lauradee

That sounds like a plan to me! Thanks so much.

andyg5056

Have you thought about The Polynesian Cultural Center ?

I can't think o more Hawaiian experience than this. Stroll around at your own pace, many benches to rest thru the park. Learn about the origin of Hawaiian people and their cultures. They have many shows and demonstration thru the whole day. Top if off with a dinner and the must see "Evening Show". My father had enjoyed this place a lot.

suze

But they only have 24 hours total in Honolulu before their cruise. I'm not sure about going to PCC on such a tight schedule.

MichelleY

Yes, this ^. Too bad you didn’t have an extra day on Oahu. Lots of good suggestions here.

andyg5056

Correct, but who said they have to see everything? This place reflects the soul of Hawaii, it's not something you have to see it all. Even if they just went for the dinner and stay for the evening show, still should be a unique & memorable experience.
Planty of info on the internet. If they don't think they'll enjoy it, they don't have to go. For me, I did appreciate when someone pointed this place for me, that was the highlight of our trip.

lauradee

Yes, that sounds wonderful. I'll check with them. Thanks so much!

ChiSue

One luau per trip should suffice, if you want one at all. One of the best in the state is on Maui: The Old Lahaina Luau (in Lahaina, surprise, surprise). The same company does the table service Feast at Lele (also in Lahaina).

The Mormons' Polynesian Cultural Center luau at Laie, Oahu that andyg mentions is quite different (and alcohol-free, of course). It's a high caliber theatrical presentation. I think you can skip the dinner part if you want. There is also the 'village', which we enjoyed many years ago when our DS was young.

At most luau you are paying for the entertainment. The food is decent buffet-style. ASAIK only Feast at Lele has table service -- and an eclectic menu. The Old Lahaina Luau is strictly Hawaiian; no fire dancer. All of these luau have extensive websites.

BTW, 'luau' is both singular and plural. There are no 'luaus' -- and don't mix up the spelling with the word for toilet ('lua')!

suze

Old Lahaina Luau was a highlight of my family's reunion trip to Maui. That and going up Halekala.

I do think it's important for people to know that PCC is run by the Mormon Church (may or may not make a difference to them).

andyg5056

I could not find a better worlds to describe the Evening Show myself. Same goes for everything else in your post too.


Honestly, I never knew that until now. Still wouldn't make a difference for me. I have met and talked to many Mormons, hard to find nicer people if you ask me.

suze

Well some people do care about who is behind something they are supporting. Or maybe just that some people would like to drink mai tais when they attend a luau, which won't happen anywhere at PCC.

andyg5056

Forgive me, I never thought of that since I'm always driving everywhere. My Happy Hour doesn't start until I'm back to the hotel...

jamie99

If the OP and her family want to just see a luau but not eat the food, the Smith Family Luau on Kauai has a "show only" option, it used to be about $15pp. And of course all the islands have free hula shows.

lauradee

Good to know. Thanks!