Top Things to do in Oahu
What to do and see in Oahu, Hawaii (HI): The Best Luaus
The Hawaiian island of Oahu is a surfer’s paradise, with swelling waves that can reach epic heights. No wonder, then, that it’s the site of one of the world’s premier competitions, the Triple Crown of Surfing. If hanging ten isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the beautiful beaches – particularly famous Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. Art connoisseurs will appreciate the annual Hale'iwa Arts Festival, a celebration of local crafts, painting, jewelry, sculpture, dance, and music.
Restaurants in Oahu
1. Chief's Luau
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,233 reviews
NOW OPEN!! COVID-SAFE, PRIVATE TABLES, FUN-FOOD-FIRE... FINALLY!! Reopening Date: November 15, 2020. Attend a luau on Oahu with the Ambassador of Polynesia, comedian, and the original World Fire Knife Dance Champion, Chief Sielu! During this 3-hour event, immerse yourself in the island's culture. After a lei greeting, enjoy a cocktail and partake in a sumptuous Hawaiian feast. Watch a Polynesian show and participate in activities like headband weaving, coconut husking, and more.
Reviewed By jorgy1515 - Bothell, United States
Our family really enjoyed the entire experience!! From the excellent food, to the musicians, hula dancers, and the fire dancers, we enjoyed the entire show!! As someone who was able to bring his family together for this trip after not being close for the last 2-3 years, the speech at the end about family, love, and the importance of those ideas in the Hawaiian culture, it was especially meaningful!! Thank you all!!!
2. Toa Luau
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 695 reviews
Toa Luau invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of Polynesia on Oahu’s historic North Shore! Book any one of our three luau packages for admission into the lush Waimea valley. Set aside ample time in the day to walk through the fragrant flower lei gardens or hike among some of Hawaii’s most diverse plant life and even swim at the refreshing Waimea falls. The epitome of your visit happens with TOA at Oahu’s newest Polynesian luau! Complete with authentic interactive cultural demonstrations, island feast and a sampling of Polynesian dances from all over the Pacific. Your time with us will be one to remember long after you leave our beautiful islands. Natural wonders, traditional cooking demonstrations, and thrilling entertainment … There’s Something for everyone when you spend an adventurous day with TOA LUAU in alluring Waimea.
Reviewed By Theboringone - Walla Walla, United States
If you're looking for an authentic, interactive, fun, family Luau with the BEST food, Toa is the one. Its also the best value. We received flower Leis, admission to Waimea Valley Gardens ( for the day), free easy parking, interactive lessons on weaving, pom pom making, how to open coconuts, taro bundles, food demonstrations, cultural education, three drinks each (not watered down), better than restaurant food, desserts, kava ceremony, gifts and top notch authenticate entertainment . I've been to the other larger Luaus on the island that left me feeling like just one person in a large crowd. With the Toa Luau, they only host a small number of guest , who immediately become family. I've been lucky enough to have visited the islands over 10 times, and this stands out as one of those memorable moments. Mahalo!
3. Experience Nutridge
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 484 reviews
NO BIG PRODUCTION! We're a very intimate luau who focuses on sharing the Hawaiian culture with you. We go from strangers to family within the few hours at our luau. Quickly setting the new standard for a backyard style luau. A unique, hands on, intimate and truly magical 5-Star experience. Our guests say this is everything they hoped for and more. Become part of our ohana as you visit the Nutridge Estate. Walk through a rainforest, help us build an imu (Hawaiian underground oven) and enjoy a "front row seat" throughout with our small group family style luau. We encourage everyone to come and experience the magic first-hand. Book your "truly magical" luau experience today!
Reviewed By V6799DSmattb
From the greeting just past the gate to the last farewell (a hui hou), Dave and his team put on a world class showcase that was as much entertaining as it was personal. The food was delicious, the setting unmatched, and the entertainment a combination of intimate, funny, graceful, and intense. My family had never experienced a luau before. I am so glad that their first left them with smiles plastered on their faces. There's something for everyone whether it's myriad plant life, traditional Hawaiian dancing, an amazing sunset, bowling, spear throwing, macadamia nuts, or the friendly staff. This is not just a Luau, it is an aptly named experience not to be missed. I would do this again and again and highly recommend the Nutridge Experience.
4. Hale Koa Luau
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 509 reviews
Reviewed By L2786JJbarbarac
This luau was MUCH better than the one at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Go early and enjoy making an orchid bracelet, lots of activities and super delicious food.
5. Rock-A-Hula
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 926 reviews
The new "Rock-A-Hula" show is Waikiki's largest cast, concert-quality show featuring powerful Hawaiian and Polynesian music, hula and fire-knife dancing, alongside the greatest rock n' roll performances of superstars past and present at the 750-seat multimillion-dollar Royal Hawaiian Theater. The show opens 6 days a week year-round (dark Mondays). Cocktail, luau under the stars and gourmet dining packages available.
Reviewed By saraw438
EXCELLENT SHOW Vegas style amazing performance, talented singers and dancers! They interact with the floor seats, walking and shaking hands. Don’t do the “luau buffet” - we got 1 free drink ($10 for each drink after) and cold food, dry pork and potatoes, and salmon salad is just chopped tomato with fish juice...
6. Ka Moana Luau
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,333 reviews
Oahu’s only east-side luau with award-winning entertainment and one of a kind show- starts with fire and finishes with fire, unlike anything else! Enjoy a short yet beautiful drive to iconic Sea Life Park. Breathtaking ocean views, interactive activities for the family and an amazing menu. The perfect luau for the whole family!
Reviewed By KealeyP01 - Melbourne, Australia
Ka Moana Luau kept us and everyone entertained the whole night, offering great food, comedy, cultural activities and amazing music! It was very well run and the dancers were so great.
7. Paradise Cove Luau
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 2,797 reviews
In the traditions of our ancestors, we pass on to you the knowledge of our rich history including the arts & crafts, games of skill, songs, dances and food.
Reviewed By jimmac16 - Middleport, United States
We tried Paradise Cove on a recommendation from friends. Our experience was awesome. We went with the mid grade package and it is all You need. You receive a gift card back with $16.00 on the card a complimentary Mai Tai. There are numerous activities to do before the meal and show starts, games, boating, shopping and the unveiling of the roasted pork from the pit. Meal was buffet style chicken, pork, rice, mixed veggies , salads and desserts,with plenty of options for all in your party. The performers provided an excellent show. All the staff was super friendly. Go and check it out, you will be glad that you did.
8. Aha 'Aina a Royal Celebration at The Royal Hawaiian
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 169 reviews
Every Monday and Thursday evening starting May 17, The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, pays homage to Helumoa, the legendary playground of Hawaiian royalty where the resort now stands, with a modern interpretation of the traditional Hawaiian feast called ‘Aha‘aina, A Royal Celebration.
Reviewed By Tlc391
Wonderful experience, it was like going back in time, this historic hotel with its ambiance and elegance was truly an unforgettable experience. The luau show and it's great selection of food was the best I'd seen on the Waikiki Beach, a must-see and experience if you're on Oahu
9. Diamond Head Luau
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,109 reviews
Fire knives will soar and drums will roar as entertainment enchants the night... All packages include a lei greeting, Mai Tai welcome, temporary Hawaiian tattoos, Polynesian crafts, Hula lessons, Tahitian dancing, Hula, traditional Hawaiian food at its best, drinks and entertainment. All of this and more is matched perfectly with a flawless Hawaiian sunset, here at the magical Diamond Head Luau!
Reviewed By briannascarfo - Bakersfield, United States
My husband and I went to Diamond Head Luau in Waikiki on our honeymoon and we couldn't have been happier with our experience! The Aloha atmosphere, the drinks, the FOOD!! And can't forget the entertainment. The dancers were spectacular and I love that they are interactive and pull guests onto stage for hula dances and lessons. They also had lessons around the area for learning to use the Poi Balls, learn the ukelele, make leis, etc all included in the ticket price. Well worth it! Perfect for a honeymooning couple, family, or even solo! 10 out of 5 stars!!
10. KA WA‘A, a Luau at Aulani
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 109 reviews
Experience an exhilarating and enchanting journey through Hawaiian history—and discover its deep cultural roots in canoe (waʻa) exploration, which brought the first ancient explorers to the shores of Ko Olina.
Reviewed By kaynash15 - Kansas City, United States
Fantastic luau...I mean it is Disney after all and they did not let us down. We attended this luau with 2 children, 2 adults, and 2 grandparents. You can choose either VIP or general admission. We choose general admission and honestly our seats were fabulous! We arrived 45minutes prior to seating and were the first ones in the general admission line. We were in the middle- both front to back and side to side. Performances take place both on the main stage and 3 mini stages in an isle. The food was great (for a luau). 2 members in our group had food restrictions and were easily addressed with food labels in front of each item. Several fun events for kids and adults alike. As I said above, the performance was excellent! Only down side is kids 10 and older are charged as an adult. Overall would rate Disney’s Luau an A.
