Luau
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Luau of Hawaii
One of the most festive experiences to be had on a visit to the Hawaiian Islands is a luau – a Hawaiian feast featuring lively music and vibrant cultural performances from Hawaii and greater Polynesia.
History of the Luau
The first feast in Hawaii resembling a modern-day luau was probably held in 1819. Before then, the kapu system of restrictions, religion and resource management separated men and women at mealtimes, even in times of celebration. Other names for these feasts are ahaaina or paina, but over the course of time, the nickname luau – a reference to the taro leaves at the core of many popular dishes – stuck.
Two centuries later, luau are still being celebrated. But it is important to note that despite the name and its Hawaiian roots, not all food or entertainment at a luau today is Hawaiian. A contemporary luau in Hawaii reflects our multi-cultural society. Food at a family luau is as diverse as the various branches of the family tree. Entertainment at a visitor luau often includes dances and music from other Polynesian cultures.
Popular Luau Dishes
- Poi: Pounded taro plant root; a starch meant to be eaten with everything.
- Kalua Pig: Pork prepared in an imu (underground oven) and shredded.
- Laulau: Meat wrapped in luau (taro) leaves and steamed, traditionally prepared in an imu.
- Haupia: Coconut pudding.
- Poke: A term that literally means to cut into pieces, this newly global delicacy is traditionally prepared with raw fish, shoyu (soy sauce), green onions, kukui nut (candlenut), and limu (seaweed).
Find a Luau to Attend
Where to Experience a Luau
Gaylord’s offers one of Kauai’s most beautiful settings for lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch. Our kitchen uses only the freshest, seasonal ingredients supporting our local farmers and fishermen. Our 67-acre sustainable farm provides much of the produce and herbs used in our dishes and cocktails.
Kilohana Plantation is a historic landmark and premier visitor attraction offering visitors and locals a glimpse into Kauai’s past combined with assorted island-style activities, dining and shopping.
Trail information, Natural History Museum. Open every day. Visitor programs, volunteer opportunities, research support, local craft and bookstore, no admission charge.
Only Island Helicopters lands at "Jurassic Falls", feel the mist and power of this magnificent 400 ft. waterfall. Kauai owned and operated. Newest six passenger Astars with custom ceiling to floor glass windows and BoseX stereo headsets.
Our experience & attention to detail will take the stress out of organizing your own wedding. We provide professional advice,have local knowledge and will work with your budget to ensure that your wedding is a success!
Mauna Loa Helicopters offers exclusive private helicopter tours with guaranteed window seats for all passengers and a doors-off option for the adventurous. Be mesmerized by unequaled views of Kauai's most stunning scenery. Recommended in Lonely Planet. Certificate of Excellence - Trip Advisor
The Kauai Museum is the cultural Sanctuary for the art and artifacts of Native Hawaiians and it nurtures the creative spirit of today's artists.
Contemporary Flavors Catering is the largest and finest full-service licensed catering company on the island of Kauai. We will work with you to custom-design menus and event plans to fit any occasion from weddings to birthdays, luaus, business events, intimate gatherings, and formal affairs.
Legacy Events Kauai is a full-service wedding & event planning company based on Kauai. We specialize in destination weddings, intimate elopements, and private and corporate events. We believe a great planning experience is equally important to a having a great event.
An oceanfront hideaway nestled on a curve of golden beach in Haena on Kauai’s lush north shore, offering 48 deluxe two-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens. The secluded location and peaceful, laid-back ambiance set amidst stunning natural beauty provide a one-of-a-kind getaway for travelers.