Where Are the Luaus on Oahu?
by Mark L., Last Updated January 23, 2024
From the surfer’s paradise North Shore to the tourism capital of Hawaii on the southern coast, the island of Oahu is a land of incredible scenery, unforgettable thrills, and adrenaline-pumping adventures. And of course, it’s where you find some of Hawaii’s best luaus.
You’ll find Hawaiian Luaus scattered all across Oahu, in a variety of settings. Whether held in a shopping center, beachside, or on a mountaintop, reserves you’ll find an evening of celebration that captures the spirit of the islands.
If you’re ready to get a glimpse into the fascinating cultures of the Polynesian Islands, Oahu is the place.
Here’s a brief look at some of the most popular luaus on Oahu, arranged by location.
South Oahu Luaus
Diamond Head Luau (Waikiki)
Small, intimate, waterfront luau with a brand-new take on luau buffets. Sample dishes from the area’s best restaurants and enjoy a fantastic Polynesian show. Located on the grounds of the Waikiki Aquarium. A fourteen-day pass to the Aquarium is included with your luau.
- Unique ‘food festival’ dining experience
- Live music and cultural activities
- Luau show with a thrilling fire-knife performance
- Walkable from many Waikiki hotels
- Waikiki’s smallest luau
Rock-a-Hula (Waikiki)
Treat yourself to an upscale luau buffet and see why this one-of-a-kind, Las Vegas-style stage production became Waikiki’s biggest show. All within walking distance of your hotel! Rock-a-Hula isn’t your typical luau, but it’s a musical extravaganza you don’t want to miss.
- Located inside Waikiki’s Royal Hawaiian Center
- Upscale outdoor luau buffet with hula dancers
- Premier seating at the Rock-a-Hula show
- Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson tribute artists
- Local talent and fire-knife dancing
Nutridge Luau (Honolulu)
Escape the hustle and bustle of Waikiki and head to the Nutridge Estate. This luau offers a small, authentic, family-style experience in a beautiful, natural setting. Nutridge sits on a peaceful, forested ridge, yet it is only minutes away from the city.
- Small luau set on a quiet, picturesque ridge
- Cultural activities, games, and demonstrations
- Luau dinner and Polynesian show
- Imu demonstration and fire-knife dancing
- Transportation from Waikiki is available
Ka Moana Luau (Honolulu)
Enjoy Hawaiian music, fun-for-all-ages cultural activities, a luau buffet, and a thrilling Polynesian show. Ka Moana Luau is conveniently located beside the historic Aloha Tower in downtown Honolulu. The luau grounds overlook the harbor and has a stunning sunset.
- Located near the Honolulu Cruise Terminal
- Waterfront views, in the shadow of the historic Aloha Tower
- Live Hawaiian music and cultural activities
- Award-winning show with fire-knife dancing
- Transportation from Waikiki is available
Star of Honolulu (Honolulu)
Set sail aboard the Star of Honolulu and enjoy the one and only “luau” at sea! Sip champagne and dine in style as you cruise along Oahu’s stunning coastline. This luau-themed dinner cruise is the perfect way to wind down after a busy day.
- Two-hour scenic cruise aboard the Star of Honolulu
- Views of Honolulu, Waikiki, & Diamond Head
- Decadent five-course meal featuring steak & lobster
- Pier-side hula performance as you embark
- Live music and a luau show as you dine
West Oahu Luaus
Aloha Kai Luau (Waimanalo)
Enjoy a stunning coastal drive as you head to Oahu’s only east-side luau. Aloha Kai Luau is located inside Sea Life Park, an aquatic education center. You’ll enjoy oceanfront seating, a luau buffet, live music, and an award-winning Polynesian show!
- Located only 25 minutes from Waikiki
- Beautiful waterfront setting
- Admission to Sea Life Park is included in all packages except the Bronze
- Imu Ceremony, hula lesson, & other cultural activities
- Transportation from Waikiki is available
East Oahu Luaus
Chief’s Luau (Kapolei)
If you’re looking for a night packed full of fun, food, and an extraordinary fire-knife finale then the Chief’s Luau is the one for you! Hosted by the legendary Chief Sielu, you’ll enjoy a night of laughter and Hawaiian culture.
- Pre-dinner cultural activities and demonstrations
- All-you-care-to-eat luau buffet
- Live music and Polynesian dancing
- A spectacular fire-knife finale
- Transportation from Waikiki is available
Central Oahu Luaus
Mauka Warriors Luau
Celebrate Hawaii’s forgotten warrior culture while enjoying a night of music, feasting, dancing, battle reenactments, and a thrilling fire-knife performance. Mauka Warriors Luau is one of Oahu’s newest luaus, yet
- Engaging cultural activities
- Polynesian feast with a stunning view of Honolulu
- Live music & luau show with fire-knife dancing
- Imu ceremony
- Transportation from Waikiki is available
The North Shore Luaus
Toa Luau (Haleiwa)
Enjoy a small luau full of fun cultural activities, good food, and a Polynesian show with an impressive fire-knife performance. Toa Luau is located in the historic and scenic Waimea Valley. All-day access to Valley is included with the luau.
- Located on Hawaii’s North Shore
- Set in a quiet, privately owned botanical garden
- Cultural activities and imu demonstration
- Luau feast and luau show with fire-knife dancing
- Explore the Waimea Valley & swim under a waterfall!
Polynesian Cultural Center (Laie)
Enjoy a spectacular stage production, a delicious luau-themed buffet dinner, and three whole days to enjoy one of Hawaii’s top attractions! The Polynesian Cultural Center is not a traditional luau, but a must-see stop for anyone looking for an immersive cultural experience.
- A three-day pass to PCC’s exhibits and activities
- Tour the six “Islands of Polynesia”
- Dinner at the luau-themed Gateway Buffet
- The award-winning show “Ha: Breath of Life”
- Transportation from Waikiki is available
