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
This secluded beachfront resort on Kaanapali Beach offers panoramic views of the beautiful Pacific from every suite. Custom decorated studio, one- and two-bedroom air-conditioned suites offer complete kitchens and large lanais.
Located directly on one of Maui's most beautiful swimming beaches, Mana Kai Maui offers all the conveniences of a condominium, along with the added amenities of a hotel. On site restaurant, grocery store, activity desk.
Select from 1-, 2- or 3-three bedroom suites with golf, garden or partial ocean views. These fully-equipped Maui vacation condos on the Wailea Blue Golf Course include free parking, wi-fi and phone calls, housekeeping, Concierge, $155 dining and spa credits and a Maika’i grocery discount card.
Just steps from the stunning Pacific Ocean, The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka'anapali has redefined the luxury getaway. The centerpiece of the property’s USD $120 million transformation is the 217-room Hokupa'a Tower. Come experience new dining options and the resort's iconic 6-pool playground.
Hawaii's premier full service destination management company (DMC) experienced assistance with all aspects of program design, authentic cultural integration, logistics and operations, and innovative activities and excursions.
The Outlets of Maui are the only outlets in the world on the oceanfront in a historic resort location. The center serves the shopping needs of local residents and the island's 2.9 million annual westbound and eastbound visitors.
Full service DMC - Destination and Events Management company specializing in creative and customized incentive corporate and convention programs throughout the Islands.
Full service destination management & entertainment services in Hawaii, including customized special events, activities, tours, airport, transportation, and hotel accommodations.
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At HD Premier, our ethos is simple: to be Hawaii’s finest DMC, connecting you to the deepest essence of the Hawaiian Islands and delivering an unparalleled, visceral experience to every guest, on every program, every time.