Should we do The Old Lahaina Luau if we are doing the Polynesian Cultural Center or are they too similar? Also, can't decide between Warren and Annabelles and Ulalena,Maui Myth and Magic Theatre. Just no time to do them all! Thanks!

Hi!

Sorry, I don't have an answer because we are planning to visit Maui in Jan. 2005 but perhaps can suggest the Feast at Lele as another possible Luau. We are debating between the Old Lahaina Luau & the Feast at Lele. Has anyone been to both ? I would also like to know if it is worth going to Ulalena.

Thanks!

I love OLL, but if you're doing the PCC luau, then I would skipp OLL & use the evening to experience something else. I also love W & A - very entertaining & lots of fun. Ulalena is also entertaining, but also has a cultural education aspect to it. They are 2 totally different experiences. I've been to W&A 3 times, & loved it everytime! Feast at Lele isn't a traditional luau - it's wonderful, tho a little pricey.

This reply may be a little too late. But, I think the OLL is the most authentic Luau anywhere. All the locals will say the same from all the islands....just look at other posts. However, keep in mind this is a Hawaiin Luau and you won't see fire dancers and Tahitian hula which is something you may expect. Therefore, the luau at the Cultural Center is for sure different. I have heard their show "horizons" is great...going there myself next month. As far as Ulalena...I did see it and thought it was okay. I remember one number they did seemed like a bad Cirque du Soleil impression. So, my vote is for OLL and then maybe do the Polynesian Cultural Center with the Ambassador dinner (no luau) and catch the Horizons show!

There is no such thing in all of Hawaii as a commercial luau that is "authentic".

I have to agree with Rusty, sort of. The commercial luaus try to make it an educational experience for the tourists, in a way that is palatable and not boring. The reason I say "sort of" is because I also go to non-commercial luaus and they aren't what I would call very Hawaiian....although I like the food a lot better. (All I ever want is the taste of Hawaiian food so I head over to the Waihole Poi Factory! But, I digress.)

You should just do one luau on your trip. I can't speak for the other entertainment options, since it depends what you are looking for.

How you define "authentic"? I also think there are no absolutes.

Have done the OLL and Feast at Lele. My vote goes to OLL. The Feast was at sunset (very nice), but was really hot. The food was good, but not good enough to make up the extra $$. Have been to Warren and Annabelles too. Is now on my list of things to do again and again. It was great.