We will be in Oahu January 15-19, 2004. What is the best luau choice? We are staying at Waikiki Shores on Waikiki Beach. Does anyone know if they provide beach towels? I hate to pack something so bulky.

We were in Oahu just before Thanksgiving. We spent the day at the Polynesian Cultural Center and did their luau and night time show. Very nice. I would not pack towels. If the hotel does not provide them, it is easy and not too expensive to towels up at any ABC store. Beach mats are also available at ABC.

Thanks for the information, Michelle Y.

Two other luaus I've heard about are the Paridise Cove Luau and Germaine's Luau. Does anyone know about these and how they compare to the Polynesian Cultural Center Luau? Also, did you think the Polynesian Cultural Center tour was worth the money? How long did it take?

We are partial to the Polynesian Cultural Center luau also. It offers more value for the money because it includes a terrific night show. You can go for just the luau and night show, but it is better to spend the afternoon and see the village presentations as well.

We did the Royal Hawaiian Luau. It was quite nice. Many locals we talked to said it was the best luau on Oahu. I believe you can get a discounted rate by booking on the Internet. Try the Royal Hawaiian website for details.

Helen in Hawaii. Could you email us when you have time please? ([email protected])

Have some questions, we're first timers, we're hoping you can answer. Thank you

My daughter was just there in December and absolutely loved the luau at Paradise Cove.

A few things to remember: The Polynesian Cultural Center is a very long drive from Waikiki, so if you choose it you might want to take a bus there, and it's run by BYU, so no alcohol or caffeine are served. The Royal Hawaiian luau is right in Waikiki, but I think it only runs on Monday nights.

For the first-timers seeking Helen, just a note that this thread is over 1 year old so she may or may not still be reading on Fodors.