Heading to Hawaii soon? If you’re like many vacationers to the islands, you are probably contemplating if you should add a luau to your excursion list.
Over my past few trips, my husband and I have been to a few different luaus on the island of Oahu. Each one offers something special- and they vary in price, food quality, and entertainment level.
But hands down, our favorite to date is one of the newest luaus on the island.
The Diamond Head Beach Luau is hosted at the Waikiki Aquarium, which is right on Waikiki Beach. We found it through Groupon, at a great rate of $204 for two people. This was for the VIP admission. The regular price was a little lower, but I think the extra cost was definitely worth the upgraded experience.
Thanks to the VIP ticket, we got early entry into the aquarium and avoided the lines. After checking out the aquarium (which we loved!), we headed out to beautiful grass area behind the aquarium that overlooks the ocean.
For about an hour before the dinner, there were performers demonstrating different Hawaiian cultural activities. From making leis to learning the traditional hula, there was so much to take in. At the same time, you get to watch the beautiful Hawaiian sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Seating for dinner is at assigned tables, with VIP ticket holders sitting up front. Another advantage of the VIP ticket is that you are served dinner at your table instead of buffet style. Either option is beautifully done, but I have to say all the perks of the VIP experience definitely added up.
At dinner the food was endless. Make sure you come hungry! The food was wonderful and featured all the classic Hawaiian favorites- pork, ahi poke, fresh local fish, chicken, fruit, rice, salad, bread, dessert, and so much more. You definitely get your fill! Still want more for later? They are happy to box up your leftovers (which there are bound to be some), too.
As dinner winds down, the performance begins with traditional dances from may of the different islands of Polynesian. The host of show gives a brief background on each dance. And then the eight performers- four women and four men- dane beautifully to each song, which is also performed by a live band.
The whole night wraps up with a pair of fire-dancers. No matter how many times I see a performance like this, I’m always blown away.
Throughout the whole evening the staff were extremely welcoming and very cordial. As one of the last things we did on this last trip, it was really the perfect cap off to our vacation.
So, if you are lucky enough to be planning a trip to Oahu, make sure to look into the Diamond Head Beach Laua. I know you won’t be disappointed!!
