Dining Review- Old Lahaina Luau – Lahaina, Maui
When you think of traveling to Hawaii, you immediately think of the ocean, hula girls and dining at a luau. If you are on Maui, Lahaina is a definite destination. The cruise ships stop here for shopping, dining & scenic views. Our favorite shopping spot also hosts the Old Lahaina Luau- Maui’s most famous and authentic luau and I can’t wait to tell you why you must try it!
Located in Lahaina, The Old Lahaina Luau takes great pride in presenting an authentic Hawaiian Luau, with an evening of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music, cultural dances and demonstrations. Guests will appreciate a genuine reflection of Hawaii’s rich history while enjoying an ocean view and sunset. Upon entering the luau we were amazed at the size of the beautiful grounds but felt right at home when presented with leis and drinks before being seated at out table. The layout is so organized that you would never feel crowded or overwhelmed by the number of guests seated each night. Reservations are a must as this luau sells out almost each and every night. The Old Lahaina Luau has won so many awards and remains a favorite of tourists returning to Maui year to year.
A highlight of the luau is the kalua pig which is roasted underground and revealed to the guest’s right before it is served. Located on the beach, guests can walk the grounds while having a cocktail and mingling with artisans as well as natives demonstrating Hawaiian crafts. The atmosphere is so relaxing and gorgeous. There is definitely no rush as the timing of the evening is carefully planned and executed.
The food is served buffet style and there was never a line! Guests are served table by table and the buffet was constantly full. Each table has a dedicated server who acts as host and explains what type of foods you can choose. Our host, Tim took excellent care of us and was a proud papa in letting us know that his daughter is a dancer in the show. Every Hawaiian dish including Lomi Lomi, Big Island Sweet Potatoes, Laulau (kalua pork wrapped in leaves) & Taro Rolls to name just a few of the choices. Everything I sampled was absolutely delicious and I tried almost everything!
Upon sunset, the evening’s main entertainment begins. The award-winning production tells the story of the Hawaiians. The Old Lahiana Luau is proud to present the Hula as it was meant to be performed with the respect and honor of their Ancestors. The story begins with the history of the Polynesian migration, then to the ancient Hawaiian Hula, followed by the evolution to a more contemporary style Hula. The entertainment was excellent and the dances moved at a fast pace with each costume changes more gorgeous than the next. The dancers are responsible for creating their own banana leaf skirts and traditional headpieces which only add authenticity to these dances, which tell stories. Adults from the young to the old and families with children love this experience.
The Old Lahaina Luau is located Oceanfront at 1251 Front Street, Lahaina, Maui The luau operates seven nights a week. Schedule may vary, call for availability.. Advance reservations are necessary. For reservations, please call: (808) 667-1998 or call Toll Free: (800) 248-5828.
Check out the website for details www.oldlahianaluau.com there’s a great fact sheet and the menu explains all the Hawaiian foods as well as the entertainment.
This is a definite “must do” on Maui. Don’t be fooled by imitations… this is the real deal! Aloha! We’ll look forward to returning on our next trip for sure!