Luau Oahu

Escape it all and dance on the shores of some of the world's most beautiful beaches. Oahu is home to some of the best and biggest luau's in Hawaii, complete with delicious roasts, stunning dancers and performers, and music that will leave you on your toes the entire evening.

The Polynesian Cultural Center, located about one hour's scenic drive from Waikiki, is home to Oahu's largest and most authentic luau. The Luau is a rich cultural experience, including a flower lei greeting, Hawaiian music and entertainment, comfortable covered seating, the Alii or royal court, authentic Hawaiian food, all-you-can-eat buffet service and of coures hula dancing.

The term luau itself has greatly evolved over the years. Luau, in Hawaiian and other Polynesian languages, is actually the name of the taro leaf, which when young and small is cooked like spinach and is often mixed with other foods, creating Hawaiian favorites such as luau squid or luau chicken; but today, luau is the commonly accepted name of a Hawaiian feast.

In fact, food and dancing are the staple of any good luau in Hawaii. Enjoy roast pork, chicken teriyaki, rice, and white meat island fish. For those feeling adventurous, Hawaiian luaus also often serve regular assortments of raw fish marinaded in a variety of flavors, a traditional dish known as "Poke."

Guests of the luau can also enjoy live Hawaiian music on the beach, including steel guitar styling, while the Polynesian Cultural Center's own Ambassador of Aloha explains the cultural significance of the luau and hosts the program. Watch as the Roya Court, consisting of representatives of Hawaii's ruling ali'i or chiefs enter the luau in traditional costume. Next the imu, or underground oven, is uncovered to unveil the large pig that has been cooking throughout the afternoon. The meal at this luau is all-you-can-eat, and with all the delicious traditional choices available, you are sure to not go home hungry. As you're eating, you can watch hula being performed in the ancient style to the accompaniment of chants, drums and other percussion instruments. Next is the hula auana, the graceful modern hula to the sounds of the steel guitar and beautiful Hawaiian music.

For those wanting something a little more down-home feeling, there are also a variety of smaller luaus which occur throughout the island. Germaine's Luau has its own private beach and also serves a buffet style meal with outstanding luau performers and music.