Embrace the Aloha spirit at 3 Honolulu hotel luaus

Hula dancers, fire breathers, tropical drinks and authentic fare: the perfect luau at Hilton Hawaiian Village.

By Susan Johnston

Like shaved ice and the gentle strumming of a ukulele, luaus are quintessential Hawaii. And many of the larger Honolulu hotels host their own luaus or other shows to get help guests get in the mood without the long drive. Looking for Hawaii travel deals? Here are a few options for your next vacation.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa
Stretched across 22 oceanfront acres, the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa features more than 20 restaurants and lounges, plus 90 shops, a 10,000-square-foot-pool, and, of course, a luau under the stars. The Hilton’s popular Waikiki Starlight Luau includes fire-dancing, a Hawaiian fashion show, ample opportunities for audience participation, and a large buffet with Hawaiian, American and Asian food. The buffet even has a kids’ station in case picky eaters aren’t as excited about local cuisine.

Sheraton Princess Kaiulani
Less than a block from the beach and Waikiki’s best shopping and dining options, the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani was built on land previously inhabited by the young Hawaiian princess, Kaiulani. During the hotel’s Polynesian-themed dinner show, Creation—A Polynesian Journey, guests enjoy a lavish Polynesian dinner, awe-inspiring production values, a Samoan knife dance, and more. This mesmerizing performance celebrates the richness of Polynesian culture through song and dance, transporting audiences back in time as they watch volcanic eruptions and learn about the islands’ past.

Ko Olina Beach Villas Resort
Located 20 miles west of Honolulu, the Ko Olina Beach Villas Resort gives guests proximity to Honolulu Airport with a quiet, more secluded vibe, complete with free parking, a spaand a variety of recreational sports. The resort is also known for its Paradise Cove luau, which features award-winning performers and a menu of traditional Hawaiian and American food. A shell lei greeting upon arrival, live Hawaiian music and storytelling, cooking and arts and craft demonstrations, a Royal Court Procession and a Shower of Flowers create a lavish feast for all the senses, all set against a breathtaking Hawaii sunset.

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Susan Johnston is a freelance writer outside Boston. Much as she loves New England, she hopes to return to the sun and sand of Oahu in the near future.

Tagged: Hawaii, Hotels