Luau Kalamaku on Kauai offers a captivating Hawaiian experience that combines a delightful buffet dinner with a mesmerizing theatrical show. Set against the backdrop of the Kilohana Plantation, this immersive cultural celebration promises an evening filled with vibrant performances, live music, and the opportunity to explore the work of local artisans. Whether you’re seeking an authentic taste of Hawaiian cuisine or a glimpse into the rich traditions of Polynesian culture, Luau Kalamaku is a must-visit destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
This experience made our article of The 10 Best Dining Experiences In Kauai.
Key Points
- Luau Kalamaku is a cultural experience located on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, featuring a 40-minute train ride, a buffet dinner, and an award-winning theatrical show.
- The theatrical show chronicles the sea voyage between Tahiti and Hawaii, showcasing Polynesian hula dancers and fire throwers in colorful costumes.
- The buffet menu includes traditional Hawaiian dishes such as imu roast, teriyaki chicken, kalua pork, and seasonal fish, as well as a variety of desserts.
- Guests receive a lei greeting, enjoy open bar service, and have the opportunity to attend a craft fair showcasing Kauai artisans.
- Luau Kalamaku offers ample time for pre-show festivities, with ticket prices starting at $119 for adults and $59 for children, and free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the event.
Overview of Luau Kalamaku
Luau Kalamaku is a popular luau experience located on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. Set on the historical Kilohana Plantation, the luau features a 40-minute train ride on the Kauai Plantation Railway.
The event offers a buffet dinner of traditional Hawaiian dishes, including an imu roast, along with an award-winning theatrical show highlighting Polynesian hula dancers, fire throwers, and colorful costumes.
Guests can enjoy a lei greeting, open bar service, a photo session with the cast, live music, and a craft fair with Kauai artisans.
The performance chronicles the sea voyage between Tahiti and Hawaii, providing an immersive cultural experience.
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Highlights of the Experience
One of the main highlights of the Luau Kalamaku experience is the award-winning theatrical main show.
Featuring Polynesian hula dancers, fire throwers, and colorful costumes, the show chronicles the sea voyage between Tahiti and Hawaii. Guests are also treated to a lei greeting, open bar service, and a photo session with the cast.
Live music and a craft fair with Kauai artisans add to the culture.
The evening begins with an imu roast and a buffet of traditional Hawaiian dishes, including teriyaki chicken, kalua pork, and haupia.
Delectable Buffet Menu
While the Luau Kalamaku’s entertainment offerings are undoubtedly captivating, the delectable buffet menu is equally deserving of attention.
The spread features a range of traditional Hawaiian dishes, starting with an imu roast. Theres some good a variety of starters, including a refreshing potato macaroni salad, a vegetarian tofu salad, and a seasonal fruit platter.
The main course options span from juicy teriyaki chicken and flavorful kalua pork to sautéed garlic vegetables and a delectable seasonal fish. No Hawaiian feast is complete without the classic poi and taro rolls.
Desserts include the beloved banana cream tart and pineapple upside down cake.
Transportation and Arrival Details
Guests attending the Luau Kalamaku on Kauai can take advantage of the convenient transportation options offered. The ticket office opens at 4:45 PM, with hotel pickups starting as early as 3:30 PM. The approximate arrival time is between 5:00-6:00 PM, allowing ample time to enjoy the pre-show festivities.
Transportation Details | |
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Ticket Office Opens | 4:45 PM |
Hotel Pickups Start | 3:30 PM |
Approximate Arrival | 5:00-6:00 PM |
Maximum Capacity | 750 Travelers |
Accessibility | Wheelchair and Stroller Friendly |
The luau’s maximum capacity is 750 travelers, and the venue is wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for all.
Accessibility and Special Requests
The Luau Kalamaku venue is wheelchair and stroller accessible, catering to the needs of all attendees.
Special dietary requests must be noted 48 hours prior to the experience. This allows the culinary team to accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences, ensuring all guests can fully enjoy the traditional Hawaiian feast.
While the standard menu offerings are diverse, the team is committed to providing suitable options for those with specific dietary needs. Guests are encouraged to communicate any requirements in advance to ensure a seamless and enjoyable luau experience.
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Pricing and Cancellation Policy
Ticket prices for the Luau Kalamaku experience start at $119 for adults and $59 for children between the ages of 4 and 11.
The package includes the following:
- Buffet dinner with traditional Hawaiian dishes
- Award-winning theatrical show and performances
- Open bar service with tropical drinks, beer, and wine
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the event
The event is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and special dietary requests must be noted 48 hours in advance.
Given the high demand, it is recommended to book the Luau Kalamaku experience well in advance.
Glowing Guest Reviews
With an impressive 4.3 rating based on over 1,221 reviews, Luau Kalamaku has consistently earned a reputation for delivering an exceptional entertainment experience.
Guests praise the quality of the fire dancers, the storytelling, and the overall show. Many highlight the sense of immersion in the Polynesian culture.
While some found the food quality to be average, the majority of reviewers were highly satisfied with the buffet selection and traditional Hawaiian dishes.
Recommendations often suggest booking in advance due to the luau’s popularity, especially if traveling with children who may enjoy the train ride.
Why Luau Kalamaku Is a Must-Visit
Luau Kalamaku on the island of Kauai stands out as a must-visit experience for those seeking an immersive journey through Polynesian culture.
The highlights include:
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A 40-minute train ride on the Kauai Plantation Railway, offering a scenic introduction to the historical Kilohana Plantation.
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An award-winning theatrical performance featuring captivating Polynesian hula dancers, fire throwers, and vibrant costumes that chronicle the sea voyage between Tahiti and Hawaii.
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A bountiful buffet dinner showcasing traditional Hawaiian dishes, from an imu roast to island-inspired desserts.
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Memorable extras like a lei greeting, open bar service, and a craft fair with Kauai artisans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed During the Luau Performance?
Photography is allowed during the luau performance, according to the information provided. Guests are welcome to take photos and capture the colorful costumes, dance performances, and other aspects of the evening’s entertainment.
Can I Bring My Own Alcohol to the Event?
No, outside alcohol is not permitted at the event. The luau offers an open bar service with a variety of tropical drinks, mixed drinks, local beer, and wine included with the ticket price.
Are There Options for Vegetarians or Gluten-Free Diets?
Yes, the luau offers vegetarian and gluten-free options. The menu includes a vegetarian tofu salad, sautéed garlic vegetables, and poi (upon request). Guests with dietary restrictions should note them 48 hours in advance.
Do I Need to Arrive Early to Get a Good Seat?
Arriving early is recommended to secure a good seat. The event can be quite popular, and seating is first come, first served. Guests are advised to plan to arrive at the earlier end of the suggested arrival window.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Take-Home Items at the Luau?
Yes, the luau features a craft fair with Kauai artisans, allowing guests to purchase souvenirs and take-home items. A variety of local handicrafts and products are available for purchase throughout the event.
The Sum Up
Luau Kalamaku offers an immersive Hawaiian cultural experience with a delectable buffet dinner and captivating theatrical show. From the scenic train ride to the vibrant performances, this event provides a memorable celebration of Polynesian heritage. With accessibility, special requests, and glowing reviews, Luau Kalamaku is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and enriching luau experience on Kauai.
📍 This experience made our list of the 10 best Dining Experiences in Kauai
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