If there was one thing we wanted to do while in Oahu, it was attend an authentic Hawaiian Luau. I’m so glad we had the opportunity to attend the Aloha Kai Luau at Sea Life Park; it was definitely our most memorable experience on the island. To start off, the location is set on a gorgeous back drop of the Kaiwi region and Ko’olau Mountains, which is simply breathtaking. What I loved most about this luau was that it wasn’t just entertaining, but educational as well. What better way to learn about the Polynesian culture then to immerse in an authentic celebration with traditional food, storytelling, music, and hands-on activities.
ARRIVAL
Guests are welcome to check in at 4:30 PM at the ticketing booth. You will be greeted with a flower or shell lei, and offered the opportunity to have a group photo taken with the gorgeous scenic backdrop. Then you will make your way to the cafe patio to sit and relax while you wait for your hostess to escort you to the Luau. Guests are seated by groups depending on what package you purchase. The three options are gold, silver and bronze. Our package was gold, and well worth it. Those with a Gold package have priority seating, and are invited back first to get a head start on activities, have VIP reserved tables with front row seats perfect for viewing the show, complimentary welcome Mai Tai or pineapple mocktail, receive a souvenir photograph, as well as are called first for the buffet line. Not to mention, all Luau packages include admission to Sea Life Park. You can check out the packages here to see which matches your needs and budget.
ACTIVTIES
The night starts off with live music and cultural activities. Make your way around the party to stop at different activity stations including:
Polynesian Tattooing
Ukulele lesson
Kupe’e and Lei making
Ulu Maika (Polynesian Bowling) and Siva Afi (Traditional Fire Dancing) demonstration
Fishnet Throwing
Imu Ceremony
FOOD
The food was so delicious that I honestly didn’t get many photos before eating. The main dishes available are: Kalua Pork, Teriyaki Chicken, Fresh Island Catch, Chow Mein Noodles, Lomi Lomi Salmon, and a vegan Option of Vegetable Curry. Greens and salads were a tossed garden salad with Asian or Ranch Dressing, fresh Pineapple, traditional Poi, and steamed vegetables. Starches included sweet rolls, sweet potatoes, and white rice. Leave room for dessert because the pineapple upside down cake made by local bakery The Patisserie was super tasty. My oldest son went back for seconds or maybe thirds! The bar was also on point! Gold and Silver packages come with two drink tickets with a choice of an Island Mai Tai, Win, Kona Beer, soft drinks or special drinks on rotation such as Lava Flow.
POLYNESIAN SHOW
After indulging in a delicious meal, is when the show begins. It was really neat how the Hawaiian songs and dances come together to tell a story that shares the islands’ history and legends. The story and dances represented a variety of different island nations of the Pacific; Kahiko, Haka, Hula, Poi Balls, New Zealand and more. There’s a lot of comedy in the show too, we definitely laughed and were well entertained. Halfway through the show we celebrated married couples with a special dance, and even had a special recognition for the couple married the longest. The shows grand finally finished off strong with fire knife dancing!
TIPS
- Keep in mind that even before the Luau, your drive there is part of the experience. Be sure to take your time along the scenic drive the Kaiwi coastline is breathtaking. I recommend making time in your day to stop as you the passing iconic landmarks like Hanauma Bay, Sandy Beach, the Halona Blowhole, and Makapuʻu Lighthouse.
- Take your time engaging in the different activities, they are a lot of fun! We really enjoyed making lei bracelet, and ukulele lessons.
- Remember that you are on a tropical island so temperatures can drop at night, and even get a little rainy (especially in the winter) so bring a long a light jacket or rain coat. During our Luau, we had a little two minute flash rain. But the show must go on!
- Keep in mind this can be a long day for kiddos. Our family had a five hour time difference. So a show ending at 7PM Island time, was mid-night our time. We planned this excursion later in the trip so all would be adjusted and able to stay up late.
- All packages include admission to Sea Life Park, and doesn’t need to be used on the same day as the Luau. If you’d like to do everything in one day that’s great. If you are worried about little ones being over extended you can break down the adventure into two days.
- If you have questions. Want to know more, feel free to write me. I enjoy helping family’s plan fun vacations.
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