The ancient Hawaiian luau, also known as an ʻahaʻaina, was a formal event focused on traditions and ceremonies rather than entertainment.
These Polynesian feasts were held to celebrate special occasions and honor Hawaiian Gods.
And women and lower-class individuals were forbidden to dine with men at these feasts.
When King Kamehameha II invited women to eat with the group in 1819, the practice evolved into the modern-day luau.
Interestingly, hula dancing was banned that same year by Queen Kaʻahumanu.
Ancient luaus utilized a pu, or conch shell, to announce the ceremony’s beginning. It also accompanied traditional Hawaiian chants.
Attendees would sit on mats made of ti leaves, hala, or pandanus trees and eat with their hands.
The centerpiece of these feasts would be grand arrangements of ferns, flowers, and palm leaves.
Legendary Hawaiian luaus include King Kamehameha III’s order of over 4,000 taro plants, 271 pigs, 2,245 coconuts, and 5,000 fish for his celebratory feast in 1847.
Similarly, King Kalakaua hosted over 1,500 guests for his 50th birthday luau celebration in 1883.
The history and traditions of the Hawaiian luau continue to be celebrated today, with modern-day luaus including performances of hula dancing and fire knife dancing, as well as traditional foods like poi, kalua pig, and haupia.
Are you planning to attend a Hawaiian Luau? Here’s what you can expect:
- A traditional lei greeting to welcome you to the event. Remember to wear the lei draped gently over your shoulders and never remove it in front of the person who gave it to you.
- An imu ceremony, where you can witness the fascinating cooking process of the kalua pork in an underground oven.
- A buffet-style dinner with various dishes such as pork, chicken, salmon, poi, potato salad, sweet potatoes, green salads, tropical fruits, and delectable desserts.
- Drinks are usually included in the luau price, with some offering a full open bar and others limiting the offerings to iconic tropical drinks.
- Mesmerizing traditional hula dancing and storytelling performances accompanied by Hawaiian music and chants.
- It is a thrilling finale with a traditional Samoan fire knife dance.
Remember to check with your particular luau for details, but prepare for an unforgettable experience filled with culture, food, and entertainment!
Aloha Kai Luau Opening Hours
The Aloa Kai Lu’au is an exciting event every day except Saturday from 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm.
It’s the perfect opportunity to experience rich Hawaiian cultural traditions through music, dance, and delicious food.
If you’re looking for a fun and memorable activity during your vacation, be sure to check out the Aloa Kai Luau at Sea Life Park.
| Days | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 4:30 pm | 8:15 pm |
| Tuesday | 4:30 pm | 8:15 pm |
| Wednesday | 4:30 pm | 8:15 pm |
| Thursday | 4:30 pm | 8:15 pm |
| Friday | 4:30 pm | 8:15 pm |
| Saturday | Closed | Closed |
| Sunday | 4:30 pm | 8:15 pm |
Schedule And Cultural Activities
| Schedule | Time |
|---|---|
| Check in | 4:30 pm |
| Door opensLei greeting Cultural ActivitiesDemonstrations | 5 pm |
| Buffet dinner | 6 pm |
| Polynesian Show | 7 pm |
| Departure | 8:15 pm |
| Cultural Activities and Demonstrations | Mini – Performances |
|---|---|
| – Polynesian Tattooing – Coconut weaving – Ukulele lesson – Kupe’e making – Hula Implements – Ulu Maika – Fishnet Throwing | – Coconut tree climbing – Coconut Demonstration – Dinner HulasImu – CeremonyHula Lesson |
Aloha Kai Luau Tickets
Experience the vibrant Aloha Kai Luau at Sea Life Park and sink in Hawaiian culture with interactive activities, a buffet feast, and captivating entertainment.
Choose from Gold, Silver, and Bronze options, each offering unique amenities. Enjoy delicious dishes, including greens, traditional poi, kalua pork, assorted cakes, and beverages.
Menu
Ticket Includes
- Admission to Aloha Kai Luau
- Hawaiian buffet
- Lei
- Admission to Sea Life Park (if option selected)
- 1 or 2 drinks (depending on the option selected)
- Souvenir (if option selected)
- Photograph (if option selected)
Aloha Kai Luau Ticket Prices
| Ticket type | Age | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bronze Option | Adult Ticket (18 to 99 years) Youth Ticket (13 to 17 years) Child Ticket(4 to 12 years) Infant Ticket (Up to 3 years) | $125 $114 $104 Free Entry |
| Silver Option | Adult Ticket (18 to 99 years) Youth Ticket (13 to 17 years) Child Ticket (4 to 12 years) Infant Ticket(Up to 3 years) | $166 $146 $125 Free Entry |
| Gold Option | Adult Ticket (18 to 99 years) Youth Ticket (13 to 17 years) Child Ticket (4 to 12 years) Infant Ticket (Up to 3 years) | $224 $203 $182 Free Entry |
What to wear at a Hawaiian Luau?
When attending a Hawaiian luau, you should dress in smart casual. Such a look is comfortable and presentable.
Ladies can opt for casual sundresses, shorts, breathable pants or capris, and a well-fitting top.
Meanwhile, gentlemen can rock nice khaki shorts, loose-fitting chinos, or linen pants paired with an Aloha shirt or similar top.
Dressier flip-flops and sandals are acceptable, as are casual slip-ons.
Remember that you may be by the beach, so choose your footwear accordingly. It’s always a good idea to bring a light sweater or jacket, too, since evenings can get chilly.
Aloha Kai Luau Photos
Featured Image: Sealifeparkluau.com