Polynesian Cultural Center Review: Is it Worth the Money?

Located on the island of Oahu, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a must-see attraction for travelers and locals alike.

Not only will you be able to explore the traditions and heritage of Hawaii’s native Polynesian culture, but you can also learn more about other cultures from around the Pacific Rim. The vast array of activities, attractions, and exhibits make for an unforgettable day for the whole family.

From traditional canoe rides to interactive hula lessons and weaving demonstrations, there are plenty of activities to explore.

In this article, we’ll take you through the different experiences you can enjoy here and provide some tips to help make your visit even more memorable. We will also help you decide if the Polynesian Cultural Center is worth the visit.

Before we begin, let’s answer the big question below:

Is the Polynesian Cultural Center Worth it?

The answer is a simple YES! With something for everyone, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a great place to immerse yourself in Polynesian culture and traditions.

In addition to outstanding cultural experiences, there are plenty of entertaining activities, such as taking a canoe ride around the lagoon and going to the luau. Not to mention, the HĀ: Breath of Life Show is arguably the best show you will ever see at a luau! More on this later.

Also, the Polynesian Cultural Center provides the best value for your money since you can access the islands of Polynesia and all its attractions and activities with one ticket.

So if you are looking for an unforgettable experience that will give you an authentic taste of Polynesia, then the Polynesian Cultural Center is worth visiting.

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What is the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC)?

The Polynesian Cultural Center is a 42-acre living museum that captures various Polynesian Islands’ unique customs, lifestyles, and cultures. You’ll find replicas of traditional villages from Samoa, Fiji, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Tahiti, Hawaii, and Tonga.

These six different cultural villages are dedicated to the heritage of that island. You can wander through these villages and participate in activities or demonstrations that will teach you more about these cultures.

The PCC was founded in 1963 by elders from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons). It was designed to be a place to preserve and share the culture of the Polynesian Islands as well as to provide jobs for the students at the nearby Brigham Young University-Hawaii (BYU-Hawaii).

Today, the PCC is a popular destination for those seeking an immersive cultural experience. Visitors can learn more about the traditions of these cultures through live performances, dance lessons, hands-on activities, and demonstrations.

Getting to the Polynesian Cultural Center 

Location: 55-370 Kamehameha Highway, Laie, HI

Visitors have three main options to get to the PCC:

Drive: The Polynesian Cultural Center is located in Laie on the northeastern coast of Oahu. It is about an hour’s drive from Honolulu.

Another option is to purchase a combo ticket which includes transportation from Waikiki. There are two transportation tickets you can buy:

Motor Coach—$26.00/person: This is the standard transportation option. It includes a ride from Waikiki to the PCC and back. The trip is also narrated by a tour guide who will give you information about the area. Pick-up starts at 10:30 am, and drop-off is at approximately 10:30 pm.

Circle Island Tour—$75.00/person: This is the island sightseeing option. It includes stops at some popular attractions and historical sites in the area, such as Hanauma Bay, Black Point Lookout near Diamond Head, Pali Lookout, and more. A tour guide also narrates this trip.

Pick-up starts at 6:45 am and arrives at PCC at 12:30 pm. Drop-off is at approximately 10:30 pm.

When Is the Luau

The PCC is open from 12:30 pm to 9:00 pm on Mon-Tues, and Thurs-Sat (closed Wednesdays & Sundays). Depending on your ticket, you can explore the cultural center before the luau starts. The actual luau starts at 5:00 pm, with seating at 4:40 pm.

Polynesian Cultural Center Ticket Options

Packages: The PCC has four different packages to choose from. 

Super Ambassador Luau Package ($269.95/adult)

• Private guided tour through six re-created island villages
• Ukui nut lei greeting upon arrival
• Reserved seating at all village presentations
• Free preselected digital photo
• Hands-on activities
• Reserved canoe ride
• Laie Hawaii Temple Visitors’ Center and BYU Hawaii campus tours
• Free 3-day pass to the island villages (after initial visit)
• Aliʻi Lūʻau buffet with live entertainment
• Flower lei greeting
• Platinum-level seating at “HĀ: Breath of Life” show. 

Ali’i Luau Package ($189.95/adult)

• Group guided tour through six re-created island villages
• Hands-on activities
• Canoe ride
• Free preselected digital photo
• Laie Hawaii Temple Visitors’ Center and BYU Hawaii campus tours
• Aliʻi Lūʻau Buffet with live entertainment
• Free 3-day pass to the island villages (after initial visit)
• Flower lei greeting
• Gold-level seating at “HĀ: Breath of Life.”

Gateway Buffet Package ($139.95/adult)

• Self-guided experience through six re-created island villages
• Hands-on activities
• Canoe ride
• Free 3-day pass to the island villages (after initial visit)
• Free preselected digital photo
• Laie Hawaii Temple Visitors’ Center and BYU Hawaii campus tours
• Gateway Buffet with live music
• Silver-level seating at “HĀ: Breath of Life.”

Islands of Polynesia & HĀ: Breath of Life Package ($119.95/adult)

• Includes everything in the Gateway Buffet Package, except this package does not include dinner, a lei, and you get bronze seating at “HĀ: Breath of Life.”

Which Package Should You Choose?

The package you choose depends on your budget and the experience you’re looking for.

The Super Ambassador Luau Package is the most expensive and includes all the bells and whistles. If you love the VIP experience, then this package is for you!

We chose the most popular option, the Ali’i Luau Package, which is an excellent value for everything you get. The main difference between this package and the Super Ambassador Package is that you don’t get the VIP perks such as VIP seating and a private guided tour.

We were okay with the group guided tour since they usually only have 5-7 people. Also, the seating for HĀ: Breath of Life is gold level, which is still very good. 

The Gateway Package is suitable for those who would prefer to explore the islands without a tour guide—plus, you get the same hands-on activities and canoe rides as the other packages. You’ll also get the Gateway Buffet instead of the Aliʻi Lūʻau Buffet.

If you are budget conscious, the Islands of Polynesia & HĀ: Breath of Life Package is an excellent option. The only difference from the Gateway Package is that the buffet dinner is not included, and you’ll get bronze seating for the HĀ: Breath of Life Show instead of gold, silver, or platinum level.

How to Score Discounted Tickets

You can save up to 10% when you purchase your tickets at least ten days in advance. Enter the code “early10” during checkout to get the discount.

Book in advance so you can get the discount and ensure availability. Also, check the Polynesian Cultural Center’s website for updated pricing and discounts.

Side note: Going to Oahu and looking for another luau option? Check out our review of the Chief’s Luau and Toa Lua —top-rated luaus in Hawaii.

What to Expect at The Polynesian Cultural Center

The PCC can be broken down into three main areas—the island villages, the luau (plus the buffet), and the evening show (HĀ: Breath of Life) 

The Island Villages and Activities

You’ll be able to explore six different island villages while learning about their culture and traditions. Each village will offer hands-on activities such as hula lessons, basket weaving, headband making, fire starting, spear throwing, and more.

If you choose one of the packages with the guided tour, your guide will provide historical and cultural context for each village.

All ticket options give you access to the canoe ride, so add that to your list of things to do while you are there.

Since the Polynesian Cultural Center is massive, you might not be able to see all of the islands in one day.

Our tour guide asked us at the start of the tour if anyone had a specific island they wanted to visit. If you have a favorite island, let your guide know, and they will prioritize it.

You can also come back the next day to explore the islands at no additional cost if you did not get to see them all the first day. If time is not a factor, we recommend taking advantage of this option!

Below are some details about the islands:

Island of Hawaii: The Island of Hawaii is the most popular island in the chain. Here you will experience the Hawaiian culture through site, sound, smell, touch, and story. Talented dancers will also offer hula dance lessons if you’re interested.

There are also multiple other demonstrations you can partake in, such as lauhala weaving, poi tasting, and numerous Hawaiian games.

Island of Aotearoa (New Zealand): New Zealand is known as the Land of the Long White Cloud and offers visitors an insight into New Zealand’s Māori culture. Come here and experience the power of the Haka, a Māori war dance, as well as the ancient games of skill still taught to Māori children.

Some other demonstrations include watching skilled artisans carve deadly-looking weapons and learning about their cooking and food preservation methods.

Island of Fiji: Your experience will begin with a warm welcome from Fijian warriors as the women entertain with traditional dances. Some activities include learning to make coconut oil and getting a temporary tattoo.

Island of Samoa: The people of Samoa are known for many things, including their sense of humor. If you need a laugh, stop by and experience some of the PCCs most popular demonstrations, such as how to crack open a coconut, start a fire, twirl a fire knife, weave a fish, climb a coconut tree, and cook bananas.

Island of Tahiti: Experience the Ori Tahiti, a traditional Tahitian dance famous for its speed and agility. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to swing your hips and knees like the Polynesians, this is your chance.

Some activities include sampling delicious coconut bread, pole fishing, and throwing a spear at a coconut. You can also learn about underwater Tahitian pearl farms, full-body tattoos, and Tahitian royalty.

Lastly, you can visit the marae (Tahitian temple), a holy place where walls don’t exist, but devotion abounds.

Island of Tonga: The island of Tonga may be small, but it has an immense culture. This island is filled with so much kindness, hospitality, and laughter. Some activities include learning how to dance while sitting down, paddling a native-style outrigger canoe, playing the Tongan shuffleboard game lafo, and spear throwing.

The Luau and Buffet

After exploring the different Polynesian Islands, it’s time to enjoy the luau feast! You will head to the Ali’i Luau or the Gateway Buffet based on your ticket purchase.

There are three luau venues: Gateway Buffet, Hale Aloha, and Hale Ohana. Hale Aloha and Ohana are part of the Ali’i Luau. The PCC offers multiple venues to allow a more intimate experience while accommodating hundreds of people.

If you purchase a ticket with a tour guide, they will walk you to your designated luau area. If you didn’t buy one of those tickets, keep track of time and use the map to get to your luau.

Ali’i Luau

Time: 4:40 – 6:30 pm at the Hale Aloha and Hale Oaha. Seating starts at 4:40 pm, but the event begins at 5:00 pm.

The Ali’i Luau is the most popular option in Hawaii, so book in advance to secure your spot. It includes a delicious buffet dinner while you enjoy an island extravaganza of song, dance, and celebration from across the islands of Polynesia.

Upon entering the luau, you will be greeted with a flower lei, and the team will offer to take professional photos of your group.

You will then be greeted by your server, who will accompany you to your table. After settling in, your server will bring you a delicious pina colada served in a pineapple.

This is something to get excited about as this is the only luau we have been to on Oahu that offers these pineapple drinks for free.

After a long day of exploring the island villages, you deserve something special. 

During the luau, you will also experience the presentation of the imu, the Royal Court procession, and traditional Hawaiian entertainment.

Our Thoughts on the Presentation

First, let’s start with the imu ceremony. While the PCC offered an imu ceremony, it differed from your typical one where they unearth the cooked kalua pig.

It was more of a show than a traditional ceremony. They brought the pig on stage and carried it to the buffet area for everyone to see. While this wasn’t the imu ceremony we wanted to see, it’s worth noting that other luaus on the island don’t even show the pig.

The Royal Court procession was beautifully presented and very educational. 

The performances from the Polynesian Islands at the Ali’i Luau were terrific. The crowd even got to participate in some of them. One of our favorite parts was when they called the kids on stage to participate in one of the dances.

Lastly, they honored those celebrating an occasion such as a birthday, honeymoon, or anniversary. 

While some might call this cheesy, we think it was a nice touch.

Some Things Worth Mentioning: Depending on where you are seated during dinner, it can be easy to miss parts of the demonstrations, especially while you’re eating. 

We were seated in the back, and I almost missed the imu ceremony because so much was happening. From people walking by and us enjoying our food, it was easy to miss something.

Also, if you are making your way back to the buffet a second time, you can quickly get distracted and miss part of the show. Almost all luaus have this setup, but it’s more noticeable here due to the number of people and the larger venue.

Note: If you want to be seated closer to the stage at dinner, get there early. The seats are not reserved and will be first come, first served.

Dinner

There are multiple buffet lines with the same food options. Your server will tell you when it’s your turn to make your way to the buffet line.

The buffet lines tend to move fast, so don’t worry so much about getting there first. Even though we were one of the last tables in line for dinner, it didn’t feel like we were waiting long. 

Plus, we were still enjoying our delicious pineapple drinks.

The menu consists of the below entrees and sides plus vegan options, a poke bar, a fruit bar, a salad bar, and dessert.

Entrees:

• Imu Pua’a Pork (Gluten-free),
• Huli Chicken
• Moa with Opu (Chicken & Squash, Gluten-free)
• Pipikaula in orange rosemary vinaigrette
• Pan Seared Local Fresh Fish w/ Olena Calamansi glaze (Gluten-free)
• Whole Steamed Kona Kanpachi in Ti leaves
• Teriyaki Brisket
• Kalua Pork
• Fried Saimin

Sides

• Vegetarian Fried Rice (Vegan)
• Pickled Cucumber w/ Kahuku limu (Vegan)
• Sweet Potato Salad (Vegan, Gluten-free)
• Poi (Vegan)
• Steamed White Rice (Vegan)
• Taro rolls with butter

Our Thoughts on the Food: 

The food was delicious for what it is! You might get different answers depending on who you ask.

All luaus offer buffet-style food, so don’t go to a luau expecting a 5-star restaurant experience. Most people who end up disappointed are those who have very high expectations.

The Polynesian Cultural Center did a fantastic job with its buffet and presentation. Also, we love that they had multiple vegan and vegetarian options to cater to different dietary needs.

The entrees and sides were so flavorful and satisfying. My favorites were the pan-seared fish (Kanpachi was the fish of the day) and the multiple vegetarian options.

Also, this is the only luau we have been to that had a gelato and ice cream station. We highly recommend getting one of the gelatos after your meal if you have room for dessert!

Gateway Buffet

Time: 4:30 pm – 7:00 pm at the Gateway Buffet Restaurant. Seating starts at 4:30 pm, but the event begins at 5:00 pm.

The Gateway Buffet is an excellent option if you are looking for a dinner option rather than going through the entire luau experience. It is a great way to enjoy delicious Polynesian food while enjoying some live music.

Since this ticket option does not include a guided tour, keep track of time and head to the Gateway buffet around 4:25 pm. I don’t know about you, but I like being early and having more seating options to choose from.

Upon arrival, your server will take you to your table. While this ticket option does not get delicious pineapple drinks, you will receive a fruit punch upon arrival.

Dinner

Like the Ali’i Luau, there are multiple buffet stations with the same food options. Your server will let you know when it’s your turn to grab your plate. The food is good, and there is something for everyone.

The menu includes seafood, beef, chicken, different sides, vegan options, a poke bar, a fruit bar, a salad bar, dessert, and more.

Evening Show: HĀ: Breath of Life

Time: 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm

The HĀ: Breath of Life Show is a breathtaking show that combines ancient Polynesian stories with top-notch costumes and performances.

This show will transport you to the mystical islands of Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand, Tonga, Fiji, and Samoa. 

HĀ: Breath of Life is the symbolic story of Mana and his beloved Lani and their journey to discover the power of love. 

The show includes fantastic fire knife performances, powerful chants and drumming, graceful hula dances, and so much more.

The finale will leave you in awe with its impactful story! Make sure to stay until the end for a true Polynesian experience.

This show is one of the main reasons people choose the Polynesian Cultural Center Luau. In our opinion, HĀ: Breath of Life is the best show we have ever seen at a luau and is a big reason why we ranked the PCC as the best luau in Oahu.

If you love a high-quality show with about 100 performers and incredible technicality, you will love the HĀ: Breath of Life Show. This is a perfect way to wrap up your evening at the Polynesian Cultural Center!

Seating at the Show

Seats are assigned based on your ticket purchase. The more expensive tickets will have better seating.

Since we purchased the Ali’i Luau Package, we had gold-level seating. There were about four rows in front of us, and we were able to see the show just fine.

One thing to keep in mind is that photography is not allowed at the HĀ: Breath of Life Show – I was pretty bummed at first, but it was nice to enjoy the experience in real-time without having to worry about recording or taking pictures. 

Also, putting your phone in the air to take photos can sometimes be disruptive to other guests. As a note, you can take photos with the crew after the show at no extra charge, so don’t feel like you are missing out. 

After the Show

As mentioned, The PCC will allow guests to take photos with the crew after the show. This is a great way to remember your time at the Polynesian Cultural Center, and it’s always nice to get a picture with some of the performers!

Many people leave without taking photos, so take advantage of this opportunity. If you are in a hurry, try to be one of the first few people on stage for photos.

What to Love About the PCC

As the name says, it’s a “cultural center,” so it offers entertainment and education about the Hawaiian and Polynesian cultures.

We love the PCC because there’s just so much you can do. In addition to the HĀ: Breath of Life Show, you can explore the grounds on foot or via a guided canoe ride, shop at their neat stores, and even learn authentic Polynesian cooking.

Regarding the actual luau, the PCC does an absolutely fantastic job. The fact that it is performed many times a week to a fairly large crowd doesn’t seem to wear anyone down.

The entertainment, food selection, friendly staff, and everything in between were phenomenally executed. 

The lines at dinner moved fast, as they had multiple buffet lines with the same food options. 

Also, the Ali’i Luau is the only luau we went to on Oahu that provided pineapple drinks to every guest during the dinner. 

What’s Not to Love About the PCC

• No alcohol allowed 
• Far from Waikiki – If you are attending the whole day and are staying in Waikiki, it can be tiring to drive an hour back home after the event. We did this, and it was completely worth it, but it’s something to keep in mind.
• Photography is not allowed at the HĀ: Breath of Life Show
• No actual imu ceremony

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Polynesian Cultural Center Mormon?

Yes, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a part of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the official name of the Mormon church).

How long should you spend at the Polynesian Cultural Center?

We recommend spending at least a full day at the Polynesian Cultural Center. This will give you enough time to experience almost everything the center offers. The PCC is huge, and it is hard to experience everything in detail in a few hours.

All ticket options include a free 3-day pass to the island villages (after the initial visit). We recommend returning to explore the islands you might have missed if you have time.

Do you get leis at The Polynesian Cultural Center?

You can get leis at the Polynesian Cultural Center, depending on your ticket purchase. The Ali’i Luau and Super Ambassador Packages both provide a complimentary lei.

Final Thoughts

The Polynesian Cultural Center is an incredible experience with plenty to do and see. We hope this article gave you a better idea of what to expect when visiting the PCC so that you can make the most of your time there.

Do not hesitate to book your tickets – we are confident it will be an experience you will never forget!

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