MAUI LUAU UPDATES

March 2024

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We’ve added most updates to each Maui luau section below.  See who’s sold out, who’s got tickets and when, and more updates on the Top Maui Luaus below.

 

Few things say Hawaii like a luau.

Do a quick search of Maui luaus, however, and you may get lost in the abundance of options. Which luau is best for the whole family, and which luau presents fire dancers? With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the top five Maui luaus. Here they are—and what makes them magnificent.

5 best Maui luaus

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Grand Wailea Luau – ʻAhaʻaina (formerly Honuaʻula)

Grand Wailea Luau slideshowBorrowing its name from the moku (or district) upon which the luau is presented, the Grand Wailea’s gorgeous production, ʻAhaʻaina Wailea, tells the enchanting story of two of Hawaii’s first founders. Laʻamaikahiki and Moikeha were Tahitian voyagers who sailed to Maui aboard a canoe, thereafter calling the island’s sunny southern shore their home. Through chanting, dancing, and singing, the Grand Wailea Luau‘s deluxe, four-hour event reveals the evolution of Maui’s earliest people and how they came to live in harmony. In addition to traditional luau fares like Kalua pork and poi, the menu features modern faves such as macadamia nut-crusted mahi-mahi, chow fun with pork char siu, and pineapple upside-down cake. ʻAhaʻaina Wailea—which offers hula lessons and Hawaiian lawn games—also looks out upon one of the loveliest and most photographed beaches in Hawaii.

Know Before You Go:

  • Shows are available 5 – 6 days a week on a seasonal schedule
  • Great for kids
  • Private Table Seating
  • Located at the Grand Wailea: A Waldorf Astoria Resort
  • This luau sells out quickly!
  • Premium Seats are available!
  • MONTHLY UPDATE: As per the updated date above, the Grand Luau has standard and premium seating available through the end of April 2024. Book early because they will sell out QUICK!

book now

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Andaz Luau – Feast at Mokapu

Andaz luau photosWe’re beyond impressed with everything that goes into the Andaz Luau in South Maui.  First, the grounds are impeccable, with one of the better ocean views for watching the sunset.  Each table has a server bringing high-quality signature drinks and multiple dishes per course.  What sets this luau apart?  THE FEAST!  The ribeye steak can compete with any award-winning steakhouse, without a doubt.  Delicious fish, local dishes, desserts, and more! This is an obvious choice for one of the top Maui luaus.

Know Before You Go:

  • Offers Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday shows (occasionally, other shows are added)
  • Great for foodies, couples, families
  • Unique lei greeting
  • Located at the Andaz Resort in Wailea
  • Premium Seating is available!
  • This luau is regarded as having the best food.  With only three nights a week, seats book up fast!
  • MONTHLY UPDATE: As of the date above, The Andaz Luau is taking reservations through the end of August 2024.  Premium seating tends to sell out quickly so book soon, as they will sell out QUICK!

book now

 


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Sheraton Luau – Maui Nui Luau at Black Rock 

Sheraton Luau slideshowThis is one of our favorite luaus largely because of the location.  Don’t get me wrong, everything else they’re doing is on par with the best Maui luaus, but the Sheraton Luau has an amazing, large private lawn right on the ocean.  You can walk down and dip your toes in the ocean while watching the torch lighting ceremony and watch the cliff diver jump off Black Rock at sunset.  Guests will be treated to lighthearted, entertaining commentary along with Hawaiian and Polynesian songs, dance performances, and an impressive fire knife dance. Sunset views and tropical cocktails make this the perfect date night activity or night out with friends and family.

Know Before You Go:

  • Offers Monday & Wednesday shows (occasional shows are added)
  • Great for couples and families
  • Fresh flower lei greeting
  • Iconic Buffet
  • Located at the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa
  • Preferred Seating is NOW AVAILABLE!
  • Usually has fewer tables than the other luaus. Reserve before it books up!
  • MONTHLY UPDATE: The Sheraton Luau is offering shows on Mondays & Wednesdays (occasional shows are added).  Preferred seating is now available for those who want to be close to the action. Reservations are open through June 2024 and both types of seating are booking up fast. Reserve your seat today!

book now

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Marriott Wailea Luau – Te Au Moana

Marriott Wailea Luau slideshowTranslating to “the ocean tide,” Te Au Moana emphasizes Hawaiians’ love and association with the ‘aina. Before the imu ceremony and feast, guests at this oceanfront gathering are introduced to several vital Hawaiian rituals, including tapa making—or the construction of fabric from trees and shrubs—coconut husking and flower crafting. The feast itself is one for the records: a buffet-style extravaganza that includes grilled teriyaki steak, seafood pasta, pineapple coleslaw, and Molokai sweet potatoes. The Marriott Wailea Luau is located on a bank of grass above glimmering water; the kiawe and palm-fringed views of the Pacific are nothing short of astounding. But it’s the special, authentic touches—from displays of Polynesian weaponry to fishing demonstrations—that make this ‘aha‘aina so delightful.

Know Before You Go:

  • Luau shows are on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays most weeks
  • Children 5 and under are free
  • Cultural interactions
  • Located at the Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
  • One of the most popular luaus throughout Hawaii.
  • Premium Seating Available
  • MONTHLY UPDATE: As per the date above, The Marriott Luau has both standard and premium seating availability through the end of June 2024. They sell out QUICK!

book now

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Myths of Maui Luau at the Royal Lahaina Resort

Royal Lahaina Luau slideshowInexpensive, family-friendly, conveniently located, and with one of the best shows on Maui, the Myths of Maui Luau is definitely one of the top Maui luaus! Set upon the beautiful Kaʻanapali shoreline, Myths of Maui takes you on a voyage throughout Polynesia. Guests are welcomed with a shell lei and warm aloha as they begin their evening in paradise. Enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet showcasing Hawaii’s finest cuisines and be treated to complimentary cocktails all night long. The beautiful hula and exciting fire-knife dance will leave you breathless. With an unbeatable Maui sunset as your backdrop, you will surely have a memorable night at the Royal Lahaina!

Know Before You Go:

  • Currently Tuesday, Wednesday & Sunday only, but returning to a daily schedule in May 2024
  • Fire Knife Dancing is spectacular!
  • Traditional arts and crafts demonstrations
  • Located at the Royal Lahaina Resort
  • VIP Packages Available
  • MONTHLY UPDATE: The Myths of Maui Luau is taking reservations for all of 2024.  Most of their shows sell out so make sure to book early!

book now

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Old Lahaina Luau

Old Lahaina Luau is back!!

Old Lahaina Luau slideshowYes, we’ve listed more than 5 top Maui luaus.  The five luaus above are fantastic, and the Old Lahaina Luau is hard to place due to its not being available without booking months in advance (as well as fire dancing not being included.) Nonetheless, Old Lahaina Luau has consistently ranked as the number one luau on the island. And for a good reason: Its sensitivity to cultural accuracy renders it exceptional. Traditional luaus attended by native Hawaiians furthered their connection to the land in that meals were served and eaten from lauhala mats on the ground. Old Lahaina Luau honors this custom, just as it honors Hawaii’s ancient form of storytelling through a passionate insistence on precision (and details that speak volumes). Moreover, Old Lahaina Luau serves ʻuala—authentic sweet potato beer brewed exclusively for the event by Maui Brewing Co. The celebration’s ocean-side location adds to its brilliance, while the West Maui Mountains in the foreground offer a sense of mysticism.

Know Before You Go:

  • No fire dancing is offered
  • Books up months ahead
  • Various availability during their reopening process (daily beginning June 2024)
  • Traditional, modern, and vegetarian options
  • Located off Front Street in Lahaina
  • MONTHLY UPDATE: The Old Lahaina Luau is back!  The luau opened up on March 12, 2024, and has booking available through February 2025.

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Feast At LeleDue to the Lahaina Fires in August 2023, Feast at Lele is completely gone.  Once information about the Feast at Lele reopening becomes available we will post it here.

Feast at Lele fire reliefSpace

Hyatt Luau (Drums of the Pacific)2024 Bookings Are Available! Drums of the Pacific will return to its nightly schedule in April of 2024. From now until April the schedule consists of 3 to 6 nights weekly. The standard seating is $202 and $101 per child ages 4-12. VIP is available at $250 per person and $125 for each child ages 4-12.

luau line

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A little more about Maui luaus and Luau history

These ultra-entertaining feasts have their roots in ancient Polynesia when the second king of the united Hawaiian Islands lifted the kapu that banned men and women from eating together—and royalty from dining with common subjects.

hyatt fire dancers

That groundbreaking event in 1819 became known not as a luau (indeed, in the traditional sense, “luau” refers to a cherished dish of chicken and taro cooked in coconut milk) but as an ‘aha‘aina—literally, a “gathering for a meal.”

And what gatherings they were. In 1847, King Kamehameha III hosted a fête that included 271 pigs, 2,245 coconuts, 3,125 salted fish, and over 4,000 kalo plants—a staple of kanaka maoli that comprises poi.

emu luau feast

Hawaii’s contemporary take on this native ritual may be more modest in number but is no less spectacular. For most, no Hawaiian holiday is complete without attending at least one ‘aha‘aina, and nearly every major island presents luaus of epic proportions.

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FAQs

What's the difference between Regular and VIP Seating?

  • VIP/PREMIUM tickets get you a table closest to the stage (at least in the first 2 rows of tables). Some luaus also allow early entry, so you can get to the bar early and situate yourself at your table, and get some sunset photos. Some luaus also give an upgrade lei to each guest.
  • VIP tickets are recommended if you want the best view.

What should I wear to a luau?

  • “Island casual” – Aloha shirts for men, aloha shirts or dresses for the ladies. Some guests choose to dress up a bit more than usual.

Is Uber / Lyft available on the island?

  • Yes! It’s a good idea to schedule your rides. We have a bus system, but it takes much longer with stops, and it doesn’t run that late.

Is there free parking?

  • All luaus have free parking. If you valet, you should have some cash ready for a tip.

Are luaus kid-friendly?

  • All luaus are kid-friendly. The Royal Lahaina is often regarded as the most kid-friendly and most affordable, but every luau offers a great experience for your keiki. Some have crafts and hands-on experiences as well!

Are all luaus handicap accessible?

  • All luaus are handicap accessible.

Are there vegetarian / vegan / kosher options?

  • Every luau feast offers items for those that are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. You’ll have to ask your server or buffet attendant which items you can enjoy. At your luau, the staff is well-versed in what you can eat!

Do any luaus offer discounts for military, retirees, or kamaʻaina?

  • We sell tickets at the lowest price that each luau will allow us to. Even though some luau ticket prices fluctuate seasonally, after shopping around, you’ll want to buy from us at our low prices.

How long do luaus last?

  • Most luaus are between 2½ – 3 hours. This includes greeting, seating, drinks, dinner, show, and photo opportunities.

What about luaus on Oahu?

  • Learn more at our sister site about things to do on Oahu, specifically Oahu luaus.

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Still can’t decide?

Get more in-depth information about each Maui Luau.


Join the discussion 36 Comments

  • Debbie says:

    Really enjoyed Old Lahainaluau, but we were bummed they didn’t have fire dancing. That’s really the climax of any show. We’ll probably check out one of these other ones next time.

    • Curt R. says:

      I agree about Old Lahaina. Have been there 3 times and everybody has enjoyed it including my daughter, who has been invited on stage 2 times!

  • Jerry says:

    I was worried my legs would fall asleep sitting on those mats. But they had comfortable chairs, and the food was amazing! Unforgettable!

    • Activity Authority says:

      Yes, we’ve been to every luau, and if memory serves, the Old Lahaina Luau is the only luau that offers the option of sitting at tables near the stage on mats. All other luaus sit in normal chairs with full backs.

  • Jesse Manning says:

    The Grand Wailea Luau was so much fun! My son was dancing up a storm next to the stage, my wife actually got on stage and learned some hula, and I sat back and sipped on my maitai watching the whole thing go down. Such good food too. The pork was delicious and the desserts require my getting back to the gym… I went a little overboard. For those who haven’t made a decision, do the Grand Luau for sure!

  • James& Myrna acero says:

    Can you send me information on the Luau in Maui.

    • Activity Authority says:

      Yes, I’ll email you now. You can also use our chat feature below to ask questions. If we can’t get back to you immediately, we’ll answer your question via email. Most of the information for these luaus can be found by clicking on the associated booking buttons above. Mahalo!

  • Teiva says:

    Which Maui luau has the best food?

    • Activity Authority says:

      That’s generally a matter of taste, though our favorites so far have been at the Andaz Luau and at the Grand Luau. We’ve eaten at all Maui luaus and have never been disappointed.

  • Lee M. says:

    Curious what to wear to a luau?

    • Activity Authority says:

      Luau attire is pretty casual. You won’t see a lot of tank-tops, but most men are wearing short-sleeved collared shirts and shorts, and women tend to wear long flowing aloha style dresses. Be comfortable, but don’t look like you just came off the beach. I guess you could say aloha formal or classy casual.

  • Rhonda says:

    We went to the Old Lahaina luau in May 2017. It was a fantastic evening and the sunset was spectacular. I enjoyed every single minute of Maui.

  • Arnold B. says:

    My favorite luau I’ve ever been to (I’ve been to 3 across the islands) was Honuaula. Did that one change at all? It looks like the luau has changed names to Ahaaina? Wondering if any big changes have happened with the new ownership of the Grand Wailea. Thanks in advance!

    • Activity Authority says:

      Oh, so glad you asked! The only thing that has changed with this luau is the name from “Honua’ula to ‘Aha’aina”, so it’s the same great luau. Same price, location, food, show as before. Mahalo!

  • RACHELLE CASTRO says:

    Which luau is the best for a wedding reception? I may have 20-30 people in my party.

    • Activity Authority says:

      I’d choose the one closest to where everyone is staying. Every Maui luau can accommodate a large party. Just make sure to book all your tickets at the same time and well in advance (some book up quickly!)

  • James Dennie says:

    We are coming to Maui from April 24 thru May 6. We will be staying at Kahana Villa Resort at 4242 Lower Honoapiilani Highway and we are looking a NICE Luau that is NOT overrun by children We have never been to Hawaii and do not want our special occasions ruined by screeming children. Can you recommend one.

    • Maui Hawaii says:

      Aloha James! Congrats on your upcoming trip! We’ve been to all these luaus many times, and we’ve never felt children were an issue. That being said, there are no luaus on Maui (or probably in the State of Hawaii) that don’t allow children. Since having adults exclusively around you is important, you should book a full table. Or, as you enter, ask to be seated among adults only. This will likely require you to get premium seating tickets so that you’re entering early and can make that request. Again, all of the luaus will have some children in attendance. Have fun!

    • Patty says:

      Hello,
      It is our first time coming to Hawaii and we are between the Sheraton Luau and the Feast of LeLe.
      Which do you recommend?

      • Maui Hawaii says:

        They’re both great, but with how booked up these are, you should see who is available to book for the night you want to go. We’ve been to Feast at Lele twice and the Sheraton 5 times, if that says anything. Both are great though.

  • kerri abraham says:

    we are staying in Lahaina in April. This is our very first trip to Hawaii and looking forward to Maui and a great Luau. Any suggestions to a good fire throwing Luau?

    • Maui Hawaii says:

      Though Covid-19 Coronavirus has halted all Maui luaus, when things are back up and running, the Sheraton and the Grand Luau are amazing. All of the 5 listed on this page are great.

  • Gary says:

    Are all Luaus buffets? If not, which ones are not?

  • Jennifer says:

    Can you recommend a Luau for someone that has an allergy to pineapple? Thanks!

  • Danyelle R Bliss says:

    what is a good luau close to Kihei?

  • Venus says:

    Feat At Lele I would say is the most high end, featuring fine dining version of Polynesian dishes, served on white tableclothed tables beachfront in Lahaina.
    Best bet for those who have back issues and especially if buffet food isn’t your thing. The show is amazing.

  • Piyush Jain says:

    Hello,

    Me and my wife will be visiting the Maui for our wedding anniversary celebration. The caveat is that we both are vegetarian. Can you recommend which Luau (including the fire show) would be best for us?

  • Charlotte S says:

    Thank you for keeping this updated! I’ve been planning things to do in Maui now for like 3 months. Every time I revisit your article, you’ve edited the pricing and info. MUCHO APPRECIATED!

  • Judy says:

    My husband and are taking my 89 yrs old mother to maui in may of 2023,which is the best laui to take her to as she has abit of difficulty walking to far and to long.she uses a walker to get around.

  • Elizabeth says:

    Thank you so much for this post. Super helpful. We are trying to decide between Myths of Maui (royal lah) and drums of the pacific (Hyatt). OLL is sold out (I am getting on wait list). We went to OLL for honeymoon and loved it. We are coming back with two grandparents, and 3 kids (12, 6, and 5). Which one would you choose? We are staying at the Sands of kahana so the show needs to be within 30 minutes. We want something fun, good food and good drinks and beautiful atmosphere, and easy to see from table. Plus if they have flower leis!

  • Neet and angel apk says:

    Loved this post! I’m planning a trip to Maui in April and was looking for some recommendations on the best luaus to attend. Can’t wait to try out some of these top picks! 🌴🎶

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