Luaus?
 

Since we have never been to Hawaii, I'm wondering about attending a luau. Is it something we should do, and if so, what ones are recommended? We will be on Kauai, Maui, the Big Island and possibly Oauh for 2-3 days.

I think Luaus are fun. I also think they have improved dramatically in the 10 years I'v been visiting Hawaii. Maui has several good choices. If you search this board, you will find the pros/cons of each one. I love Hawaiian dance, and I find it just enhances my love of the islands to enjoy performance. Sure, it is touristsy, but the performers do enjoy it. The only island I have not been to a luau is Kauai.

Old Lahaina luau in Maui is wonderful.
Make sure to make your reservation for any luau well in advance.
I also understand the Polynesian Cultural Center's luau in Oahu is wonderful.

I have been to one on Kauai, one on Maui and also the Polynesian Cultural Center. The PCC show is in a rather large theater setting. If I remember correctly (that was 20 years ago) you eat and then go in for the show. The Kauai one was at a hotel. In a word, cheesy. It was Christmas and they wore red and green metallic hula skirts. The best by far (2 years ago) was the Old Lahina show on Maui. Food was great, drinks included, fun activities while you are waiting to get started and the show is very viewable from your table. It is outdoors on the waterfront. Definitely a good experience.

Another recommendation for OLL on Maui. Like you, it was our first trip to Hawaii and we all felt like a Luau was a must. Make reservations FAAAAAR in advance, though.

OLL in Lahaina, Maui has a lovely setting and I think was a good entertainment value.

I also really enjoyed the Luau at the Mauna Kea in south Kohala on The Big Island. Go early, to look at the beautiful beach there.

Forgot to mention- the Mauna Kea luau had by far the best food I've eaten at a luaua.

My family enjoyed Old Lahaina Luau on Maui very much. If you prefer more of a dinner theater setting there is also Feast of Lele in Lahaina.

Polynesain Cultural Center on Oahu has the best Polynesian entertainment in all of Hawaii. But to really apprecite PCC, you need to spend an entire day there. Don't know if you want to spend a full day there if you only have a couple days on Oahu.

Old Lahaina Luau would be my last choice for a luau on Maui. They do not have a fire knife dancer which is the best part of any luau.

Drums of the Pacific at the Hyatt has the best fire knife dancer on Maui.