While the overall cultural significance of the modern-day lūʻau may be taken with a grain of salt these days, most are well-intentioned, culturally sensitive, fun, and engaging, with traditional singing, dancing, and Polynesian performances like fire-knife dancing that will entertain people of all ages, a great night out for families, couples, and friends!
In other words, we highly recommend visiting a lūʻau on Maui if you are looking for a colorful, interactive experience of local culture.
Table of contents
- What is the best Maui luau for …
- List of luaus on Maui
- Tips for picking a luau
- 6 things to expect from a lūʻau
Table of Contents
- What is the best Maui luau for …
- List of luaus on Maui
- Tips for picking a luau
- 6 things to expect from a lūʻau
In this guide, we talk you through the how and what of visiting a Luau, and give recommendations and short breakdowns of al Luau shows held on Maui.
What is the best Lūʻau On Maui?
That depends, of course, on what you are looking for.
All lūʻau shows guarantee an entertaining show and good local food, but they all have their different highlights. Some are especially family-friendly, others hit the jackpot when it comes to location, and of course there can only one “most affordable” luau.
Here are what we think as of the best luau shows on Maui for authenticity, food, setting, families, and sunset ocean views:
The Old Lāhainā Lūʻau has consistently been regarded as the most authentic on Maui for its attention to detail and quality of its music and dancing. Even better: Its price tag is significantly cheaper than many other lūʻaus, too.
The Feast at Lele in Lāhainā has the most comprehensive menu of all lūʻaus, offering five courses from four different Polynesian nations. Otherwise, the high-end lūʻaus in Wailea offer the highest-quality food.
Any lūʻau taking place in Wailea and Kaʻanapali is sure to provide a beautiful, beachside setting.
All lūʻaus on Maui are family friendly, and most lūʻaus have fire-knife dancing these days, so convenience and price could be the leading factors. That said, the Myths of Maui Lūʻau scores major points for its $115 children’s rate.
All lūʻaus in Lāhainā, Wailea, and Kaʻanapali offer great views of the sunset.
Luau shows on Kauaʻi, the Big Island, and Oʻahu
Lūʻaus are so typical to Hawaiʻi that you can find them on any island! If you are also visiting other islands and would rather visit a Luau there, you should have a look at our guides to Lūʻau shows on the Big Island, Kauaʻi Luau shows, and Lūʻau shows on Oʻahu to get our recommendations for those islands.
List of Lūʻau shows on Maui
There are many lūʻaus on Maui, nearly a dozen in fact! That’s a lot for a small island, which gives you an idea about their nightly demand. In this section, we run through what each lūʻau has to offer.
- Drums of the Pacific
- Lūʻau at Grand Wailea
- Feast at Lele
- Feast at Mokapu
- Maui Nui Lūʻau at Black Rock
- Myths of Maui
- Old Lahaina Lūʻau
- Te Au Moana
- Wailele Lūʻau
- Tales of the Kapa Lūʻau
- Maui Sunset Luau
- Maui’s Finest Luau
- Huaka’i Lūʻau (currently not operating)
Drums of the Pacific Lūʻau
The largest lūʻau in Kaʻanapali, the Drums of the Pacific Lūʻau represents all the cultures of Polynesia through their various dances and cultural traditions. The production value of this lūʻau is impressive, and it’s known for having one of the better fire-knife dancing performances. Families will enjoy this seaside lūʻau for its high energy, theatrical nature, and kid-friendly environment.
When? Most days. Off days vary, check the current schedule at the booking website linked below.
Where? Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa.
Shuttle available? Yes, but for a fee.
Price Range: $210.
Booking website: Drums of the Pacific.
Fire eating performance at the Drums of the Pacific Luau. Image credit: Ernesto Andrade, source.
Lūʻau at Grand Wailea
The Grand Wailea provides a beautiful resort setting with top-notch attention to detail and high-quality food, service, and performance. That quality is reflected in the ticket price – it’s one of the most expensive lūʻaus on the island – making it a high-end option, great for celebrations like anniversaries and honeymoons. The stage is just steps from Wailea Beach, and the performance tells the story of the island’s creation.
When? Most days. Off days vary.
Where? Grand Wailea Resort, Wailea.
Shuttle available? No.
Price Range: $170/$265 (children/adults standard) to $195/$325 (children/adults VIP).
Best to book at: Lūʻau at Grand Wailea.
Imu ceremony at the Grand Wailea Luau. Image credit: Daisy Images, source.
Feast at Lele
The Feast at Lele is unique because instead of sitting everyone at shared tables, it offers each party a private table for dinner and the show. While some community is lost as a result, a lot is gained for those looking for personalization. What’s more is that instead of a buffet, the Feast at Lele offers a five-course serving of Hawaiian and Polynesian dishes. These two aspects make the price point a little higher, but still significantly less than what it costs to get a private table at other lūʻaus. The ocean-side seating in downtown Lāhainā on the historical site of former royal grounds make it all the more special.
When? 7 days a week
Where? Lāhainā
Shuttle available? No
Price Range: $140 (child) to $245 (adult)
Website: Feast at Lele
A dancer performs one of the island dances at the Feast at Lele in Lahaina, Maui. Image credit: the Q speaks, source.
Feast at Mōkapu
Like the Grand Wailiea Lūʻau just down the road, the Feast at Mōkapu offers an upscale experience at a well-manicured, high-end luxury resort, the Andaz Maui in Wailea. Ticket prices are the highest of the high, but they do come with extra value: Standard seating includes valet parking, a commemorative photo, and a multi-course, chef-plated meal to go along with hand-crafted cocktails (open bar), ocean views (Mōkapu Beach), and show.
When? Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays
Where? Andaz Maui Resort
Shuttle available? No.
Price Range: $140/$280 (children/adult standard) to $180/$340 (children/adult VIP)
Website: Feast at Mōkapu
Maui Nui Lūʻau at Black Rock
Attending this Kaʻanapali lūʻau offers all the same beach tranquility and ocean views as the others in that area, but with a little something extra. Each night at sunset, the Sheraton Maui Resort puts on a historical show on the beach, featuring a torch lighting ceremony and a courageous cliff diving performance off Black Rock. It’s not part of the lūʻau, but it’s an extra perk that adds another fun activity to the evening. For overall quality and family fun, the Maui Nui Lūʻau is a great choice. Storytelling focuses on the island of Maui and also Kaʻanapali.
When? Weekly.
Where? The Sheraton Maui Resort at Black Rock.
Shuttle available? No.
Price Range: $110/$198 (children/adult), $140/$228 (VIP children/adult).
Website: Maui Nui Lūʻau at Black Rock.
The setting of the Maui Nui Luau is amazing. Image from the Maui Nui Luau website.
Myths of Maui
The Myths of Maui Lūʻau offers a lovely seaside setting in calm, quiet Kaʻanapali. It has a strong reputation and history, dating back to the 70s, and its cultural dancing includes several Polynesian identities, including Hawaiʻi, Tonga, New Zealand, and Tahiti. The view and setting are strong calling cards, with views of Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi. The beach out front is usually spacious, so arrive early for sunset pictures.
When? Most nights.
Where? Royal Lāhainā Resort.
Shuttle available? No.
Price Range: $115/185 (children and adults) to $165/235 (VIP children and adults).
Website: Myths of Maui.
Old Lāhainā Lūʻau
If you’re looking for one of the top cultural and authentic lūʻau’s on Maui, the Old Lāhainā Lūʻau is the choice. Known for its rich history that traces back to the 80s, its attention to detail, quality of performance, and focus on the five senses makes it one of the best all-around lūʻaus on Maui. Most of its seating is at tables and chairs (each group gets their own), but it also has the unique option of “traditional seating,” where you sit cross legged on a cushion and dine off a low table.
When? Most days.
Where? Front Street, Lāhainā.
Shuttle available? No.
Price Range: $140/$229 (children/adults).
Website: Old Lāhainā Lūʻau.
Te Au Moana
Te Au Moana translates to “the ocean tide,” reflective of its focus on the numerous Polynesians cultures that have roamed and explored the Pacific. Located on the grounds of the Wailea Beach Marriott, you can expect high-end service and attention to detail (like all Wailea-based lūʻaus) to go along with the ocean views. There is only one type of seating at Te Au Moana – ohana (family) style – which means everyone is a VIP at this event.
When? Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Monday.
Where? Wailea Beach Marriott Resort.
Shuttle available? No.
Price Range: $165/$265 (children/adults), $195/$295 (VIP, children/adults).
Website: Te Au Moana.
Performance at the Te Au Moana Luau. Image credit: Kent Bockingham, source.
Wailele Lūʻau
The Wailele Lūʻau is another Kaʻanapali production that offers a seaside, resort setting with lush gardens, beach access, and a calm, quiet atmosphere for exploring before or after. Seating is ohana-style, so be prepared to socialize. The performance focuses on many cultures of Polynesia, with lots of drums and chanting, and finishes with an exciting fire-knife dance.
When? 3-4 days per week. Schedule varies by season.
Where? Westin Maui Resort & Spa in Kaʻanapali.
Shuttle available? Yes.
Price Range: $110/$210 (children/adult standard) to $170/$270 (children/adult premium).
Website: Wailele Lūʻau.
Fire dancing at the Wailele Luau. Image from the Wailele Luau website.
Tales of the Kapa Lūʻau
Tales of the Kapa Moe debuted mid-2023 at the Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, a short drive north of Kaanapali on the island’s west coast.
What sets this luau apart from the rest is that they, next to focusing on telling the story of the Polynesian Islands and their various interrelated cultures, expand their performance to include “a lively depiction of a day in the life of our ancestors” as well as the backstories of a variety of Hawaiian gods and goddesses. Of course, the show also includes an aerial performance as well as fire-knife dancing.
When? Every Tuesday.
Where? Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua.
Shuttle available? No.
Price Range: $149/$249 (children/adult standard) to $199/$299 (children/adult premium).
Website: Kapa Moe luau website.
Part of the performance at the Tales of the Kapa Moe luau. Image: the Tales of the Kapa Moe luau website.
Maui Sunset Luau
This small and affordable luau is held at an oceanside golf course and part of the Luau is inside. There are fantastic sunset views to be had. The entrance fee has dinner and 3 drinks included – opt for premium seating if you want to be guaranteed to see the band.
When? Wednesday.
Where? Wailea.
Shuttle available? No.
Price Range: $89/$175 (children/adult standard) to $89/$225 (children/adult premium).
Website: Maui Sunset Luau booking page.
Maui’s Finest Luau
This is a new operation with mixed reviews (see for example their listing on Yelp). Located at a small, family backyard style oceanfront venue, and all you can eat full Hawaiian buffet is included with all non-alcoholics beverages. You can BYOB.
When? Wednesday, Friday, Saturday.
Where? Paia.
Shuttle available? No.
Price Range: $149/$249 (children/adult standard) to $199/$299 (children/adult premium).
Website: Maui’s finest luau booking page.
Dancers with torches at Maui’s Finest Luau. Image credit: Maui’s Finest Luau website
Huaka’i Lūʻau (currently unavailable)
This is one of the only lūʻaus not to include an open bar – a ticket includes two free drinks and then it becomes a cash bar. This, along with its location adjacent to the Maui Ocean Center (which you can visit beforehand), make the Huakaʻi Lūʻau a family-first atmosphere.
When? Currently unavailable.
Where? Seascape Restaurant at Maʻalaea Harbor.
Shuttle available? No.
Price Range: $80/$140 (children/adults standard) to $100/$198 (children/adults VIP).
Website: Huaka’i Lūʻau.
Sunset at the Huakaʻi Luau. Image from the Huaka’i Luau Instagram account.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A LŪʻAU
Before choosing which lūʻau to attend, consider what you want to get out of the experience. Are you looking for the one with the best dancing and cultural integrity? Are you more interested in setting, aka, being on the beach during the sunset? Do you want to sit at your own table and have an open bar? Are you on a budget, or willing to splurge?
While most lūʻaus are similar at their core and offer a dinner, open bar, and a show, they all land somewhere unique along this spectrum, mixing the above qualities in what they provide. If you’re honest with yourself about what you want to get out of a lūʻau, it will help you narrow down the (large) field of lūʻaus and pick the one that’s best for you.
6 things you can expect from a lūʻau on Maui
The Hawaiian lūʻau is an entertaining, fun, family-friendly evening activity to experience in the islands. Here are a few key things to know about them:
1: The typical lūʻau lasts between two and three hours
Doors typically open about an hour before the dinner buffet begins, allowing folks to arrive early for drinks and “pre-game” activities spread throughout the lūʻau grounds – a number of casual, family-friendly cultural demonstrations, crafts, and games for all ages (but mostly kids and families). About 45 minutes to an hour are allowed for guests to visit the buffet before the show begins, which usually lasts anywhere from an hour to and hour and a half.
2: Lūʻaus vary in size, but are usually more than 100 people
Unless you purchase a private table through a VIP package, you will most likely sit at a shared table with other guests. Take note of the fine print in premium ticket packages. Many get you closer to the stage, but not your own table.
3: GENERALLY, LŪʻAUS COST MORE THAN $100 A PERSON
It’s not a cheap night out, but hey, it’s an experience to remember. Child tickets are usually about three quarters the price of an adult ticket.
4: PARKING IS NOT ALWAYS INCLUDED
Some venues (such as hotel lūʻaus) will charge extra for parking. Others offer shuttle transportation to and from the show, and some include valet parking in the ticket price. Be sure to check the details of the ticket when booking.
5: MOST LŪʻAUS OFFER GENERAL AND VIP SEATING/PACKAGES
VIP tickets usually include extras perks, such as priority seating, a lei greeting, included photography, etc. They vary by lūʻau, so be sure to read the fine print when purchasing tickets to understand what the upgrade to VIP gets you.
6: THE FOOD IS ROOTED IN TRADITION
In addition to the performances, the food is also rooted in culture. The meal draws attention to some Hawaiian staples, like kalua pork and poi. Most lūʻaus demonstrate the past with a ceremonial imu, or underground oven, which was once the preferred method of cooking for Native Hawaiians and other Polynesian cultures.