If you’re looking for an authentic Hawaiian luau experience in Maui, you’ll want to check out some of the best options. From traditional luaus with entertainment and Polynesian cuisine to more modern take on the event, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few of our top recommendations for the best luaus in Maui.
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What is a luau? Maui luaus and Luau history
A luau is a traditional Hawaiian party or feast. It usually includes food, music, and hula dancing. The term luau may also refer to the food served at the party. The traditional luau feast features dishes like kalua pig, Lomi salmon, and poi.
Maui has a rich history of luaus. The first recorded luau in Hawaii took place on Maui in 1819. That luau was hosted by King Kamehameha II and his wife Queen Kapiolani. Maui is also home to some of the most famous luaus in Hawaii, including the Royal Lahaina Luau and the Kaanapali Beach Hotel Luau.
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List of the best luaus in Maui
When you think of a Hawaiian luau to visit, the first place that comes to mind is Maui. With its lush tropical setting and endless beaches, Maui is the perfect backdrop for a night of fun, food, and entertainment. Here are 11 of the top luaus on Maui:
Aha’aina Wailea, A Grand Wailea Luau
Enjoy the opulence and outstanding service that the Grand Wailea is known for at this grand luau. The setting is extremely picturesque and inviting, and the beautiful South Maui sunset views are perfect. The luau features a well-produced show and a fabulous luau feast.
Aha’aina Wailea offers unique and delicious food options for visitors looking to enjoy a Luau. Some of the standout dishes include the macadamia nut-crusted mahi-mahi and the chow fun with pork char siu. Both dishes are flavorful and hearty and provide a great sampling of Hawaiian cuisine.
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In addition to the main courses, Aha’aina Wailea also offers traditional luau fare like Kalua pork and poi. These dishes offer a taste of Hawaii that is sure to please all guests. And, of course, no luau is complete without pineapple upside-down cake! This sweet and delicious dessert is the perfect way to top off an amazing meal.
Aha’aina Wailea provides an unforgettable dining experience for guests attending its Luau. With delicious food options and stunning views, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy an amazing evening in Hawaii.
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Drums of the Pacific Lu’au
The Polynesian culture has been alive and well for centuries. Drums of the Pacific Lu’au, the longest-running show on this island, was presented at the Hyatt Regency Maui in Kaanapali.
The cuisine of the Drums of the Pacific luau is based on traditional Polynesian dishes like kalua pork, Huli Huli chicken, and Lomi Lomi salmon. These items are served buffet style, so guests can help themselves to as much or as little as they want. The buffet also includes a variety of side dishes, like rice, macaroni salad, and poi. Drinks like Mai Tais, piña coladas, and beer are also available.
This event offers visitors an opportunity to learn more about these fascinated people from across seas through music performances by their traditional instruments, as well as interactive exhibits showcasing how they lived life with little technology. The sound of the conch, the beating of the drums, the echoes of the Hawaiian chant, and the lighting of the torches signal the start are the things that you will never forget.
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Feast at Lele
The celebration of life and culture at The Feast by Lele Luau will be an experience you won’t want to miss. With its location on West Maui, this luau offers guests the chance not only to taste scrumptious traditional Hawaiian foods but also to enjoy views that are otherwise impossible in some parts of Hawaii.
Feast at Lele’s cocktail party is the perfect place to enjoy some delicious Hawaiian cocktails before the luau. They have a variety of drinks that are perfect for those looking to enjoy a taste of Hawaii. Whether you’re looking for something fruity and sweet or something a little more potent, Feast at Lele has you covered.
Their tables for two are perfect for couples looking for a romantic evening or for parents who want to enjoy an evening without their kids. The atmosphere is perfect for those looking to relax and unwind before the luau begins. So make sure to stop by Feast at Lele’s cocktail party and enjoy some of the best Hawaiian cocktails around.
We’re sure that Feast at Lele is the most memorable event which you should take part in!
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Huaka’i Luau Maui
Huaka’i Luau Maui is famous for its sophisticated dance moves of the hula. Through ancient dances, not only visitors but native people alike can have helpful knowledge about the history of Hawaii’s homeland.
Besides that, you will be impressed by the delicious smells of the sumptuous dinner buffet. The buffet features a wide variety of dishes, including traditional Hawaiian favorites and it’s a great way to experience some of the best that Hawaii has to offer.
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Maui Nui Luau
Held at the Royal Lahaina Resort, this luau celebrates the cultures of Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Kahoolawe. Maui Nui Luau is a must-go if you are looking for an amazing luau experience in Maui. Not only does it have great food, but the fire knife dance is truly incredible.
Maui Nui Luau is a must-go for anyone who loves good food. The buffet dinner here is absolutely incredible, with a huge variety of local and Polynesian favorites to choose from. Especially the kalua pig – it was so tender, juicy, and went perfectly with the rice and macaroni salad. In addition, the mahi-mahi was also impressive, as well as Polynesian classics like taro rolls and malasadas.
The show features dances from all four islands, plus an exciting fire knife dance finale. The incredible fire knife dance is even featured throughout the performance as a torch lighting ceremony leads up to a dive off of Puʻu Kekaʻa.
So if you’re looking for an unforgettable night out in Maui, be sure to check out one of these amazing luaus!
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Myths of Maui Luau
The Myths of Maui Luau is located at the Royal Lahaina Resort and has been in operation since the early 1970s. Especially that it becomes the longest-running oceanfront luau on Maui. The show features Hawaiian stories and folklore, as well as aspects of other Polynesian cultures like Tahiti, New Zealand, and Tonga.
The Myths of Maui Luau is also famous for its “imu ceremony,” in which a traditional Hawaiian underground oven is used to cook the main dish of the luau, kalua pig.
They will serve both vegetarian and vegan choices and can create allergy-friendly meals. And there is the best luau in Maui for families with kids because they will appreciate the kid’s buffet, which offers things like chicken nuggets, mac, and cheese, hot dogs, and chips.
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Old Lahaina Luau
The Old Lahaina Luau is a traditional Hawaiian luau located in the center of Historic Lahaina Town, and it became one of the most popular and visited luaus on Maui. In addition, this long-standing place has won countless awards like “best luau in Maui” and “favorite luau on Maui” from multiple publications.
The cuisine of Old Lahaina Luau is definitely worth trying out if you’re looking for something new and exciting. They offer a wide variety of dishes, including Crab Salad, Grilled Beef, Fried Rice, and two different types of Poke. Plus, they serve up some traditional Hawaiian favorites like Kalua Pig, Poi, Chicken Long Rice, and Laulau. If you’re looking to experience some delicious Polynesian cuisine, Old Lahaina Luau is definitely the best place in Hawaii for you!
This longstanding luau is one of the most popular on Maui thanks to its combination of traditional island dances, music, food, and culture with modern touches like fire twirlers and hula hoop dancers.
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Te Au Moana Luau
The Te Au Moana Luau is a beautiful celebration of all Polynesian cultures. This luau is held at the Wailele Polynesian Cultural Center, and it features traditional dances and music from all over Polynesia. The buffet-style dinner features local favorites like kalua pork and poke, as well as classic Polynesian dishes like poi and tiropita. The Te Au Moana Luau is a wonderful opportunity to learn about Polynesia’s beauty and customs.
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The Feast at Mokapu
This luau, which is located at Andaz Maui in Wailea, is well-known for its luxury and gorgeous. The Feast at Mokapu is a unique and special event that celebrates the culture and history of the Hawaiian people. Guests at the feast will enjoy stories about the journey of the Polynesian people who first arrived on the island, and learn about the most important Hawaiian values, including the deep love of the land.
The meal is full of traditional Hawaiian dishes, and cocktails inspired by Polynesian culture are also available. With its impressive location, easy access, and valet parking – the newest luau on Maui Southside has become the greatest destination and the best choice for travelers.
The Feast at Mokapu is an experience that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy
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Waikiki Starlight Luau
It is the perfect event for those looking to celebrate the colorful heritage of the Pacific Islands. The luau features live music stages, an island-inspired feast, and the stimulating production of Voyages Across the South Seas.
The Waikiki Starlight Luau is an event not to be missed while in Waikiki. With thrilling fire knife dances and traditional Samoan, Tahitian, and Hawaiian dances, this production promises a night of entertainment under the stars.
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Wailele Polynesian Luau
This luau is set against the stunning backdrop of the Wailuku River, and it includes a delicious buffet dinner and a show full of traditional Polynesian dances. Especially they offer a great variety of food for kids.lâni Buffet with children’s favorites like pizza, spaghetti, hot dogs, chocolate chip cookies, and more. There is something for everyone at the Wailele Polynesian Luau buffet, so kids will love it!
Plus, highlights include the fiery Samoan fire dance and the graceful hula dancers of Hawaii.
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Things to do before or after the luau in Maui
If you’re looking for things to do before or after your luau in Maui, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve got a list of the best activities and attractions to enjoy on your trip to the islands. So whether you’re looking for some adventure, relaxation, or culture, we’ve got you covered.
Before the luau:
1. Head to the beach for some sun and sand.
2. Visit one of Maui’s many historic sites, like Iao Valley State Monument or Haleakala National Park.
3. Have a romantic dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
4. Go zip lining, hiking, or biking on one of Maui’s beautiful trails.
5. Take a helicopter ride over the island’s lush landscape.
6. Sample some of Maui’s famous locally-made wines on a wine tasting tour.
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After the luau:
1. Relax on the beach
2. Catch a traditional Hawaiian hula show at one of Maui’s theaters.
3. Stargaze at one of the world’s most pristine night skies at Haleakala National Park.
4. Indulge in some delicious local cuisine at a favorite spot like Mama’s Fish House or The Hula Grill Waikiki Beach
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Tips for making the most of your experience at the best luau in Maui
So why should you check out one of these luaus during your next trip to Maui?
Well, for starters, they offer an amazing cultural experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Each luau features traditional dances and music from a different part of Polynesia, so you can see and hear examples of music and dance from all over the Pacific Rim.
Plus, the delicious buffet dinners offer a taste of authentic Hawaiian cuisine.
And finally, the shows are always entertaining, with lavish costumes and thrilling dance performances.
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FAQs
What’s the most authentic luau on Maui?
The Old Lahaina Luau is the most authentic luau on Maui because it is the only luau that is located in Lahaina, Maui. All of the other luaus are located in Kihei, which is about an hour drive from Lahaina. The Old Lahaina Luau also uses traditional Hawaiian ingredients and cooking methods, which the other luaus do not.
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What is the best luau for the family?
If you’re looking for a luau that is fun for the whole family, the Pride of Maui Sunset Luau Cruise is a great option.
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Which luau presents fire dancers?
Almost luau in Hawaii such as Wailele Polynesian Luau, Waikiki Starlight Luau, and Maui Nui Luau,… also held the show with attending of fire dancers
What to wear to a Hawaiian luau?
A Hawaiian luau is a fun, festive event that is perfect for enjoying the island culture and cuisine. While there is no specific dress code, most people choose to dress in traditional island attire.
This usually includes flowy skirts or dresses for women and lightweight pants and shirts for men. If you’re looking to really fit in, feel free to borrow some clothing from a local store or rent authentic Hawaiian clothing for the night. No matter what you wear, make sure to enjoy the evening and have a wonderful time!
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What type of food do they serve at Hawaiian luaus?
Most luaus offer traditional Hawaiian foods such as kalua pork, teriyaki chicken, and Lomi Lomi salmon. If you have dietary restrictions or are a vegetarian, contact the luau ahead of time to see if they can accommodate you.
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Are luaus better in Maui or Kauai?
While both Maui and Kauai have some great luaus, we think Maui has a slight edge. The island has a long history of luaus, and there is more variety of shows to choose from.
Kauai is a beautiful place, and its luaus are definitely worth checking out, but we think Maui is the place to go for the best luau experience.
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Conclusion
If you’re looking for the best luau in Maui, Hawaii in 2023, be sure to check out the options listed above! You won’t be disappointed. Each luau offers a unique cultural experience, delicious food, and an evening of entertainment. So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets today!
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