There are lots of reasons why Kauai is my favorite Hawaiian island. Its vast beauty, surreal beaches, laid-back vibe, and gorgeous scenery are just a few.

However, one thing I love most about Kauai is its commitment to culture and overall lack of commercialism, especially when compared to Oahu. Kauai keeps it real by honoring its culture and traditions, and there’s no better way to experience that than with an authentic Hawaiian luau.

There are so many things to do in Kauai, and I highly recommend that you make sure that attending a luau is one of them. I’ve put together this list to help you decide which is the best luau in Kauai for you. 

Best Luau In Kauai

fire dancing in the best luau in kauai
Image via Flickr by lfarhadi

If you want to learn more about Hawaiian culture, see hula dancers’ hips sway to traditional live music, watch a mesmerizing fire, and while eating authentic food, there’s no better experience than a luau.

You can find luaus all over Hawaii but I’d argue that the best luaus are in Kauai because they’re less commercial than the ones you’ll find on Oahu and the shows are much more authentic and intimate.

That said, there are quite a few to choose from so to help you decide which one you should go to, here’s our list of the best luaus on the island.

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Best Things To Do in Kauai

1. Auli’i Luau (Sheraton Kauai Resort)

auli'i luau outdoor seating at the sheraton kauai resort in hawaii
Image courtesy of Auli’i Luau

To experience the real deal, you won’t be disappointed with the Auli’i Luau, the best luau in Poipu located at the Sheraton Kauai Resort. For starters, it’s the only oceanfront luau on Kauai, so that scores huge points!

The Auli’i luau prides itself on being a Hawaiian family affair, 100% owned and operated by locals. Its authenticity resonates in every beat of the traditional music to every step of the Polynesian dances. Speaking of dance, you’ll see so much more than the hula — spirited performances range from siva afi (fire dance of Samoa) to kahiki (drum dance of Tahiti).

What’s a traditional luau without amazing local food and drinks? Guests are pampered with the many flavors of the Hawaiian island, far beyond poi and Kalua pork. The flowing buffet features delicacies like fresh poke, huli huli chicken and teriyaki beef.

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Whether you’re more of a mai tai or Blue Hawaii type, you’ll enjoy the free pours of each. At the end of the day, sitting on the beach and soaking in the scenery and live entertainment makes for an amazing way to spend an evening in Kauai.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 2440 Hoonani Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, United States (Sheraton Kauai Resort)

Schedule: Monday and Wednesday 5:30PM – 7:30PM

Start Times: Check-in at 5:00PM

Price: They list their prices pre-tax and fees. These prices are for standard seating. Premier seating is a $35 upgrade.

  • Adult: $200
  • Teen (13-17): $140
  • Youth (4-12): $115
  • Child (0-3): Free (must sit on lap)

Main performance features:

  • Shell lei greeting
  • Hawaiian hula
  • Fire knife dance
  • Dances of New Zealand and Samoa
  • Tahitian drum dance

Tables: Outdoors, no cover, round tables. Shared seating. This is the same seat between the dining and show part of the luau.

Food: Buffet style with pre-prepared drinks and selection of wine and beer (not fully open bar).

FAQ:

  • What is premiere seating? These include seating within the first 4 rows. You also get to use the premier check-in line.
  • Are gratuities included? Yes
  • Is the luau wheelchair accessible? Yes
  • What is the cancellation policy? If you cancel more than 24 hour in advance, there is no fee. Within 24 hours is 50%.
  • Can you book the show only? No
  • Is seating fixed? Yes, seating is assigned.
  • Are photos included? No, photos are $20. They are taken by a professional photographer that roams around.

Parking: There is ample free parking on-site but it is not by the entrance and a bit far for the dedicated luau parking. Free valet parking is available.

2. Smith Family Garden Luau

smith family garden luau and their kalua pig imu ceremony
Image via Flickr by Jill_Ion

The Smith Family Garden Luau gets consistently rave reviews from guests as the best luau in Kauai — and for good reason. Though it doesn’t take place on the beach with an ocean view, the garden location is nothing short of spectacular.

Made up of 30 acres of lush park located within the stunning Wailua Marina State Park, the Smith Family Garden is packed with natural wonders ranging from free-roaming peacocks to thriving fruit orchards and bamboo forests. 

All luau guests are treated to a tour around the estate to enjoy these sites before the luau.

The luau celebrates the main cultures of Hawaii by incorporating music and dances from Hawaii but also includes traditional performances celebrating Japan, China, New Zealand, the Philippines, and New Zealand. 

The real show stopper is the feast that includes authentic Kalua pig roasted in the earthen imu oven, a secret family recipe for teriyaki beef, chicken adobo, a Smith family bowl of poi, plus a variety of salads and desserts.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 3-5971 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746, United States

Schedule: 5:00PM – 9:00PM

  • February – October: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
  • June – August: Monday to Friday
  • November – January: Monday, Wednesday, Friday

Start Times:

  • November – February: 4:45 PM
  • March – October: 5:00 PM

Price: You can add a Shaka Gold Membership in the cart for $30 to get $15 off each adult ticket (up to 4)

  • Adult: $150
  • Jr. (7-13): $45
  • Child (3-6): $35

Main performance features:

  • Lei greeting
  • Narrated tram tour or stroll through their 30-acre garden
  • Kalua big roasted in imu oven with special imu ceremony
  • Hawaiian hula
  • Samona fire knife dance
  • Tahitian drum dance
  • Erupting volcano

Tables: Dining is on rectangular/square tables for the dining part and the performance is done in an open air but covered amphitheatre (no awkward turning your seat around to watch the show).

Food: Food and drinks are unlimited. Buffet style.

FAQ:

  • What is the cancellation policy? If you cancel more than 24 hour in advance, there is no fee. Within 24 hours is 50%.
  • Can you book the show only? Yes
  • Is seating fixed? No, it is first-come-first-serve.
  • Are photos included? No, photos are $26. They are taken at the beginning and you can purchase them at the end (think amusement-park style)

Parking: There is ample free parking on-site.

3. Luau Kalamaku

luau kalamaku in kauai fire and dancing
Image via Flickr by Tom Coates

Set in an open-air pavilion at the impressive Kilohana Plantation in Lihue, Luau Kalamaku is another solid choice to get a true Hawaiian experience.

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Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and stroll through the Plantation’s grounds to enjoy all of the natural splendors and browse the Kauai crafts made by local crafters. The show that awaits is a spectacle of traditional flame twirlers, Polynesian dancers, and the story of the Tahitian voyagers that traveled to Hawaii, told through beautifully choreographed dance and music.

For an extra special treat, you can book the Luau Kalamaku with Manor House Dinner and Champagne Reception. Why not get your evening started in style with a lei greeting (for women) and champagne reception? Then feast on the four-course Hawaiian dinner at popular Gaylord’s restaurant (drinks not included). Finish off the night with prime seats for the Luau Kalamaku performance with pre-show drinks. 

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 3-2087 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766, United States

Schedule: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 5PM – 8:30PM

Start Times: 5:00PM – 6:30PM check-in (5:00 PM – 5:15 PM for the Manor House Experience)

Price: There is standard and premiere seating for the buffet luau and there is also the Manor House Experience evening package (with 4 course meal but without Open bar before the show, Hawaiian Style Buffet, and Open Bar of Dinner). Prices listed are pre-tax and fees.

Luau Kalamaku (Buffet) (Hawaiian package/Gold package)

  • Adult: $171/$198
  • Teen (13-17): $99/$133
  • Child (3-12): $59/$92
  • Infant (2 and under): Free

Manor House Experience Evening (4-Course Meal at Gaylord’s Restaurant)

  • Guest: $226
  • Infant (2 and under): Free

Main performance features:

  • Optional Kilohana Plantation Train ride
  • Lei greeting
  • Imu ceremony
  • Hawaiian hula performances
  • Fire poi ball twirlers
  • Fire knife dancing
  • Crafts fair with local artisans
  • Tahitian rhythms

Tables: Circle tables in a covered huge tent that’s the same between dining and the show. Ventilation can be a bit poor when there is no breeze so it might get hot.

Food: Buffet style for Luau Kalamaku and 4-course meal for the Plantation Owners Evening. Open bar.

FAQ:

  • What is the difference between the Luau Kalamaku and the Manor House Experience? The Plantation Owners Evening is a VIP experience with a 4-course meal at Gaylord’s Restaurant and other bonuses such as champagne toasting, fresh flower lei greeting, and premier seating. The Luau Kalamaku is more of the traditional experience with buffet dinner.
  • What is the difference between the Hawaiian and Gold Package? The Hawaiian is the base package whereas the Gold package includes premium seating.
  • Do they offer round trip transportation? Yes, you can book transportation for an extra cost.
  • What is the cancellation policy? If you cancel more than 24 hour in advance, there is no fee. No shows will be charged the full price. There is no mention of cancelling within 24 hours.
  • Can you book the show only? No
  • Is seating fixed? Yes, seats are assigned. Premier seating gets you in the first few rows.
  • Are photos included? No, photos are $26. They are taken at the beginning and you can purchase them at the end (think amusement-park style).

Parking: There is ample free parking on-site.

Looking for a place to stay in Kauai? Learn about the neighbourhoods and where to stay in Kauai.

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4. Ahi Lele Luau Fire Show

fore spinning performance at ahi lele luau fire show
Image courtesy of Ahi Lele Luau Fire Show

If you’re looking for an entertaining show with a more intimate, community feel that’s not as grandiose as the luaus at the big resorts, then you’ll want to take a closer look at the Ahi Lele Luau Fire Show

The show is put together by a local family, making it as authentic and unique as it gets! Through fire and dance, the mesmerizing performers tell the story of the Polynesian islands. Everything about the show is real — the fire, the drums, ancient chants, and the Tahitian-style dancing. 

The Ahi Lele Luau is more about the fire show, so don’t expect the grand buffet you’d find at larger luaus. If you want to have dinner before the show, you can purchase a “dinner Luau box” plus an option of beer, wine, or mai tai. 

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 3-5971 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746, United States

Schedule: Wednesday 6:45PM – 7:30PM

Start Times: 5:30 PM doors open

Price: Prices are pre-taxes/fees

  • VIP Ticket (all ages): $139
  • General Admission: $119
  • Child (12 and under): $79
  • 2 and under: Free

Main performance features:

  • Coconut demonstration
  • Performance focused on fire
  • Polynesia drumming

Tables: Open-air Porter Pavilion with pods of chairs. There are no tables. The performance occurs on a stage outdoors and you can see it through the opening in the pavilion.

Food: Luau box with standard and vegetarian option. Drinks are a-la-carte.

FAQ:

  • What is the VIP ticket? This is essentially a table in the front row and includes a drink. This is the same price regardless of age.
  • What is the cancellation policy? If you cancel more than 24 hour in advance, they retain a $15 per party ($30 if a party of 5 or more). Otherwise, no cancellation allowed.
  • Can you book the show only? No
  • Is seating fixed? VIP gets chairs near the front, otherwise first come-first serve.
  • Are photos included? There are no professional photographers here.

Parking: There is ample free parking on-site.

5. Havaiki Nui Luau (Grand Hyatt Kauai Luau)

women performers from the havaiki nui luau or grand hyatt kauai luau
Image courtesy of Grand Hyatt Kauai

For the whole deal — all-you-can eat buffet, open bar, hula, and entertainment on a grand scale, the Havaiki Nui Luau at the Grand Hyatt Kauai in Poipu is another top luau in Kauai. This is why another name for this experience is called Grand Hyatt Kauai Luau.

One thing’s for sure, you won’t go hungry at this luau! The buffet includes appetizers and salads made with fresh, local fruit and produce plus scrumptious entrees like traditional imu style kalua pig, huli huli chicken, volcano spiced local fish, seasonal vegetables, and more. Make sure to leave room for dessert, as you don’t want to miss the pineapple upside down cake, guava mousse cake, haupia and other sweet Hawaiian treats.

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As for the show, you’ll hardly be disappointed here either. Enjoy the story of Hawaii’s culture through ancestral dances of Polynesia, Samoa, Tahiti, New Zealand, and, of course, Hawaii. 

Insider Tip: Consider splurging for premier admission that grants you reserved seats in the first two rows for prime viewing and a take-home souvenir tiki glass. At the moment they do not offer this anymore but they may bring that back.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 1571 Poipu Road, Koloa, Hawaii, USA, 96756

Schedule: Wednesday and Saturday 5:30PM – 8PM

Start Times: 5:30 PM

Price: Prices are pre-taxes/fees. Total fee includes a cover fee and gratuity.

  • General Admission: $203.66
  • Junior (13-20): $140.89
  • Child (5-12): $96.34
  • 5 and under: Free

Main performance features:

  • Shell lei greeting
  • Cultural activities
  • Hawaiian hula dances
  • Traditional dances
  • Fire knife dancing
  • Local vendors

Tables: Circle/square tables on the lawn outdoors which means there is no cover if there is rain.

Food: Buffet dinner with open bar.

FAQ:

  • What is the cancellation policy? If you cancel more than 24 hour in advance, there is no fee. Within 24 hours is 50%.
  • Can you book the show only? No, this is not possible.
  • Is seating fixed? Seating is first come-first serve unless reserved as part of the Premier package.
  • Are photos included? Photos can be purchased for $35.
  • Is the performance in a different location? In some instances, they might have to move the show to the downstairs part of the restaurant. Some have complained about obstructed views downstairs.

Parking: The Grand Hyatt has a number of large parking lots that are free to use. Valet parking is $5

6. Luau Ka Hikina (Sheraton Coconut Beach Resort)

3 hula dancers from the luau ka hikina at the sheraton coconut beach resort
Image courtesy of Luau Ka Hikina

Located in Kapaa and locatred inside the Sheraton Coconut Beach Resort, this is considered to be one of the smaller luau’s but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t pack a big punch. It is also relatively new as it opened after the pandemic.

When you first enter, you’ll be welcomed with mai tais and fresh skewers. You’ll also be given kukui nut leis. This is when you’ll secure a seat at a table. You’ll also see how the stage has the ocean setting behind.

Before the show and dinner, there’s entertainment on the grass where you’ll be able to see , and you can try swinging poi balls.

The show itself is excellent as it was created under the direction of award-winning hula master, Leilani Rivera Low. The music and singing is superb and they do a fantastic job of weaving in a story to celebrate both Hawaiian and Polynesia culture.

Make sure to stay after the show as the dancers are open to taking photos with guests!

Insider Tip: Seating is first-come, first-serve so make sure you show up early so you can grab a table. This is especially important for larger groups.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 650 Aleka Loop Kapaʻa, HI 96746

Schedule: Tuesday and Thursdays 5:20PM – 8:30PM

Start Times: 5:20 PM check-in

Price: Prices are pre-taxes/fees. Total fee includes a cover fee and gratuity (nice that tehy don’t have a tip jar at the bar either).

  • General Admission: $189
  • Junior (7-13): $115
  • Child (3-6): $75
  • Infants (1-2): Free

Main performance features:

  • Kukui nut lei greeting
  • Local vendor offerings inclduing hand-crafted souvenirs (for purchase)
  • Torch lighting ceremony
  • Award-winning hula from various cultures such as Tahitian, Tongan, Samoan, and Maori
  • Samoan fire dancing

Tables: Shared seating at square tables which can be configured to fit 5-6 people.

Food: Buffet dinner with open bar.

FAQ:

  • What is the cancellation policy? If you cancel more than 48 hour in advance, there is no fee. Within 48 hours, there are no refunds.
  • Can you book the show only? No, you have to pay for the full package.
  • Can you pay for premium seating? They currently don’t offer a premium package so seating is first-come, first-serve.
  • Are photos included? There are no photo packages available.
  • Are there vegetarian options in the buffet? Yes, they have a large selection of local dishes for meat eaters and vegetarians.
  • Is the performance in a different location? In the event they can’t use the primary luau grounds, they have a secondary one, either the Outdoor Kauai Court or Indoor Kauai Ballroom.

Parking: The Sheraton Coconut Beach Resort has a large parking lot and is free.

7. Hawaii Alive Luau Show (Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort & Marriott’s Kauai Beach Club)

hawaii alive luau dancers for show and dinner in lihue
Image courtesy of Hawaii Alive Luau Show

Created by the Punua family and running for 6 decades, they’ve moved from several locations but today have landed in a space between Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort & Marriott’s Kauai Beach Club.

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Directed by Wallis & Shana Punua, the highlights of this show are the dancing and the fire dance during the show.

Unfortunately, the overall sentiment is that this is one of the lesser luau experiences on Kauai, mainly because it doesn’t feel as authentic as the others, being located in a hotel patio, poor organization, mediocre food, and disappointment with not having a welcoming ceremony, lei, or imu.

Currently reservations aren’t taken on the website as they are making upgrades but should be available again soon. The best way to book is to call or email them at [email protected].

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 3610 Rice St., Lihue, HI  96766

Schedule: 6PM – 8PM. They used to be Monday-only but they might be more frequent now.

Start Times: Doors open at 6PM and show starts at 7PM.

Price: Prices are pre-taxes/fees. Total fee includes a cover fee and gratuity.

  • General Admission: $160
  • Children (6-12): $56
  • Toddlers (5 and under): Free

Main performance features:

  • Traditional Polynesian and Hawaiian dances
  • A chance to learn the hula yourself
  • Samoan fire knife dancing

Tables: This is unknown.

Food: Buffet dinner and one cold Mai Tai or alcoholic beverage.

FAQ:

  • What is the cancellation policy? This is unknown.
  • Can you book the show only? No, you have to pay for the full package.
  • Can you pay for premium seating? No, only first-come, first-serve seating available for this luau.
  • Are photos included? There are no photo packages available.
  • Are there vegetarian options in the buffet? There are a few vegetarian options including soba noodles, salads, and soy sesame glazed vegetables.

Parking: Valet parking is free.

So Which Is The Best Luau In Kauai?

If you’ve gone through every single luau that’s available in Kauai, you’ll see that there are some differences. The details are easily lost so to make it easier, we’ll highlight the pros and cons of each to help you decide which is the best kauai luaus.

Auli’i Luau (Sheraton Kauai Resort)

  • Pros: Scenic outdoor location, perfect location for those staying at the Sheraton, and cheapest photo options. The only show that runs on Saturday.
  • Cons: No traditional imu ceremony, prone to being rained out, expensive, complaints of not being truly open bar.

Smith Family Garden Luau

  • Pros: One of the most affordable, includes Imu ceremony, separate locations for dining and performance, and has the option to book just to show without dinner. During high season, they have shows 5 days a week.
  • Cons: Free for all seating may be awkward, large capacity may feel overwhelming (400+ at full capacity).

Luau Kalamaku

  • Pros: Has an upscale dining option for those that are seeking a VIP treatment, offers a transportation option, includes an imu ceremony
  • Cons: Feels like there’s an additional cost for every thing, and open air tent can be hot when there is no breeze.

Ahi Lele Luau Fire Show

  • Pros: Local production that has a more intimate and authentic feel, not your traditional commercial luau, fire-focused show, has mini golf and playground near the community center. This is the cheapest luau in Kauai.
  • Cons: Food is not quite at the luau level you expect from other venues and is simply a food box, drinks are extra, no imu ceremony, and not as large-scale of a show. They only run on Thursdays which may be limiting.

Havaiki Nui Luau (Grand Hyatt Kauai Luau)

  • Pros: Children 5 and under are free (most luaus only include 2 and under) so this is particularly friendly especially for families that are staying at the Grand Hyatt, and the outdoor oceanside space is beautiful.
  • Cons: No imu ceremony, price is on the higher side (not a fan of the Cover Fee for adults), and outdoor venue is susceptible to rain.

Luau Ka Hikina (Sheraton Coconut Beach Resort)

  • Pros: Excellent food with tons of variety and more intimate open-air setting. Also has a fire dancer component which everyone raves about. Has an open bar.
  • Cons: Not all tables and seats are made equal so many guests have come out felling disappointed because they were sitting on the wrong end to see the fire show. Some might also be disappointed about not getting flower leis (available to purchase instead). There is no imu ceremony.

Hawaii Alive Luau Show (Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort & Marriott’s Kauai Beach Club)

  • Pros: There aren’t many luau’s in Lihue except Luau Kalamaku so this could be a good option if you’re staying in the area. This is often an easier booking as well especially if the more popular ones are booked.
  • Cons: Probably one of the most poorly reviewed luau’s as it isn’t open bar, isn’t in a purposely-built space, has been known to have poor service and organization, and average food. Sadly, it’s a bit expensive for the value you get.

There are a lot of choices for luaus on the beautiful island of Kauai. And while this is true of most of the Hawaiian islands, the experience you’ll get at a luau in Kauai will surely be a memorable one. Pick one that best suits your style and schedule, and let the spirit of ohana do the rest!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best luau in Kauai for families?

For families with kids, Luau Kalamaku is great for families with the option of train ride and many other activities. Smith Family Garden Luau is also a fantastic choice because of its great value with bonuses such as the tram tour and walk through the garden. Lastly, Havaiki Nui Luau uniquely is free for any kids 5 and under.

Which is the best luau in Kauai for large groups?

If you’re travelling with a large group, Smith Family Garden Luau is great because it’s such a large venue and you’ll like that they split up the dining and performance part of the show so everyone can have a great view in the amphitheater.

Which is the best luau in Kauai overall?

Overall, Smith Family Garden Luau is the best when you factor in all areas.

Which is the most affordable luau in Kauai?

The cheapest luau in Kauai is the intimate Ahi Lele Luau Fire Show.

Which Kauai luau has the best food?

On balance, Luau Kalamaku serves the best food.

Which luau in Kauai has an imu ceremony?

The following includes an imu ceremony (underground oven to cook shredded kalua pork) in their luau: Smith Family Garden Luau and Luau Kalamaku.

Which Kauai luaus have shows on the weekend?

Only two luaus in Kauai has shows on Saturday: Auli’i Luau and Havaiki Nui Luau.

Is it worth paying for premier seating at Kauai luaus?

For the luaus in Kauai that offer premier seating, it’s worth upgrading because you get reserved seating and get unobstructed views which means you’ll be able to really feel the fire (in a safe way).

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Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental (now eligible for One Key).

Tours and Activities: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

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If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

William Tang of Going Awesome Places
About The Author

Will Tang

Will Tang, founder of Going Awesome Places, has traveled to 51 countries. He shares his insanely detailed itineraries, travel guides, and packing lists. Will’s travels have been featured on Huffington Post, Men’s Journal, and Entrepreneur.

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