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Polynesian Cultural Center

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Description
Celebrate traditional Polynesian culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center, named "Hawaii's favorite visitor attraction" by the People's Choice Awards.

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Location: Laie, East Oahu
Time: Afternoon/Evening
Duration: Varies
Available: Mon - Sat
Transportation: N/A

Polynesian Cultural Center celebrates traditional Polynesian culture, and gives you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the lifestyles, habitats, entertainment and hospitality of seven Polynesian villages - Tonga, Tahiti, the Marquesas, Fiji, New Zealand (Aotearoa), Samoa and Hawaii! Enjoy various Polynesian activities, authentic Hawaiian Luau – Alii Luau, and the famous "Horizons" night show.

Polynesia, which means "many islands," covers a roughly triangular-shaped geographical area of the Pacific Ocean, with Hawaii at the northern apex, Aotearoa or New Zealand in the southwest, and Rapa Nui or Easter Island in the southeast. Map of Polynesia


Rainbows of Paradise - Fijian Dance

At the Polynesian Cultural Center you will see islanders reenact war dances and wedding ceremonies, rub sticks to create fire, carve tiki figures, wield fire knives, and climb four-story trees in bare feet plus much more. Go at your own pace through the villages, take a break on a leisurely canoe ride down the center's tropical river, or escape the heat and watch an incredible Hawaii IMAX™ film in the cool theatre.

Mid-Afternoon, the Rainbows of Paradise, Hawaii's only waterborne canoe pageant begins and you will be called to the river's edge to watch Polynesian dancers show off their native costumes and culture as they float along.

Polynesian Activities (Gates open at 12:00pm):

The Polynesian Cultural Center features the people and islands of Hawaii, Samoa, Aotearoa (Maori New Zealand), Fiji, the Marquesas, Tahiti, and Tonga; as well as a Rapa Nui exhibit and an 1850s-era Christian mission complex, all in a beautiful 42-acre setting that has been Hawaii's top paid-admission visitor attraction since 1977

Hawai'i (2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm & 5:30pm)


Hula Dancers

Learn not only some basic hula, but also learn of the deeper commitment hula students make to their art, the intricacies of the motions, and the heritage of the hula implements and instruments. Gain insights into the ancient kapu or taboo system that meant men and women ate in separate houses.

Learn how taro is harvested, cooked, and turned into the staple food, poi. Of course, you are also welcome to sample some. Observe how women craft leaves and flowers into beautiful Hawaiian lei and other useful items; and then try your hand at ulu maika - Hawaiian bowling, or konane - Hawaiian checkers.


Samoa (12:35pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm & 5:30pm)


Coconut Tree Climbing

Popular! Learn how to make fire by literally rubbing two sticks together, how to easily crack open a coconut, the difference between coconut juice and "milk," and how the men do all the major cooking. The young men will also show their strength and agility by climbing 40-foot coconut trees.


Aotearoa (New Zealand) (2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm & 5:30pm)


Maori Warrior

The Maori put on a demonstration that explains the symbolic significance of their beautiful meeting house, unique carvings, facial tattoos, the ancient origins and meanings of sticking out their tongues and twirling poi balls, and other aspects of one of Polynesia's most unusual group of people.

You won't want to miss the stirring haka dance; kids will enjoy learning to play tititorea, a Maori stick game designed to develop hand-eye coordination, and kids of all ages seem to enjoy the ta moko area where they can get a temporary tattoo.


Fiji (2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm & 5:30pm)


Fijian Warrior

Learn the significance of the lali or log drum, how important the coconut is in cooking, and other aspects of Polynesian island life. Review the wide array of historical weapons and implements involved in waging war upon neighboring islands and villages; that the cowry shells on the ridge mark a house as belonging to a chief, and that only the chief could enter that house through his door.

Everyone will also enjoy making Fijian music with derua, a bamboo percussion instrument; or try a game of cibi (pronounced "thim-bee").


Tahiti (3:00pm, 4:00pm & 5:00pm)


Tahitian Dance

Learn both the women's and men's movements in their exciting dances, or just try to stop your toes from tapping to the beat of the wooden to'ere drums. Learn why the Tahitians make both fragrant flower and beautiful shell lei, sample Tahitian coconut bread, tour the garden, even let your kids try some fishing, and more.

Tonga (2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm & 5:30pm)


Tongan Drummer

The Tongans present their very popular Tongan ta nafa or drumming presentation that actually starts by learning the simple yet graceful motions of a mauluulu sitting dance. For example, you'll learn the difference between clapping with a pasi or a fu sound. You can also try your hand at Tongan lafo, a type of shuffleboard game, or even your accuracy with tolo spear throwing.

Marquesas (1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm & 5:30pm)


Marquesan

The Marquesas will enchant you with their ancient style of dancing: You can definitely see the sounds and motions of nature in their choreography, and you won't want to miss the pig hunt dance. Temporary tattoos are one of the most popular things to acquire there; and along with demonstrations of weaving and other crafts, the Marquesan's also share samples of breadfruit in season. Discover what it tastes like.

Polynesian Cultural Center Dining:

Ambassador Prime Rib/Seafood Dining (5:00pm - 7:00pm)


Premium Prime Rib/Seafood Buffet at Ambassador Restaurant

Enjoy Prime Rib/Seafood at Ambassador Restaurant.

Book the following packages to enjoy the premium Ambassador buffet:

Hawaiian Luau - Alii Luau Feast (5:00pm - 6:30pm):


Lei Greeting at Ali'i Luau

Alii Luau: Winner of the coveted Kahili Award for preserving Hawaiian culture, is considered Oahu's most authentic luau. The Alii Luau begins at 5:00pm with a shell lei greeting, and you'll enjoy a traditional Hawaiian feast as the all-Hawaiian show begins with hula kahiko, or ancient dances, that tell stories of old Hawaii.

Book the following packages to join Alii Luau:

Gateway Restaurant:


Gateway Restaurant

The Polynesian Cultural Center's Gateway Restaurant serves a good and satisfying cosmopolitan buffet that's sure to please any palate. You do not need to purchase packages to enjoy this dining facility.

"Horizons" Night Show (7:30pm - 9:00pm):


"Horizons" Night Show

When the sun goes down, enjoy the Polynesian Cultural Center's spectacular "Horizons" Night Show. A cast of over 100 young Polynesians will enchant you with their enthusiasm, grace, endurance and beauty. This 90-min award-winning show is the largest Polynesian revue of song and dance in the world that you must not miss.


Please book from the following options:

  • General Admission (12:00pm - 6:00pm) - Admission to all day activities beginning at 12:00pm
  • Show Only (after 6:00pm) - Admission to the park after 6:00pm for Horizaons evening show ONLY
  • Admission & Show (All Day) - Admission to all day activities beginning at 12 noon, and Upper Level Reserved Seating at the Horizons evening show (No Meal).
  • Admission & Show (Half-Day) - Admission after 4:00pm, and Upper Level Reserved Seating at the Horizons evening show (No Meal).

Recommended! All Day & Half Day Packages - Maximize your adventure at Polynesian Cultural Center!

Click Horizons Night Show Seating Chart for more seating info.

Package Guided Tour Dining "Horizons Night Show" Seating
All-Day Packages Super Ambassador Personal Fine Dining at Ambassador Restaurant Front Row VIP
Ambassador
(Prime Rib/Seafood)
Small Group Buffet Dining at Ambassador Restaurant Premium Lower Level Center
Super Ambassador Luau Personal

Ali'i Luau Buffet

Front Row VIP
Ambassador Luau Small Group Ali'i Luau Buffet Premium Lower Level Center
Alii Luau - Ali'i Luau Buffet Lower Level Preferred
Twilight Half-Day Packages
(Enter after 4:00pm)
Ambassador
(Prime Rib/Seafood)
Small Group Buffet Dining at Ambassador Restaurant Premium Lower Level Center
Ambassador Luau Small Group Ali'i Luau Buffet Premium Lower Level Center
Alii Luau - Ali'i Luau Buffet Lower Level Preferred

Location: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, East Oahu

Time & Duration:

*Polynesian Cultural Center opens at 12:00pm.

Days of operation:Monday - Saturday

Transportation: N/A *Round-trip Transportation from Waikiki available for Package Participants ONLY!


Comment Board
Ambassador Package
We decided to try the ambassador package which included premium seats to the luau and the all day tour with a guide. I am so glad we decided on this. The food at the luau was ok, but the show was incredible! The tour around the grounds was ...More

Polynesian Cultural Show
We just purchased the general admission which starts at 4pm til 9pm Friday, 9/ 14.
We thought that when we get there there will be entertainment in each island that was presented but to our surprise some of the islands are empty. No pe ...More

*Inclusive of Tax & Fees
  Age/ Unit *Price  
General Admission Only (12:00pm - 6:00pm) / No Transportation Adult/Child (12 & over) $43.00 Book Now
Child (3-11) $33.00
Show Only (after 6:00pm) / No Transportation Adult/Child (12 & over) $43.00 Book Now
Child (3-11) $33.00
General Admission & Show Package - Half Day (4:00pm - 9:00pm) / No Transportation Adult/Child (12 & over) $48.00 Book Now
Child (3-11) $29.00
Toddler (2 & under) $0.00
General Admission & Show Package - All Day (12:00pm - 9:00pm) / No Transportation Adult/Child (12 & over) $58.00 Book Now
Child (3-11) $43.00
Toddler (2 & under) $0.00
Inclusions:
General Admission Only (12:00pm - 6:00pm): Admission
Show Only (after 6:00pm): Admission
General Admission & Show Package - Half Day (4:00pm - 9:00pm): Show Fee/Entertainment/Admission
General Admission & Show Package - All Day (12:00pm - 9:00pm): Show Fee/Entertainment/Admission

Additional Information(for all packages):
General Admission Only (12:00pm - 6:00pm):
Note(s)
  • If you are driving on your own, you will be required to pay the parking fee.
  • Drinks and meals are available for purchase
  • No large bags/luggage allowed.
Show Only (after 6:00pm):
Note(s)
  • If you are driving on your own, you will be required to pay the parking fee.
  • Drinks and meals are available for purchase
  • No large bags/luggage allowed.
General Admission & Show Package - Half Day (4:00pm - 9:00pm):
Note(s)
  • If you are driving on your own, you will be required to pay the parking fee.
  • Drinks and meals are available for purchase
  • No large bags/luggage allowed.
General Admission & Show Package - All Day (12:00pm - 9:00pm):
Note(s)
  • If you are driving on your own, you will be required to pay the parking fee.
  • Drinks and meals are available for purchase
  • No large bags/luggage allowed.
Cancellation Policy: Any cancellations made within 24 hours of the activity start time will be subject to a(n) 100% charge.
*This cancellation policy is set by the activity provider.
Cancellation Service Fee: No (0%) Cancellation Service Fee is applied for cancellations made outside of the above cancellation policy set by the activity provider.