Waikiki Starlight Luau

Sit under the stars and enjoy a night of Hawaiian music, food, and a thrilling Polynesian show – right in the heart of Waikiki!

Highlights

  • Conveniently located in Waikiki
  • Picturesque outdoor waterfront setting
  • Live Hawaiian music and Polynesian dancing with a fire-knife finale
Kids love the crafting activities offered at just about every luau

Overview

If you’re looking for an outdoor luau in Waikiki with a postcard-perfect view and a Polynesian show that features some of the finest musicians and performers in the islands, then the Waikiki Starlight Luau is the luau for you.  

 

The Waikiki Starlight Luau is set on the expansive Great Lawn* of the Hilton Hawaiian Village, which is located within walking distance of many Waikiki area hotels. Lined with palm trees and overlooking the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon, the luau grounds are the perfect spot to enjoy a sunset and a luau feast. And you can comfortably settle in for an evening of music and Polynesian dancing under the stars knowing that you won’t have to sit on a bus for hours to get back to your hotel afterwards.

*Weather permitting 

Seating Options

The Waikiki Starlight Luau has two tiered seating options: Golden Circle or Diamond Premier. The Diamond-level seating will put you closer to the stage, allow you to eat sooner, and includes an additional drink. The venue can accommodate several hundred people, so the upgrade is worth considering to ensure that you have the best luau experience possible.

Activities

Guests are welcomed with a fresh flower lei and a complimentary tropical drink. Before dinner, guests have the opportunity to have their picture taken with cast members, participate in the group hula lesson, receive temporary Polynesian tattoos, or learn more about the imu – the underground oven traditionally used to roast luau foods. Or, you can simply relax and enjoy the view and the live Hawaiian music, it’s up to you! 

Hawaiian Luau Feast

The luau buffet features traditional Hawaiian foods such as roasted Kalua pork, poke, and poi, plus many local favorites and several kid-friendly options. In addition to the Kalua pork, other entrees include a chicken, fish, and a vegetarian option. There is a generous selection of sides and salads available, as well as plenty of sweet treats to choose from. The Hilton resort is known for its top-notch dining venues and uses only the finest quality, locally sourced ingredients.  

There is a full service bar onsite which serves all your favorite tropical drinks, as well as a limited selection of beer, wine, and nonalcoholic beverages. (Tip: Be sure to redeem your drink tickets early, as the bar closes during the evening performance.)

Voyages Across the South Seas

The evening performance is a lively celebration of Polynesian culture featuring traditional Samoan, Tahitian, and Hawaiian dance. This talented cast of performers will leave you charmed, impressed, and with a greater appreciation for Polynesian culture. Of course, the highlight of any luau show is the dramatic fire-knife finale, and this one will not disappoint. You’ll be on the edge of your seat as four fire-knife dancers perform a daring and difficult acrobatic routine. It’s a truly unforgettable way to end the evening.

Getting There

Waikiki Starlight Luau is located at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, which is centrally located and easy to find. The resort is within walking distance from many resorts in Waikiki. If you wish to drive, complimentary validated self-parking is available at the Hilton Hawaiian Village for luau guests. If you are staying in the Waikiki or Honolulu area, public transport or rideshares are also an option, but do allow for extra travel time in case you experience delays. 

What’s Included

Golden Circle Seating:

  • Lei Greeting
  • Mai Tai Punch and one beverage
  • Luau Feast
  • Luau show: Voyages Across the South Seas

Diamond Premier Seating:

  • Lei Greeting

  • Premier seating, closest to the stage

  • Mai Tai Punch and two beverages

  • Luau Feast – priority dining

  • Luau show: Voyages Across the South Seas

Operating Hours & Schedule:

The Waikiki Starlight Luau operates Sunday thru Thursday, year round, from 5:00pm to 8:00 pm. 

5:00 pm – Doors open

5:15 pm – Lei greeting, welcome Mai Tai, photos, activities, and live music

5:30pm – Imu demonstration and group hula lesson

6:00 pm – Dinner service begins

7:00pm – Waikiki Starlight Show: Voyage Across the South Seas

Each island village offers a different demonstration or activity

Special Considerations:

  • Seating (within your chosen tier) is assigned upon arrival, check-in early for the best location. Doors open at 5 pm, but a line typically begins to form much earlier. 
  • The show will continue if there are light, passing showers. Checking the forecast and bringing along rain protection (if needed) is highly recommended.
  • If heavy rain or severe weather are predicted, the event may be moved inside to one of the resort’s ballrooms. If the location of the event changes you will be notified.

Disclaimers:

  • Menu items may be subject to change without prior notice.
  • Cancellation Policy: Cancellations are accepted until 48 hours prior to reservation date. No-shows and any cancellations received outside of the 48 hours grace period will be charged at full ticket price. Cancellations made by the luau’s venue will be fully refunded. 

Inclement Weather: The show will continue if there are light, passing showers. Starlight Luau reserves the right to cancel or modify the show at any time for weather or safety-related issues.