What is the Aliʻi Lūʻau?
The Aliʻi Lūʻau is the Polynesian Cultural Center’s signature dining experience, held at Hale Aloha and Hale ʻOhana in Lāʻie. These open-air venues provide a scenic, breezy atmosphere perfect for an evening gathering.
Rooted in the traditions of Hawaiian royalty, aliʻi, the lūʻau honors the enduring spirit of Queen Liliʻuokalani, telling her story of steadfast perseverance through her own poems and songs. In ancient Hawaiʻi, lūʻau feasts were more than celebrations. They were opportunities to strengthen community bonds, share abundance, and preserve stories and culture. The Aliʻi Lūʻau continues this legacy, inviting guests to experience a vibrant blend of food, music, and storytelling that celebrates the richness of Hawaiian heritage.
Why Guests Love the Aliʻi Lūʻau
Miss Hawaii 2021, Courtney Chung enjoying her piña colada at the Ali’i Luau, served in a fresh pineapple shell. Photo by Polynesian Cultural Center.
From the moment you arrive, it becomes clear that this isn’t just a dinner. The sights, sounds, and scents immediately immerse you in an authentic cultural celebration. The experience begins with the warmth of a lei greeting, followed by the inviting aromas of a traditional Hawaiian feast.
The evening becomes even more memorable with a live performance of the emotional power of hula, the traditional Hawaiian dance that tells stories through graceful movement and mele, the songs and chants that preserve the islands’ history and emotion.
Guests consistently share how meaningful it is to experience Hawaiian culture presented with such care and sincerity. The performers are from the different Polynesian islands, who carry the responsibility of preserving and sharing their heritage with guests from around the world.
Highlights for First-Time Guests
Traditional Imu Ceremony
Delicious Kalua Pork presented at Aliʻi Lūʻau
Before the feast begins, guests gather to witness the ceremonial uncovering of the kālua pig from the imu, a traditional Hawaiian underground oven. This experience is a visual and cultural highlight that connects you directly to the cooking practices of ancient Hawaiians.
Local Hawaiian Flavors
The executive chef has crafted a menu fit for royalty, featuring the freshest fish, the choicest cuts of beef and pork, island-picked fruits and vegetables, and side dishes that range from traditional favorites to modern creations and some of the most inventive and delectable desserts found on the island.
On the menu, you’ll find the highlighted dishes such as kālua pig, slow-roasted in the imu until the meat practically falls apart. Next to it sits fresh island poke featuring tender cubes of ahi tuna in flavorful marinades, accompanied by lomi salmon, a chilled tomato and salmon salad that adds a bright, refreshing balance. From the root crops comes poi, made from pounded kalo (taro), alongside sweet potatoes prepared in the traditional Hawaiian way. To end on a sweet note, there’s haupia, a creamy coconut dessert.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.
Lei Greeting
The Hawaiian word “Lei” reflects a handmade garland or wreath
Guests are welcomed with a vibrant orchid lei, a symbol of love and celebration. Depending on the package purchased, others may also receive a kukui nut lei, which represents enlightenment and protection.
Cultural Showcases
The beautiful ‘Auana style of hula is a joyous presentation generally accompanied by musical instruments, such as the ukulele or guitar
This tribute to Queen Liliʻuokalani, Hawaiʻi’s last reigning monarch, weaves her motto—ʻOnipaʻa (steadfast)—through hula and mele. These presentations emphasize respect, education, and authenticity.
Tickets and Packages
Experience a full day of adventure
The Aliʻi Lūʻau is exclusively offered as part of our full-day packages, giving guests the opportunity to not only enjoy the royal feast but also the immersive cultural experiences of the Polynesian Cultural Center.
Aliʻi Lūʻau Package
Includes:
- Guided group tour through the six Islands of Polynesia Villages, with hands-on activities and cultural demonstrations
- Lei greeting to offer you a warm Hawaiian aloha and welcome
- Aliʻi Lūʻau dining experience, featuring authentic Hawaiian cuisine, live music, and hula performances
- Gold-level seating at Hā: Breath of Life, our award-winning evening show
Super Ambassador Lūʻau Package
Includes:
- Private guided tour of the Islands of Polynesia Villages with personalized attention throughout the day
- Exclusive lei greetings: Kukui nut lei at the Center entrance and a flower lei at the lūʻau
- Priority service at the lūʻau, with reserved seating and dedicated buffet service
- Platinum seating at Hā: Breath of Life, with the very best views of the breathtaking performance
- Premium experience with added comfort and ease for a seamless visit
Whether you choose the Aliʻi Lūʻau or Super Ambassador package, each option gives you more than a meal, it’s a full-day cultural journey across Polynesia, culminating in one of Hawaiʻi’s most spectacular evening shows. These packages are designed to create unforgettable memories, blending food, entertainment, and immersive learning into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
Multiple weaving projects combine to adorn this guest.
- Arrive early to check in, get your lei, and make the most of your day experiencing the Island Villages.
- Plan enough time to enjoy hands-on activities in each village, like weaving, fire-starting, and canoe rides.
- Dress comfortably and don’t forget your sunscreen and walking shoes. A hat, or light cover-up for outdoor activities is also recommended. Shirts and shoes are required at all times.
- Stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle. There are plenty of places to fill up around the Center.
- Bring your appetite for the Aliʻi Lūʻau, featuring authentic Hawaiian dishes and live entertainment.
- Keep your camera ready to capture memories throughout the day (please avoid flash during performances.)
- Prepare for an evening show. Hā: Breath of Life is a full-scale production, so arrive early to settle into your seats.
FAQ: First-Time Visitor Questions
Q: How long does the Aliʻi Lūʻau last?
A: The lūʻau lasts around 90 minutes. The full package is a day-long experience.
Q: Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?
A: Yes, both are available.
Q: Is seating assigned?
A: Yes, based on ticket level.
Q: Can children attend the lūʻau?
A: Absolutely! It’s family-friendly.
Q: What is the best time to book?
A: 1.5 months in advance, especially during holidays and summer.
Q: Is the event ADA accessible?
A: Yes, accessible seating and paths are available.
Q: Can I attend just the lūʻau?
A: No, the lūʻau is part of a full cultural package.
Recent Comments