The Polynesian Cultural Center is a large, 42-acre open air park where you can completely immerse yourself into the culture, customs and music of Polynesia. Often called a "living museum," this is Oahu's #1 paid attraction. Below is an overview of the packages and what there is to see and do:
The Park: Among the Polynesian Cultural Center’s main attractions are the six Polynesian villages, which showcase the traditional island life of Fiji, Samoa, Tahiti, Tonga, New Zealand (Aotearoa) and Hawaii. Watch ancient arts and crafts demonstrations, such as carving tiki statues, dancing with fire knives, making fire by rubbing stick together and climbing on palm trees barefooted. Or learn how to dance the hula or how to open a coconut! Each island village also features traditional music and dance performances. There is also a special exhibit about Easter Island. You can also take a canoe ride down the river that runs through the park.Ali'i Luau: After a fun-filled day at the park, you are invited to join a feast of Hawaiian and continental American delicacies, which takes place at a tropical site within the park featuring a 15-foot waterfall. You'll be greeted with a fragrant flower lei and escorted to your table. Shortly after, you'll witness the traditional imu ceremony, in which a whole roast pig is taken out of its underground oven and carried away to become a part of the luau buffet. On the all-you-can-eat buffet table you'll find Hawaiian classics, such as lomi lomi salmon, poke, poi, huli huli chicken, fresh fish, purple sweet potatoes and of course, the kalua pig from the imu ceremony. There are also some all-American favorites to satisfy every appetite. And leave some room for dessert. The pies and puddings are delicious! All beverages at the Polynesian Cultural Center luau are non-alcoholic. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted or sold in the park. The inclusion of the luau feast depends on package purchased.
Alternative Dining Options: As an alternative to the popular Ali'i Luau, you can enjoy the Ambassador Prime Rib Buffet and feast on succulent prime rib, teriyaki chicken, island fish and a large variety of vegetables, salads, rice and potatoes.
The Evening Show: Your evening is topped off by the fabulous "Ha: Breath of Life" show. It is one of the largest shows in Hawaii featuring a cast of more than 100 performers from across Polynesia. It takes place in a large, specially-built open-air theater in the park.
Other attractions and things to do at the Polynesian Cultural Center:
IMAX Theater: Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center’s state-of-the-art IMAX Theater to watch a movie that will immerse you in another world. Go on a Hawaiian Journey through majestic mountains, imposing volcanoes and roaring waterfalls.
The Pageant of Long Canoes: This exciting presentation takes place in the park’s central lagoon. Watch native islanders showcase their traditional costumes and perform dances on big floating platforms.
Tram Tour of Laie: Take a tram tour of the town of Laie and visit the first temple built outside of the continental United States by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Enjoy the temple's amazing architecture as you stroll through the magnificent gardens. You will learn more about the history and people of Laie and also have an opportunity to see the 10-foot replica of Thorvaldsen's famous statue "Christus."
Roundtrip Transportation: The Polynesian Cultural Center is located in Laie on Oahu’s northeastern shore. It’s about a 1-hour drive from Waikiki. Add roundtrip transportation (in a comfortable motorcoach) to your package. Pick-up is from Waikiki area hotels. If you plan to drive yourself, parking at the Center is available for $8. (Subject to change without notice.)
Polynesian Cultural Center Activities Schedule: Gates open at 11:45 am. Village access opens at 12:00 pm until 6:00 pm. The luau dinner is between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm. The evening show is from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm.
IMAX Theater: Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center’s state-of-the-art IMAX Theater to watch a movie that will immerse you in another world. Go on a Hawaiian Journey through majestic mountains, imposing volcanoes and roaring waterfalls.
The Pageant of Long Canoes: This exciting presentation takes place in the park’s central lagoon. Watch native islanders showcase their traditional costumes and perform dances on big floating platforms.
Tram Tour of Laie: Take a tram tour of the town of Laie and visit the first temple built outside of the continental United States by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Enjoy the temple's amazing architecture as you stroll through the magnificent gardens. You will learn more about the history and people of Laie and also have an opportunity to see the 10-foot replica of Thorvaldsen's famous statue "Christus."
Roundtrip Transportation: The Polynesian Cultural Center is located in Laie on Oahu’s northeastern shore. It’s about a 1-hour drive from Waikiki. Add roundtrip transportation (in a comfortable motorcoach) to your package. Pick-up is from Waikiki area hotels. If you plan to drive yourself, parking at the Center is available for $8. (Subject to change without notice.)
Polynesian Cultural Center Activities Schedule: Gates open at 11:45 am. Village access opens at 12:00 pm until 6:00 pm. The luau dinner is between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm. The evening show is from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm.
