


Old Lahaina Luau
About
Old Lahaina Luau offers families an unforgettable evening of Hawaiian culture with authentic hula dancing, traditional imu ceremony, and a spectacular oceanfront setting on Maui's west shore. Kids are captivated by the fire dancers, interactive cultural demonstrations, and kid-friendly buffet featuring both traditional Hawaiian dishes and familiar favorites, making it an educational yet entertaining experience the whole family will treasure.
Highlights
- ✓Dramatic fire knife dancing finale that mesmerizes children and adults alike
- ✓Traditional imu ceremony where the roasted pig is unearthed from the underground oven
- ✓Authentic hula performances telling Hawaiian stories through dance and chant
- ✓Hands-on cultural activities before the show including temporary tattoos and lei-making
- ✓Oceanfront seating with stunning Maui sunset views during dinner
Pro Tips
- 1.Book the earliest seating available (usually around 5:45 PM) with kids to avoid late bedtimes and witness the sunset during dinner service
- 2.Arrive 30 minutes early to explore the cultural activities, lei-making demonstrations, and traditional games set up before the show begins
- 3.Request tables closer to the stage when booking for better views, but know that rows are tiered so even back tables have decent sightlines
- 4.The buffet opens before the show starts,let kids eat early so they can focus on the performance without getting restless
- 5.Bring light jackets or wraps as oceanfront breezes can cool down after sunset, even in Hawaii
Best Time to Visit
Book for weeknight performances (Tuesday-Thursday) which tend to be slightly less crowded than weekends. The earlier seating time is ideal for families, allowing you to enjoy sunset views while dining and getting kids back to accommodations at a reasonable hour.
What to Know
Reservations are essential and should be made weeks in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. The all-inclusive price covers buffet dinner, two drinks (including kid-friendly options), and the full show. Parking is available on-site, and the venue is stroller-accessible though children typically sit at tables throughout.
Seasonal Notes
The luau operates year-round but is closed on select dates, so check availability when planning your trip. Winter months (December-February) offer earlier sunsets and slightly cooler temperatures. Summer and holiday periods book up fastest, so reserve 4-6 weeks ahead.
Nearby Eats
Since this is a dinner experience, grab lunch earlier at nearby Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice (a must-try Maui treat kids adore) or Cool Cat Cafe on Front Street for burgers and casual family fare before your evening luau.
More Activities Near Maui
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Haleakalā National Park
Haleakalā National Park offers families an unforgettable adventure exploring one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes, with otherworldly crater landscapes that kids describe as 'visiting Mars.' From easy nature walks perfect for little legs to the awe-inspiring summit sunrise experience, this park provides unique opportunities for children to learn about Hawaiian culture, geology, and ecosystems found nowhere else on Earth.
Maui Pineapple Tour
This working pineapple plantation offers families an authentic taste of Hawaiian agriculture with guided tours that combine education and delicious sampling. Kids get hands-on learning about how pineapples grow, the chance to taste fresh-picked fruit straight from the field, and scenic views of Maui's upcountry that make for fantastic family photos.
Mākena State Park
Mākena State Park, often called 'Big Beach,' offers families over two-thirds of a mile of golden sand and calm, gentle waves perfect for little ones learning to splash and play. The wide-open beach gives kids plenty of room to build sandcastles, try bodyboarding, and explore tide pools, while parents can relax knowing the gradual slope into the water is ideal for young swimmers.