Maui is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the world, with a rich culture, friendly locals, and incredible food.
So it’s no wonder why it’s one of the top tourist destinations in the world. However, if you really want to experience Maui the way it’s supposed to be, we highly recommend going to a Hawaiian luau.
A luau will give you valuable insight into Hawaiian culture, and is sure to give you an experience you’ll want to do more than once. Without further ado, we present you with the top Maui luaus on the island!
Best Luaus in Maui
| Te Au Moana Luau at The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort | Maui Feast at Mokapu Farm-to-Table Luau in Wailea | Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa | |
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Best Luau Show | Best Luau Dinner | Best Value Luau | |
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| Location: | Te Au Moana Luau, 3700 Wailea Alanui Dr Wailea Beach Resort | Andaz Maui Resort | Maui Nui Luau at Black Rock, 2605 Kaanapali Pkwy Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa |
| Start: | 5:00 PM | 6:00 PM | 4:30 or 5:00 PM |
| Duration: | 3 to 4 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours |
| Includes: | 3-course meal served family style at your table, fresh flower lei (subject to availability), kukui nut lei or carved wooden necklace, pre-show music & entertainment | Traditional Lei greeting, complimentary valet parking, pre-show cultural activities, family-style meal, open bar, commemorative photo, entertainment | Photo opportunity, flower lei or substitute, Kalua pig cooked in the imu, live Hawaiian music and on-stage demonstrations, Tihati Production’s presentation of “Maui Nui, alcoholic beverages |
Quick Answer: The 4 Best Rated Maui Luaus For 2023
- Best Luau Show: Te Au Moana Luau at The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort
- Best Luau Dinner: Maui Feast at Mokapu Farm-to-Table Luau in Wailea
- Best Value Luau: Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
- Best Small Group Luau: Maui Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise from Ma’alaea Harbor aboard Pride of Maui
Maui Luau Reviews
1. Best Luau Show: Te Au Moana Luau at The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Location: Te Au Moana Luau, 3700 Wailea Alanui Dr Wailea Beach Resort
- Start Time: 5:00 PM
- Includes: 3-course meal served family style at your table, fresh flower lei (subject to availability), kukui nut lei or carved wooden necklace, pre-show music and entertainment
If you’re looking for an exciting night full of top-notch entertainment and a gorgeous setting, then you’re in the right place!
The Te Au Moana Luau at The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort is a hit with families, and is great for people of all ages. If you’re looking to participate in an authentic Hawaiian tradition, then we highly suggest putting this one on your list.
Make your way to Te Au Moana at the Wailea Beach Resort, where you’ll first be greeted with a fresh flower lei, kukui nut lei, or carved wooden necklace, depending on availability.
The entire vibe is very welcoming and everyone is incredibly friendly and happy to answer any questions you may have.
You’ll be escorted to your table, where you’ll be served all kinds of drinks and tasty appetizers to start. The show will begin, backed by an incredible setting of blue sea and sky with rolling green hills.
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Te Au Moana, which means “ocean tide” is very significant, connecting islands, cultures, and generations of people.
The Polynesian ancestors had to literally risk their lives to arrive to Hawaii, passing on their intrepid stories of how they survived to the younger generations.
The dances that you’ll witness portray the expert fishing, gathering, and traveling skills required to bring them there. A huge part of the reason for their success was their vast knowledge and incredible respect for the Earth, nature, and elements.
Through the power of dance, music, and fire, you’ll see these stories come to life before your eyes in a lu’au experience that will give you a great appreciation for Hawaiian culture.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
2. Best Luau Dinner: Maui Feast at Mokapu Farm-to-Table Luau in Wailea
- Duration: 3 hours
- Location: Andaz Maui Resort
- Start Time: 6:00 PM
- Includes: Traditional Lei greeting, complimentary valet parking, pre-show cultural activities, family-style meal, open bar, commemorative photo, entertainment
Did you know Hawaii has some of the most fresh, delicious food in the world? If you’re looking to enjoy some traditional Hawaiian dishes while experiencing the majesty of one of the most popular luaus, you’re in the right place.
The Maui: Feast at Mokapu Farm-to-Table Luau in Wailea is a 3-hour excursion that immerses you into the culture, learning about it first-hand from creative storytelling and delicious eats.
The meeting point does depend on the option you book, though both are at the Andaz Maui Wailea Resort. Known as one of the most authentic luxury luaus, it’s an experience unlike any other. If you’d like to see a unique twist on fine dining, this is much better than any restaurant!
This 3-hour luau is also a nice way to jump right into Maui’s culture and becoming acquainted with the area. Once you arrive, you’ll have a traditional Lei greeting, which is the best way possible to be welcomed in.
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You can choose between Classic seating which is the second row and further, or Premium seating which is the front row with a more VIP experience.
When you arrive, you’ll notice the impressive scenery which really takes you aback with its beauty. Many luaus have buffets where you’re lining up and rushing to grab food before the show starts.
This isn’t the case here, where you’re served beautifully-plated dishes created by the executive chef, Isaac Bancaco.
Handcrafted cocktails are made just to your preferences, with unique and traditional flavors perfect for sipping on while you enjoy the view.
Then the show starts, where you’ll head straight into Polynesian history, learning about how ahupua’a settled, through Hula dancers, fire dancers, and amazing music.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
3. Best Value Luau: Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
- Duration: 3 hours
- Location: Maui Nui Luau at Black Rock, 2605 Kaanapali Pkwy Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
- Start Time: 4:30 or 5:00 PM
- Includes: Photo opportunity, flower lei or substitute, Kalua pig cooked in the imu on the luau grounds, live Hawaiian music and on-stage demonstrations, Tihati Production’s presentation of “Maui Nui, alcoholic beverages, parking
Our next tour is one of the most affordable among the top luaus, so if you’re looking to have fun while on a budget, we can’t recommend it enough. With an oceanfront setting and great customer service, you’ll love it as much as we do.
The Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa offers top-notch food and entertainment, as well as a fantastic way to learn more about Hawaiian culture and history.
Just like most others, this luau consists of 3 hours of fun! Meet up with the group at Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, where you’ll be greeted with a flower lei. There are times where they’ll offer an alternative if the flowers aren’t available, but this is usually not the case.
Then, you’ll be escorted to your seat where you’ll get to take in the beautiful views of the ocean. While you’re waiting for the show to start, you’ll be served complementary drinks which are expertly crafted to your taste!
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This luau is great for the whole family, just as well as a romantic night out as a couple! Relax and enjoy the positive atmosphere as the show begins to start.
Watch the authentic Polynesian dancing telling stories of settlement on Hawaii, portrayed through chants, stories, singing, dances, and music.
As you watch the Tahitian hip-shaking, enjoy an all-you-can-eat feast including Kalua pig cooked on the imu located on the grounds. You’ll have plenty of opportunities for professional-quality photos as well, which do cost extra but make a great memento.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
4. Best Small Group Luau: Maui Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise from Ma’alaea Harbor aboard Pride of Maui
- Duration: 2 hours
- Location: 101 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku
- Start Time: 5:00 PM
- Includes: Dinner, alcoholic beverages, delicious food, open bar, micro-brewed beer, blended drinks
Perhaps you’re looking for a slightly more compact tour, maybe if you have children with you and are worried about them becoming distracted. In that case, we recommend the Maui Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise from Ma’alaea Harbor Aboard Pride of Maui.
This 2-hour tour is shorter than the others but still offers an immersive look into Hawaiian culture. Unlike the others, this luau takes place on water instead of land! Meet up at the harbor, where you’ll be escorted onto the luxury catamaran, Pride of Maui.
Before setting off, there’s plenty of time to walk around and find the seating that’s just right for you. While you wait for the show to start, you can enjoy the open bar which includes everything from delicious craft beer to blended cocktails.
If you’re feeling hungry, enjoy the feast of a buffet included Hawaiian BBQ ribs, island-style baby back ribs, honey-glazed Shoyu chicken, coconut potatoes, veggies, and tasty desserts.
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As the sun starts to set, the hula show will begin! The luau couple dancing is definitely a highlight for most, with a beautiful ocean setting as the background.
Before the sun sets, you may even catch glimpse of the gentle giants – Humpback whales – which are known for playing around and making appearances! As you sail close to Mokolini crater, get your phones out for taking plenty of breathtaking photos.
Should you have any questions, don’t hestitate to ask the staff. The crew is incredibly friendly and really a jack-of-all-trades. They bartend, serve, cook, and more – plus they’ll teach you how to do a warrior dance, string instruments, and other unique skills that connect you to Hawaiian culture!
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
FAQs About Maui Luaus
Should I go to a Maui luau?
Pros:
- You’ll get to taste authentic Hawaiian cuisine, such as kalua pig, poi, lomi lomi salmon, and haupia. Some luaus also offer vegetarian and gluten-free options.
- You’ll enjoy live entertainment, such as hula dancers, fire knife performers, and ukulele players. You might even get to join in the fun and learn some moves yourself.
- They will give you some history and legends of Hawaii, such as the story of Pele, the goddess of fire and volcanoes, or the legend of Maui, the demigod who pulled up the islands from the sea.
- You should have a memorable night with your family or friends.
Cons:
- You’ll have to pay a hefty price for the experience. Luaus are typically $80 to $200. Some luaus include transportation, drinks, and souvenirs.
- You’ll have to deal with crowds and lines. Attending a Luau is a very popular among tourists. You might have to wait in lines to get your food, drinks or seats. Some luaus have hundreds of guests at a time, which can make it feel less intimate and authentic.
Do you tip after a luau?
Some luaus include a gratuity in the ticket price, so you don’t have to worry about tipping. The rule of thumb is to tip 10% of the ticket price per person,. You can tip the performers directly after the show or leave your tip at the reception desk.
Of course, tipping is optional and not expected at a luau. The performers and staff are happy to share their culture and hospitality with you. Just remember if you enjoyed the luau and want to express your gratitude you can always tip above and beyond the included tip.
What do you wear to an authentic luau?
- Don’t wear anything too formal or too casual. A luau is a festive and relaxed event, but not a beach party. You want to look nice, but not overdressed or under dressed.
- Do wear something colorful and comfortable. A luau is a celebration of life and culture, so you want to reflect that in your outfit. Bright colors, floral prints, and loose-fitting clothes are perfect for a luau.
- Don’t wear shoes or socks. A luau is usually held on the grass or sand, so you want to feel the earth beneath your feet. Plus, shoes and socks can get hot and sweaty in the tropical climate. Either go barefoot or wear sandals or flip-flops.
- Do accessorize with lei and other Hawaiian items. A lei is a traditional garland of flowers that is worn around the neck or head as a symbol of aloha (love and respect).
Are Maui luaus all you can eat?
Most luaus are a buffet-style, so you can fill your plate with as much food as you want. Other luaus have a set menu, where you get a fixed number of dishes. A few luaus are a hybrid are a have a combination of both where you can choose from a variety of options.
But no matter what kind of luau you go to, you can expect to enjoy some delicious Hawaiian cuisine, such as kalua pig, poi, lomi lomi salmon, chicken long rice, and haupia. And of course, you can’t forget the entertainment: hula dancers, fire performers, live music, and more.
Is it worth doing an Maui luau?
Whether a luau is worth it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you want an authentic and immersive experience a luau might not be the best option. Most luaus cater to tourists, and they can be expensive, crowded, and cheesy. You might not get to taste the real flavors of Hawaiian cuisine or see the true diversity and richness of Hawaiian culture. You might end up thinking you’re at a theme park. If you are just looking for an entertaining evening it’s hard to go wrong going to a luau.
What is a Polynesian Luau?
A Polynesian luau that you think of, is a traditional feast and popular in many Pacific Island islands but particularly the islands of Hawaii.
The word “luau” comes from the Hawaiian language and it refers to the taro leaves that are used to wrap and cook traditional Hawaiian dishes. The term is now used more broadly to refer to any type of Polynesian feast or celebration.
At a Polynesian luau, guests are typically treated to a variety of traditional foods that include roasted pig, taro, coconut milk and other local delicacies. The food is served buffet style and this style of dining encourages you to try a little bit of everything.
The feast is accompanied by live music, dancing and other forms of entertainment, like fire knife performances and traditional Polynesian games. A Polynesian luau will give you a glimpse into their customs and traditions.
Many resorts and tourist destinations throughout the Pacific Islands offer Polynesian luaus and they are a popular with tourists and even the locals.
Fire Knife Performance at a Maui Luau
Why You Should Attend a Maui Luau
A Maui luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast that is accompanied with entertainment, such as music and hula dancing.
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- Experience Hawaiian Culture: Attending a Maui luau gives you a unique opportunity to experience Hawaiian culture and learn about its history and customs. The music, dance and the food are all integral parts of Hawaiian culture. A luau is a great way ways to immerse yourself in their culture.
- Try Local Cuisine: The food served at a Maui luau is usually a feast of traditional Hawaiian dishes, such as poi, kalua pork, lomi salmon and haupia. This is a perfect opportunity for you to try the local cuisine and sample a variety of Hawaiian dishes.
- Beautiful Scenery: Maui luaus take place outdoors in scenic locations, such as near the ocean or in tropical gardens. The beautiful scenery and surroundings add to the overall experience and create a memorable experience.
- Socialize with Locals and Tourists: A Maui luau is a social event that brings together locals and tourists. You might even meet new people and make friends while enjoying the event.
- Enjoy Entertainment: A Maui luau typically features live entertainment, such as hula dancing, fire knife performances and of course live music. There is no better way to experience the lively and colorful music and dance of Hawaii.
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The Te Au Moana Luau at The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort is our Editors Choice for the best Luau in Maui
