Kauai Luau Reviews
Complete head-to-head comparison of every major luau on the island
Written by a Local Expert
Jade KawanuiThe East Side Giants: Spectacle vs. Tradition
The island's two biggest names, Smith's and Kalamaku, get pitted against each other constantly. But they offer totally different experiences. It's not about which is better—it's about what you want: heartfelt garden party or epic theater production.
Smith Family Garden Luau (Wailua)
The Smith family has welcomed guests to their sacred Wailua River Valley corner for over 50 years. This isn't just business—it's legacy.
The Vibe & Atmosphere: This feels like giant, old-school family reunion. The real star is the setting—lush, 30-acre botanical garden you can explore on foot or via narrated tram tour before festivities begin. The atmosphere stays relaxed, welcoming, and unpretentious. It's less slick, polished production and more sprawling, joyful gathering that focuses on beautiful 'āina.
The Feast: The food is plentiful, hearty, and satisfying. The buffet line runs long but moves efficiently, loaded with luau classics like kalua pig from their imu, teriyaki beef, chicken adobo, and ono mahimahi. While it may not be haute cuisine, it's good, solid comfort food that leaves you full and happy. The open bar is major highlight for many—well-stocked and efficiently run, which guests note contributes to very festive atmosphere.
The Performance: The "Rhythm of Aloha" show happens in large, open-air amphitheater, complete with kitschy but fun erupting volcano effect. The performance is colorful tour of Polynesia, featuring dances from Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, Philippines, New Zealand, and Japan. Some might find the show dated compared to newer productions, but it's undeniably entertaining and performed with heart.
Who It's Best For: Families with kids who'll love the gardens and tram ride, budget-conscious travelers seeking best all-around value, and anyone prioritizing beautiful natural setting.
Jade's Insider Tip: Absolutely take the narrated tram tour before dinner—it provides wonderful context for gardens and family history. Also, Smith's offers "show only" tickets for very reasonable price. This is fantastic local-approved hack: have nice dinner at spot like Oasis on the Beach or Sam's Ocean View in Kapaʻa, then head to Smith's just for entertainment.
Pricing: Adults: $150, Juniors (7–13): $45, Children (3–6): $35.
Luau Kalamaku (Lihue)
Luau Kalamaku is grand, theatrical production set on historic Kilohana Plantation grounds. This is polished, large-scale event designed to impress.
The Vibe & Atmosphere: Grand, polished, and immersive. From arrival moment, you can explore artisan market or take optional plantation train ride. The whole experience feels like well-oiled machine. The main event, the show, performs on unique "in-the-round" stage, creating good views from almost everywhere and very engaging atmosphere.
The Feast: The luau features farm-to-table buffet with many ingredients sourced from local Kauai farms, served under large open-air pavilion. The evening kicks off with traditional imu ceremony, setting authentic tone before the meal. Food quality runs high, and open bar keeps mai tais flowing.
The Performance: This is where Kalamaku truly shines. The show is full-fledged theatrical production telling epic story of voyage from Tahiti to Hawaii. It's cohesive narrative brought to life with stunning costumes, live music, and talented performers. The graceful hula, mesmerizing fire poi balls, and dramatic fire knife finale create captivating experience that feels more like play than revue.
Who It's Best For: First-time luau-goers wanting guaranteed "wow" factor, and anyone loving theater who appreciates strong, story-driven performance.
Jade's Insider Tip: If show is your priority, consider splurging on premier seating to get up close to performers. For truly unforgettable romantic evening, the "Plantation Owner's Evening" package is fantastic upgrade. It includes gourmet four-course meal at beautiful Gaylord's Restaurant before you join luau for premier seating at show.
Pricing: Starts from $179 for standard "Hawaiian Package," with tiered pricing for Silver, Gold, and exclusive Manor House Experience.
The Poipu Premieres: Luxury and Location
On sunny South Shore, luaus are defined by high-end resort settings. Here, you pay premium for luxurious experience, from chef-driven food to impeccable service. The choice comes down to your preferred luxury style: toes-in-sand romance or manicured garden grandeur.
ʻAuliʻi Luau (Sheraton Kauai Resort, Poipu)
The ʻAuliʻi Luau holds special place in my heart. It's not only Kauai's only oceanfront luau but also proudly native Hawaiian-owned, which infuses entire experience with palpable sense of authenticity and care.
The Vibe & Atmosphere: Absolutely breathtaking. The setting on lawn just steps from Poipu Beach is unbeatable. As sun sets over ocean, casting golden glow, and wave sounds mingle with live music, you feel completely transported. It is, without doubt, the most romantic and picturesque luau setting on the island.
The Feast: The food here gets consistently praised as some of best luau fare on Kauai, crafted by talented Sheraton chefs. The buffet is excellent, featuring favorites like Huli Huli chicken, fresh poke, and delicious desserts, with all dishes clearly labeled for allergens. As bonus, there are fantastic pre-show pupus (appetizers) like beef pipi kaula and tako poke to enjoy with cocktails from open bar.
The Performance: The show is beautiful journey through Polynesian history, showcasing dances from Hawaii, Tahiti, and Aotearoa (New Zealand), culminating in thrilling Samoan fire knife dance. The storytelling engages, costumes stun, and dancers are top-notch. Unique and heartwarming highlight is inclusion of keiki (child) hula dancers, touch of genuine community you rarely see at commercial luaus. Important to note though—they don't perform imu ceremony.
Who It's Best For: Couples, honeymooners, photographers, and anyone for whom stunning, authentic oceanfront experience is absolute top priority.
Jade's Insider Tip: Get there early! The pre-show cultural activities are some of best and most interactive on island. My son loves making his own coconut frond headband and trying his hand at poi pounding. The "golden hour" light on beach before show starts is also pure magic for photos.
Pricing: Starts around $200 per person, with Aliʻi Premier Seating option including front-row seats and specialty lei.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Luau (Poipu)
Set on sprawling, immaculate grounds of one of Kauai's most luxurious resorts, this luau delivers upscale and polished experience from start to finish. The luau is often called by its show name, Havaiki Nui.
The Vibe & Atmosphere: Grand, elegant, and seamless. This is high-end resort luau in every sense. The setting is beautiful, breezy courtyard within resort, surrounded by lush gardens and koi ponds. While not directly on sand, the atmosphere is pure tropical luxury.
The Feast: This is foodie's dream. The buffet spread is one of most extensive and high-quality on island. Beyond delicious kalua pig, they feature standout dishes like grilled grass-fed Makaweli New York steaks and fantastic volcano-spiced local catch. The dessert bar is destination itself, with guava mousse cake, coconut cream pie, and warm pineapple bread pudding that is simply divine.
The Performance: The "Havaiki Nui" (The Great Land Beyond the Horizon) show takes you on cultural voyage through Tahiti, Samoa, New Zealand, and Hawaii. The choreography is meticulously planned and performers highly skilled, delivering professional and energetic show culminating with thrilling Siva Afi fire dance.
Who It's Best For: Luxury travelers (especially Hyatt guests), foodies who'll appreciate superior buffet, and those seeking polished, high-end luau experience.
Jade's Insider Tip: The luau is set back from ocean, so manage expectations if beach view is must. After show, I highly recommend strolling through resort's stunning grounds down to Shipwreck Beach. Also, the Hyatt's Tidepools restaurant, with thatched-roof bungalows over koi lagoon, is one of most romantic dining spots on Kauai and fantastic alternative for special occasion dinner.
Pricing: This is one of priciest luaus on island. Adults approximately $215, Juniors (13-20) $149, and Children (5-12) $102.
📍 Luau Locations
- East Side 3 luaus
- South Shore 2 luaus
- North Shore 1 luau
💰 Price Guide
- Budget $150-$160
Smith's, Hawaii Alive
- Mid-Range $179-$189
Kalamaku, Ka Hikina
- Premium $200-$215+
ʻAuliʻi, Grand Hyatt
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The North Shore Gem: Intimate and Authentic
Tahiti Nui (Hanalei)
If you want polar opposite of grand, theatrical production, you'll find it at Tahiti Nui. This legendary Hanalei institution, family-run since 1963, offers experience that is deeply personal and authentically local.
The Vibe & Atmosphere: In a word: 'ohana. This isn't show—it's party. The vibe is casual, warm, and incredibly intimate, often described as feeling like you're at "grandma's house plus family get together." You're not tourist here—you're guest. Surrounded by majestic Hanalei mountains, it's cozy escape from larger, more commercial luaus.
The Feast: The luau begins with proper imu ceremony, and aromas of unearthed kalua pig will have your mouth watering. The buffet fills with delicious, locally sourced food, including luau staples and unique dishes honoring restaurant's name, like fantastic Tahitian poisson cru (raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk).
The Performance: The show is heartfelt and personal. The performers are family and community members, and their pride in sharing culture is palpable. It's less about perfect, synchronized choreography and more about genuine connection, storytelling, and sharing aloha spirit.
Who It's Best For: Cultural purists, return Kauai visitors, and anyone staying on North Shore who wants to experience something real, intimate, and completely unpretentious.
Jade's Insider Tip: Tahiti Nui is piece of Kauai history—it was famously featured in 2011 film The Descendants. Because luau is small and only held certain nights, you absolutely must book in advance. Better yet, stop by the bar on different night for their nightly live music, have one of their famous mai tais, and talk story with locals.
Pricing: Pricing varies, but generally more affordable than large resort luaus. Check their website for current rates and availability.
The East Side Contenders: Modern Takes on Tradition
Competing in busy Lihue and Kapaʻa area, these two hotel-based luaus carved out niche by focusing on sheer quality of dance performances. They are fantastic choices for visitors especially interested in hula art and wanting to see award-winning troupes in action.
Luau Ka Hikina (Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach, Kapaʻa)
Quick clarification: for years, the luau at this resort was called Luau Maka'iwa. That luau no longer operates and has been replaced by new and excellent Luau Ka Hikina, which launched in 2022.
The Vibe & Atmosphere: Fresh, modern, and energetic. The luau takes place in beautiful, newly constructed open-air pavilion called Halau Hoʻokipa, which offers fantastic ocean views from its Coconut Coast setting. It's polished, professional production with vibrant feel.
The Feast: Deluxe Hawaiian buffet featuring locally sourced products. Standouts include Pulehu Guava BBQ Chicken and Green Coconut Curry Mahi Mahi. Open bar is included with your ticket until performance begins.
The Performance: This is star attraction. The show is under creative direction of Leilani Rivera Low, award-winning and highly respected kumu hula (hula master). Her expertise elevates entire performance, which features mesmerizing hula, plus powerful Tahitian and Maori sections, including impressive Haka. The pre-show activities, like learning Maori poi ball dancing, are unique and engaging touch, especially for kids.
Who It's Best For: Dance aficionados who'll appreciate high level of artistry, and families seeking high-quality, modern luau with great interactive activities for children.
Jade's Insider Tip: This luau wraps up by 8:00 PM, earlier than most. This makes it fantastic choice for families with young children or anyone still adjusting to time difference. I also appreciate that they don't do hard-sell on welcome photos, which makes for more relaxed arrival.
Pricing: Adults: $189, Juniors (7-13): $115, Children (3-6): $75.
Hawaii Alive Luau (Royal Sonesta, Lihue)
This luau is Kauai institution, first established in 1961 by Punua family. Today, their children and grandchildren carry on legacy, with focus squarely on showcasing exceptional dance.
The Vibe & Atmosphere: This is more straightforward, dinner-theater-style luau. It's smaller, more scaled-back production held in resort's palm-fringed garden courtyard (moves indoors in case of rain). The emphasis here is less on grand settings and more on performance itself.
The Feast: The luau recently added full buffet, which is great improvement. It features all-you-can-eat spread of kalua pork, BBQ guava braised short ribs, Huli Huli chicken, and even poke bar. Key difference for budgeting: your ticket includes only one complimentary alcoholic beverage. After that, it's cash-only bar.
The Performance: The show is reason you come here. The Punua family's hālau hula (hula school) has taken top honors at countless statewide competitions, and it shows. You are watching highly skilled, competition-level dancers perform. The show features captivating dances from Hawaii, Tahiti, and Samoa.
Who It's Best For: Hula enthusiasts and anyone wanting to see top-tier dance performance in intimate, no-frills setting.
Jade's Insider Tip: The resort offers free valet parking for luau guests, which is convenient and hassle-free perk. Seating is first-come, first-served, so arriving right when check-in begins at 6:00 PM is your best bet for good spot.
Pricing: Starts at $160 per person.
Special Mention: For the Love of Fire
If heart-pounding drums and mesmerizing flames of fire dance are what excite you most, you should know about two shows on Kauai that put fire front and center. These aren't traditional luaus, but spectacular fire-centric performances that also offer dinner option.
🔥 Ahi Lele Fire Show
Location: Anaina Hou Community Park, North Shore
This show, led by incredible Coppin Colburn and his family, is journey through Polynesian culture told through fire dancing, storytelling, and drumming. Held in beautiful Porter Pavilion, it's fantastic, family-friendly attraction. They offer dinner-and-show packages as well as show-only tickets.
⚡ Ahi Uila Fire Show
Location: Hilton Garden Inn, East Side
Set on oceanfront lawn of Hilton in Kapaʻa, this show offers red-hot journey through Hawaiian history with fire dancing and Polynesian drumming. It's another great option for high-energy evening of entertainment.
These shows are perfect for families who've already experienced full luau and want different kind of night out, or anyone who simply can't get enough of thrilling fire performances.
What Makes Each Luau Special: The Details That Matter
Understanding what sets each luau apart helps you make the right choice for your Hawaiian vacation. Let me break down the unique features that make each experience stand out.
The Storytelling Difference
Each luau tells stories differently. Kalamaku focuses on epic voyage narrative from Tahiti to Hawaii, creating theatrical journey with beginning, middle, and end. Smith's takes broader approach, showcasing multiple Polynesian cultures in colorful revue style. ʻAuliʻi emphasizes authentic Hawaiian stories with strong cultural foundation. Tahiti Nui shares personal family stories that feel intimate and real.
The way stories are told affects your connection to the experience. If you love theater and structured narratives, Kalamaku delivers. If you prefer authentic, personal storytelling, Tahiti Nui or ʻAuliʻi will resonate more.
Food Quality and Style Variations
The feasts vary significantly in style and quality. Grand Hyatt offers most upscale dining with grass-fed steaks and gourmet preparations. ʻAuliʻi provides excellent resort-quality food with clear allergen labeling—great for dietary restrictions. Smith's focuses on hearty, satisfying comfort food in generous portions. Tahiti Nui incorporates unique Tahitian dishes alongside Hawaiian staples.
Consider your food priorities. Gourmet dining experience? Choose Grand Hyatt. Authentic cultural dishes? Go with Tahiti Nui. Safe options for kids and dietary needs? ʻAuliʻi handles this well. Generous portions and value? Smith's delivers.
Performance Styles and Skill Levels
The dance performances showcase different levels of expertise and styles. Luau Ka Hikina and Hawaii Alive feature competition-level dancers with award-winning credentials. These shows emphasize technical skill and artistic excellence. Kalamaku balances skilled performance with theatrical storytelling elements. ʻAuliʻi combines professional dancers with community elements like keiki performers. Tahiti Nui features family and community members performing with heart over technical perfection.
Your appreciation for dance artistry should guide this choice. If you're passionate about hula as art form, prioritize the shows with master teachers and competition winners. If you value community connection and authentic spirit, the more personal performances will touch you deeper.
Setting and Atmosphere Impact
Location dramatically affects your experience mood. Oceanfront settings like ʻAuliʻi create romantic, dreamy atmosphere with natural soundtrack of waves. Garden settings like Smith's provide lush, tropical immersion with bird songs and gentle breezes. Historic plantation grounds at Kalamaku add grandeur and sense of old Hawaii elegance. Intimate venues like Tahiti Nui foster personal connection and family feeling.
Think about what atmosphere speaks to you. Romance and natural beauty? Choose oceanfront. Adventure and exploration? Pick gardens. Elegance and history? Select plantation setting. Intimacy and authenticity? Go small and local.