Gateway Buffet Package: Island Villages, Buffet and Ha Night Show

The Gateway Buffet Package at the Polynesian Cultural Center offers visitors a compelling island-inspired dining experience. Guests can explore authentic island villages, savor diverse cuisines at the buffet, and enjoy the captivating HĀ: Breath of Life show – all in one convenient package. With live music, cultural performances, and a focus on Polynesian heritage, this experience promises to immerse visitors in the vibrant spirit of the Pacific islands.

This experience made our article of 4 Most Highly Rated Buffet Experiences In Oahu.

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Overview of the Gateway Buffet Package

The Gateway Buffet Package at the Polynesian Cultural Center offers an island-inspired dining experience, featuring a diverse selection of dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

Located in Laie, Hawaii, the package includes access to the cultural center’s self-guided tours, allowing visitors to explore six island villages at their own pace.

The dinner experience is complemented by live music, creating a lively and immersive atmosphere.

The package also includes silver-level seating for the evening HĀ: Breath of Life show, providing an opportunity to witness the captivating cultural performance.

The Gateway Buffet Package can accommodate up to 900 guests, with pricing starting from $149.95 per person.

Exploring the Polynesian Cultural Center

How does one explore the expansive Polynesian Cultural Center?

Visitors can discover six authentic island villages at their own pace. Each village showcases the unique cultures, traditions, and histories of Hawaii, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Tahiti, and Aotearoa (New Zealand).

Guests can watch skilled craftspeople demonstrate traditional practices, participate in interactive activities, and engage with knowledgeable islanders. The self-guided tour allows guests to enjoy the vibrant Polynesian heritage.

With over 42 acres to explore, the cultural center offers a comprehensive look into the diversity of Pacific Island societies within a single destination.

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Dining at the Gateway Buffet

One of the highlights of visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center is the opportunity to indulge in the Gateway Buffet.

Located within the center, the buffet features a wide selection of island-inspired dishes, including Polynesian favorites and international cuisines. Guests can enjoy a relaxed dining experience while taking in the sounds of live music.

The buffet accommodates up to 900 visitors, making it a convenient and accessible option for large groups.

With its focus on preserving and sharing Polynesian culture, the Gateway Buffet offers a unique culinary journey that complements the center’s immersive cultural experiences.

Experiencing the HĀ: Breath of Life Show

Guests who purchase the Gateway Buffet Package can look forward to an immersive evening at the HĀ: Breath of Life show.

This captivating performance showcases the rich cultural heritage of Polynesia through dance, music, and storytelling. Seated in the silver level seating, guests will witness the breathtaking choreography, vibrant costumes, and awe-inspiring special effects that bring the narrative to life.

The show’s themes explore the elements of nature, the journey of the human spirit, and the enduring traditions of the Pacific Islands. Guests emerge from the experience with a deepened appreciation for Polynesian culture and its enduring legacy.

Transportation and Accessibility

The Gateway Buffet Package offers convenient transportation options for guests.

The pickup/meeting point is the Welcome Center at the Polynesian Cultural Center, near the Hamana Kalili Statue.

The experience is wheelchair accessible, and strollers are allowed with some restrictions during shows. Infant seats are also available.

Public transportation is nearby for added convenience.

Whether you’re seeking an accessible, family-friendly, or eco-friendly way to reach the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Gateway Buffet Package has you covered with its diverse transportation offerings.

Booking and Reservations

Booking the Gateway Buffet Package is straightforward and flexible. Guests can redeem their tickets at the Polynesian Cultural Center’s Welcome Center, near the Hamana Kalili Statue.

The experience is available from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from November 25, 2024, to March 12, 2026. Tickets can be booked in advance, and a free cancellation policy applies up to 24 hours before the experience.

Booking confirmation is provided at the time of purchase. With this hassle-free process, guests can focus on enjoying the island-inspired buffet and the captivating HĀ: Breath of Life evening show.

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Cultural Context and Student Employment

The Polynesian Cultural Center was established in 1963 by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) with the mission of preserving and sharing Polynesian culture. The majority of the Center’s employees are BYU–Hawaii students from Pacific Island nations, providing them with financial support for tuition and living expenses through a work-study program. As part of this employment setup, students are expected to adhere to strict behavioral and dress standards set by the LDS Honor Code.

| Purpose | Work-Study Program | Honor Code |

| — | — | — |

| Preserve and share Polynesian culture | Financial support for BYU–Hawaii students | Strict behavioral and dress standards |

| Support BYU–Hawaii students | Employees from Pacific Island nations | Expected adherence for students |

The Sum Up

The Gateway Buffet Package at the Polynesian Cultural Center offers a captivating island-inspired dining experience. Guests can explore authentic island villages, savor diverse cuisines at the Gateway Buffet, and enjoy the enchanting HĀ: Breath of Life show. This cultural journey provides a memorable and immersive experience for all visitors. Booking and accessibility details make it a convenient and accessible option.