Polynesian Cultural Center

PCC’s main attraction is the “Islands of Polynesia” portion of the park where guests can immerse themselves in the distinct cultures of six different Polynesian island villages. Each village, representing Hawaii, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Tahiti, and Aotearoa (New Zealand) has its own collection of exhibits, cultural activities, and presentations for guests to explore and experience. In addition to the six main villages, there is also an exhibit dedicated to Rapa Nui (Easter Island) as well as the Mission Settlement which depicts the life of the early 1850’s missionaries that settled in the islands. Free lessons in Polynesian weaving and ukulele playing are available in the settlement as well.

One free digital portrait is included with your ticket, so don’t forget to stop and have your photo taken with the photographer as you enter the Islands of Polynesia. (You will also have the opportunity to purchase other souvenir photo packages).

In addition to exploring the island villages, PCC has many other attractions, including hands-on activities, games, and crafts that are available throughout the park. Learn how to cook in an imu oven, get a temporary Polynesian tattoo, or hone your spear throwing skills – there’s activities for all ages and interests at PCC.

Canoe tours across the man-made lagoon that separates the island villages are also available. Guests can take a personalized tour or just to catch a ride from one end of the park to the other. Then be sure to check out some impressive canoe craftsmanship at the Iosepa exhibit – a double hulled, hand-carved canoe modeled after the ancient Hawaiian sailing canoes.

Guests can also enjoy the 12-minute 4D immersive movie “Hawaiian Journey.” Enjoy some truly stunning cinematography of Hawaii’s natural landscapes on a jumbo screen with interactive special effects that will fully engage your senses.

The Polynesian Football Hall of Fame is also located at the Polynesian Cultural Center. The Hall of Fame honors the NFL’s greatest Polynesian players, coaches, and contributors to the sport. It’s the park’s newest attraction and a must see for any football fan.

There is also a daily tour of the LDS Temple Visitors Center, the nearby campus of Brigham Young University Hawaii, and Laie.    

The Hukilau Marketplace is home to many independent shops and snack kiosks. There are also other shops, galleries, and restaurants scattered throughout the park – plenty of places to have lunch and buy souvenirs, sundries, snacks, water, etc.

Seating at the Gateway Buffet begins at 4:30 pm and continues until 6:30 pm, guests may arrive at any time during that two-hour window. Guests are treated to live Hawaiian music and a stunning 360-degree mural as they dine in this expansive open-air dining hall. The buffet itself is quite large and offers a greater selection of foods than you would normally find at a typical luau themed buffet. Gateway’s buffet offers traditional Hawaiian foods like roasted Kalua pork and poi, and many Asian and American dishes with a Polynesian twist. There’s even a full salad bar and a poke bar, plus some kid friendly options like mac & cheese and chicken strips. (Note: The Polynesian Cultural Center does not serve alcohol and does not allow it to be consumed on its premises).

Most of the park’s attractions close at 5:30 pm, so after dinner is the perfect time to do a little souvenir shopping until the seating for the evening show begins at 7:00 pm.

End the day with a dramatic love story set to live Hawaiian music, along with some Polynesian dancing and an impressive fire-knife dancing. “HA: Breath of Life” is an award-winning stage production that features over 100 performers and incorporates special effects, animation, and high-tech surround sound and lighting. The Gateway Package includes silver level seating – which will give you a sweeping view of the stage below. The show runs from 7:30 pm to about 8:45 pm.

The easiest and most convenient way to get to the Polynesian Cultural Center is to use their round-trip transportation, which can be added to your reservation during checkout. Enjoy the view and learn more about Hawaiian history and culture as you ride in a comfy, air-conditioned motorcoach and leave the Waikiki traffic to someone else! 

If driving from Honolulu or Waikiki, allow at least an hour for travel time and longer if traveling during late afternoon or early evening when commuter traffic is often heavy. PCC has plenty of free parking and has charging stations available for electric vehicles.   

Taxis and rideshares are not recommended for this attraction. A ride from Waikiki to the North Shore can be quite pricey and you may have a difficult time finding a ride back to Waikiki at 9 pm.