Our Top 4 Picks For Best Entertainment On Oahu

#4 Chief’s Luau

Rated by many as the “best luau in Hawaii” The Chief’s Luau features fire knife dancing, live music, comedy and of course, Polynesian dancers all in an exotic setting of lush tropic gardens. There’s plenty of pre-show entertainment for the whole family including the opportunity to learn some native handicrafts and skills like grass hat weaving, spear throwing, hula lessons and fire starting. Before the show there’s live music while you sip on Mai-Tais and enjoy an authentic Hawaiian feast of roast pig and chicken, local seafood and all the fixings.

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#3 Royal Hawaiian Luau

Waikiki’s only oceanfront dinner show is sure to be a thrill for everyone who attends. Located on the grounds of the historic Royal Hawaiian Hotel, the entertainment features the history of Waikiki through music, dance, and a feast of exquisite Island cuisine. There is, of course, the customary “Kalua roasted pig” but this luau also features a buffet-style menu of “food stations” that suites those on special diets with ample offerings that are vegetarian, vegan and gluten free. The entertainment focuses on telling the story of traditional, pre-colonial Hawaii through time-honored activities such as kapa-making, poi-pounding, tool making and storytelling woven in with the performances.

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#2 Magic of Polynesia Dinner Show

A dinner and show, rather than a traditional luau, expect more traditional fare (but we hear the bento bowl is a good bet) since the focus is definitely on the entertainment. Created by Merlin Award-winning illusionist John Hirokawa, the Magic of Polynesia features a Vegas-style production of professionally choreographed Polynesian dancers and fire performers as well as illusions, special effects, vanishing acts, levitation & sleight-of-hand. The venue is indoors in a multi-million dollar showroom at the Waikiki Beachcomber.

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#1 Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center is a full family-friendly destination rather than just a place to attend a traditional luau. Although the Polynesian luau feast and entertainment is second-to-none, the 42 acre center, which will take days to explore, has much more to offer with restaurants, show venues and 6 special “Island Villages” each featuring the culture and history of a different Pacific island. Attractions include traditional hands-on activities, games, music, dance, storytelling, canoeing, demonstrations, crafts and tours as well as many unique shops where you can purchase a variety of unusual, handmade items. There are many dining options including the traditional Polynesian luau buffet and entertainment which is said to be the best in Oahu.
(Insider tip: “The Breath of Life” show has been rated as Hawaii’s #1 show.)

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