Luaus can be commercial and kitschy affairs, but the following ten provide authentic experiences of these popular, traditional Hawaiian extravaganzas. Watch (and feast on) kalua pigs dug out of the imu (underground oven), enjoy fire knife dancers and take in the tastes and music of all Polynesia. And while you'll most likely be sipping Mai Tais, all of these luaus are perfectly appropriate for the little ones as well.
Luaus can be commercial and kitschy affairs, but the following ten provide authentic experiences of these popular, traditional Hawaiian extravaganzas. Watch ... more
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1
Island Breeze Luau
King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel
This flashy luau is popular for its entertaining show and plentiful food. Think Maori warriors and Samoan fire dancers, along with a Royal Court and festive Polynesian dances. Visit www.islandbreezeluau.com for details
2
Ah'aina Luau at Kona Village
Kona Village Resort
The longest running and most expansive luau on the Big Island features a Polynesian revue with dances, songs and chants, a Samoan fire knife dance, Maori warrior haka and Tahitian tamure as well as a traditional feast with roasted pig. For details, visit www.konavillage.com
3
Kamaha'o Show Kamaha'o, The Wondrous Myths of Hawaii
Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa
The focus at this luau dinner and show is on the dances, chants and ceremonies of ancient Hawaii. Enjoy traditional Hawaiian fare such as roast suckling pig, poi (mashed taro root) and haupia (coconut pudding) as well as the grand finale stage performance. For details, visit www.sheratonkeauhou.com
4
Luau at Kilohana
Gaylord's Restaurant
The historic sugar plantation owned by the Gaylord family is home to one of the most popular luaus in the Islands. Feast from the all-you-can-eat buffet on items such as roasted kalua pork and imu-baked sweet potatoes, lomi lomi, poi and coconut pudding; enjoy Polynesian dances and music; and watch the retrieval of the pig from its underground oven. More details at www.gaylordskauai.com
5
Smith's Tropical Garden Luau
Smith's Tropical Garden Luau
Set on 30 acres of lush tropical gardens, this luau offers one of the most beautiful settings complete with exotic birds and lovely lagoons. Guests witness the unearthing of the traditional pig from the underground oven, sip Mai Tais and feast on a plethora of options while enjoying island music. Very kid-friendly! More details at www.smithskauai.com
6
The Feast at LeLe
Gourmet food (from chef James McDonald of Pacific'O and I'o restaurant fame) and an intimate setting—no cafeteria tables here—set The Feast at LeLe apart from the rest. Besides the usual roast pig, expect treats like sea bean duck salad with poha berry dressing or Maori fishcakes. For details, visit www.feastatlele.com
7
Old Lahaina Luau
Old Lahaina
Journey through the history of Hawaii and learn the secrets of the imu on the historic grounds of Old Lahaina. Enjoy foods seemingly made in the family kitchen; the imu-roasted pork is always moist, the ahi poke fresh and the taro salad and lomi lomi salmon ensure that everyone in the family will leave full and happy. For details, visit www.oldlahainaluau.com
8
Paradise Cove
Ko Olina Resort
From its oceanfront setting, Paradise Cove creates the quintessential luau experience people dream of. Enjoy tropical drinks and the traditional pig feast in Hawaii's only Imu Amphitheater. For details, visit www.paradisecovehawaii.com
9
Alii Luau Feast
Polynesian Cultural Center
Much more than a luau, a visit to PCC is an immersion in the culture and lifestyle of ancient Polynesia. For details, visit www.polynesia.com
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