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Old Lahaina Luau

4.7
·5k reviews·Lahaina, United States

Experience Maui's most authentic luau with traditional Hawaiian food, captivating performances, and stunning oceanfront sunset views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Experience the sunset and cultural show

CrowdHigh
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Hula Dancers!

Old Lahaina Luau

Best Time

Evenings

Experience the sunset and cultural show

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience Maui's most authentic luau with traditional Hawaiian food, captivating performances, and stunning oceanfront sunset views.

4.7
(5k reviews)

"This was, without a doubt, the best experience we had during our trip, and we can only recommend it wholeheartedly."

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TIP

🎯 Book Tickets Well in Advance

This luau is incredibly popular and sells out fast! Book your tickets months ahead to guarantee a spot.

🪑 Choose Your Seating Wisely

Opt for chairs if you have mobility issues or prefer back support over traditional floor seating.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Imu Ceremony

Authentic Imu Ceremony

On-site

Witness the traditional unearthing of a whole pig cooked underground, a cornerstone of Hawaiian culinary heritage.

Oceanfront Sunset Views

Oceanfront Sunset Views

Luau grounds

Enjoy breathtaking sunset vistas over the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop to your cultural immersion.

Traditional Hawaiian Dance & Music

Traditional Hawaiian Dance & Music

Performance stage

Experience captivating hula performances and traditional chants that tell the stories of Hawaii.

Plentiful Island Cuisine

Plentiful Island Cuisine

Buffet and seated dinner

Savor a wide array of delicious Hawaiian dishes, including excellent vegetarian options.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Early, Especially for Peak Season

Old Lahaina Luau is renowned for its authenticity and sells out quickly, particularly during busy travel times. Booking months in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Instagram

Consider Seating Options

While traditional low seating offers an immersive experience, it may not be comfortable for everyone, especially older guests. Opt for chairs for better back support and easier movement. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Experience the sunset and cultural show
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Luau in Hawaii #luau #hawaii #vacation @mr.stretch19
@lovelymimi865
84.2K likes • 600.4K views

🎯 Book Tickets Well in Advance

This luau is incredibly popular and sells out fast! Book your tickets months ahead to guarantee a spot. Instagram

🪑 Choose Your Seating Wisely

Opt for chairs if you have mobility issues or prefer back support over traditional floor seating. Reddit

10/10 experience!!! 🌟#royallahainaresort #maui #mauihawaii #vacation
@hiitsdenisee
34.3K likes • 749.7K views
What is more Hawaiian than a luau?! 🌺 Old Lahaina Luau was an authentic Hawaiian luau, complete with a full pig cooked and covered in a pit in the ground for hours to give the meat a smoky flavor and then a ceremony where they unearth the pig. 🐖We were greeted with beautiful leis and there were hula and other traditional dancers who put on a show. We can see why it is Maui’s oldest running luau,...
luxurysis_travel_and_lifestyle
494 likes • 2.7K views

🌿 Inform About Dietary Needs

They offer excellent vegetarian options, but be sure to notify them when booking. TikTok

🍹 Drinks Flow Freely

Enjoy an open bar with drinks that are not watered down, a common praise from visitors. Reddit

🌺✨ Old Lahaina Luau is Maui’s most authentic luau experience — and tickets disappear fast. If this is on your Hawaii bucket list, don’t wait… book now before it sells out! Share with someone who needs to get their tickets now 👉 #maui #luau #lahaina #lahainaactivity #hawaii #mauiluau #luaunight
oldlahainaluau
79 likes • 1.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tickets Well in Advance

This luau is incredibly popular and sells out fast! Book your tickets months ahead to guarantee a spot. Instagram

🪑 Choose Your Seating Wisely

Opt for chairs if you have mobility issues or prefer back support over traditional floor seating. Reddit

🌿 Inform About Dietary Needs

They offer excellent vegetarian options, but be sure to notify them when booking. TikTok

🍹 Drinks Flow Freely

Enjoy an open bar with drinks that are not watered down, a common praise from visitors. Reddit

🌺 Embrace the Aloha Spirit

Arrive ready to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture, from the lei greeting to the performances. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently rave about the Old Lahaina Luau, calling it the most authentic and unforgettable cultural experience on Maui. The exceptional service, delicious food (including great vegetarian options), and stunning oceanfront setting are frequently highlighted. While some note minor food seasoning preferences, the overwhelming sentiment is that it's a must-do for anyone seeking genuine Hawaiian culture.

"We had an amazing time! They greeted us with orchid lei's and a mai Tai and told us to wonder around and enjoy the sunset. We got to watch the pig being pulled out of the ground and they entertained us all evening. The staff was super friendly and accommodating. A great experience overall and the food was decent also."

Heather

"If you only have time for one luau, this is the one to choose. The service is attentive, the atmosphere is vibrant yet welcoming, and the food is outstanding. The entertainment blends music, dance, and storytelling beautifully, offering a true celebration of Hawaiian culture and history. The backdrop of the sunset during the performance makes it even more memorable. Booking this for our Honeymoon set the perfect tone for the rest of our vacation—absolutely worth it and we will be back! Thank you for sharing your beautiful home and incredibly culture with us."

Caitlin Weisel

"It’s been almost a year since our family visited and looking back it was one of the highlights of our trip! 5 adults attended (one vegetarian) and I can’t say enough wonderful things about our experience. The vegetarian member had been to the excellent Lele on their honeymoon, and we had reservations for the prior year trip which we postponed. Pleasantly surprised Old Lahaina was just as good! We had an amazing table off to the right of the stage, just behind the traditional low seating (not recommend for the older generation unless you are in very good physical condition). The dance and story was outstanding. The views incredible. The food delicious and plentiful. Drinks were not watered down as some other place’s reviews mentioned. Vegetarian option was extremely well done-all dishes were very similar to the non-veg dishes but made with a veg-friendly base. I called a couple of times to insure the vegetarian guest was noted and they were beyond friendly and accommodating and even left a voicemail a day or two before to confirm everything. The weather was gorgeous and the audience participation dancing was fun to watch! Cannot wait to go back-highly recommend Old Lahaina Luau!"

allison carroll

What People Like

Authentic cultural experience
Delicious and plentiful food
Stunning sunset views

What People Dislike

Minor food seasoning preferences

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Lahaina Luau is located in Lahaina, Maui. Many visitors arrive by car or taxi. Parking is available on-site. If you're staying in nearby areas like Kaanapali or Kihei, consider ride-sharing services or pre-arranged transportation. TikTok

Yes, there is on-site parking available for guests attending the luau. It's convenient for those driving themselves. TikTok

Public transportation options in Maui can be limited, especially for evening events. It's generally recommended to use ride-sharing services, taxis, or rental cars for easier access to the Old Lahaina Luau. TikTok

For convenience and flexibility, renting a car is a popular choice. Alternatively, ride-sharing apps are widely used on Maui, and many hotels offer shuttle services or can assist with transportation arrangements. TikTok

While the grounds are generally accessible, the traditional low seating might be challenging. The luau offers chair seating options which are more accommodating. It's advisable to confirm accessibility details when booking. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It is highly recommended to book your tickets as far in advance as possible, ideally several months ahead, especially if you are traveling during peak season. This luau is known to sell out quickly. Instagram

Ticket prices can vary, but generally, the Old Lahaina Luau offers a comprehensive experience that is considered worth the cost by many visitors. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Yes, the luau offers both traditional low seating and chair seating. While the low seating is immersive, chair seating is recommended for those who may find it difficult to sit on the floor for extended periods. Reddit

Your ticket typically includes a traditional Hawaiian feast, an open bar with a variety of drinks, a lei greeting, and access to all cultural demonstrations and the evening's entertainment, including hula and music. TikTok

It is extremely unlikely to get tickets on the day of the event due to high demand. Booking well in advance is crucial to secure your spot. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The luau typically begins in the late afternoon or early evening, with activities and dinner leading up to the main performance. Check your ticket confirmation for the exact start time. Instagram

You can expect a rich cultural experience featuring traditional Hawaiian music, chants, hula performances, and a captivating storytelling narrative of Hawaiian history. Instagram+1

Yes, there are often opportunities for audience participation, adding a fun and interactive element to the evening. Reddit

Casual island attire is recommended. Think comfortable sundresses, aloha shirts, shorts, and sandals. It's best to dress for warm weather. TikTok

The luau typically lasts for several hours, from the welcome reception through dinner and the main performance, usually concluding in the late evening. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The luau features a traditional Hawaiian feast with a wide variety of dishes, including kalua pig cooked in an imu (underground oven), poi, laulau, fresh fish, and tropical fruits. InstagramReddit

Yes, the Old Lahaina Luau is known for its excellent vegetarian options, which are prepared with care and often mirror the flavors of the traditional dishes. It's important to note your dietary needs when booking. TikTokReddit

Yes, an open bar with a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages is typically included with your ticket. Visitors often praise the quality and free-flowing nature of the drinks. Reddit

The food is generally described as delicious and plentiful. While a few dishes might be a bit bland for some palates, the overall consensus is very positive, with many highlighting the quality and variety. Reddit

It's best to contact the Old Lahaina Luau directly when booking to discuss any severe food allergies. They are known for being accommodating and will do their best to meet your needs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography and videography are generally allowed for personal use. However, it's always respectful to be mindful of performers and other guests. TikTok

The oceanfront setting provides stunning sunset backdrops. The cultural demonstrations and performances also offer great photo opportunities. Instagram

To ensure the best experience for performers and the audience, flash photography is usually discouraged during the main show. Check for specific guidelines upon arrival. TikTok

While not always advertised, there may be opportunities to purchase professional photos. However, most guests capture their own memories with their devices. TikTok

The period just before and during the sunset is ideal for capturing beautiful photos of the ocean and the luau grounds. Arrive early to scout your preferred photo locations. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Lahaina Luau is a fantastic choice for families, offering an educational and entertaining experience for all ages. Kids can learn about Hawaiian culture through engaging performances and interactive elements. The variety of food ensures even picky eaters can find something they enjoy, and the inclusion of vegetarian options is a plus. Reddit

While the traditional low seating might be challenging for very young children or those with short attention spans, the chair seating option provides comfort. The overall atmosphere is welcoming and family-friendly, making it a memorable highlight of a Maui vacation. Reddit

💑 Couples Seeking Romance

For couples, the Old Lahaina Luau offers a truly romantic evening. The breathtaking oceanfront sunset views create an idyllic backdrop for a special night out. Enjoying the traditional feast and the captivating cultural performances together provides a shared, intimate experience. Instagram

The open bar and the warm, welcoming atmosphere contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable evening. It's an opportunity to immerse yourselves in Hawaiian culture and create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. Instagram

✈️ Day-Trippers and First-Time Visitors

If you're on a tight schedule or visiting Maui for the first time, the Old Lahaina Luau is an excellent way to experience a significant piece of Hawaiian culture in one evening. It provides a comprehensive introduction to traditional food, music, and dance. Instagram

Booking this luau is often a priority for first-time visitors, as it's widely considered a must-do activity. Its authenticity and quality make it a worthwhile investment of your time and budget, offering a memorable highlight to your trip. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Authenticity of Old Lahaina Luau

The Old Lahaina Luau is consistently praised for its commitment to authenticity, setting it apart from more commercialized luaus. This focus is evident in every aspect, from the traditional Hawaiian cuisine to the cultural performances. The imu ceremony, where a whole pig is cooked underground, is a highlight that showcases ancient Hawaiian cooking methods. Instagram

Visitors often note that the experience feels intimate and thoughtfully organized, avoiding the typical 'tourist trap' feel. The storytelling woven into the performances aims to educate and honor Hawaiian history and traditions, making it more than just entertainment. This dedication to cultural preservation is a key reason why many consider it the most authentic luau experience on Maui. Instagram+1

This authenticity extends to the warm aloha spirit that permeates the event. From the moment you arrive with a fragrant lei greeting to the genuine interactions with staff, the luau strives to provide a genuine connection to Hawaiian culture. Instagram+1

Culinary Delights: A Taste of Old Hawaii

The food at the Old Lahaina Luau is a significant draw, offering a comprehensive taste of traditional Hawaiian cuisine. The kalua pig, slow-cooked in an imu, is a standout dish, renowned for its smoky flavor and tender texture. Instagram Other traditional offerings include poi, laulau (pork and fish wrapped in taro leaves), and fresh island seafood. Reddit

A particular point of praise is the luau's excellent vegetarian options. These are not an afterthought but are thoughtfully prepared to complement the traditional menu, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a satisfying meal. It's recommended to inform the luau of any dietary needs when booking to ensure they can accommodate you. TikTokReddit

Beyond the food itself, the open bar is frequently mentioned as a positive aspect, with drinks being plentiful and not watered down. This, combined with the delicious and abundant food, contributes to the overall value and enjoyment of the dining experience. Reddit

The Magic of the Evening Performance

The evening's entertainment at the Old Lahaina Luau is a carefully curated journey through Hawaiian culture. The hula performances are described as beautiful and graceful, with dancers embodying the stories and emotions of the islands. Instagram+1

Beyond the hula, the luau incorporates traditional Hawaiian chants and music, creating an immersive atmosphere. The narrative structure of the show aims to educate the audience about Hawaiian history, legends, and values, making it an engaging and meaningful experience. Instagram+1

The oceanfront setting provides a stunning natural amphitheater, with the sunset often serving as a dramatic backdrop to the performances. This combination of cultural richness and natural beauty creates an unforgettable ambiance that many visitors cherish. Instagram

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