If you’re planning a Hawaiian vacation on the Garden Island, you’ve got lots of great activities to look forward to. But there’s one activity that tops many visitors’ lists: a Kauai luau. Of course this is a popular thing to do in Kauai – you get food, entertainment, and a fantastic atmosphere all in one.
But not all luau are created equal, so you need the best information for how to book the best one. Ready to discover which is best for you? Read on for our guide to Kauai luau!
Is it “luau” or “luaus”?
Did you know? The Hawaiian language doesn’t use “s” to turn words into plural. So the plural of luau is… luau!
The Best Kauai Luau
Want to choose the best Kauai luau for your vacation? It’s impossible to choose a one-size-fits-all favorite. But we’ve narrowed down some choices for you so you can pick out the best one for your trip!
BUT, before you do, here are a few tips to get you started:
- Luau food probably won’t be the best food you’ll have while you’re in Hawaii. But it’s a great chance to try something new, and dine in an incredible setting.
- We recommend attending a luau a few days into your trip, after your jet lag has worn off.
- Some kids get restless during luau shows. If you’re coming with little ones, consider a VIP option for closer seating, a luau that takes place in a shorter time frame, or skipping the luau until they’re older and can enjoy it a little more.
- Budget for a taxi or rideshare to get you to and from the luau if you’ll be drinking!
Smith Family Garden Luau
One of the highest-rated luau in Kauai is the Smith Family Luau. This Lihue icon has been in business for decades, but the experience doesn’t feel dated. It’s a nice balance between a classic luau experience and modern expectations.
The food tastes great, the entertainment is fun, and they keep the drinks flowing (beer, wine, and standard mixed drinks are included in admission!). They also know how to move crowds efficiently yet kindly – it’s organized without feeling like an assembly line.
The best part of the Smith Family Luau is the beautiful grounds. Smith’s Tropical Paradise is a 30-acre garden set on the Wailua River, and many visit just to tour the property. Your luau ticket includes an optional tram tour of the gardens.
We also love that Smith’s Luau doesn’t have tiered tickets, so you don’t have to decide between seating and drink packages. However, this could be a downside if you want a guaranteed front-row spot.
One thing to note about the Smith Family Garden Luau is that the show is in a separate area from dinner, so you’ll eat and then go to the theater for the main production. Some guests like the change of scenery while others say it makes the luau feel too long.
Luau Kalamaku Kilohana
Have you ever visited Kilohana Plantation? The 1930s estate is a fan-favorite destination on Kauai, complete with a working farm, train tour, restaurant, rum tasting room, historic home, and souvenir shop.
And, of course, their luau! Luau Kalamaku is a fantastic Kauai luau that’s great for families and couples alike. You can explore the plantation grounds, enjoy cultural demonstrations and games, shop local crafts, and witness an imu ceremony before settling in for dinner.
The show is the highlight of Luau Kalamaku. Music, dance, and storytelling blend seamlessly into a beautiful production that highlights the culture and history of Polynesia.
Alcohol is included in your admission, which makes the evening even more fun. You can also upgrade your luau booking to include a train tour of the property before dinner.
Book your Luau Kalamaku tickets here!
Luau Ka Hikina
Luau Ka Hikina is a lovely, classic luau at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort. This is a smaller luau that takes place in an open-air pavilion. The food is yummier than many other Kauai luau, and the performances feel authentic – much like you’d enjoy at a real Hawaii family party.
Admission includes an open bar and buffet dinner. There isn’t an imu ceremony, but they do a torch lighting at sunset that’s a lot of fun. There’s also the chance to shop with local vendors before dinner and enjoy the scenic lawn at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort.
Our favorite thing about Luau Ka Hakina is the above-average luau food. And though the stage design isn’t as grand as other Hawaii luau, the performers put a lot of heart into the production – so much that you wouldn’t even notice the surroundings.
Tahiti Nui Luau on Kauai
If you’re looking for something different and smaller-scale than the typical Hawaii luau, the Tahiti Nui Luau could be perfect for you. This indoor luau welcomes fewer guests and has a more simplistic production than other Kauai luau, but that’s part of its charm.
Be welcomed like family as you settle in for dinner and a show. Tahiti Nui is also a regular restaurant, so its Wednesday night luau has fantastic food and drinks. Enjoy an open bar, an imu ceremony, and a buffet dinner.
Our favorite thing about Tahiti Nui Luau is its location. This Kauai luau is in the heart of Hanalei, a historic and peaceful town that showcases the classic charm of Hawaii. Spend the afternoon exploring the shops and galleries around town, then settle in for the Tahiti Nui Luau.
This is an indoor luau, which some people appreciate (no concerns about weather and mosquitos), but others feel like it makes it feel too small. Either way, they still do the fire knife dancing during the show, so you won’t miss out on that.
Book your Tahiti Nui Luau tickets here!
Ahi Uila Fire Show
Do you sit through luau shows waiting for the fire knife dancing? For most luau, the heart-pounding performance is the grand finale. But at Ahi Uila Fire Show, it’s the entire production. Experience the thrill and variety of fire dancing, plus have different options for how you attend this luau.
Ahi Uila Fire Show is offered as a full luau buffet, complete with 1 mai tai and the option to purchase additional drinks. Or, you can attend only the show (an option that also includes a mai tai with the option to purchase more drinks). You can also upgrade to premium seating if you want to be even closer to the fire.
The food won’t be your best meal on Kaui, so you could skip the buffet ticket to keep costs down.
This is our Kauai luau recommendation if you’ve been to another luau and are looking for something a little different this time.
Ahi Uila Fire Show is at the Hilton Garden Inn Wailua Bay. Weather often forces the luau to move inside, but they still perform the fire dances.
Book your Ahi Uila Fire Show tickets here!
Ahi Lele Luau Fire Show
Here is another Kauai luau that’s all about the fire! Ahi Lele Luau Fire Show is a magnificent production full of flames and wonder. And, if you’re staying near Princeville you can’t beat the location.
This luau is in a covered pavilion at Anaina Hou Community Park, a popular locale for community and family events. And the Ahi Lele Luau has that simple, down-home feel that you might not expect from a Hawaii luau.
Seating at picnic tables, and the lawn space allows kids to run around and play. It’s also a smaller-scale luau with a smaller buffet menu. But the food is tasty, as if they put more effort into their fewer items.
Drinks aren’t included in admission, but you can purchase them onsite. There’s also a VIP seating option for anyone wanting a spot on the front row, or you can call to buy a show-only ticket that doesn’t include food.
FAQ About Kauai Luau
Whether you go to a grand resort luau or a small-scale show, your luau experience is sure to be memorable. After all, a luau is a great way to slow down and enjoy Hawaii’s beauty, food, and arts.
But you may have questions about your luau, and that’s what we’re here for! Check out some FAQs below to help you look forward to your Kauai vacation activity:
I’ve been to luau on other islands, should I still go to a Kaui luau?
Absolutely! We think Kauai luau are unique because they are a bit smaller and seem like they’re part of the community. They are often run by multi-generational families, feature food from local restaurants, and employ local dance troupes (Halau Hula in Hawaii).
What’s the difference between the luau on Maui, Oahu, and Kauai?
Maui has some of the most expensive luau in Hawaii, while Oahu offers a range of prices and options. Kauai has some (relatively) lower-cost luau, so it’s a good island to choose if you’re island hopping on a budget.
Almost all Maui luau feature an open bar, while most on Oahu charge for drinks. Kauai is a mixed bag – some luau charge for drinks while others include unlimited alcohol in your ticket.
And since Kauai is a rainy island, many luau will be undercover or have a higher chance of being moved indoors.
Maui has the luaus with the best views. Meanwhile, Oahu luau can feel a bit crowded and like you’re part of a luau assembly line. Kauai luau are more laid back, and even the large ones feel personal even as they move you efficiently through a buffet.
Which Kauai luau should I choose?
Most luau on Kauai have similar price points and similar schedules: You arrive, relax, eat, drink, and then enjoy the show. However, some locations have shows that primarily feature fire knife dancing, while others have more diverse productions. You can also choose between large luau and smaller scale ones, or choose one that doesn’t include a dinner at all.
Really, it depends on your family and preferences. Kids might like a luau that doesn’t last as long, while couples might enjoy settling in for a more extended evening of food, drinks, and music.
What’s the best way to book a Kaui luau?
Hawaii Aloha Travel can help you book a luau that’s perfect for you. We can narrow down your options and help fit them into your vacation plans. This is perfect for visitors who want the best advice from local agents who know what works well at Kauai luau.
Eat, Drink, & Be Merry on Kauai
Whether you like free-flowing drinks, thoughtful dinners, or masterful productions, a Kauai luau is perfect for you. Which one will you enjoy during your Kauai vacation? Let us know!
