5 Best Luaus We Tried in Kauai

The Hawaiian Islands are renowned for their luaus, and Kauai is home to some of the best!

But with so many choices, how do you decide which luau is best for you?

If you are considering going to a luau in Kauai but don’t know which one to choose, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of the top luaus on the island so you can easily make an informed decision.

Whether you want to learn about Hawaiian culture, taste traditional cuisine, or just have a good time with your friends and family—there’s something for everyone.

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Why should you trust us? We’ve spent several hours researching and gathering consumer feedback about the best things to do in Kauai. Most importantly, we’ve been to almost all of the luaus on the island of Kauai. We know all about the food, entertainment, and activities that make these luaus the best on the island.

Note About Luaus: It is important to note that the best luau will vary depending on your personal preferences. Each of the luaus listed caters to different experiences and personalities.

For example, the Smith’s Family Garden Luau may be the best choice if you prefer a high-production show and are okay with big crowds. 

Auli’i Luau might be suitable if you want a luau on the beach and are okay with a medium-sized crowd.

If you want a more intimate experience with a smaller crowd, the Ahi Lele Luau, Luau Kalamaku, or Luau Ka Hikina may be your ideal option.

Without further ado, let’s dive into our top five luaus in Kauai!

1. Smith’s Family Garden Luau 

There is a reason why guests consistently hail the Smith’s Family Garden Luau as the best on Kauai. Despite not being on a beach with a panorama of the ocean, the setting amid a garden next to the Wailua River, Hawaii’s largest river, is breathtaking.

After receiving your shell lei and taking a photo with some of the performers, you’ll take a tram tour with narration or enjoy a stroll through the gorgeous 30-acre garden park. You can smell the flowers along the way and even spot some peacocks.

The paved loop is 1.6 miles and is a friendly and informative ride. The driver will point out different plants, fruit trees, and more. 

The paved loop was actually used for a half-marathon the day before we went (January), where, if I remember correctly, 280 runners competed. 

The doors open at 4:45 pm in November-February and 5:00 pm in March-October, so you’ll have about 45 minutes before the night’s first event starts. We recommend getting there on time since there is a lot to see before the show begins.

At the end of the tram ride, you’ll be dropped off near where the imu ceremony will be performed around 6:00 pm or 6:15 pm. One of the Smith family members, the luau host, will give the background information and history of imu ceremonies in Hawaii. 

We enjoyed the imu ceremony and appreciated that they had an actual ceremony where they unearth the kalua pig rather than just bringing it out on stage as most luaus do. This gives you a much better understanding of how an imu (Hawaiian underground oven) works. Bonus points to the Smith family for putting in extra effort to make the event memorable and authentic!

Seating: Guests are seated with their group, family, or couples tables. 

The Feast

After the imu ceremony, guests will head to the large pavilion, where a huge and delicious all-you-can-eat buffet awaits. The tables are assigned, and you will receive your table number upon arrival.

There are a couple of all-you-can-drink bars here as well, with both alcoholic and virgin drinks awaiting you. They’re tropical drinks, but you can also ask the bartender to make you whichever standard mixed drink you’d like as well.

The buffet consists of typical luau food like kalua pork, laulau (pork wrapped in taro leaves), poi, poké, huli-huli chicken, pineapple upside cake, and more. They also had other types of food like fried rice, mashed potatoes, stir-fried vegetables, etc. 

Overall the food was delicious! We especially loved that the buffet is three rows of the same food being served, with lines on both sides (so 6 lines total). This was very efficient, and we only waited about five minutes before our table was called. 

They also have a dessert buffet you can go to before your dinner table is called if you are hungry and need something to snack on.

Activities and Cultural Performances

During dinner, there is more live music and hula dancing, where the host teaches you the meaning of different moves.

They also invited people celebrating birthdays to the stage and taught them how to hula dance.

Overall, the entertainment was great and very educational. They told stories about how Tahitians first navigated to Hawaii, the folklore behind why the Hawaiian Islands were formed, and more.

The host also sang while his cousin performed a hula dance, which was lovely and intimate.

The Show

Once the feast is over, it’s time to head to the outside amphitheater, where the show will begin around 7:30 pm. The stage is in the middle of a pond, about 40 feet in front of the first row of seats. 

Since the dance show’s seating is first come, first served, we left the dinner pavilion about 15 minutes early to ensure we got a good seat.

For the next couple of hours, you’ll be treated to different dances from the islands of Polynesia. There’s also a replica volcano in the background that spews fire every so often. 

The fire show was spectacular and one of the best we’ve seen. 

The show is very entertaining and includes different forms of Polynesian dance, such as hula, fire poi ball dancing, Tahitian drumming, and Samoan fire knife performances. They also had great live music that we enjoyed throughout the show.

By far, this is my favorite luau show in Kauai! Not only is it very entertaining, but it’s educational as well.

Who should choose this luau? This luau is excellent for those who are okay with a high-production event and large crowds. Smith family can seat up to 400 people, but they do a phenomenal job maneuvering guests and ensuring it doesn’t feel too crowded. 

If you love a setting in nature, then this luau is also for you! The grounds are gorgeous!

If you’re looking for an authentic imu ceremony, Smith’s Family Luau should be your top choice.

Lastly, this luau is a great option if you are staying close to Lihue or Kappa.

Things to Know About the Smith’s Family Luau

Note: we only included the adult prices. Click the link to check additional price options.

Packages: The Smith’s Luau has one luau package. There is also an option to purchase the show only.

General Tickets 

• Adult: $140

Show Only Tickets: Gates open at 7:30 pm

• Adult: $25

Location: 3-5971 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

When is the Luau?

• 5:00 pm to about 9:00 pm (4:45 pm start time Nov-Feb)
• February – October: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday
• June – August: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday
• November – January: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

Pros 

• One of the most reasonably priced options with an imu ceremony
• Offers separate venues for dining and performances
• Spectacular show
• Open bar

Cons

• Tendency to overcrowd; high capacity (400+ at maximum)

2. Auli’i Luau

The Auli’i Luau is considered the finest luau in Poipu and is housed at the Sheraton Kauai Resort.

Being the only luau in Kauai with ocean views makes it a major attraction. The setting is gorgeous, and you can’t beat the spectacular sunset views. 

By far, this is one of our favorite luau settings in Hawaii, and we have been to a lot of luaus.

The Hawaiian family-run Auli’i Luau takes satisfaction in being entirely run and owned by locals.

Activities and Cultural Performances

Doors open at 5:00 pm, and dinner is served at 6:15 pm, giving guests an hour and 15 minutes to participate in cultural activities and crafts before the luau starts.

This is a very interactive luau where guests can participate in headband weaving, hula lessons, poi ball spinning, and more.

As you head to dinner, remember to watch as the sun sets over the ocean in the background.

The Feast

The spread is your typical luau buffet-style assortment with all your favorite Hawaiian dishes like kalua pork, lomi salmon, poi, huli-huli chicken, purple sweet potatoes, poké, pineapple upside-down cake, and more. 

The food was satisfying overall, and they have a good mix of tropical and Hawaiian dishes. As a reminder, all luaus serve buffet-style food, so don’t expect a five-star dining experience, or you’ll be greatly disappointed.

You will appreciate the unlimited mai tais and blue Hawaii regardless of your drink preference.

The Show

The show is impeccable and tells the story of the Polynesian culture through choral singing, hula dancing, Tahitian drumming, Kahiki dance, and Samoan fire knife performances.

The finale is always a crowd favorite, and it’s undoubtedly why most of us go to luaus—to watch the fantastic fire knife performance. The Auli’i Luau fire show was spectacular!

We would rank the show as the second-best after the Smith’s Family Luau.

Who should choose this luau? If you are looking for a luau with an ocean view, the Auli’i Luau is a perfect choice. Also, if you’re staying in Koloa or Poipu, this luau is very convenient, and you can walk to it if you are staying at the Sheraton Kauai Resort.

Additionally, this is a medium-sized luau, so if you prefer something a little smaller than the Smith’s Luau, this is a great option.

Things to Know About the Auli’i Luau

Packages: There are two packages available:

Aloha (standard) seating ($186.01)

• Pre-assigned seating based on reservation date on banquet tables
• Shell lei greeting
• Welcome cocktail & open bar
• Appetizers, buffet dinner, and Polynesian entertainment

Ali’i (premier) seating ($212.03)

• Reserved round tables within the first four rows in front of the stage
• Round tables, shared seating for 8
• Exclusive premier check-in line (far left)
• Specialty Lei (seasonal): flower, shell, or kukui nut lei greeting
• Welcome cocktail & open bar
• Appetizers, buffet dinner, Polynesian entertainment

Location: 2440 Hoonani Rd, Koloa, HI 96756 (Sheraton Kauai Resort)

Note: This luau is in Poipu, about an hour from Princeville, without traffic. We made the mistake of booking this luau while we were staying in Princeville, and it took us about 2 hours to get there with traffic—something to keep in mind. If you are staying in Kapa’a, the drive is about 40 minutes, which isn’t as bad.

When is the Luau?

• Monday and Wednesday: 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm
• Check-in begins at 5:00 pm

Pros 

• Beautiful setting right on the beach with gorgeous sunset views
• Spectacular show
• Open bar
• Guests can take photos with the crew after the show

Cons

• No imu ceremony
• Slightly expensive
• Open-air seating on the beach is subject to weather conditions. If inclement weather is forecasted, the luau will continue but will move inside to the Ballroom.

3. Luau Ka Hikina

Luau Ka Hikina takes place on Kauai’s eastern shore at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort. 

Hosted on-site at the recently constructed open-air Event Pavilion, Halau Ho’okipa, Luau Ka Hikina is just across from the ocean and fronts the historic royal surfing grounds. 

The area is referred to as the Coconut Coast. This was royal land for Hawaiians during the monarchy, so only royalty was allowed to settle here. 

Ka Hikina means “the arrival,” which refers to the fact that this luau is on the island’s eastern side, and the sun arrives on this side first each day.

Check-in begins at 5:00 pm, with events starting at 5:30 pm and ending at approximately 9:00 pm. 

Mai tais (with alcohol) and pineapple juice (non-alcoholic) drinks are passed out while you wait to check in and receive your lei. 

Seating: Tables are banquet-style with reserved seating, and you will be seated next to other guests if your group does not fill a table. This is usually the case at most luaus we have been to in Kauai and Hawaii overall.

Activities and Cultural Performances

Guests can partake in multiple Polynesian cultural activities before the show. You can try twirling a replica of one of the ancient weapons (made out of soft material for safety) and try the drums they use. 

If you also want to shop, there are tables with items for sale, such as jewelry, souvenirs, flowers to wear behind your ears, gifts, etc. 

You can also watch drummers and hula dancers perform on the lawn near the beach before the show. 

The beach is about 100 yards behind the stage, and there is also a walking path and some trails you can explore before the show if interested.

The Feast

The spread includes favorite luau dishes such as roasted veggies, Molokai sweet potatoes, Hawaiian macaroni salad, teriyaki beef, steamed fish, kalua pork, chicken, salad, buns, rice, and poi.

The food was exceptional—there were quality cuts of meat, and the sides were excellent too. We could tell time was put into preparing this food.

During dinner, you will be entertained with live music, hula dancing, storytelling, and more. The host also tells stories about the history of Kauai and how original settlers navigated the island.

The Show

The show consists of a high-energy performance with multiple dances from the islands of Polynesia. Guests will enjoy dances and music from Tahiti, Samoa, Hawaii, New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa. 

The fire performance was just one person off to the side of the covered venue, but it was still unique and quite impressive, given it was just one person.

Our favorite part of the show was the war chant reenactment. You could feel the energy and passion of the dancers as they performed, and it was beautiful. 

Overall, the show was great for a small luau. Compared to the Smith’s Family Luau or the Auli’i Luau, this one is relatively small, with about 75-100 people. 

I would probably compare this luau to the Toa Luau, one of the best luaus in Oahu, since both offer a more intimate experience than some of the larger luaus.

Who should choose this luau?

This one is perfect if you’re looking for a more intimate luau experience.

Additionally, this luau is convenient if you are staying in the Kapa’a area or on the east side of Kauai. We were staying in Kapa’a when we went to this luau, so it was only a 5-minute drive from our hotel.

Things to Know About the Luau Ka Hikina

Packages: There is only one package:

General Seating ($179) includes:

• Lei greeting
• Mai tai/fruit juice welcome
• Open bar

Location: 650 Aleka Loop, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

When is the Luau?

• Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm
• Check-in for luau at 5:00 pm

Pros 

• Open bar service
• Small intimate luau
• Great pre-show activities, especially for kids

Cons

• No imu ceremony
• Relatively new compared to other luaus
• One person performing the fire dance show
• Small production show overall

5. Ahi Lele Fire Show

Located on the North Shore of Kauai, The Ahi Lele Luau Fire Show is an exciting show with a more intimate community vibe that is not as extravagant as the luaus at the big resorts. This luau is smaller than the Luau Ka Hikina mentioned above.

Since a local family produces the show, it is as genuine and original as it gets. The host (Coppin Colburn) and his ‘ohana (family), including his wife and kids, perform at the luau, making the entire experience more personal and memorable.

Doors open at 5:30 pm, and dinner is served from 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm. After check-in, guests are advised to reserve show seats before dinner. Since these are first come, first served, we highly recommend doing this to ensure you pick your desired seats.

The Venue

There are two separate venues for dinner and the show. The seats for the performance are inside the pavilion, and there are covered tables outside on the pavilion lawn for dinner. Guests have the option to eat inside the pavilion if rain is expected.

This luau is held at the Anaina Hou Community Park, so don’t expect a spectacular setting.

Activities and Cultural Performances

There weren’t any activities guests could participate in; however, the host was very interactive and got the audience to participate by asking open-ended questions. 

Out of all the luaus we’ve visited, he connected with the crowd the most.

They also honored those celebrating an occasion such as a birthday, honeymoon, or anniversary. 

The Feast

Traditional luau dishes, such as poi, lomi lomi salmon, poké, kalua pork, salad, and more, are served. They also had chicken wings which are different from your typical luau food. I appreciated this option after attending multiple luaus on the island and eating the same food.

They have vegetarian options as well, such as a Thai veggie curry. Overall the food was delicious.

Also, I appreciated that they served the food to you rather than having a buffet where everyone touched the same utensils.

The Show

The host will start the show with a coconut ceremony showing the audience how to open a coconut and make coconut milk. After the demonstrations, the main event starts.

Ahi means “fire,” and “lele” means to jump, so you can guess what there was a lot of. The show combines luau performances, including Polynesian dances, culture-based presentations, fire-twirling displays, Tahitian drumming, hula dancing, and the famous Ahi Lele Fire Show finale.

The performers are talented and passionate about their craft, making for an unforgettable experience. Not only was the host involved in the performances, but his daughter was also doing some dances, and his wife was the drummer! Talk about a family affair!

The grand finale was the fire show that left us in awe. Spectators watched as the performers twirled fire sticks, jumped through flaming hoops, and used fire batons to create a unique and spectacular show.

The show was good but not as spectacular as the big production luaus. One can say that it was good for what it was, an intimate experience.

At the show’s end, guests can take photos with the crew. This was nice as they stayed until everyone got their picture. 

Who should choose this luau? If you want an intimate experience with a smaller crowd, Ahi Lele Luau Fire Show is your best bet. People who choose this luau do not care much about the setting or a big show. If you are looking for something more extravagant, this isn’t your luau. But if you want to see a good fire show in an intimate setting, this is the place to be.

Also, if you are in Princeville or on the North Shore of Kauai, this luau is very accessible and close by. It took us about 10 minutes to get to the Luau from our Airbnb in Princeville.

Things to Know About the Ahi Lele Fire Show

Packages: There are three packages available: 

General Admission ($119)

• Dinner buffet
• Show
• Early entrance

VIP Ticket ($139)

• Front row reserved seats
• Dinner buffet
• Early entrance
• Mai tai or a non-alcoholic beverage of choice

General Admission Show Only $79 (Call to book)

When is the Luau?: Wednesdays from 6 pm to 9 pm

Location: 5-2723 Kuhio Hwy, Kilauea, HI 96754

Pros

• Locally produced content presented in an intimate setting
• Not your typical for-profit luau
• It has a fire-centered performance
• The playground and mini golf are close to the community center

Cons

• No imu ceremony
• Drinks are an additional charge if you didn’t purchase the VIP package
• No cultural activities to participate in

5. Luau Kalamaku (Plantation Owners Evening Luau)

Luau Kalamaku is another excellent option for a medium-sized luau. Located in an outdoor pavilion, you will find Luau Kalamaku at the magnificent Kilohana Plantation in Lihue. The plantation is a beautiful historical site that has been a part of Kauai’s culture for many years.

Visitors may arrive early to meander through the Plantation grounds, soak in the splendid natural beauty, and peruse the handmade Kauai items manufactured by local artisans. 

You also have the option to get on the Kilohana Plantation Train at an additional cost. The train ride departs at 5:30 pm.

Setting: There are round tables in a large covered tent for meals and the show. 

Activities and Cultural Performances

Doors open at 5:00 pm, and guests have about an hour and 15 minutes before the imu ceremony begins. During this time, they can do a few activities, such as touring the grounds. 

As you stroll through the plantation, you will see animals such as horses and cows. If you have kids in your group, they will love the farm animals. Also, you get to feed the animals and learn about the plantation during your tour.

If you are lucky, you might even catch a gorgeous sunset.

At 6:15 pm, the imu ceremony begins, where they unearth the kalua pig. They explain the process of the traditional Hawaiian way of roasting a whole pig in a heated underground oven.

The Feast

The food is your typical buffet spread (for general admission), or they offer a Plantation Owners Evening menu, which includes a 4-course meal. Overall the buffet food was good, but again, it’s buffet luau food, so don’t expect gourmet meals. We heard the 4-course meal was exceptional from some of the other guests.

There is live music and traditional hula dancing while guests enjoy their dinner.

The Show

The show is a traditional luau showcasing different dances from the islands of Polynesia. This theatrical performance is very captivating and entertaining.

The team does a great job of bringing the music and culture of Polynesia to life. The performers were fabulous, from hula dancing to fire poi balls and the traditional fire knife dancing.

After the show, guests can take photos with the performers.

Who should choose this luau? 

This is an excellent luau for those looking for a medium-sized luau. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy the rich history of Kilohana Plantation.

 It’s also great for families with children, as there is plenty to explore on the grounds.

If you are staying close to Lihue, this is a great option!

Side note: Going to Kauai and need recommendations on where to eat? Check out our review of the best restaurants in Kauai.

Things to Know About Luau Kalamaku

Packages: There are two packages available for guests to choose from:

Luau Kalamaku Package ($159)

• Fresh flower lei
• Open bar
• Buffet dinner
• Award-winning Hawaiian show

The Plantation Owners Evening Luau ($210)

• Fresh flower lei
• Complimentary drink upon arrival
• Four-course meal at Gaylord’s Restaurant (drinks not included)
• Premier seating
• Complimentary pre-show drinks from the Mango Bar at Luau Kalamaku
• Award-winning Hawaiian show

When is the Luau?

• Tuesday and Friday from 5 pm to 8:30 pm 
• Start Times: Check-in from 4:45 to 5:30 (5:15 pm – 5:25 pm for the Plantation Owner’s Evening)

Location: 3-2087 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, HI

Pros

• Beautiful setting on a gorgeous plantation
• Offers a fine dining experience for those wanting VIP treatment

Cons

• Some things have an additional cost
• When there is no breeze, an open-air tent can get hot

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Most Authentic Luau in Kauai?

This is tough to answer because it’s hard to make an event authentic if you charge people for it. No matter what, these luaus have to make the shows entertaining since it’s part of the experience, and that can take away from the authenticity.

However, we believe the Smith Family Garden Luau has the most authentic experience out of all the luaus — from the traditional imu ceremony to the authentic Polynesian performance and the Smith Family running the Luau. Everything feels more genuine and heartfelt. 

Should You Wear a Hawaiian Shirt to a Luau?

You don’t have to, but it’s a nice touch if you want to get into the spirit of things. 

Wearing a Hawaiian shirt won’t be out of place since many others will also wear them. That said, don’t feel like you have to buy one just for the occasion — any comfortable clothing will do just fine.

What Should You Wear at an Authentic Luau?

There are no dress codes at most luaus we have been to in Hawaii. You can wear whatever you want.

We recommend wearing whatever makes you comfortable, but if you get cold easily, remember to bring a sweater or jacket for the nighttime since it can sometimes get chilly! 

Most women usually wear dresses or skirts, and some men wear regular or aloha shirts with shorts. You can also wear matching outfits with your partner to go all out. 

Final Thoughts

On the scenic island of Kauai, there are many excellent luau options. Your experience at a luau in Kauai will undoubtedly be one you will always cherish.

Enjoy an imu ceremony at Smith’s Family Garden Luau and Luau Kalamaku. 

If you’re looking for the most sumptuous food on Kauai, Luau Kalamaku has some fantastic selections.

The memorable Ahi Lele Luau Fire Show is a reasonably priced and intimate luau in Kauai.

At the end of the day, choose the one that best fits your preferences, schedule, and budget, and you can leave the rest to the Aloha spirit!

Mahalo for reading our post. Until next time, Aloha!