Polynesian Cultural Center Honolulu
Explore six vibrant Polynesian island cultures through interactive villages, captivating shows, and authentic dining experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Polynesian Cultural Center Honolulu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore six vibrant Polynesian island cultures through interactive villages, captivating shows, and authentic dining experiences.
"An unforgettable journey through Polynesia, this is the experience you cannot miss!"
🎯 Book VIP for Front Row
Opt for VIP packages for guaranteed front-row seats at shows and a personal guide.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the park's villages and attractions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Six Island Villages
Across the park
Immerse yourself in the distinct cultures of Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Tahiti, and Aotearoa through interactive exhibits and performances.
Ha: The Breath of Life Show
Pacific Theater
A spectacular evening performance featuring fire dancing, music, and storytelling that brings Polynesian legends to life.
Gateway Buffet
Gateway Restaurant
Savor a diverse array of island flavors, from traditional Polynesian dishes to contemporary favorites, in a grand buffet setting.
Canoe Pageant
Central Lagoon
Witness a vibrant procession of canoes representing each island, showcasing traditional songs and dances.
Planning Your Visit
Allocate a Full Day
Consider Your Package Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book VIP for Front Row
Opt for VIP packages for guaranteed front-row seats at shows and a personal guide. +1
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the park's villages and attractions.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Hawaii can be hot and humid; bring a reusable water bottle or purchase drinks often.
💰 Support Local Artisans
Purchase souvenirs from local vendors and tip servers generously; they are often students working to pay tuition.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book VIP for Front Row
Opt for VIP packages for guaranteed front-row seats at shows and a personal guide. +1
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the park's villages and attractions.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Hawaii can be hot and humid; bring a reusable water bottle or purchase drinks often.
💰 Support Local Artisans
Purchase souvenirs from local vendors and tip servers generously; they are often students working to pay tuition.
🚌 Consider PCC Shuttle
While public buses are an option, the PCC shuttle can be more convenient and faster.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Polynesian Cultural Center for its immersive cultural experiences, beautiful landscaping, and engaging performances. The 'Ha: The Breath of Life' show and the Gateway Buffet are frequently highlighted as exceptional. Staff are noted for their genuine hospitality and passion for sharing their heritage. While some find the food lacking in flavor, the overall experience is described as unforgettable and highly recommended for families and anyone interested in Polynesian culture.
"Very impressed with the set-up and design of this center. Each area provides a taste of cultural history, along with fun, interactive activities for kids and adults alike. The employees are kind, informed, and show passion about sharing their culture with the world. The buffet was one of the best I've had. There was variety in the choices, and the food was tasty. Ha: The Breath of Life was a great production. The fire dancing was absolutely incredible! Highly recommend taking the time to visit here."
Natalie Nielsen
"This was my second time (my family’s first) and it was just as amazing! We caught the charter bus close to our hotel, the driver was funny and informative. The PCC itself was beautiful. We did a guided group tour- our tour guide was very entertaining and helpful. The only thing I wish was that we could have seen all the villages in the day, but it was still a wonderful experience. The luau and food were great. The nighttime show, though, was phenomenal!! I would highly recommend the PCC if you’re going to Oahu."
Brandi Gilbert
"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An Unforgettable Journey Through Polynesia!
From the moment we arrived, the Polynesian Cultural Center captured our hearts. As a family of five, including our 11-year-old son whose birthday we celebrated here, every moment felt extra special. The team went above and beyond to make the day unforgettable, showering him with smiles and warmth.
Every village was alive with vibrant colors, warm greetings, and authentic traditions that made us feel like we were traveling across the islands in a single day. The cultural performances were not just shows—they were heartfelt stories brought to life with music, dance, and spirit.
The Gateway Buffet was a feast to remember—an impressive variety of flavors, beautifully presented, and perfectly blending traditional island tastes with modern touches. Every bite felt like part of the Polynesian journey.
What truly set this experience apart was the staff’s genuine hospitality. Every interaction felt personal, and the pride they have in sharing their heritage made the entire visit deeply meaningful.
We left with not only stunning photos, but also a birthday memory our son will cherish forever, and a profound appreciation for Polynesian culture. This is more than a visit—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime memory. If you’re coming to Hawaii, this is the experience you cannot miss!"
Kim Dinh Huynh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You have several options to reach the Polynesian Cultural Center from Honolulu. The most convenient is often the PCC's own shuttle service, which picks up from various hotels in Waikiki and Honolulu. Alternatively, you can use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, though this can be more expensive for the distance. Public transportation is also available via TheBus (Route 60), but it's a longer journey.
If you have a rental car, there is ample parking available.
From Waikiki, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers a dedicated shuttle service that is highly recommended for its convenience and direct route. This avoids the hassle of navigating public transport or the higher cost of ride-sharing for the entire journey. If you prefer to drive, it's about an hour's drive from Waikiki, and parking is available.
Yes, you can take public transportation. TheBus Route 60 services the area. However, be aware that this is a longer commute compared to the PCC shuttle or driving. Check TheBus website for the most current schedules and routes.
The travel time from Honolulu to the Polynesian Cultural Center is typically around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions and your chosen mode of transport.
Absolutely! The Polynesian Cultural Center provides shuttle services from major hotels in Honolulu and Waikiki. Ride-sharing services and public buses are also available if you prefer not to use the official shuttle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the package you choose, ranging from general admission to premium packages that include luaus and guided tours. It's best to check the official Polynesian Cultural Center website for current pricing and package details.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season or want to secure a specific package like the Alii Luau. This ensures availability and can sometimes offer early bird discounts.
A general admission ticket usually includes access to the six island villages, cultural presentations, and the 'Ha: The Breath of Life' evening show. Packages often add a luau dinner, guided tours, and other special experiences.
Yes, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers a variety of packages, including general admission, guided tours, and the popular Alii Luau package, which provides a more immersive experience with premium seating and dining. +1
While tickets may be available at the gate, it's strongly advised to purchase them in advance online to guarantee entry and potentially get better pricing or package options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss exploring the six distinct island villages, each offering unique cultural demonstrations and interactive activities.
To fully experience the Polynesian Cultural Center without feeling rushed, it's recommended to allocate a full day. While some visitors can cover the main attractions in less time, a full day allows for deeper engagement with each village and performance.
Yes, the center features numerous shows and performances throughout the day, including cultural presentations in each village and the grand 'Ha: The Breath of Life' evening show. The Canoe Pageant is another popular daily event.
Absolutely! The Polynesian Cultural Center is very family-friendly, with many interactive activities, hands-on experiences, and engaging performances that children will love.
'Ha: The Breath of Life' is a captivating evening show that tells a story of love, life, and Polynesian heritage through mesmerizing fire dancing, music, and traditional performances.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Polynesian Cultural Center offers a variety of dining options, including the popular Gateway Buffet, which features a wide selection of island and international cuisine. There are also food courts and smaller eateries within the villages offering snacks and quick meals.
Many visitors find the luau dinner to be a highlight, offering a delicious spread of traditional Polynesian dishes and a festive atmosphere. +1 It's often included in premium packages and is a great way to experience island cuisine.
The Gateway Buffet typically offers a good variety of salads and vegetable dishes that can accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets. It's always a good idea to check with the restaurant staff for specific options.
The Gateway Buffet offers a diverse range of dishes, including seafood, roasted meats, salads, tropical fruits, and traditional Polynesian specialties.
While the buffet and luau are premium dining experiences, there are also food courts and smaller vendors offering more budget-friendly options like snacks and quick meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The Polynesian Cultural Center is incredibly picturesque. Focus on the vibrant village architecture, lush landscapes, cultural performers, and the stunning lagoon.
Yes, you can generally take photos of the performers, but always be respectful and avoid using flash during shows. Some specific cultural demonstrations might have restrictions, so observe any signage.
Photography is usually allowed during the 'Ha: The Breath of Life' show, but flash photography is often prohibited to avoid disrupting the performance and other guests.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing performances from a distance. A wide-angle lens is great for the village landscapes. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards!
Drones are typically not permitted within the Polynesian Cultural Center for the safety and privacy of guests and performers. Always check the official PCC guidelines for the most up-to-date information.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The vibrant performances, especially the 'Ha: The Breath of Life' show and the Canoe Pageant, are captivating for all ages. Consider booking a package that includes the luau for a fun family dining experience. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking involved. 💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples
The 'Ha: The Breath of Life' show provides a dramatic and memorable evening finale. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Cultural Experience
+1While the PCC is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), many visitors report that the experience is not overtly religious or preachy. Instead, the focus is on cultural education and entertainment.
For those seeking deeper historical context, some Redditors suggest visiting the Plantation Village, which details the history of immigrant groups in Hawaii, or the Bishop Museum for a more in-depth look at Hawaiian and Pacific history.
+1Maximizing Your Visit with Packages and Tours
These guided tours are particularly beneficial if you have limited time or want to ensure you don't miss any key activities. Your guide can provide in-depth information about the cultures and answer any questions you may have.
Remember that the PCC is a large park, and covering all six villages and shows in a single day can be ambitious. A well-chosen package or tour can help you prioritize and make the most of your time, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience.
Cultural Sensitivity and Respectful Tourism
When visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center, remember that you are engaging with living cultures. Be mindful of your behavior, listen attentively to the presentations, and participate respectfully in any offered activities.
Beyond the PCC, general advice for visiting Hawaii includes supporting local businesses, being mindful of environmental impact, and understanding the historical context of the islands.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit