By Christina Garcia
28 January 2025
If you're headed to the Big Island and looking to dive into the vibrant Hawaiian tradition of a luau, the options can be overwhelming. Here's a detailed comparison of the top luaus across Hawaii Island, helping you choose the perfect one for your tastes and travel style.
Island Breeze Luau
Location: Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, Kailua-Kona
Atmosphere: Beachfront setting with a royal procession and an imu ceremony.
Best For: Families and first-timers looking for a traditional luau experience.
Food Rating: Excellent, traditional Hawaiian buffet with modern touches.
Unique Features: Located on the historic grounds where King Kamehameha once resided.
Google Rating: 4.5 stars
Legends of Hawaii Luau
Location: Hilton Waikoloa Village
Atmosphere: Grand and festive, with extensive resort amenities.
Best For: Resort guests and those looking for a high-energy performance.
Food Rating: Very good, wide selection including seafood and exotic options.
Unique Features: Features Legends of Polynesia fire show and interactive activities.
Google Rating: 4.3 stars
Voyagers of the Pacific Lu‘au
Location: Royal Kona Resort, Kailua-Kona
Atmosphere: Oceanfront with sunset views, traditional and intimate.
Best For: Couples and history buffs.
Food Rating: Very Good, includes a traditional imu ceremony.
Unique Features: Focus on historical narratives and traditional Polynesian voyaging.
Google Rating: 4.6 stars
Hawai‘i Loa Lu‘au
Location: Fairmont Orchid, Kohala Coast
Atmosphere: Elegant and upscale with a focus on cultural authenticity.
Best For: Luxury seekers and cultural enthusiasts.
Food Rating: Excellent, gourmet-level luau cuisine.
Unique Features: Set on a stunning beachfront with educational cultural programming.
Google Rating: 4.7 stars
The Mauna Kea Lu‘au
Location: Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
Atmosphere: Sophisticated with a backdrop of Kauna‘oa Bay.
Best For: Those appreciating a mix of luxury and tradition.
Food Rating: Excellent, featuring high-quality traditional dishes.
Unique Features: Known for its beautiful sunset views and historic clambake inspiration.
Google Rating: 4.8 stars
Mauna Lani Lu‘au - Hale Hoaloha
Location: Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Atmosphere: Contemporary elegance with a focus on storytelling.
Best For: Story lovers and those preferring a quieter, more intimate setting.
Food Rating: Excellent, featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Unique Features: Emphasis on the spiritual and historical journey of the Hawaiian people.
Google Rating: 4.7 stars
Feast & Fire Luau
Location: Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa
Atmosphere: Vibrant and festive with a modern twist.
Best For: Young adults and families.
Food Rating: Very good, modern interpretations of classic luau dishes.
Unique Features: Includes a spectacular fire dancing finale.
Google Rating: 4.5 stars
Waikoloa Beach Sunset Luau
Location: Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort
Atmosphere: Family-friendly with a lagoon backdrop.
Best For: Families with children.
Food Rating: Good, traditional fare with a focus on seafood.
Unique Features: Offers interactive activities like hula lessons and lei making.
Google Rating: 4.3 stars
Pilikana-A Kona Inn Luau
Location: Kona Inn Shopping Village, Kailua-Kona
Atmosphere: Casual and relaxed, great for a laid-back evening.
Best For: Budget-conscious travelers and those looking for a less touristy option.
Food Rating: Good, with a focus on affordability without sacrificing taste.
Unique Features: Known for its affordability and historic location.
Google Rating: 4.2 stars
Aunt Sally Kaleohano's Lu‘au Hale
Location: Private location near Hilo
Atmosphere: Highly authentic and personal, like a family gathering.
Best For: Those seeking an authentic Hawaiian experience away from the crowds.
Food Rating: Excellent, home-cooked style meals.
Unique Features: Offers a true taste of Hawaiian hospitality with family recipes.
Google Rating: 4.9 stars
Luau Comparison Chart
Luau Name | Location | Atmosphere | Best For | Food Rating | Google Rating |
Island Breeze Luau | Kona Beach Hotel, Kailua-Kona | Beachfront | Families, First-timers | Excellent | 4.5 stars |
Legends of Hawaii Luau | Hilton Waikoloa Village | Festive | Resort Guests, High-energy | Very Good | 4.3 stars |
Voyagers of the Pacific Lu‘au | Royal Kona Resort, Kailua-Kona | Oceanfront | Couples, History Buffs | Very Good | 4.6 stars |
Hawai‘i Loa Lu‘au | Fairmont Orchid, Kohala Coast | Upscale | Luxury Seekers, Cultural Enthusiasts | Excellent | 4.7 stars |
The Mauna Kea Lu‘au | Mauna Kea Beach Hotel | Sophisticated | Luxury, Tradition | Excellent | 4.8 stars |
Mauna Lani Lu‘au - Hale Hoaloha | Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection | Contemporary | Story Lovers, Intimate Setting | Excellent | 4.7 stars |
Feast & Fire Luau | Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa | Vibrant | Young Adults, Families | Very Good | 4.5 stars |
Waikoloa Beach Sunset Luau | Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort | Family-friendly | Families with Children | Good | 4.3 stars |
Pilikana-A Kona Inn Luau | Kona Inn Shopping Village, Kailua-Kona | Casual | Budget-Conscious Travelers | Good | 4.2 stars |
Aunt Sally Kaleohano's Lu‘au Hale | Private location near Hilo | Authentic | Authentic Experience Seekers | Excellent | 4.9 stars |
Conclusion: Which Luau Should You Choose?
Selecting the right luau depends largely on what you value most: authenticity, entertainment, culinary excellence, or family fun. For traditional charm and a royal setting, the Island Breeze Luau is unbeatable. If luxury and gourmet food are your priorities, The Mauna Kea Lu‘au or Hawai‘i Loa Lu‘au offer sophisticated evenings with stunning settings. For those traveling with kids, the Waikoloa Beach Sunset Luau provides engaging activities for all ages.
Each of these luaus brings something unique to the table, ensuring that no matter your choice, you will leave with a full heart and a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian culture.
Hawaii Paradise Planners, a Point Me to Paradise Travel company, stands as a premier expert in all things Hawaii. With deep-rooted knowledge and extensive experience, we specialize in crafting personalized Hawaiian adventures that transcend typical tourist experiences. Each journey we design is as unique as the islands themselves, ensuring that every trip is tailored to the individual desires and interests of our clients. Whether exploring hidden gems or indulging in iconic Hawaiian luxuries, our team is dedicated to delivering unforgettable travel experiences.
