Big Island Luaus
Hula · Fire Dancing · Kalua Pig · Open Bar
3–3.5 hrs
Average luau duration
Nightly
Shows available
1,000+ yrs
Of Hawaiian culture celebrated
4.9★
Average guest rating
Hawaii Island
Luaus on the Island of Hawaii
The Big Island is the birthplace of Hawaiian culture — the island where Kamehameha the Great was born, unified the Hawaiian Islands, and spent his final years. Attending a luau here carries a weight of history that you feel nowhere else. The Island Breeze Luau is held on the actual grounds of Kamehameha's royal court at Kamakahonu Bay in Kailua-Kona — one of the most sacred sites in all of Hawaii. The Kohala Coast's world-class resort luaus offer spectacular production values against a backdrop of the island's dramatic volcanic landscape and Pacific sunsets.
Big Island's Best Luaus
Island Breeze Luau at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel
Best on Big IslandThe most celebrated luau on the Big Island, held on the historic grounds of King Kamehameha's royal court in Kailua-Kona. The Island Breeze Luau features a traditional imu ceremony, an authentic Hawaiian buffet, and a spectacular Polynesian show with hula, Tahitian dance, Samoan fire-knife dancing, and more. The oceanfront setting at Kamakahonu Bay — where Kamehameha the Great spent his final years — adds profound historical significance.
- Historic royal grounds
- Oceanfront Kailua-Kona
- Imu ceremony
- Fire-knife finale
Legends of Hawaii Luau at Hilton Waikoloa Village
Most SpectacularA grand-scale luau experience at the spectacular Hilton Waikoloa Village resort on the Kohala Coast. The Legends of Hawaii Luau features a premium buffet, open bar, and a theatrical Polynesian show with over 30 performers. The resort's stunning lagoon and ocean backdrop make this one of the most visually impressive luau settings in Hawaii.
- Hilton Waikoloa resort
- Lagoon & ocean views
- 30+ performers
- Open bar
Gathering of the Kings Luau at Fairmont Orchid
An upscale luau experience at the Fairmont Orchid on the Kohala Coast, featuring a gourmet Hawaiian buffet, premium open bar, and a polished Polynesian show. The Fairmont's manicured oceanfront grounds and intimate atmosphere make this the most refined luau experience on the Big Island — ideal for couples and guests seeking a more elegant evening.
- Fairmont Orchid resort
- Gourmet buffet
- Intimate atmosphere
- Couples friendly
Private Luau Experience
PrivateHost a private luau anywhere on the Big Island — from a beachfront resort on the Kohala Coast to a private estate on the slopes of Mauna Kea. We coordinate venue, catering, entertainment, and cultural programming. Perfect for weddings, anniversaries, family reunions, and corporate events. Fully customizable.
- Fully customizable
- Multiple venues
- Wedding & event friendly
- Dedicated coordinator
The Experience
What to Expect at a Big Island Luau
Lei Greeting
Arrive to a warm aloha welcome with a fresh flower lei — a Hawaiian tradition of hospitality.
Imu Ceremony
Watch the traditional underground oven (imu) opened to reveal a whole pig slow-roasted for hours.
Hula Performances
Master hula dancers tell the stories of Hawaii through graceful, expressive movement.
Fire-Knife Dancing
The breathtaking Samoan fire-knife finale — a crowd favorite at every Big Island luau.
Open Bar
Most luaus include an open bar with tropical cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic options.
Oceanfront Settings
Big Island luaus are set on historic royal grounds and world-class resort beaches on the Kona and Kohala coasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Big Island luau is the most authentic?
The Island Breeze Luau at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel is held on the actual grounds of Kamehameha the Great's royal court — the most historically significant luau setting in all of Hawaii. The imu ceremony and cultural programming are among the most authentic on the island.
How far in advance should I book?
Big Island luaus sell out quickly, especially June through August and December. We recommend booking at least 2 weeks ahead, and 4–6 weeks ahead for peak season travel. The Hilton Waikoloa and Fairmont Orchid luaus are particularly popular and often sell out.
Are children welcome at Big Island luaus?
Absolutely. Luaus are one of the most family-friendly experiences in Hawaii. Children love the fire dancing, hula performances, and the feast. Most venues offer children's pricing for ages 3–12.
Is transportation included?
Some venues offer hotel pickup for an additional fee. Most guests drive or take a rideshare. We can arrange transportation as part of your booking — just ask when you call.
What is the difference between the Kona and Kohala Coast luaus?
The Island Breeze Luau in Kailua-Kona offers a more intimate, historically rich experience on the grounds of Kamehameha's royal court. The Kohala Coast luaus (Hilton Waikoloa, Fairmont Orchid) are set at world-class resort properties with more elaborate production values and larger venues.
More Big Island Adventures
Book Your Big Island Luau Tonight
Top venues sell out fast. Call us to check availability and reserve your seats.