Best Luau Shows in Kauai

Luau shows are an island tradition where I promise you won't be bored, as it's one of the best things to do on Kauai. There are many options with a variety of locations to choose from such as beaches, sugar cane plantations, luxury hotels, golf courses, gardens and other outdoor spaces. In addition, each host makes sure to add a unique element to create a one-of-a-kind experience. It is an activity that offers alternatives for all ages, as it is generally a family plan.

These types of shows differ because some have been modernised, while others maintain ancestral traditions. The most famous is the Luau Kamaluka, due to its journey through the history of the ancient Polynesians. On the other hand, the oldest is that of the Smith family, who have been organising such experiences on the island for generations. It has become a source of tourism, so there are more and more options every day. I recommend filtering through the best ones, as the luau imitations tend to be boring, disorganised and with poor quality food.

A luau is a Hawaiian tradition that takes place on most of the islands of the archipelago, and Kauai is no exception. A Kamaluka Luau, on the other hand, is a unique event held on the Kilohana plantations It differs in that it is set in the history of the first Tahitians to settle Hawaii. Overall, it is a representation of the local culture, which takes you on a theatrical journey through its food, dance and music.

It is considered a unique experience, as other luau shows on the island are different. This one has a more modern format and is combined with other activities such as tastings at the farm buffet, craft workshops and train rides through the sugar cane fields. The main attractions are hula dancing, fire dances depicting the perils the Polynesians went through, Carioca and Tahitian chanting, as well as exuberant scenery and costumes.

Such experiences start at 152 euros and usually include access to the Hawaiian feast, tropical drinks and even prime viewing seats. Advance booking is recommended, as it is one of the most sought-after on Kauai. For a souvenir of the experience, visit the arts and crafts fair offering handmade souvenirs such as Lei ornaments, pottery, jewellery and Hawaiian clothing.

An oceanfront luau is one of the best things to do on Kauai, especially if you want to experience a paradise holiday. It tends to merge with beach parties and is highly recommended if you're looking for things to do on the island for Christmas because it offers holiday decorations and activities.

It usually includes rounds of Hawaiian dishes such as poi, kalua pig, salmon and other local delicacies. Keep in mind that these are massive events, so it's advisable to book in advance and arrive early. Prices for these types of experiences vary depending on the beach, service provider, travel season and what is included in the show. They generally range from 115 euros per person and the best places to enjoy them are:

• Poipu Beach: offers an exclusive atmosphere, ideal for the whole family. As one of the safest beaches for any age group, it's ideal if you're looking for things to do in Kauai with kids. You may enjoy outdoor dining, cocktails at the bar and a variety of cultural performances. Keep in mind, there's one that takes place directly on the oceanfront, as well as a more luxurious experience at the Sheraton Kauai Resort.
• Courtyard Kauai at Coconut Beach: it takes place on a private beach, so it can't be beat. The show itself is very similar to other luaus on the island, but the experience is more private. It's also one of the few locations where the pig is dug up, a ceremony that involves bringing out the meat cooked in banana leaves in an underground oven. Additionally, Hawaiian royalty used to surf these grounds, so you can learn some little-known stories.

If you want to be transported to an authentic traditional luau, the island of Kauai is the place to experience some elements of that experience. They are very different from other tourist options found on the island today, offering the opportunity to participate in traditional ceremonies and practices. Note that these types of shows have been disappearing from the archipelago, although you can still find certain ancestral activities such as the unearthing of the pig at the Luau Makaiwa on Coconut Beach, or the Lei salute of the Luau Kamaluka.

The original luau was called paina or ahaaina, but over the years they were modified and adapted to other cultures in the archipelago. They were simpler and were held in temples or houses. Also, the food was pork baked on the ground, so there was little variety. Hula dancing and ukulele playing were part of the usual programme, though only for Hawaiians. Occasionally, visitors wandering around the island were entertained if they had a close acquaintance who knew the host.

Kauai's plantation luau shows are a wonderful experience that takes place in the sugar cane fields. You can enjoy stories of old Hawaii, as well as experience the harvesting process on local farms. In addition to the Luau Kamaluka, there are other options available on the island that I promise you are worth a visit.

They are ideal if you plan to spend at least 3 days on Kauai, as they include special effects, outdoor scenery and activities in the middle of the plantations. Additionally, you can learn about the history of the industry, as the island was one of the main production centres in Hawaii. You can extend the experience by visiting the Grove Farm Homestead Museum, a museum that preserves machinery from the 1860s.

A very famous luau, Hawai'i Alive Luau, takes place at the Kauai Marriott Resort and is one of the best things to do on the island at night. The show starts after sunset, after which you can enjoy a tour of the plantations, a coffee tour, a tropical fruit trail or a ride on the local train. This is one of the cheapest experiences, starting at 75 euros, and is run by an old Polynesian family on Kalapaki Beach.

Most luau shows on the island usually include a Hawaiian dinner at an unlimited banquet. However, some offer better prices and tastings, the final choice will depend on your preferences. You'll find cheaper shows without dinner, but I don't recommend opting for that option. The local cuisine and the mouth-watering luau dinners are part of the tradition of this type of experience. Leaving without eating is like half-doing the activity.

In general, the most famous for its delicious appetizers and enjoyable cocktails is the Kamaluka luau show. Other options include the Princeville Makai Luau, which usually serves kalua pork, teriyaki chicken, Hawaiian poi and fried rice. These are all local delicacies to try, especially if you're planning to attend a traditional luau and want to start a food tour of the city. It's definitely one of the best things to do on Kauai if you want to experience the local way of life through the palate.

A unique experience is to participate in the Smith family's tropical garden luau. This is a family group that has been preparing cultural shows of this kind for more than 50 years. There is no doubt that the dances, music and traditions have a warm touch with a strong historical background. The tropical festival is held on the banks of the Wailua River, so the views are breathtaking.

It's set apart by its prime location, plus the dance performances are held in an open-air amphitheatre. It's known as the Pele Amphitheater and is surrounded by beautiful greenery. In addition, the dances include not only hula, but also dances from other Pacific islands such as Tahiti and Samoa. Another interesting fact is that it seats 600 people and was built in honour of the goddess Pele, who preserves fire and the local volcanoes.

It is one of the oldest luau, ideal for learning about the history and evolution of this tradition. You can even learn the significance of each dish, while enjoying the feast. It's one of the best things to do on Kauai, as before the show you can take a cruise down the Wailua River to see some of the sights.

If you don't want to leave the comfort of your hotel, or prefer a luxurious option, I suggest you take advantage of the luau shows that take place at local hotels. Of course, there are alternatives for all budgets and preferences, the most prominent are:

• Luau Ka Hikina: held at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort, the show takes place in an open-air theatre with a privileged view of the ocean. Polynesian dances delight the spectators, as well as the ancestral Lei handicraft reception and souvenir fair.
• Aulii Luau: it is very similar to the previous one, but it is different because the show takes place by the sea. You will be able to connect with the energies of the water, while enjoying the classic itinerary of this type of experience. Also, Hawaiian dishes are not the protagonists, as a banquet is usually offered where Japanese food is predominant or a combination with the island's dishes.

Luau shows are magical and memorable, and can be enhanced by combining the experience with a cruise on the Wailua River. You'll be able to enjoy the beauty of Hawaii's oldest island, while being encouraged to delve into its history, culture and cuisine. It's ideal if you plan to spend 3 days on Kauai, as it combines two of the best things to do on the island in one day.

Most options split the experience, but on some boat tours you can enjoy small samples of luau traditions. For example, hula dances, Carioca chants and costumed performances. However, the full experience is on land, as there is more stability for the dancers and for setting up the stage structures.

Some luau shows invite spectators to actively participate in certain activities, so you can get a taste of what Hawai'i is all about. You can sign up for local chores and crafts, such as making Lei crafts, learning the hula dance, aiming spears like a pro and weaving traditional headbands and garments. You can even dig up the dinner pig and explore acrobatic dances.

The best options for interactive, audience-participatory luau performances are:

• Princeville Makai Luau - this is a traditional island luau show with a few additions. In addition to tasting the banquet foods, you can participate in the imu ceremony, which consists of slow-cooking the pork in an underground oven. What's more curious is that this show is held at the Ocean Course at Hokuala, and includes temporary tattoo booths, spear throwing and weaving classes.
• Luau Kalamaku: This is an early Polynesian history show, ideal if you're looking for things to do in Kauai with kids, as it has a craft fair where you can learn how to make Hawaiian necklaces and tattoos.
• Chief's Luau: if you want to take advantage of the best tours and excursions on Kauai, you can venture out to explore the island of Oahu. Located forty minutes away, this is where a luau show is performed by a famous Hawaiian comedian. The show has a jocular tone and is a fun experience with the chance to learn hula and explore craft making.

• Beware of unauthorised or substandard luau, which differ in that they are held in clandestine-looking venues. Generally, an authentic luau is held in natural locations that tap into Hawaiian spirituality.
• Book in advance, as it is one of the most sought-after experiences in all of Hawaii. If you're looking for things to do in Kauai at Christmas, you can take advantage of this themed show, although it sells out early as it's high season.
• Choose the type of luau that suits your taste, budget and itinerary. As you can see, there are different options that vary according to the menu, location, duration, price and programme of the show.
• Wear comfortable clothes, as this is an informal event.
• Take advantage of the cultural activities, a way to actively participate in the experience.
• If you plan to go with children, consider that they tend to extend late into the night, so they may become fatigued. Also, it's important to consider their diet, as some shows cater to dietary requirements if advance notice is given.
• Luau's are a tradition that has spread to New Zealand, Tahiti and Brazil, but nothing compares to those on offer in the Hawaiian archipelago.