Treating ourselves to what may prove to be a once-in-a-lifetime stay at the Royal Hawaiian, we chose to make reservations at the hotel's own Aha'aina Luau. We were not disappointed. The courtesy and attentiveness of the service was unparalleled, the passion and energy of the young performers was a joy, and the storyteller hosting the entertainment was knowledgeable of the lore of the location and culture. The food delicious (I recommend especially the Ahi tuna). Hard to beat the setting as the sun slowly set, the surf struck its rhythm, and mighty Diamond Head was always there in the background. read more

We took some family visiting from the mainland to this luau after having a good experience here 6 years prior. I haven't actually been to any other luau, but this one delivers on the entertainment, food, and beautiful location. When we came 6 years ago, the food was served buffet style, but now it is all table service. I didn't mind at all since it was still plenty of food (couldn't finish it all). It's also a plus for any visitors who have difficulty walking. The meal is served in courses, featuring many classic local dishes. Some highlights were the poke, kalbi, garlic shrimp, and assorted desserts. There is poi included as a part of the snacks for the table along with chips and smoked fish dip. Tickets for the luau also include 3 drink tickets per person. Entertainment consisted of live music and hula performances during dinner, followed by the main show afterwards. Everything narrated by the host who was very knowledgeable. The show tells the history of Hawaii through song and dance-- while definitely an abridged version, it was a nice, educational overview for tourists. The highlight was definitely the fire dancer! Service throughout the night was excellent. We appreciated the staff being open to our request for a song, which the band included in their song list during the dinner. We're glad we chose the Aha'aina Luau again and it has now become a tradition to bring our guests here! read more

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We really enjoyed going to the Aha'aina Luau at the Royal Hawaiian! It was one of the highlights of our trip to Waikiki. The outdoor table settings and view are first class. The service was excellent and we enjoyed the wide selection of Hawaiian luau dishes. The show is very entertaining, we enjoyed every performance from the hula girls to the fire dancers. Would highly recommend going to this first class luau. read more

Aha’aina Luau - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Most beautiful hotel and beautiful beach background for aha'aina luau. Staff was so accommodating and attentive. The food was so fresh and professionally made. The mango appetizer was the best I ever had. As well as the smoked fish dip and chicken. The performances were so delightful and varying. My only complaint was that I booked quite early and premium package: And my table was on the front but outskirts, the rail for the side stairs obstructed our view, especially for the grand finale - what I was most excited to see. However I would come again and just make a request for a different spot read more

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Spectacular beach front setting with sunset experience. Group event, food and service was great. Show was entertaining with history of Hawaii and the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. A luxurious luau. read more

We absolutely love this luau and come every time we visit Oahu! The storytelling and show are amazing, and the food is really delicious! The drinks are also great, and each entry comes with 3 drink tickets! The staff and servers are also so welcoming and kind - our toddler can't stop talking about our server Sarah, and has asked multiple times to go back to the luau to see her again! Would definitely recommend! read more

We loved every minute of it. Educational at beginning - showing different arts and food preparation. Food was unique with a sample of each ethnic item. We were very full. Program was excellent - lots of history and dancing. Enjoyed the fire dancer and hula dancers! Worth every penny!!! read more

Aha’aina Luau - Hula dancing at Sunset!!! - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Amazing show, welcoming family atmosphere, great views, historic setting, great drinks, really tasty food, and excellent service. The Royal Hawaiian has the best service at every level. The show is very entertaining and has an educational theme with a friendly introduction to the history of Hawaii and Hawaiian culture. Has the spirit of Aloha. I highly recommend it. read more

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Don't make our mistake. Tickets for this show were $240 at the door. We paid $276 through the tour agents. The show was good, food was plenty. read more

Ah, nothing like a romantic luau to really make you feel like you're vacationing in the Hawaiian islands. I know it's touristy, sometimes gimicky, but luaus let you bask in the glory and beauty of being able to be fortunate enough to vacation in Hawaii. You get dinner, a show, and the most beautiful ambiance. I remember going to my first luau (Paradise Cove in Oahu) on a school field trip in junior high, where us kids had a blast. My first luau as an adult was with my husband on a magical evening when we were sans baby in beautiful Maui. And now this was my third luau - this time with our sweet 6 month old baby and my parents. Each luau has been memorable in its own way. While this is not my favorite luau, it was exactly what we needed. It was the only luau within walking distance of our hotel that overlooked the beach. Huge bonus. Most of the other luaus in Waikiki didn't face the ocean. Also, it's situated in the historic Royal Hawaiian Hotel, another perk. Just walking through this gorgeous hotel was fun itself. But most importantly for us, it was so baby friendly. Going into this, I was fully prepared to miss some if not all of the show with baby in tow. Our sweet little almost 6 month old, though little, has a huge pair of lungs. And of course I didn't want to disturb other patrons. We booked a luau anyway because we wanted my parents aka sweet baby's best grandparents, to experience everything on their first Hawaii trip, including a luau. The best part of the luau for me was that there was a nice area in the far back with rocking chairs, away from the patrons but still in view of the show. When my baby was grumpy, all I had to do was grab my plate/drink, take a seat in the rocking chair, and I could tend to my baby while still being able to enjoy my meal and show. This was such a huge unexpected blessing. No angry stares from patrons, baby and mommy get to be away and still not miss out on any of the fun - what a win win. I was so happy. The food was pretty good. The first part was a little bento box with fresh fruit, shrimp kimchi salad, potato salad, salad greens, and poi. Very refreshing and easy to eat. It was a nice opening to the full meal. The second part was the entree, which came with giant portions of chicken, salmon, kalua pork, and corn on the cob. I couldn't finish all the food so my husband and dad both happily divvied up all the extra meat. The proteins were all cooked really well. I enjoyed the chicken most. The kalua wasn't dry at all. The salmon was flake off the fork. And finally there was a little dessert cup with some huapai. Not the best luau food I've had. The best was definitely the one in Maui. But this was still really good. Each ticket comes with 2 drink vouchers. We had a grand time enjoying these drinks. The only one who really took advantage of the alcoholic beverages was my dad. He loved his Blue Hawaiians. But everyone else really enjoyed the virgin pina coladas. We had a few extra vouchers in the end so we finished them up by getting a few bottles of water to bring back to our hotel. The entertainment was very fun, lively, and engaging. Of the 3 luaus I've been to, it was probably on the weaker side, but it was still so much fun. It's always fun learning about Hawaiian history, viewing fire dancers and hula dancers, all under a tropical sky. Ultimately, we were so grateful we were able to all enjoy such a wonderful night even with a little 6 month old baby. Everyone, including baby, had a great time. Thank you for giving us such a wonderful night with sweet memories. read more

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Everything was horrendous other than the service. Food was bad. Drinks were so watered down that I had to run to the real bar next door to get decent ones. The show itself was mediocre at best. The non-native white host was very good at memorization of Hawaiian names but otherwise annoying and cringey. It was not even remotely close to being worth the cost. Don't go. read more

I had higher expectations for this luau, but sadly it disappointed me in many ways. Location: I loved that this luau was centrally located in Waikiki at the Royal Hawaiian. No need to take a shuttle. The luau was to be held on the beachfront Ocean Lawn. But to my disappointment our luau was set up in the banquet room adjacent to the Ocean Lawn. I did inquire about the change in venue. The gentleman who checked us in said there was 50% chance of rain in the forecast so out of abundance of caution the luau was set up indoors. I can understand the show erring on the side of caution, still I was disappointed. By the way, it didn't rain during this luau. The acoustics in the banquet room need some adjustment. The band played during seating, but the sound amplified so much so that after a while it became very unpleasant. Maybe they didn't compensate for the indoor setting? Food and Service: The food was great. The menu offered a wide variety of tastes, however, it was served lukewarm. The banquet server wasn't super friendly either. She had more of a gruff wham-bam-thank you-ma'am attitude. We were really missing the aloha spirit. Entertainment: The show felt more like a Vegas production. The host was fine (if you're into the Wayne Newton vibe). He wasn't very engaging with the crowd and it felt very scripted. The performers were fantastic though. I liked that the show incorporated Hawaiian history into the performance. Paying $260 per person for this luau I expected more out of this experience. I'll probably explore other options before considering Aha'aina Luau again. read more

The ambience was beautiful. The service was the best I've ever had. Grant took excellent care of our party. The food was fantastic the story telling during the luau was amazing. the dancers and costumes were unbelievable. During the cocktail hour there are tables with tattoos (temporary and local ladies teaching how ancient Hawaiians made cloth from bark. Great time read more

This was our second trip to Hawaii and second stay at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki. We absolutely loved this luau which is held there. Sure, the vibe here is your typical cliche, touristy experience but you won't be disappointed. The service, food, entertainment and setting are phenomenal. You can't beat the backdrop of Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean right behind the stage, and we got 3 free drink tickets each. There are also some fun activities for people to take part in prior to the entertainment starting such as applying temporary tattoos and demonstrations on how the Hawaiians made fabric. Definitely recommend if you're looking for a great time! read more

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Food served at table vs buffet. Plenty of food, left feeling satisfied but not stuffed. The lawn area with the beach and ocean just steps away was great along with the sunset view. As it was my wife's birthday she was presented a little extra birthday dessert decoration and a glass of champagne to mark the occasion. The show is excellent and informative regarding the evolution of Hawaii and Honolulu. Performers act as if it's their 1st time putting on the show, not stale or jaded. read more

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Had the pastor tacos. Meat had great flavor and Shell did not break keeping the meat intake with the onions and cilantro

I appreciate this luau as described. It is pretty different from most luaus as this one literally tells stories. I've been to many luaus and by far is is probably the most untraditional in a sense where they don't do the imu and serve traditional Hawaiian food. They serve a 3 course meal. Food was okay, nothing too spectacular. But I will say the corn was hella good haha. Random. I would have definitely love to get down on some chicken long rice and laulau. The entertainment is great. I love Tihati and all that they do. Their staff and performance is awesome. The staff serving us is awesome as well, the drink service and politeness. So many people that have been working there for over 30years. So much to be appreciated there. I love that they offered a child meal for our son. The environment is beautiful as it's near the ocean. I do love that the crowd is much smaller as well! Definitely recommend! I didn't give 5 stars because of the price and food. read more

Aha’aina Luau - My kanaka maoli son watching his roots - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Beautiful setting for an entertaining and informative evening. Food was pretty good for a luau (never my favorite). Drinks were great. It is an excellent show with live music, well choreographed hula and an exciting Tahitian ending with dance, drums and fire! read more

Way overpriced. Show as mediocre.......Food was average. Paying over Five hundred dollars for a couple is far too much for this experience.

"That was amazing. It was a cultural experience" said my 12 year old after the luau. We loved it! My entire family was delighted with the food, service, ambiance and show... even my very picky 7 year old. The kids want to go back to see the fire show from the beach later this week. I highly recommend the experience. It was totally worth the money. read more

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The show itself was fantastic it's the food that I have the complaints about. Yes I am a very picky eater but the food was just awful. You're paying for the atmosphere and the show, definitely not for the food. read more

I booked for 4 adults and one child. When we arrived they had us down for three adults and one child. I showed the person at the front and he tried to say I didn't pay. I had to pull up my receipt and prove it which is fine. Then when we got to the table a second person asked, and I had to show it again and then midway through a manager or somebody else came up and asked and wanted to see the receipt of payment. I felt like a criminal and I had actually paid for all of the seats. It was absolutely ridiculous. It was not only us this happened too. We heard another couple same thing. If it was just the fact that they'd ask once, obviously to prove that we had paid for the ticket. I completely understand, but the fact that I was made to feel like a criminal throughout the whole event was terrible. The food was not great also. read more

Outstanding performance and meal! This was truly the highlight of our trip to Oahu! Food: WOW 10/10 - seriously the best food we had on our vacation! Plate #1 - the kimchi seafood salad was AMAZING I was surprised there were 2 large shrimp and a scallop on top, the potato salad is the best potato salad I have ever had, and you can't go wrong with fresh Hawaiian fruit either! Plate #2 - there was so much food on plate # 1 I was pretty full for plate 2 but what I did eat was amazing! The Huli Huli chicken was flavorful and moist! The salmon was truly infused with the misoyaki flavor, and the kalua park was the best we had not he island! Dessert - amazing, can I please have some shipped to my house in Michigan? I am having withdrawals! Show: The MC was great! I thought he was well spoken and very charismatic. The dancers were amazing and we loved the history they portrayed with their dances. Was great to hear the history of not only Waikiki and the Hawaiian Islands, but also the Royal Hawaiian Hotel! If you are looking for a Luau to attend in Oahu I HIGHLY recommend the Aha'aina at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel! read more

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If you are visiting Hawai'i, then a Luau is definitely something you want to do. Partly because of proximity but also because it was a smaller sized Luau, we chose the Aha Aina Luau at the Royal Hawaiian hotel. The Luau is outside with the stage backed to the beach front and ocean, providing an excellent backdrop. The service was above par, our server was attentive, professional and pleasant. You have two options when making your reservations we chose the upgrade as it was only a few dollars more. After researching Luau's, one of the recommendations for the Royal Hawaiian location was to request to be seated center or right as there is a restaurant, located on the left side, which can be distracting, I completely agree, and recommend the same. Upon being seated, our server took our drink order. The first plate arrived shortly after everyone was seated, without question the potato salad was the hit of the night. The rest of the first plate was delightful, all of the items were full of flavor with fresh produce. The kimchi seafood salad was a little spicy, but for me that made it even better. The main course or second plate, unfortunately, not pictured consisted of House-Made seasonal pickles, Misoyaki Salmon, salmon, Kiawe Smoked Chicken, Kalua, Pork, Kahuku Corn, and jasmine rice. The salmon was the best of the plate, perfectly cooked and well seasoned. The chicken unfortunately was over cooked and dry, the pork was greasy and not really that great. That is the reason for the four stars and not five. The dessert or sweet plate was very good, not a fan of flourless cakes, but it was tasty. Now to the reason we were all there for, the entertainment. While you're waiting for your first plate, they have several of the cast positioned around and on the stage providing either temporary tattoos consistent with Hawaiian history. Others showed how fabric was made from local tree bark, colored, or printed to symbolize the tribe, island, and other information. The entertainment proceeded throughout the entire meal, which included music, dance, the host gave extensive historical information about Hawaii and how it evolved to what it is today. It was better than I expected and again the why I highly recommend making a Luau a part of your visit. As I have only been to one other luau, which was many years ago, I would highly recommend trying this one if you are staying in Waikiki area. read more

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This luau was wonderful! We got bed bugs from our hotel and it totally took our minds off of our situation. The talent was incredible, everyone was so kind and attentive, and the food was good, particularly the first course. Definitely recommend. read more

Service was awesome!!! I would come back just for that and there was nonstop entertainment throughout. The ambiance was beautiful, picture perfect with the timing and the sunset. I brought my mom for her birthday to this luau after looking into multiple places and I'm glad I selected this once, worth the $$$. Food was better than expect as well, left stuffed! read more

This is a very good luau. The food is above average and served to you at your tabled rather than being picked up at a buffet line. There is a good variety of foods with most being quite tasty, even the poi dish. The pork was the best I have eaten at a luau. The show was a little different from the standard luau fare. It had the usual hula and kane dancers as well as a fire dancer. The show also had a number of other acts that included singers who were decedents of local royalty. The narrator was quite interesting and explained the significance of the parts of the show. You realize that the room you are in was where many of the servicemen would have been having a night out on December 6, 1942, the eve of the Pearl Harbor attack. The hula dancers and the male kane dancers were above average and did several acts. On the whole the show was well produced and kept you engaged while entertaining and educating you. This is not just another luau. It is a step above most others. read more

Ambiance and performance was amazing. If you are true foodie - you aren't going for the food or vegetarian. BUT they do provide a very big portion and meal. Servers were great. The authentic Hawaiian drinks were fabulous. The experience was awesome, the music/ band was so great. It's the real experience of a dinner and true Hawaiian show. Outside at just a special hotel with tons of history. Highly recommend! Great for kids as well. read more

Aha’aina Luau - Rainbow view of the beach - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Definitely worth the experience. While the price is higher than some of the other on the island, the quality of the food and performances was really high. The food portions were huge - two courses of several different dishes within each course, dessert, coffee/tea and cocktails (3 included pp and cash bar) throughout the evening. The food covered a range of American and Asian influenced cuisine, with a few traditional Hawaiian dishes. The Luau format at the Royal Hawaiian is very unique. The performance has more of a storytelling format, which covers the history of Hawaii. The performance happened in several acts and involved different dances (hula, fire show), costumes, and demos. During COVID, each party is seated at its own table. Premium seating is closer to the stage. read more

food was so bad actually had to get up and leave because we were so hungry . looking at the pictures it seems we got different serving dishes and a little but diff food then what other people have shown in there reviews . so idk if it was a bad night or they ran out of things chicken tasted like rubber and the meat lump that seemed as pork tasted so bad i had to spit it out everything was cold , sad because i was excited for this luau ! the server couldn't tell me what one of the meats were but she was very kind . the acts were good but definitely nothing i would recommend . great view of ocean though , and had a great sunset read more

This is the "luau" at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. It's pricey, for sure. But I do not feel ripped off. Not a bit. The setting was magnificent. The food, drinks, and service were top notch. And the entertainment was UNFORGETTABLE! I was so taken with it all that I failed to take pictures of the main course and the dessert. This is not a buffet. It's a plated dinner. You are given three drink tickets per person. Coffee was included though (no ticket needed). The food is all locally sourced and beautifully prepared. The entertainment is a large cast of talented Hawaiians (15-17 people including the band) who share their language, culture and history in a fun and well executed show. (The fire dancing was thrilling but I wouldn't want to insure the artist.) So think of it as a great dinner at a fancy place and a Broadway show. Viewed in that light, it's a steal. read more

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Food not good. Service great. Ambiance great. Pick another Luau. The price wold have been okay if food was outstanding. It was not.

The show was extraordinary. Great story (storyteller) and really .... REALLY outstanding performances by entire ensemble.

Lovely experience. Was greeted with a live band, kukui nut lei and welcome drinks. We could meet the performers before the show. Got traditional tattoos. Generous portions of food. our server Amy was excellent. . The show was fantastic. The quality of the performers and dancers were top notch. read more

the set up was beautiful, my husband and I had our own table. the entertainment was excellent. we loved how the MC spoke about the Hawaiian history and culture. our server was excellent. the food was just ok. but still glad we went read more

COVID Minus star because pricey particularly for kids. paid $149 for show plus chicken strips and fries and minimal fruit. $200 for show + 2 bentos noodles, tofu with spinach salad, eggplant, poke fish on poi? it was the most unappetizing thing I have seen in a long time the lau lau chicken which looked like stewed spinach (drained of all its happy green color) wrapped on chicken, not even worth trying short rib on kimchee rice. Korean with us, said this is not good dessert was like chocolate pudding on coconut jello. meh. show: LOTs of history. liked the outfits and educational aspect not sure if they have audience participation if it weren't COVID. fire dancer. read more

Beautiful setting, you enter the area as sunset begins on the beach. Every party is seated at their own table. Each person gets 3 drink tickets which was the perfect amount with the food. There's a live band and educational stages with the dancers before the show begins. Dinner is served in 2 courses with 4+ different dishes in each serving so you get a taste of different Hawaiian foods. Dessert was maybe my least favorite but don't know if they rotate this out. The haupia pudding with chocolate dobash and cinnamon crumble had too much going on and the crumble was dry. Stick with a pina colada or mai tai instead. The show started slow after dessert and ended with a bang! Very impressive fire knife dancing and stunning show by the performers. It's a retelling of Hawaiian history starting with Kamehameha. As a local kid, the retelling of Hawaiian history is greatly sanitized for the tourists but gotta give credit to the cast and crew. I got chills with the story of Ruth Ke'elikolani. Servers are attentive and quick with drinks and food. Make sure you leave a tip read more

If you like to watch traditional Luau, it might not be a good option for you. The show is a combination of Hawaiian culture+ history + Luau (little bit of each) The foods are set up as buffet, and most of them are good. However not many selections available. I really enjoyed the atmosphere and the show. It was lil bit pricy but it was worth every single penny! Tips: if you are Marriott Bonvoy member, you'll have $10 off for each person (let them know when you make a reservation). read more

First of all.. this is not the regular Luau. I've seen many on my trips to Hawaii. If you want beautiful stories on the history of Hawaii.. this is for you. A beautiful story weaved into each performance. The food was exceptional! From ahi tuna, garlic rice ( so good), Hulu Huli Chicken, Kahlua Pork, salads all around.. I could go on and on. Again.. the stories that were woven into the performances AND before the performances were done so you would know what each would be about..it was wonderful. It was nice to actually learn about the islands this way. The performers came around and gave us different shell, Kukui nut leis..a nice keepsake. The gent who did the fire dance was excellent! Again.. if you're looking for a not so typical Luau.. check this one out! It was my 6th trip to Hawaii.. I've seen many Luaus. This was far beyond exceptional. Great job!!! read more

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Outstanding!!! Amazing background on the beach of Waikiki with a beautiful view of Diamond Head. Dinner is diversified with Asian, American and Hawaiian influences. The show was spectacular!!! You'll be entranced by the story of the history of Waikiki. The dancers and musicians will sweep you away with their sweet music, beautiful costumes and lovely dances. Definitely a most go too. read more