Do I Need To Book Luau Tickets in Advance?

Luau buffet with mountains and ocean in the background

Do I Need To Book Luau Tickets in Advance?

by Mark L., March 20, 2019

Fire-knife dancer performing at a luau, holding two lit blades behind his head.
Don’t get burned—book your luau in advance

The short answer: Yes.

Unless you like disappointing the people who depended on you to make sure their Hawaiian vacation was perfect.

Do I Really Have To Plan That Far Ahead?

Ugh. Quit complaining. You’re going to Hawaii, for heaven’s sake! As you plan for your tropical getaway, you may feel a bit overwhelmed by the number of reservations you need to make. With all the tours, transportation, and activities, it seems like every minute of your vacation has to be scheduled, long before you even get to the islands. While doing all that research, you may ask yourself whether the same holds for the luau you promised everyone you’d do. After all, it’s just dinner and a show, you might think, and with so many options around, there will always be plenty of last-minute choices. Unless there aren’t.

All You Can Eat Luau Buffet
Early birds get better seats and first crack at the Luau Buffet

While every luau doesn’t sell out every night, the point is: why risk the disappointment? Wouldn’t that be a bummer? Because luaus are a must-do for Hawaiian vacations, you’re risking missing out on a chance to get a taste of the cultures and traditions of the islands. And poi. Where else are you going to have the chance to try poi?

Trust us, not all luaus are equal. It’s much better to reserve your place at the luau you want to go to than to get stuck with whatever’s left when you arrive. And if you’re traveling during a busy time—winter holidays, spring break, summer, and most holiday weekends—you’d be surprised as to how quickly spots can sell out.

OK! You’ve Convinced Me. Where Do I Start?

We thought you’d never ask. Using our world-class, colorful, shiny, fun-to-use Luau Comparison Chart, you can see what each Luau offers. Based on that, you can choose the luau that sounds the coolest to you, and with another click or two, book that baby and not have to worry about it anymore. Sounds easy enough, doesn’t it?

The key to a thoroughly enjoyable Hawaiian getaway is to leave nothing to chance. If you have the option to book luau tickets ahead of time, then just get it done. Most luaus have a flexible 24-hour cancellation/ full refund policy too, so there’s no need to put it off.

When you finally arrive in the islands, you’ll be able to just relax and enjoy the fruits of your earlier legwork. And you won’t have to endure the glares of your loved ones.

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