There’s so much to enjoy at a luau. The music, dances, costumes, stories, and food all combine for a memorable evening. As you make your Maui vacation plans, we recommend you include a luau.
Top 12 Tips and Insider Secrets to Know Before Going to a Maui Luau
- Most luau companies follow the same format as follows:
- Live Hawaiian music playing as you mingle on the grounds and snap photos
- Cultural demonstrations, crafts and games
- Imu ceremony with the roast pork and vegetables unearthed and transported to the kitchen. Note that not all luau companies have an imu ceremony.
- Dinner, usually served buffet or family style, with some of the higher-end options serving plated food.
- Polynesian dance show
- The grand finale typically ends with a thrilling Samoan-style fireknife dance. The only exception is that Old Lahaina Luau does not include a fireknife dance.
- Most luau companies structure pricing based seating location and amenities. For the best experience, we always recommend the top tier seating option. We have never regretted selecting the premium option, but when we’ve chosen a cheaper option, we’ve wished we had opted for the better experience. That being said, in all cases, we’ve enjoyed the luau, so choose the option that best suits your budget.
- Speaking of budget, we tracked the cost of the entry-level luau tickets for 2026, the average luau ticket cost was $259 per adult, including taxes and fees. Pricing for children age 12 years and under is typically less. And, many luau companies charge adult prices for teenagers.
- Only two Maui luau companies operate nightly. (Old Lahaina Luau and Myths of Maui operate nightly.) All others operate one to five nights per week.
- Most hotel-based luau shows are operated by the same production companies. A show you might see at one hotel on a Monday, will be presented at another hotel on a Tuesday.
- Don’t book a luau for your first or second night of your Maui vacation as you will likely be fighting jet lag. See our Maui vacation itinerary for more practical tips like this one.
- For the most part, we recommend choosing a luau that is near your accommodation for the sake of convenience.
- Hawaii’s famous Mai Tai cocktail is typically served to luau guests over age 21. Most luau options include multiple beverages, but others may have a limit on complimentary beverages.
- At some of the nicer luau operations, guests receive a floral or kukui nut lei upon arrival. Other luau companies might offer a shell lei or no lei at all.
- The seating arrangement at most luau companies is shared seating around either large round tables or long rectangular tables that seat at least eight people.
- A luau provides an excellent opportunity to sample local foods like kalua pork, poke, poi, laulau, huli huli chicken, haupia, and more.
- Aim to arrive when the doors open for your selected seating option for the best choice in seating.
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Now, let’s look at the luau options around Maui. As you will see, there are many to choose from. We’ll start north in West Maui and work our way south to the South Maui resorts.
For a quick price comparison, we’ll list the entry-level cost for an adult ticket as of our most recent check in April 2026. For consistency, we are including taxes and fees. Please bear in mind that pricing can change. We aim to update pricing annually.
From the links we provide, you can check current pricing, amenities, and inclusions. (In a few cases, some of the links we provide are affiliate links in which we might earn a small commission; however, there’s no extra cost to you. We are providing direct booking links that bypass companies that resell at higher prices. By providing direct booking links, we are linking to cheaper pricing. If you would please be so kind to use our links, you will be supporting our work for which we are very grateful.)
West Maui (Kapalua, Ka’anapali, Lahaina) Luau Options
Tales of the Kapa Moe – Kapalua
This luau is located at The Ritz-Carlton Maui at Kapalua. Here are the key points to know:
- This luau typically operates on Tuesdays and Fridays.
- TripAdvisor reviews show 3.7 out of 5.0 ratings.
- Entry-level (“Ohana”) tickets are $264 per adult.
- To check for availability and the latest pricing, see these links:
- Additional notes:
- This luau is held under an open-air, covered pavilion, which is ideal should there be rain.
- One of the distinguishing features is that this luau includes an aerial performance.
- Kapalua can get windy and feel a bit nippy after sunset. Bring or wear a light sweater or jacket.
Na Hoku Feast Luau – Ka’anapali
This luau is held on the grounds of the Hilton Vacation Club Ka’anapali Beach, Maui. Here are the key points to know:
- This luau operates on Tuesday nights.
- This luau is the newest addition to Maui. We were unable to find reviews.
- General admission tickets are $237 per adult.
- To check for availability and the latest pricing, see this link.
- Additional notes:
- This luau has ocean views.
The Myths of Maui – Ka’anapali
This luau is held on the grounds of the Royal Lahaina Resort. Here are the key points to know:
- This luau typically operates every night of the week.
- TripAdvisor reviews show ratings of 3.9 out of 5.0.
- Entry-level (“General Seating”) tickets are $209 per adult.
- To check availability and the most current pricing, see these links:
- Additional notes:
- This luau is one of Maui’s longest-running luau.
- The location is beachside with sunset views.
- This luau is West Maui’s most budget-friendly option.
Maui Nui Luau – Ka’anapali
This luau is held on the grounds of the Sheraton Maui Resort. Here are the key points to know:
- This luau typically operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
- TripAdvisor reviews show ratings of 4.2 out of 5.0.
- Entry-level (“Standard Dinner Seating”) tickets are $231 per adult.
- To check availability and the most current pricing, see these links:
- Additional notes:
- This luau is located on the resort’s lawn by the beach with sunset views.
Wailele Luau – Ka’anapali
This luau is held on the grounds of The Westin Maui Resort. Here are the key points to know:
- This luau typically operates on most Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
- TripAdvisor reviews show ratings of 4.0 out of 5.0.
- Entry-level (“Ohana Seating”) tickets are $235 per adult.
- To check availability and the most current pricing, see these links:
- Additional notes:
Drums of the Pacific Luau- Ka’anapali
This luau is held on the grounds of the Hyatt Regency Maui. Here are the key points to know:
- This luau is open on various nights. For the most part, it operates on Sundays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Check the seating options below for specific dates and availability.
- TripAdvisor reviews show ratings of 3.9 out of 5.0.
- Entry-level (“Standard Seating”) tickets cost $223 per adult.
- To check availability and the most current pricing, see these links:
- Additional notes:
- This luau is one of Maui’s longer-running ones.
- This luau is somewhat oceanside.
Old Lahaina Luau – Lahaina
This luau is held on its own private, oceanside grounds in Lahaina. Here are the key points to know:
- This luau is open nightly.
- TripAdvisor reviews show ratings of 4.6 out of 5.0.
- Tickets are $230 per adult. There are no two-tiered pricing options at Old Lahaina Luau.
- To check availability and the most recent pricing, see these links:
- Traditional seating consists of cushioned mats on the ground by a low-level table. These tables are closest to the stage.
- Tables and chair seating are furthest from the stage.
- Additional notes:
- Old Lahaina Luau is a consistently good luau and has won awards over the years.
- This luau is Maui’s top-rated luau.
- Old Lahaina Luau is usually referred to as a more authentic luau.
- Unlike most other Maui luau options, Old Lahaina Luau does not have a Samoan fireknife dance presentation. It is still a lovely luau, however not getting to see an exciting fireknife dance is a downside.
South Maui (Kihei and Wailea) Luau Options
Gilligan’s Island Luau – Kihei
This luau is held by Gilligan’s Bar and Grill at the Maui Nui Golf Course in Kihei. Here are the key points to know:
- This luau operates on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
- TripAdvisor reviews show ratings of 4.3 out of 5.0.
- Entry-level tickets for adults start at $176.
- To check availability and the most recent pricing, see these links:
- Additional notes:
- This luau is set beside a golf course with ocean and sunset views.
- This luau is the most budget-friendly luau on the island of Maui.
- Compared to other luau options on Maui, this luau is a smaller venue, which some people appreciate for the more intimate setting.
The Feast at Mokapu Luau – Wailea
This luau is held on the grassy oceanside lawn on the grounds of Andaz Maui at Wailea. Here are the key points to know:
- This luau operates on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
- TripAdvisor reviews show ratings of 4.3 out of 5.0.
- Entry-level tickets for adults start at $313.
- To check availability and the most recent pricing, see these links:
- Additional notes:
- This luau is held at the upscale grounds of the luxurious Andaz Maui resort with ocean and sunset views.
- For a more elevated experience, the food is plated, rather than served buffet style.
Te Au Moana Luau – Wailea
This luau is held on the grassy, oceanside lawn on the grounds of The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort. Here are the key points to know:
- This luau operates on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. This luau also operates seasonally on Tuesdays.
- TripAdvisor reviews show ratings of 4.5 out of 5.0.
- Entry-level tickets for adults start at $303.
- To check availability and the most recent pricing, see these links:
- Additional notes:
- This luau is held on a grassy lawn that’s oceanside with sunset views.
Family Luau at Four Seasons – Wailea
This luau is held on the grassy lawn, oceanside lawn on the grounds of the Four Seasons Maui. Here are the key points to know:
- This luau operates on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
- We were unable to find specific reviews for this luau.
- Entry-level tickets for adults are $325 plus taxes and fees.
- If you are staying at the Four Seasons Maui, check availability here.
- Additional notes:
- This luau appears to be exclusive to guests of the Four Seasons Maui.
The Luau at Grand Wailea – Wailea
This luau is held on the grassy lawn that’s beside the beach on the grounds of Grand Wailea. Here are the key points to know.
- This luau generally operates on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
- TripAdvisor reviews show ratings of 3.9 out of 5.0.
- Entry-level tickets for adults are $332.
- To check availability and the most recent pricing, see these links:
- Additional notes:
- This luau is located on the grassy lawn that’s beside the beach on the grounds of Grand Wailea.
- Unlike most other luau options with shared tables, guests are seated at private tables.
Frequently Asked Questions About Going to a Maui Luau
What should I wear to a luau?
For men, we recommend a polo and shorts. If you have a shirt with a “Hawaiian” print, a luau presents the ideal opportunity to wear it. For women, we recommend resort wear, like a comfortable sundress, shorts, skorts, or comfortable trousers with a colorful top. A light sweater is always good to have on hand, especially in winter months, as the temperatures dip a bit after sunset.
Should I book a luau before my Maui vacation?
Yes, we recommend that you do your research and book luau tickets before your Maui vacation.
Is a commercial luau touristy?
Well, there is a certain degree of “touristiness” to every luau, but there are also authentic dances, music, and food, too. You will very likely learn about Polynesian and Hawaiian cultures from a luau.
How can I go to the most authentic luau?
The most authentic luau would be if a local resident invited you to their backyard luau, but that’s highly unlikely.
Do luau companies operate on holidays?
Yes, some luau companies operate on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s holidays. It’s not the norm, but several luau companies do operate on holidays, though their prices are typically higher on holidays.
Which Maui luau is best for families with kids?
If you are traveling with kids, choose a luau that starts early and includes pre-dinner activities. If you’re staying in a resort area, choosing a luau that’s close by makes a big difference for families.
Which Maui luau is best for couples, anniversaries, or a special night?
For a date-night feel, prioritize an oceanfront setting and opt fo the premium seating. Plated dining is also more intimate than big buffet lines.
Do Maui luau companies accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies?
Most Maui luaus can handle common needs like vegetarian options, gluten-free choices, and some allergies, but you should not assume every venue handles every request the same way. The safest approach is to book early and contact the luau directly right after booking. On the night, remind staff again so they can guide you.
What time should I arrive for a Maui luau?
Arrive when doors open for your seating tier, not “just on time.” Early arrival gives you time for parking, check-in, photos, and the pre-show activities without feeling hurried. It also improves your odds of better seating within your category.
What happens if it rains?
Light rain usually doesn’t cancel a luau as showers can often be brief and passing. Some luau companies that are hosted at hotels will move the festivities to a ballroom.
