What to Expect at a Luau on Maui: Complete Guide

Most luaus start in the late afternoon or early evening. This will give you time to enjoy the pre-show and watch the sunset views before the main event starts.

When you arrive at the luau, you’ll be greeted with a fresh flower lei and a welcome drink, Mai Tai, or fruit punch.

Pre-show

Many luaus have pre-show activities you can do before dinner. Some pre-show activities include traditional Hawaiian games, hula lessons, lei-making, wood carving, and tattooing.

Feel free to roam around, try out the activities, learn something new about Hawaiian culture, and meet the other guests.

Many luaus are held at oceanfront locations – Make sure to take some time to enjoy the view while you’re here!

Dinner

The traditional Hawaiian luau feast is the main event and you’ll be treated to a buffet of Polynesian dishes. A luau staple is the Kalua pig, cooked for hours in an underground oven called an imu.

While the Kalua pig is the main attraction, don’t miss out on other island favorites like poi, a taro root paste, lomi salmon, salted salmon, tomatoes and onions, laulau, pork or fish wrapped in taro leaves and haupia, a coconut milk dessert.

You can experience all this while enjoying the beautiful views many luaus in Maui have to offer.

The show starts after dinner and features traditional Polynesian dances like the hula. There is a strong emphasis on storytelling and symbolism and you’ll see different hula styles from throughout the Pacific Islands.

These dances tell stories, myths, legends, and cultural traditions accompanied by drumming and music. Often, the grand finale is fire knife dancing – arguably the most fun part of the Luau.

Another highlight of the luau is preparing the Kalua pig from the imu. You’ll learn how they prepare this main event of the dinner and get to see the smoky reveal, often a theatrical production with music, fire, and dancers.

Music and Ambiance

Throughout the evening traditional Hawaiian music plays. You’ll have a relaxed and festive atmosphere and beautiful views as a backdrop, many luaus are held at oceanfront locations.

Music is an important part of our culture in Hawaii, with mele, our chant, being the center of attention. Take in the music, and the flavors of Polynesian cuisine and enjoy the celebration.

Here’s a quick rundown of some popular luaus on Maui. This should give you an idea of what to expect at a luau on Maui:

This luau is famous for its authenticity and oceanfront location on Kaanapali Beach. Since 1986, they’ve perfected their craft, focusing on every detail.

From a traditional show, delicious buffet, and handcrafted leis to an open bar, The Old Lahaina Luau has everything you need to make for a complete luau.

It’s worth noting that this is one of the very popular Luaus in Maui, and we recommend booking as soon as possible.

The Grand Wailea Luau, also known as Honua’ula, is a cultural extravaganza set on the grounds of Wailea Beach Park.

This luau tells the epic story of Hawaii’s first settlers and the legendary journey of La‘amaikahiki and Moikeha.

Enjoy a traditional Hawaiian feast with kalua pig, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits while watching hula and fire dancing. The luau also features a pre-show with interactive activities like lei-making and hula lessons.

With storytelling, music, open bar, and dance, the Grand Wailea Luau is an evening you’ll never forget and get to experience the real Hawaiian culture.

The highlight is probably the sunset, and you’re definitely in for a treat. No wonder tickets for the Honua’ula are hard to get!

The Feast at Mokapu is an upscale luau at the luxurious Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort. This elegant event takes place on the resort’s lawn overlooking Mokapu Beach.

The Feast at Mokapu has plenty of delicious treats, a multi-course menu featuring local Hawaiian ingredients and flavors. Enjoy dishes like imu-roasted pig, ahi poke, and tropical desserts while listening to live music and traditional hula.

The intimate and sophisticated setting, combined with the delicious food and entertainment, makes The Feast at Mokapu a luau like no other and a modern take on an old Hawaiian tradition.

Wondering what to wear to a luau? Many luaus will say “Aloha Attire” but what does that mean? Aloha Attire means Hawaiian-themed clothing.

Bright colors are great, think Hibiscus flower patterns. A simple look is a classic Hawaiian shirt maybe even with some khakis. Ladies may want to consider a flowy sundress with a floral print.

Most people dress up a bit more than usual for a luau so consider dressing up a bit to make it feel more special. Of course, no matter what you wear, be comfortable. That will make it that much easier to enjoy everything the luau has to offer (including a lot of delicious food!).

Maui can get breezy in the evening so it’s a good idea to bring a light sweater or wrap. Mosquitoes can also be part of the show, especially in the evening. If you’re sensitive consider packing insect repellent, long sleeves, and pants.

A Maui luau is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip but don’t forget to also check out the other fun things Maui has to offer.

Maui’s aloha spirit goes beyond the luau but it’s certainly one of the best parts of visiting Maui. Relax and experience true Hawaiian hospitality at a luau, it will be one of the highlights of your trip to Hawaii.