Mauna Lani Luau - Gourmet Polynesian Dinner & Luau Show with Fireknife Dance

Nestled in historic Kalahuipua'a on the Big Island of Hawaii, is an extraordinary Hawaiian luau experience like no other. Located within the luxurious Mauna Lani, Auberge Resort, the Hale Hoaloha Luau, brings together a delicious feast featuring many island favorites, and an authentic Polynesian show like no other.

When you arrive, listen as you are greeted with a Hawaiian welcome chant, and then make your way to the bar for some drinks, try some Hawaiian games, and even watch an imu ceremony where you can see an entire pig lifted from a lava rock-lined underground oven.

Once dinner is served, head to the luau buffet and have a taste of a wide variety of delicious island dishes. Kids will even have their very own buffet with lots of kid-friendly options too!

As the sun begins to set, the stage will come alive with a Polynesian luau show featuring beautiful Hawaiian hula, rhythmic Tahitian ori, and of course, one of the best Samoan fireknife dance performances in all of Hawaii!

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Why do travelers choose this tour?

Located at one of the most luxurious resorts on the Big Island, the Mauna Lani provides the perfect backdrop to the Hale Hoaloha Luau. With amazing views and a picturesque setting, guests will take home vivid memories of this Hawaiian luau.

The Hale Hoaloha Luau at the Mauna Lani features the award-winning performers of Island Breeze Productions, and has one of the best evening luau shows in Hawaii. Island Breeze Productions has been in operation for over 30 years, and is highly-regarded throughout the world for their incredible Polynesian performances.

Visitors will savor a delicious gourmet buffet dinner that features an array of Polynesian and Pan-Pacific delicacies all skillfully crafted by acclaimed chefs from the Big Island. With meticulous attention, these expert culinary artists have carefully chosen and crafted each dish, promising a delightful and unforgettable dining experience for all guests, both adults and children.

Drawing inspiration from the historical setting of Kalahuipuaʻa, the luau proudly presents a performance that pays homage to the rich tapestry of Polynesian cultural heritage, time-honored traditions, and captivating history of ancient and contemporary Hawaii, as well as the enchanting islands of Polynesia. Through vibrant performances, guests are taken on a journey that embraces the essence of these diverse cultures, highlighted by their unique cuisines and captivating customs.

Local expert tips

• Since this luau normally only operates once a week, this activity books up quickly, and we highly suggest booking at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance, especially during busy seasons like summer and spring break.
• For the best possible guests should plan on booking as early as possible since seating is assigned at the time of booking.
• At the luau, guests can enjoy a wide range of food options at the buffet which caters to almost every taste. To accommodate guests with food allergies or intolerances, the menu also features vegetarian and vegan choices, along with gluten and dairy-free options.
• The luau grounds are wheelchair and scooter accessible, and accommodations will be made for guests with mobility issues.
• A family-friendly luau, children ages 3 and below get in free, they will each get their own seat, and there is also a special kid's buffet with kid-friendly dishes that will suit even the most finicky of taste buds..
• Recommend attire: Resort casual or Aloha wear, with a light jacket or sweater. Flat shoes are a better option than high heeled shoes since the grounds are uneven with grass.

Pre-show demonstrations

Before the luau begins, guests can enjoy various cultural activities. These activities may include watching performances and joining in some of them. It's essential to remember that these activities might change or be limited based on the availability of the performers.

Once you enter the luau, guests can enjoy playing traditional Hawaiian makahiki games on the Hoaloha lawn, and during dinner, you will be entertained by live music and hula performances. As the night sky brightens with torches, the captivating evening luau show will commence.

How to get there?

(From ptr website) To reach Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection from Kona, around 30 minutes away, head north on Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway (State Hwy 19) for approximately 23 miles. Look for the entrance to Mauna Lani Resort on your left, and follow the signs to the Auberge Resorts Collection within the resort. Alternatively, you can use rideshare or taxi services.

To get to the luau from Waikoloa, head north on Waikoloa Beach Drive. Continue onto Mauna Lani Drive until you reach the resort. The distance is approximately 5 miles, and the drive takes about 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

About the location

Kalahuipuaʻa is a culturally significant Hawaiian area on the Big Island's Kohala Coast, and it is well-known for its historical and archaeological importance as a former royal fishing village. The name "Kalahuipuaʻa" means "The Gathering Place of the Pigs" in Hawaiian, and it highlights its past as a designated place for the Hawaiian chiefs and royalty to hold annual gatherings and feast during the makahiki, or Hawaiian new year, season.

Today, Kalahuipuaʻa is part of the Mauna Lani Resort, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the ancient Hawaiian fishponds and walk in the footsteps of Hawaii's ancient royalty. The area's natural beauty, with lush vegetation, coastal trails, and the picturesque coastline, provides a serene and scenic environment for visitors to experience and appreciate Hawaii's rich cultural heritage.