Woman taking a photo with a group of performers in traditional Polynesian costume smiling for a photo at the Ha: Breath of Life show at the Polynesian Cultural Center, with the vibrant stage set and audience in the background.

Our Review of the Polynesian Cultural Center Luau

ByKody B

As a local who has experienced my fair share of Hawaiian luaus, I’ve developed a keen eye for the details that make these events truly special. Having attended multiple luaus across the islands, I’ve seen the best and the not-so-great. 

So, believe me when I say that the Polynesian Cultural Center Luau (PCC) is an experience that’s genuinely worth the money.

In this post, I’m excited to share my insights and experiences from our recent visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center. From touring the beautifully recreated island villages to enjoying the delicious luau feast and being blown away by the spectacular HA: Breath of Life show, I’ll cover it all.

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    Why Is the Polynesian Cultural Center Worth the Money?

    The Polynesian Cultural Center is more than just a luau; it’s an immersive cultural experience. We ranked the PCC as the best luau on Oahu because it offers a complete package of hands-on activities, demonstrations, and performances that showcase the rich culture and traditions of Polynesia.

    While it’s impossible to learn everything about the diverse cultures of Polynesia in one day and at a luau, for that matter, the center does an excellent job of giving visitors a taste of each island’s unique traditions and customs.

    From learning to cook traditional dishes to participating in traditional dances and attending various recreated villages, the PCC provides an interactive and educational experience you won’t find at many other luaus on the island.

    Also, the HA: Breath of Life show is a must-see and worth the money. The performances are top-notch, and the special effects and storytelling will leave you breathless. Out of the many luaus we’ve attended in Hawaii, this is the best luau show we’ve seen.

    A visitor poses with performers in traditional Polynesian attire after the 'Ha: Breath of Life' show at the Polynesian Cultural Center, set against a vibrant backdrop of a tropical stage with theatrical lighting.
    After the HA: Breath of Life Show

    Our Experience at the Polynesian Cultural Center

    I want to preface this by saying that your experience will depend on the package you choose.

    We opted for the Ali’i Luau Package, which included a group-guided tour of the island villages, the Ali’i Luau buffet, and gold-level seating at the HA: Breath of Life show. We will go over the different packages later on, but for now, let me share how our day unfolded.

    As soon as we arrived, there was a welcome show that gave us a first glimpse into the cultural experiences ahead. After this initial introduction, we moved on to the check-in process, which was efficient.

    We then checked in and met with our tour guide, along with 6-8 other people in our group. Having fewer people in one group made the experience feel more focused and allowed for some customization.

    Our guide was considerate in asking us about our specific interests, recognizing that it’s impossible to cover everything in one visit. This approach made our experience feel more tailored to our preferences.

    A man in a blue shirt stands by a sign for "Ali'i Luau Tours" at the Polynesian Cultural Center, with a carved tiki statue to his left and a large blue umbrella above, amidst lush greenery and a covered seating area.

    Island Villages and Cultural Activities Review

    We started the day by touring the islands of Aotearoa (New Zealand), where we participated in traditional Māori activities like twirling poi balls.

    We also watched the artists carve weapons, learned about cooking and food preservation, and learned the significance of the famous Māori tattoos.

    We finished the experience by watching and learning about ancient games taught to Māori children to test their skills. And, of course, we watched the powerful haka performance.

    Next, we visited our favorite island, the beautiful island of Samoa. We learned how to start a fire with two sticks, open a coconut using a small rock, and watched traditional cooking demonstrations.

    This is also where we saw the famous coconut tree climb, where young men climb the 40-foot coconut tree barefoot. I don’t know what it is about the coconut tree climbing, but there is just something exhilarating about it.

    Also, if you love to be entertained, don’t miss the island of Samoa! The performers were incredibly talented and had us laughing throughout the entire show. If you want to have a great time while learning about the culture, Samoa is a must-visit island.

    Visitors approaching a traditional Maori meeting house with intricate red carvings and a figure on the rooftop at the Polynesian Cultural Center, walking along a palm-lined path under a clear sky.
    Island of Aotearoa
    A Haka performance at the Polynesian Cultural Center with six men in traditional Maori attire, performing a powerful dance on a stage adorned with Maori patterns and carvings under a high ceiling with fans.
    Island of Aotearoa
    Tourists engaging in cultural activities on a grassy area surrounded by bamboo and palm trees at the Polynesian Cultural Center, with a thatched hut in the background and a clear blue sky above.
    Island of Aotearoa
    A man poses with a Polynesian performer outside the KAP Culture and Art Gallery at the Polynesian Cultural Center, showcasing traditional attire, with other visitors browsing art and crafts under the thatched roof of the gallery.
    Island of Samoa
    Performers demonstrate traditional Samoan cultural activities at the Polynesian Cultural Center, with one man addressing the audience while another shreds a coconut, all under the rustic thatched roof of a Samoan fale.
    Island of Samoa
    Visitors watch a performer climbing a tall coconut tree at the Polynesian Cultural Center, set against a vivid blue sky with tropical palm trees and thatched-roof structures surrounding the lush green lawn.

    Next, it was time to take the canoe ride around the lagoon, where we learned about ancient navigation techniques and heard stories about the islands. It was a peaceful and informative ride that allowed us to take in the beauty of the PCC.

    Note: we somehow managed to break away from our group after the coconut tree climbing. There were so many people around us, and we were too busy taking photos. 

    We asked for help locating our tour guide and met them on the other side of the lagoon. Make sure you are paying attention and stay with the group so you don’t miss out on any of the experiences.

    A guided boat tour on a lagoon at the Polynesian Cultural Center, with a guide in traditional red and black attire standing at the helm and passengers seated in the wooden boat, surrounded by lush tropical foliage and a sign reading 'Hale Ohana'.

    Next, it was time to visit the Islands of Hawaii, where we learned about their traditions and culture through dance and song. We tried our hand at lauhala weaving, watched a traditional hula performance, and tested freshly made poi. 

    Next, we headed to the Islands of Fiji, where the performers demonstrated their strength and agility through traditional dances. We also got to see a demonstration of how they make coconut oil. We even got temporary tattoos and took in the beautiful views of the six-story temple.

    Lastly, we stopped by the beautiful  Islands of Tonga, where we had so much fun participating in the cultural activities. We learned to dance while sitting down and watched brave audience members dance on stage. This part of the event reminded us of our time at the Chief’s Luau since it was so engaging with lots of audience participation.

    We didn’t get to visit the Islands of Tahiti since we ran out of time and had to head to the luau part of the event. We planned to return another day since you get free 3-day access to the island villages.

    A vibrant Polynesian cultural performance indoors with a thatched roof; four musicians in traditional yellow and brown attire play ukulele and guitar while a dancer in a blue dress performs in the foreground. Audience members seated in the background watch and capture the moment.
    Island of Hawaii
    An engaging performance at a Polynesian cultural center, featuring a musician seated playing an ʻipu (traditional Hawaiian gourd instrument) and a male dancer in mid-motion wearing a malo and lei. The indoor setting has a high thatched roof, with spectators in the background enjoying the show.
    Island of Hawaii
    Traditional Polynesian thatched-roof structure at the Polynesian Cultural Center, with a tall, pointed roof and an open window set in a wall of lava rock, surrounded by lush tropical foliage.
    Island of Fiji
    A couple poses in front of an authentic Polynesian voyaging canoe under a high wooden roof at the Polynesian Cultural Center, with visitors in the background admiring the exhibit.
    Island of Fiji
    A visitor at the Polynesian Cultural Center observes a local artisan demonstrating traditional tattooing techniques beside a Polynesian canoe under a sheltered exhibit space
    Island of Fiji
    Man in a blue sleeveless top and sunglasses, flexing his arm to show a tattoo, stands in front of a stone wall with tropical foliage and a thatched roof structure in the background.
    Island of Fiji
    A man stands beside the Tonga village sign at the Polynesian Cultural Center, with a traditional thatched-roof hut in the background amidst lush tropical vegetation.
    Visitors participate in a cultural demonstration at the Polynesian Cultural Center, with one of the Tongan presenters in traditional attire instructing on stage surrounded by palm trees.
    Island of Tonga

    Luau and Dinner Review

    After visiting the islands, it was time for the much-awaited luau and dinner. Our host walked us to the Ali’i Luau venue (Hale Aloha), where we were greeted with traditional flower leis and a warm “aloha.” 

    We were then ushered to our seats and offered a refreshing tropical drink in a pineapple. After spending the whole day touring the villages, the drink was what we needed to cool off and relax.

    During dinner, we got to enjoy the Royal Court procession, the imu ceremony, and traditional Hawaiian entertainment.

    A smiling man with a lei standing in front of the Hale Aloha sign at the Polynesian Cultural Center, with tropical trees and a pathway leading to a luau in the background.
    Female dancers in elegant burgundy dresses performing with lit torches at a Polynesian Cultural Center luau dinner, with guests dining in the foreground and a waterfall in the background.
    A man in a grey cap and blue shirt enjoying a tropical drink from a pineapple with a straw, adorned with a purple lei, at a busy luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center.
    A band of musicians in colorful aloha shirts performing under a thatched hut at the Polynesian Cultural Center luau on Oahu, with a backdrop of a rock formation and cascading waterfalls.

    Review of the Cultural Presentations

    Let’s start with the imu ceremony, a traditional Hawaiian cooking method in an underground oven. Usually, the ceremony begins with unearthing the pig from the imu (underground oven), which would then be presented to you during dinner.

    Except a few, many luaus in Hawaii no longer show the entire process of unearthing the pig. The PCC did the same thing when they brought the already-cooked pig on stage and showed it to the crowd. However, they did explain the process and history behind the imu ceremony, which was informative and interesting.

    Side Note: if you are looking for a much smaller luau on Oahu, check out our reviews of the Toa Luau at Waimea Valley or the Experience Nutridge Luau in Honolulu. 

    Overall, the imu ceremony was okay, given that it wasn’t the whole experience. Not seeing the entire process was disappointing, but we probably feel this way because we went to the Smith’s Luau on Kauai right before the PCC and got a complete demonstration of a real imu ceremony.

    I will say that the PCC is a way bigger luau, and I can see why it would be challenging to do the entire process.

    The Royal Court Procession and cultural presentations were all done well. The performers were energetic, talented, and passionate about their culture. They also engaged with the audience, making us feel like we were a part of the show.

    Note: During dinner and the cultural performances, a lot was going on at the same time. Try not to miss what’s happening because you’re focused on something else, like getting food or eating.

    Musicians in vibrant orange and yellow attire play traditional Polynesian music, with dancers performing an Imu ceremony in the background at the Polynesian Cultural Center.
    Imu Ceremony
    Performers in traditional Polynesian attire during the royal court processions at the Polynesian Cultural Center, with lush greenery and a rock wall in the background, enhancing the ambiance.
    Royal Court Procession

    The Buffet

    I wasn’t expecting much from the dinner, given its a “buffet.” I’ve been to many luaus, and most food is usually just okay. However, the quality and variety of food at the PCC luau was good enough for us. To be fair, this is a buffet-style type of food, so don’t expect gourmet cuisine.

    They had a good selection of traditional Hawaiian dishes, such as kalua pork, lomi lomi salmon, haupia pudding (my favorite), and many other dishes. They also had some American options for those who might not be as adventurous with their food choices.

    What impressed me about the dinner was how well-organized it was. I was a little worried when I realized that our table would be one of the last ones to get food (since we were in the back), but they had everything under control. There were multiple stations serving the same food, so there was never a long line. 

    Array of traditional Polynesian dishes on a luau buffet line at the Polynesian Cultural Center, labeled for guests, with a decorative backdrop featuring Hawaiian flora.
    A buffet station at the Polynesian Cultural Center luau with 'IMU PIG' signage, a server in a blue shirt and black skirt, and guests dining in the background surrounded by tropical scenery.
    Dessert buffet table at the Polynesian Cultural Center luau, featuring an assortment of sweet treats including cakes and pastries, with guests seated in the background enjoying a performance.
    Fresh fruit buffet display at the Polynesian Cultural Center luau, with labeled selections of kiwi, bananas, and pineapple, set against a backdrop featuring Hawaiian cultural images.

    HA: Breath of Life Show Review

    I had heard a lot about the HA: Breath of Life show at the PCC and was excited to see it. It turned out to be an incredible experience.

    The show tells the story of Mana, a young boy, and his journey through life. It’s a simple yet powerful story that I found engaging.

    The first thing that struck me was the scale of the production. The stage was huge, and the use of fire and lighting effects made it all the more impressive. It felt like a big-budget production, which isn’t something I’ve seen at all luaus.

    The performers were terrific. You could tell they put their heart and soul into every dance and chant. It wasn’t just a performance; it felt like they were sharing a piece of their culture with us. I was particularly impressed by how athletic and graceful they were too.

    The costumes were another highlight. They were colorful and detailed, adding so much to the visual spectacle.

    As I mentioned before, this is the best luau show we have seen and the one I keep returning to when my friends and family visit us.

    A vibrant night scene at the Polynesian Cultural Center Luau in Oahu, featuring performers in traditional Polynesian attire dancing with torches under dramatic stage lighting and smoke effects, with a lush, tropical backdrop.
    Guests taking photos on stage after a luau show at the Polynesian Cultural Center, with guests standing by and a vibrant, illuminated tropical backdrop at night.

    Polynesian Cultural Center Packages 

    The Polynesian Cultural Center offers a variety of packages to suit different interests and budgets. 

    Each package provides a unique way to experience the rich culture of Polynesia. 

    The packages include:

    • Super Ambassador Luau Package: This premium option includes a private guided tour, kukui nut lei greeting, fresh flower lei greeting, Ali’i Luau buffet with live entertainment, platinum seating at the HA: Breath of Life show, and additional benefits like reserved seating, free digital photo, and more.
    • Ali’i Luau Package: Features a group-guided tour, Ali’i Luau buffet with dinner and entertainment, fresh flower lei greeting, and gold-level seating for the evening show. You also get other perks like a free digital photo. This is the most popular option and the one we chose. Make sure to book in advance, as they usually sell out.
    • Gateway Buffet Package: This package offers a self-guided tour, a Gateway Buffet dinner with live music, and silver-level seating at the evening show.
    • Islands of Polynesia & HA: Breath of Life Package: Includes a self-guided tour, bronze-level seating at the evening show, free digital photo, but dinner is not included.

    You can check prices for the Polynesian Cultural Center here.

    Tips When Visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center

    Here are some tips to make the most out of your visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center:

    • Plan ahead: Research the various packages and decide which suits your interests and budget. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular options like the Ali’i Luau Package.
    • Arrive early: There’s a lot to see and do, so arriving early can help you make the most of your day. 
    • Wear comfortable clothes and shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking and possibly participating in activities, so comfort is key. We have a complete guide on what to wear to a luau, so be sure to check it out.
    • Stay hydrated: The Hawaiian sun can be intense, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
    • Respect the culture: The Polynesian Cultural Center is a living museum and cultural attraction, so respect the traditions and customs of the people you encounter.
    •  Ask questions: The staff at the Polynesian Cultural Center are knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions you may have about the various cultures represented.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Here are some common questions we get asked regarding luaus in Hawaii:

    Do You Tip at the Polynesian Cultural Center Luau?

    Tipping is not required but is greatly appreciated for exceptional service. If your host is doing an excellent job, feel free to show your appreciation with a small tip. 

    Given how awesome our host was, we didn’t feel any pressure to tip, but we thought it was the right thing to do.

    How Many Hours Do You Need at the Polynesian Cultural Center?

    To fully experience the PCC, you should plan to spend a generous amount of time there. The center offers a full-day experience, typically opening in the early afternoon (12:30 pm) and closing around 9:00 pm. 

    You should plan to spend at least eight hours there to make the most of your visit. This duration allows you to tour the island villages, attend the luau, and watch the show.

    All ticket options at the PCC include a free 3-day pass to the island villages. If you can’t cover everything in one day, or if there are attractions you want to revisit, you can return and explore them on a different day.

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