One of the most authentic of all Hawaiian customs is a luau. More than just a party, this celebratory event is entwined with the island’s history and culture and offers visitors an opportunity to experience traditional Maui.

Purchasing Maui luau tickets is a must for all travelers to the island, offering feasting and frivolity, with a generous side helping of customary entertainment.

Here's your guide to luau, one of the most captivating shows in Maui.

What is luau about?

A lūʻau — more commonly spelled luau — is a traditional Hawaiian party that includes both food and entertainment. Traditionally, Hawaiian men and women were not allowed to eat together, as stated by strict religious laws (kapu.)

However, in the first half of the 19th century, King Kamehameha II broke the kapu by dining with a woman, thus ending this tradition for the rest of the island.

The luau’s you can participate in today are more than just a feast, and originated as a celebration of the ending of kapu, opening up Hawaiian communities and allowing them to dine together.

In the years following the abandonment of kapu, luau’s were thrown to celebrate many events, from battle victories to plentiful harvests.

The name luau comes from the stew traditionally served at these events, which is made using taro leaves, coconut milk, and, in some cases, meat or fish. However, when it comes to culinary delights, the highlight of a luau is typically a whole roasted pig, cooked in an ancient earth oven.

Other foods served at a party of this nature often include Hawaiian rolls, as well as poke — made using raw tuna, soy sauce, rice and green onions — and local fruits, such as papaya and lilikoi (passion fruit).

When it comes to entertainment, guests will never be bored at a luau. The most popular style of performance is hula dancing, often accompanied by chanting or rhythmic drumming.

Hula originates from Hawaii and uses hand motions to portray the meaning behind a song or story. These movements can be performed either standing or sitting and express a range of things, including emotions and nature.

Lei — garlands of freshly picked flowers, such as carnations, kika blossoms, ginger blossoms or jasmine blossoms — are traditionally worn during luau’s and are used as a token of welcoming, friendship and love. Today, Hawaiian citizens throw luau’s to celebrate milestone events, such as birthday parties and weddings.

One of the most significant luau’s in a Hawaiian family often happens around a baby’s first birthday. The reason that this party is so important is that, in some historical cases, families did not give the child their name until this event.

Alongside Hawaiian performances, some luau excursions offer you the opportunity to peek into Polynesian cultures, including those of Fiji and Samoa. These islands’ customs include dances, chants and music, as well as fire and knife shows.

In Maui, you can enjoy a luau as part of a sunset cruise or dinner experience.

How much do luau tickets cost in Maui?

Maui Luau tickets vary in price, depending on their location and inclusions.

Sunset cruises with luau shows cost between US$180 and US$190 per adult while children aged 3 to 12 cost approximately US$110 each. Children under 3 can participate for free when accompanying a paying adult. You’ll be part of a large group capped at 74 travelers and dinner, as well as drinks, are included in the overall price.

Maui luau tickets that take place on land vary according to the hotel they are located at. You can expect to pay between US$200 and US$270 per adult for standard seating, while children from 6 to 12 cost between US$80 and US$110 each. Those under the age of 6 are typically welcome to join in for free.

If you choose premium seating, you will instead pay between US$230 and US$300 per adult, and between US$140 and US$190 per child.

Shows on the lower end of the range include a self-serve buffet filled with Hawaiian favorites while excursions on the higher end of the range tend to include a three-course dinner served at your table.

When is the best time to see luau?

You can typically purchase Maui Luau tickets all year round, providing great flexibility to travelers. However, the best times of year to journey to the island are April, May, September, October and November. These months are pleasant and dry, with fewer crowds than during the peak summer season.

Those who enjoy warm and mild conditions should avoid visiting Maui between November and March when the island experiences high rainfall.

Where are luau shows performed in Maui?

Luau shows are performed across the island of Maui and take place in a variety of venues, from luxury hotels to cruises, and everywhere in between. You’ll typically travel to the location of the show independently, which may be a hotel situated along the coastline or the tour operator’s office.

While renting a car is the ideal way to get around the Hawaiian island, those without access to a vehicle can instead travel to their Maui luau show via public transportation. A network of buses coasts along 14 routes on the island, enabling you to navigate every corner of the destination easily. However, you should allow extra time to reach your venue as buses are often delayed.

What time do luau shows start?

Maui Luau show times may vary according to their location. However, they mostly begin around 4:30 PM and last between 2 and 3 hours. This means the experience typically ends in the early evening, leaving you the rest of the night to explore more of the island, indulge in some alcoholic beverages or simply wander the beach, listening to the gentle ocean currents.

Is there a dress code for luau?

Depending on which Maui luau tickets you choose, you may notice that there is a smart casual dress code. This allows great flexibility in guests’ attire, with some travelers choosing to wear cocktail dresses or suits while others prefer jeans and smart shirts or blouses.

Smart casual usually prohibits flip flops, as well as board shorts and some sneakers. However, most guests will find they own many items that fit in with this dress code.

In other cases, such as sunset dinner cruises that include a luau performance, you’ll find there is no specified dress code. While smart casual is a good rule of thumb for travelers who are unsure of what to wear, this relaxed approach means that no matter what you choose to slip on, you’ll fit right in.

What is the cancelation policy?

In order to receive a full refund on your Maui luau tickets, you’ll need to cancel your booking at least 24 hours before the show’s start time.

If you cancel within 24 hours, you will not be able to claim back any of your reservation fee. This is why you should always double-check the details on your booking before confirming your spot.

If the operator is forced to cancel your excursion due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date. If this isn’t suitable, you can instead claim a full refund.

Are luau shows wheelchair friendly?

The accessibility of Luau shows in Maui depends on their location. Excursions that take place at one of the island's hotels are suitable for those with reduced mobility, while those that operate on a sunset cruise are typically not advertised as accessible for wheelchair users.

You can find out whether an excursion is suitable for all members of your party by consulting its booking page. Alternatively, you can contact the tour provider directly to discuss any additional needs you may have and see whether they can cater to your group.

Top tips

Arriving early allows you to explore the venue, enjoy the pre-show activities, and get good seats for the show.
Remember that a luau is not just a party but a cultural event with deep significance in Hawaiian history. Be respectful during cultural presentations and performances.
Make sure to bring a light jacket for evening performances, as it can get cooler in the night.
If the luau is outdoors, use sunscreen during the day and insect repellent in the evening.

Luau Shows in Maui: Tickets