Soak Up Kauai Culture at Luau Kalamaku
There are so many aspects of history to explore in Hawaii. The typical luau brings to life key moments of ancient Hawaii and the Polynesian voyagers who first settled in the islands, but there’s one special place that highlights another element of more recent Hawaiian history: the plantation era. Part of the excitement of a Hawaiian vacation is learning about the history of the islands, and when you take part in Luau Kalamaku on the island of Kauai, you also have a chance to explore plantation culture and history with access to the manor house and shops of Kilohana Plantation.
Shopping and a History Lesson
You may wonder how history and shopping are intertwined, but at Kilohana Plantation, it’s all one unique experience that includes tours of a historic manor house and grounds that were the jewel of one of Kauai’s thriving plantations. In the late 1800s, a 700-acre tract of land in Kauai was purchased by Albert Wilcox. In the 1930s, Albert’s brother Gaylord took over operations of the Grove Farm Plantation, expanding the plantation to 23,000 acres. Here, Gaylord built an English Tudor home, now open to the public and home of the Shops at Kilohana.
With your admission to the Luau Kalamaku, you also have access to the historic home and grounds. This is a great opportunity to do some shopping for locally made crafts, jewelry, art, and even rum, and to appreciate the lovingly restored historic home.
Along with shopping, you’re invited to explore the history of the plantation era of the island. Sugar plantations were a major contributor to the local economy, and were the driving force for much of Hawaii’s immigration. The Art Deco-influenced manor house retains much of its original beauty, with shops built into the bedrooms, sunroom, living quarters, and sitting rooms.
Kauai’s Premier Luau
Once you’ve explored the manor of Kilohana,it’s time for the luau that awaits. This tropical celebration features a lavish luau dinner, an award-winning production, and even an open bar!
A menu filled with traditional luau favorites, including kalua pig and lomi lomi salmon, is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eater. Fill up on Hawaiian cuisine and enjoy flavorful tropical drinks, but be sure to save room for dessert!
If you opt for the Plantation Owner’s Evening upgrade, you’ll be treated to an indulgent four-course feast served at Gaylord’s Restaurant. Along with premier seating for the show, the Plantation Owner’s evening comes with a lei greeting and glass of champagne when you arrive.
After dinner, turn your attention to the performance stages where a mix of hula, fiery poi ball twirlers, fire-knife dancing, and the rhythm of Polynesian music come together to create an unforgettable show.
