Given the cultural significance, it’s no surprise that many West Maui visitors have put “attend a lū’au” firmly atop their must-do activities list. And although we may be a tad biased, the lū’aus on our side of the island are some of Hawaii’s best. While all closed as a result of the August 2023 wildfire, most have reopened, and Chase ‘N Rainbows has created an easy West Maui lū’au guide to help you find what’s available, including some new ones.
Find the Best West Maui Lū’au
Drums of the Pacific | 808-667-4727
Maui Nui | 877-846-5554
Myths of Maui | 833-539-5150
Old Lāhainā | 808-667-1998
Sunset Lū’au | (808) 662-6627
Tales of the Kapa Moe | 808-665-7089
Wailele Polynesian Lū’au | 808-661-2992
What to Know Before Attending Your First West Maui Lū’au
Before you attend a lū’au for the first time, you should know a few things.
- Experience: A lū’au is a combination of feast and festivities, and more importantly, it shares the culture of Hawaii. Some Maui lū’au shows may be dedicated specifically to Hawaiian culture, while others embrace Polynesia with exciting fire knife dances. There may be lei greetings, cultural demonstrations or activities, but all offer an abundance of delicious food, tropical cocktails, and storytelling through music and dance.
- Food: Nearly all lū’aus will have traditional foods like shredded smoky kalua pork, fish poke, poi, and haupia coconut pudding. You’ll find a variety of familiar entrees, salads, starches, and sides from abundant buffets to sample everything and eat as much as you want! Many include an open bar serving your favorite tropical cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Attire: Attire for lū’aus can be dressy or casual, depending on the lū’au you choose. We recommend shopping on Maui for an Aloha shirt paired with slacks/shorts or a dress available in both bright or muted colors and patterns to suit your style and taste. Wear a flower on your left ear, which means you’re taken, and on your right to signify your availability! Casual beach footwear, including flip-flops, is allowed, and you may find yourself barefoot before night’s end!
- Cost: An authentic lū’au experience can last two to four hours and starts at around $100 per guest. Prices vary greatly depending on the amenities, menu, inclusions, upgrades, deals, and production costs. Cash tips are always appreciated unless otherwise noted at the lū’au.
- Reservations: Advance reservations are strongly recommended since they often sell out weeks or months in advance. Lū’aus are extremely popular and one of the top things to do in West Maui.
Discover Your West Maui Vacation Rental
Cultural immersion is a cornerstone of any vacation experience, so when you come to West Maui, we encourage you to attend at least one lū’au. The dedication it takes to execute such a performance is extraordinary, and you’ll enjoy an authentic cultural experience. We promise it’s something you’ll never forget. In the meantime, we invite you to peruse our vacation condo rentals, which offer the perfect combination of luxury and affordability, all on or near the beach. Book your stay online and start planning your Maui getaway today!