. The Gateway package is less of a base package and more of a cut-down package, with the Alii being the main product. This level gives us everything we expect from an authentic Luau. The Stunning Pork from the Underground IMU, beautiful music and entertainment while dining, Fresh Flower Lei, excellent quality Luau Food Staples, and some really top-notch seats in the Show afterward.
Alii Luau Package Food
The Alii Luau menu, on the face of it, seems much more restricted, there are only a handful of entrees and even the Poke Bar is more limited. However, everything here is much higher quality and far more authentic.
Let’s Start with the Imu Pua’a Pork. This is not Kalua Pork served at most Luau’s including the Gateway Buffet, this is sumptuous moist, melt-in-the-mouth perfection. We have eaten a lot of Pork at Luau’s, a lot of well-prepared quality meat cooked underground, and a lot of less well-prepared pork of dubious quality. Nothing has come close to this! We have also had our fair share of Hog Roast, and Pulled Pork…it’s fair to say we like our swine, but again, nothing we have ever eaten has rivaled the pork here!
It was like Chicken it was so tender, but juicy and with bags of flavor, and came with a Crispy Skin not usually found on IMU pork. There is other food on the menu but the pork was that good it is taking up half this description!
The other standout item was the Kona Kanpachi or Amberjack. This was whole-steamed in Ti leaves and carved off the bone. Again this was perfectly cooked with large flakey pieces of fish paring perfectly tangy sauce provided. Both the Pork and the KanPachi are served via a carvery-style system.
Several other Entree options are then available via the main buffet, these include Luau Staples such as Huli Huli Chicken, Teriyaki Brisket, Kalua Pork, Fried Saimin, Pipikaula in orange rosemary vinaigrette, Moa with Opu (Chicken & Squash, Gluten-free), and Pan Seared Local Fresh Fish with Olena Calamansi glaze. We really enjoyed the selection and love the fact we can try them all as it is a Buffet selection.
There were also several vegetarian options and a large Salad bar which offered a DIY Salad Bowl station. Side Dishes were various forms of Rice and Noodle Dishes along with excellent Taro rolls and of course Poi…and this was the second time of the day we had some Poi…we never learn.
The Fresh Poke Bar offered several styles, but these were all authentic styles and fewer of the mainland monstrosities that have started to take over, which is great, but it means there was a more limited selection, Ahi Shoyu Poke, Spicy Local Fish Poke, Tofu Poke (Vegan), Ulu Uala Poke. But really who needs anything other than Ahi Shoyu Poke?
The Dessert options were average, at least on the baked goods side of things. There were several cakes and cookies using seasonal Fruits, but the overriding sense was blandness. They were neither sweet enough nor tarte and exciting, just kind of bland stodge with a mild fruit flavor. The Gelato really took things up and the Liliko Cheesecake was magnificent, there was also a fantastic Fruit stand with a huge selection of fresh fruit to try, nature’s candy.
Overall the food is right up there with the best we have had at any Luau. It was all top quality, hot and fresh. There was a bit of a crush at the Buffet and even with 4 lanes operating, it was a bit of a bunfight! But we just grabbed small portions and headed back regularly.
The Buffet is all-you-can-eat but the operation hours are quite short. So don’t expect the food to be available for too long, after 40-45 minutes they started clearing away. This is good as everything is fresh, but just don’t hang around too much or you may miss out.
Overall this is our favorite package, it gives you everything we demand from a Luau and does so with significant style. The food was out of this world, the setting just magical, and the entertainment fantastic. Yes, this is an expensive option, but remember you are getting the Islands Of Polynesia included in this, and we have not even looked at the main show yet. Overall this Luau feast was so good, we didn’t even think about the lack of Alcohol…well not too often.
Authenticity – This is about as authentic as Modern Luaus get, which, being perfectly honest, is not all that authentic. The menu here strongly represents the foods that would have been served around the mid-1800’s so it’s pretty good on the authenticity scale. Modern twists and evolutions have obviously crept in, as we just would not tolerate dining practices of those sorts of eras, so the Luau Feast is a really good take on the kinds of food served to the kings and queens of the past.
For this reason, we really do recommend the Alii Luau over the Gateway Buffet, the food really is not that out there. If you have really strong food phobias and are only willing to try certain things then the Gateway (or the Islands and Show Option) might be the better option. Overall the main star of the Laua is the IMU Pork and that is “just” roast pork really, it’s hardly exotic and unheard of cuisine…
Of course, those not wanting, or unable to eat pork should take this into consideration.
Full menu here including basic Allergen information.
Super ambassador Luau package
- Adults – $269.95
- Children – $215.96
- Under 4 – Free (May need to sit on an adult’s lap)
Use Code “early10” if booking 10 days in advance to save 10%
The Super Ambassador Package does not add anything to the table, it just grants you an upgraded experience. You get everything in the Alii Luau Package but a few added extras and upgraded experiences.
First up is the Kukui Nut lei. This is presented upon arrival and will be yours to wear for the day and take home. You still get the Flower Lei at the Alii Luau Feast as well so it’s the best of both worlds.
The main difference to this package is the VIP Tour guide. Rather than wandering around the Islands hoping to find the best bits, your tour guide will walk you around and ensure you get the absolute best of the Cultural Center. VIP seating at any presentation, first try at the activities and events, and private canoe ride around the island’s canals.
It’s an excellent way to visit the Islands and means you do not miss out on anything. It’s really easy when doing a self-guided tour to not be in the right place at the right time and miss a show or experience completely.
During the Feast there are not many perks of this level, you will get first go at the Buffet, but there was no real order to service here and people just got up as and when. The site lists a Free Smoothy as a perk but when we visited on the Alii Luau package we got this anyway (and it was incredible, a stunning Virgin Pina Colada!)
Finally, you get Platinum level Seats at the Show, These are the best seats in the house, front and center, super close to the action. Our gold seats were just a few rows back and almost as good but if you want the best the Super Ambassador gives you the absolute front row.
Authenticity – You will get quite a lot of added authenticity with the Super Ambassador, mainly as it gives you the chance to really experience everything and get a full hands-on experience. Your guide will ensure you know everything about what you are looking out. Self-guided it’s tough to take in, but the guide will be there to point out pertinent facts and really immerse you in the fantastic culture of the Polynesian People.
Hā–Breath of Life Review
Hā–Breath of Life Seating Layout
The Show uses more traditional theater seating so everyone gets a good view. Most Luau shows simply take place next to the dining area, but the Hā–Breath of Life Show is in its own dedicated amphitheater. The seats are assigned depending on your Package. Super Ambasidor gets the Platinum, Alii Luau gets gold seating, with the Gateway Buffet Guests fetting Silver. Those choosing the Islands and Show option get stuck at the back and sides with Bronze-level seating.
Seats are individually assigned when booking. A lot of Luau’s use a first come first served basis for the best seats, but the PCC has individually assigned seats so you can choose where in your available section you wish to choose. This can help with the buying decision as it may be worth upgrading a package if all the good seats of a lower package are gone.
Remember as the seats are assigned at purchase the best seats go super early, so the sooner you book the better the seats you will get.
NO-FILMING POLICY
Unfortunately for you, there is a No Filming policy, and this means we are largely unable to bring you any Videos or stills from the Show. The management is very strict on this as we saw several ushers monitoring the Isles and asking people to stop filming or taking pictures…with guests asked to leave if they refused to comply.
The reason given is so you can just enjoy the show, and in all honesty, it was nice to put the camera away and take in the Show. If nothing more it’s just good manners to respect the requests of the hosts.
The Show
as way of an intro, we were reminded by this show of the first Luau we ever attended. Our compare was very humble and when introducing the show cautioned us not to expect too much “It’s not Cirque Du Soeilel” he explained. To be fair to that production it remains one of the better shows we have seen and some fantastic production values and phenomenal performers, but it was small and humble and nothing like the kind of spectacle a Cirque Show brings, nor has we ever expected that…however…
The HĀ: Breath of Life show does indeed bring that level of production to the stage. Maybe not a full-blown Cirque production but it’s in the ballpark. This is a real large-scale stage production with a large intensely talented cast, top-tier costume designs, fantastic sets, lighting, and effects, and a fantastic musical score…the level and scope of this really blew our minds! Nothing anywhere in the Laua Scene in Hawaii comes close!
Set
The Whole stage and set are incredible from start to finish. Like a high-end stage show the set morphs and alters as the show goes on. Ranging from lush jungle to Village life, Weddings to battle scenes, and even a storm and volcanic eruption.
The Special effects and sound system really up the production values as the set pieces really came to life. It’s visceral and engaging the whole way through.
Cast and Costume
As you would expect the Cast are some of the best performers in Hawaii and they take to the stage in a dazzling array of traditional costumes. The level of detail and high-end craftmanship from the costume department really shines, this is a far cry from grass skirts and plastic Coconut Bras!
Choreography and performance
The Cultural Center nurtures talent from very early on and a bit like Cirque the cast are full-time performers who train for years to be included in the show. This makes them some of the more choreographed and perfectly timed performances we have seen. it’s far more than a Hula display these are full-blown Stage acts with dramatic props, numerous actors involved in elaborate set prices, and choreographed dance moves.
Again it’s far above any other Luau and is far more akin to how a Luau show would appear on Broadway.
Story
The story is long and pretty complex, but also fairly basic, it’s a classic growing-up tale of a boy and his journey into manhood, obviously finding love and loss along the way. The setback of his life defines his character and strength.
It’s not the most twisting of tales and simply follows along the regular trials and tribulations of a typical life spent in a tribal setting of old-time Polynesia. We don’t want to give too much away really but the story is far richer and more integral to the show than any other Luau performance we have seen.
Overall
The culmination of these factors means the Show blows any competition out of the water. There is nothing on the whole Island chain that even comes close to this level. In fact, it’s in some ways a victim of its own awesomeness. We are very fond of the more intimate, quaint, luau shows most of the Luau’s put on. They feel warmer and more Oahana, the way Hawaii is meant to feel.
But make no mistake the Ha Breath of Life Show is STUNNING. It’s a real spectacle and one that really blows the lid of what a Luau show can be. Yes, we like the smaller intimate performances, but there is nothing wrong with having your sock blown off!
Authenticity – Is this authentic? No, not really, how can it be? Performances like this were not even conceived in the times when authenticity is calculated. What the show does is marry authentic dance and culture into a phenomenal stage production. The costume, the story, the dance, and The Music, are all authentic, but elevated in a way not really seen before.
And finally, there is one way of looking at the show that makes it 100% authentic, and it’s something lost on most Lauau Shows. And that is storytelling.
The Story is good, it’s detailed, complex, and twisting telling the story of a chief’s life, but what we appreciate more than the story is the simple fact they are telling one. Hawaiian and Polynesian Dance and music are far more than just entertainment. There was no written language so music and dance were how the Hawaiian people told their stories. Performances passed down through the ages tell legends of kings, queens, and gods.
To have the entire performance telling a story is the very point of a Luau show and as such is about as authentic as it gets.
Islands of Polynesia & Hā: Breath of Life Package
- Adults – $119.95
- Children – $95.96
- Under 4 – Free (May need to sit on an adult’s lap)
Use Code “early10” if booking 10 days in advance to save 10%
This final option is new and is designed for those who really don’t want to partake in a meal. We think that’s a real shame as the feast is all part of the experience, but we know some people are just particular about their dining habits, and skipping the meal can save some money and still get you the rest of the Center, which shouldn’t be missed out on just because of some dietary restrictions.
So it’s nice to see this option as paying for a meal you won’t eat is poor value and adds to unnecessary food waste. If the meal options don’t add up for you, you can still get to see the Islands and the Show…It’s a shame this option is restricted to the Bronze seating though.
Summing Up – Is the Polynesian Cultural Center Luau Worth It?
We pointed out at the beginning that the PCC Luau has some distinct drawbacks. It’s very inconveniently located and does not serve alcohol. And these are pretty big red marks for some. But honestly, we are glad the Luau has these issues as, without them, we really worry about the competition.
The Polynesian Cultural Center Luau as a whole package is not just better than any of the rivals it’s better by several orders of magnitude! If it were not dry and not so difficult to get to, then we really couldn’t see us suggesting any other Luau.
As it is, the PCC Luau rewards those who are willing to step outside the box. Those staying outside of Waikiki, those willing to go the extra few miles around the Island, and those willing to try and have a night off the booze, will all be rewarded by a Luau that far exceeds the expectations and competition.
On a culinary front, only Diamond Head Luau comes close, and none of the competition can hold a candle to the Ha: Breath of Life as far as overall production values go. The PCC goes the extra mile as far as authenticity goes and it is definitely the most authentic in Oahu, if not quite Hawaii.
If the journey is just too daunting, and we do understand that it’s a long drive out and an especially long drive back after the show, then there are lots of good options in Waikiki or over in Kapolei that are easier to get to and offer lots of drinks all night.
The other issue is the cost. This is an expensive Luau, when you consider everything you get, we think it is pretty decent value, but it’s still very costly. There are more expensive Luaus on the Island but also cheaper ones, and when you factor in the travel it’s a costly day out. But it is a full day of fun and learning in a beautiful setting in a part of the island you might not visit otherwise.
We think overall, it is definitely worth it, the overall experience really is second to none, and we love getting out and seeing as much of any location we visit as we can. We all travel differently but for us, the added travel is actually almost a bonus!
If you want the BEST and most AUTHENTIC Luau on Oahu, possibly Hawaii, then the Polynesian Cultural Center is definitely the number one, everywhere else is a compromise in some way…if only they put a little run in the Pina Colada’s
Top Luau’s in Oahu – Every Luau RATED
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Have Your Say
Have you visited the Polynesian Cultural Center Luau? Did you take the Alii Luau Package, the GAteway Buffet, or the Super Ambasador? Let us know un the comments and how you felt the PAckage worked for you. Did you enjoy the feast, how did you find the show? Did you explore the Islands? What ever you have to say just let us know in the comments, or if you have any questions just fire away.
