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 | |
|---|---|---|---|
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 5 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 on Pride of Maui
- Best Food: Feast at Mokapu Luau
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
- 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
5. Best Food: Feast at Mokapu Luau
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Location: Bumbye Beach Bar, 3550 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea
- Start Time: n/a
- Included: Alcoholic beverages, dinner, professional digital photo
Why head to a nice restaurant for dinner when you could enjoy a fantastic dinner while gaining valuable insight into traditional Hawaiian culture. The Feast at Mokapu Luau tour is a 2.5-hour excursion that will show you the beauty and heritage behind this incredible place.
It’s perfect for date night, a fun friend outing, or you can even bring the whole family along! Meet up at the Bumbye Beach Bar, where you’ll be led to your seats and relax while getting ready for the performers to start against a picture-perfect background.
You do have the option of upgrading to “premium” seating as well, where you get the best views in the house! Right from the very beginning, we felt very welcomed with incredible service and friendly vibes throughout.
Before the show starts, you’ll be served a delicious, 3-course plated dinner brought to your table. While the menu may vary a little bit, you’ll usually have some Ahi Poke, braised beef short rib, locally-caught fish, sweet potatoes, Pulehu Chicken, and other tasty traditional food.
The desserts are amazing, consisting of strawberry coconut haupia, Lilikoi custard tart, and other options. The open bar was a great touch, with plenty of tropical cocktails to further create an entertaining and lively environment.
The performance itself was one of my favorite parts of Hawaii, where we learned about Hawaiian history and the Polynesian culture that was actually brought to the islands. The dancing, music, and passion behind it was truly captivating, and watch as the sun sets behind the amazing scenes.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
FAQs About Maui Luaus
What exactly is a luau?
A luau is a Hawaiian celebration that includes food, drinks, music, dance and entertainment. The word luau comes from the name of a dish made with taro leaves, chicken and coconut milk. Today, a luau usually features a variety of dishes, such as kalua pig cooked in an underground oven, poi (taro paste), lomi lomi salmon (raw fish salad), poke (raw fish cubes), laulau (meat or fish wrapped in taro leaves), haupia (coconut pudding) and more. You’ll also enjoy tropical cocktails, such as mai tais, pina coladas and blue Hawaiians.
How long does a luau last?
Most luaus are about 2.5 to 3 hours. They usually start with a greeting ceremony, where you’ll receive a lei (a garland of flowers) and a welcome drink. Then you’ll have some time to enjoy the grounds, watch some demonstrations or participate in some activities, such as lei making, hula lessons or games.
Next, you’ll witness the imu ceremony, where the kalua pig is unearthed from the oven. After that, you’ll be invited to the buffet line to enjoy the delicious food. Finally, you’ll watch the show, where you’ll see performances of hula and other dances from Hawaii and other Polynesian islands, such as Tahiti, Samoa and New Zealand. Some luaus also feature fire knife dancers, who spin and twirl flaming knives with skill and grace.
How much does a luau cost?
The price of a luau depends on the location, menu, show quality and seating options. Luaus range from $80 to $150 for adults and $40 to $75 for children. Some luaus offer discounts for online bookings or group reservations. Some luaus also offer different seating options, such as regular or VIP/premium seats. VIP seats usually get you closer to the stage, earlier entry, better service and upgraded leis.
What should I wear to a luau?
There is no strict dress code for luaus, but most people opt for island casual attire. This means aloha shirts or dresses for women, and collared shirts or polo shirts for men. You can wear shorts, skirts, pants or jeans but you are encouraged to dress for the occasion. Don’t wear anything too formal, such as suits, ties or high heels. Don’t wear anything too revealing, such as bikinis, tank tops or flip flops.
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.
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 a 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 the best Maui luau?
If you don’t mind spending a little extra for the best possible experience we recommend the Maui Feast at Mokapu Farm-to-Table Luau in Wailea. This luau has the best entertainment, food and scenery with a gorgeous beach view!
What is the cheapest luau in Maui?
If you are looking to go to a luau on budget our recommendation is the Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa. Even at a budget price you are at a top notch Sheraton resort with a beautiful beach view.
Tips to choose the best Luau in Maui for you
Location
Where the Luau is located is something you should consider. Each luau offers different settings and atmospheres, depending on whether they are by the ocean or in a tropical garden. You should think about what kind of environment you would enjoy the most.
Check out the menu
Each of the Luaus we review has a unique menu with a flavor Hawaiian cuisine. The menu should give you a taste of the island’s flavors like Kalua pig that is cooked in an imu to poke, huli huli chicken or teriyaki beef. Most luaus also have vegetarian options and drinks made with local flavors.
Check out the show and entertainment
When you are looking at the available options for luaus in Maui, take a look at the shows they are performing. All luaus have some form of entertainment but they vary to the types of shows and how long they are. All have some traditional dances shows that are unique to the luau such as hula dancing or fire knife dancing. Most luaus also have some kid friendly entertainment like bracelet and headband weaving.
Food
Entertainment
Value
The Te Au Moana Luau at The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort is our Editors Choice for the best Luau in Maui
