The very first thing I think of when I hear “Hawaii” is Luau. The Spirit of Aloha, Mai Tai’s, cultural dancing and a FEAST of kings. So, it’s no surprise that when we planned our trip to Hawaii this past March, I knew that a Luau was at the very top of my list of experiences that I could not miss. We were on the hunt for the Best Luau in Oahu and luckily, we did not have to look far. As if the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort was not stunning enough, they also offer whatever experience in dining and entertainment that a family could want from a Hawaiian vacation. The same is true for Luaus. Turns out, the Hilton Hawaiian Beach Resort has the best Luau in Oahu and it should not be missed. Here’s everything you should know about the best luau in Oahu.
…Scroll to the bottom to watch the complete video of our luau experience…
Where is the Waikiki Starlight Luau?
Hilton Hawaiian Village’s Waikiki Starlight luau is located on the Rooftop of the Mid-Pacific conference center at the resort. If you are a guest of the resort (which I highly suggest you are) then it is an easily accessible walk through the Rainbow Bazaar shopping and dining area to reach the show.
Do you have to be a guest at the Resort to Attend?
No, you do not have to be a guest to attend the Waikiki Starlight Luau. However, being a guest at the resort is convenient and could qualify you for exclusive deals and discounts to the event. However, you should register early as the resort is massive and shows fill every night. Click HERE to register for tickets.
The show is offered Sunday through Thursday at 5:30 pm and lasts until around 8pm. I do suggest arriving about 30 minutes early to claim your spot and begin your experience. Even though zones are assigned based on your ticket, the actual seat is not assigned and you absolutely want to sit as close as possible to the stage. Although, there is generally not a bad seat in the house.
Waikiki Starlight Luau: Prior to The Show
When you arrive, you will present your ticket and enter to lovely Hawaiian Music, a Hula dancer and traditional Hawaiian lei. From there, you will line up to take a group picture with the people you attend with. The cost of the final photo is on the high side but they do allow you to take photos with the performers with your phone for Free at the end. I suggest taking this route.
While you’re waiting for the dining hour to start, guests are given an alcoholic or non- alcoholic option of a Mai Tai and they are delicious. You can also take advantage of the stations available to you. For free, you can make a Lei or get a Hawaiian temporary tattoo. Both of these stations are kid friendly which is a plus. There is also a station to purchase traditional Polynesian art work and carvings.
The pre- show is very interactive. Prior to dinner, guests will learn more about what Hula means to Hawaiian culture in a short Hula lesson and participate in a Conch Shell blowing competition. Prepare for a sea of laughs as this is intended to warm the crowd up and get you out of your comfort zone a bit.
Waikiki Starlight Luau Food
Aside from the fellowship, a large and very important part of the Hawaiian Luau is the food. Oh, and the food is DELICIOUS. What makes Hawaii so unique is its influence from so many cultures and traditions. This is your chance to taste and indulge in all the amazing Hawaiian food from Kalua pork to mac salad and Poi to Malasadas. My mouth is watering just thinking about it!
The cost of your all you can eat meal and drinks are included in your ticket. They also take very good care of kids by having a designated Keiki station for picky little eaters. This section has traditional kid’s foods like chicken tenders and fries if that is something they would enjoy. Dinner lasts nearly an hour with entertainment such as a Polynesian fashion show and live music.
Waikiki Starlight Luau Show
The Waikiki Starlight Luau Show is beautiful and entertaining. The dance company’s performers are talented and authentic. They come from all over the Pacific Islands and that is reflected in the performance. You will see traditional and authentic dances from Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji and more. Enjoy live music and chants, captivating dances, a live Fire knife dance fight and storytelling all under the stars and near the ocean breeze.
…Click below to Watch a Full Video of Our Experience at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Starlight Luau…
This truly is an experience that you do not want to miss. If you’re planning to visit Hawaii and the island of Oahu, it’s only fitting to visit the best Luau in Oahu at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort. Click HERE for full show details.
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