The secrets of our Oahu luau
The Kalua Pork, stone-fired and slow roasted. The delicate flavors of the Poi. Sweet pineapple accenting the meal both with its refreshing flavor and colorful displays. These are things you would think make the best luau in Oahu. You’d only be partially correct. While the Polynesian Cultural Center takes great pride in making our Luau the most delicious, we also embrace the Hawaiian culture to make it the most authentic.
a little luau history
There was a time in ancient Hawaiian history when men and women weren’t allowed to eat together. They were separated at meal times, and even ate different foods. In fact, many of the people were forbidden to have certain delicacies that we enjoy today. In 1819, that all changed. King Kamehameha II put an end to those practices and had a feast for everyone to enjoy the Pacific’s greatest flavors. Men, women, children, and royalty all dined and celebrated as one — and the Luau was born.
ancient culture brought to modern times
As the Luau began to grow in both recognition and in size, visitors from all around the world began to flock to be a part of this cultural celebration. The more people came, the more the feast became something even more elaborate, a full-on party with traditional dancing and entertainment. That’s why today’s Luau in Oahu is so much more than just the fantastic food, it’s the Hawaiian culture brought to life in every way. That’s why we focus on the details others miss, or may not even think matter. Everything from the type of dancing to the patterns of decorations has significant meaning rooted in history. In order to bring that to life, you must know it, embrace it, and perfect it. Which is exactly what we do in our Ali’i Luau. You can see for yourself here.
of course, the food matters, too
While you can clearly see why we bring the authentic traditions of ancient Hawaii to life better than any other Oahu Luau, our feasts are just as unrivaled. We slow cook our foods using ancient methods and recipes, ensuring the flavors you taste today are the same as King Kamehameha II did during the very first Luau. We have menus that accommodate every palate and every diet. In Hawaii, food is the foundation of every festivity. In fact, the word Luau itself comes from one of the favorite dishes from that first feast in 1819 — lu’au, made of taro leaves and chicken steamed in coconut milk. Take a closer look at all the great food our Luau offers here.
Ready To Experience the Best Luau in Oahu?
When it comes to choosing a Luau, don’t settle for one that only focuses on part of the celebration. Experience the true Luau and all the rich culture it offers.