Although the Island of Hawaii is known as the Big Island, there are only a handful of luaus there. Offered only on Friday nights, the Kona Village Resort's Luau is considered by some to be their favorite Big Island luau, in part because of its remote location. The 'Kamehameha Court Luau' at the Hilton Waikoloa Village is held every Tuesday and Friday. The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel hosts their luau every Tuesday evening.

The 'Island Breeze Luau' is held on the grounds of Kamehameha the Great's former estate at the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel, making it a truly royal Hawaiian experience. It is Kona's only beachfront luau and has been rated the best luau on the Big Island by visitors, locals and travel writers. It is our recommendation if you're looking for a great Big Isle luau.

Big Island Luau: Island Breeze

The festivities begin when the Royal Court, representing King Kamehameha I and his retainers, receive a traditional greeting by the Court Conch Herald and Court Chanter as they arrive at Kamakohonu Bay aboard an outrigger canoe. You'll then follow the procession into the Royal Grounds to see the main course removed from the "Imu" (underground oven).

Before dinner, the whole family will enjoy demonstrations of Hawaiian arts and crafts. Weave coconut fronds, learn how to open a coconut, or have an artist draw a Polynesian tattoo on your arm (don't worry, it's removable). Then, gather around for a sumptuous 22-dish dinner buffet featuring traditional Hawaiian and American dishes.

The highlight of the evening is the spectacular Island Breeze Polynesian Revue. From the Fijian and Maori dances of war to the gracefulness of the Hawaiian Hula dancers' hands, this fabulous group of Polynesians brings you a fun filled evening you won't soon forget. The daring Samoan fire knife dancer highlights the evening with an astonishing demonstration of bravery and skill.

You're also welcome to view the imu preparation in the morning, just be there at 10:15. It's a lot of fun to watch and a good primer in case you want to try this in your backyard!

Reservations for the Island Breeze Luau are required - More info on this Big Island Luau.

Photos courtesy of Island Breeze Luau

Big Island Luau: Gathering of the Kings

Gathering of the Kings is a dynamic story of the Polynesian people filled with mystery, intrigue, courage, and hope. It depicts their journey across the Great Pacific to the lands they settled along the way, portraying a fresh recognition of their identity, heritage, and destiny, where cultural diversity is celebrated and embraced. It is their history coming alive through melodic lyrics, deep poetry, and enchanting dance, exhibiting a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and rhythmic beats unique to the Pacific Islands. A new sound, capturing the best of both traditional and modern music and dance, draws the participant into a timeless place full of enchantment and energy.

Dine on the treasures of Hawai'i, Samoa, New Zealand and Tahiti. As guests travel from culinary island to the other, they will have the opportunity to taste those dishes that are the pride of Polynesia. From fresh seafood to papaya chicken and tropical fruit, this is an authentic blending of local Hawaiian favorites that must be experienced while in the islands.

More info on this Big Island Luau. Photos courtesy of Gathering of the Kings Luau

Big Island Luau: Royal Kona Luau

The Royal Kona Resort in coordination with Tihati Productions presents "Lava - Legends & Legacies," an Island-style celebration of the best Hawaii has to offer!

A breathtaking backdrop of a vibrant Hawaiian sky displays the Kona Coast's best sunsets and provides a spectacular background for the Royal Kona Resort Luau. The ocean front setting highlights the extraordinary energy and appeal of this dynamic and popular Polynesian show. Enjoy an evening of feasting, music and dance as we present a journey through the South Pacific's legends and lore in historic Kailua-Kona.

The call of the conch, the lighting of the torches, and the beat of the native drums beckon you to escape to the Hawaii of your dreams. Relax with cool tropical trade winds and enchanting Hawaiian melodies performed by the Tihati Serenaders. Enjoy Hawaiian arts and crafts followed by the unearthing of the Kalua Pua'a (roasted pork) during the Imu Ceremony and all-you-can-eat luau dinner buffet.

After experiencing a delicious all-you-can-eat Polynesian buffet, you'll enjoy the acclaimed cast of musicians and dancers from Tihati Productions as they take you on an authentic journey through the South Pacific Islands of Hawaii, Tahiti, Raratonga, New Zealand and Samoa, through the travels and romance of Holomoana (the voyager) and Kalua (Hawaiian princess). Their performance includes songs and dances rarely seen in typical luau shows and is highlighted by a Samoan "fire knife" dance, simply too amazing to miss!

More info on this Big Island Luau

Big Island Luau: Firenesia Luau

Come and experience "Firenesia"! A colorful and fascinating journey throughout Polynesia, filled with excitement and incredible danger.

From Kilauea and its fiery lava to the weapons of war in New Zealand the men and women of Island Breeze share the beauty of their home and the secrets of the "Ring of Fire" that links each island in the Pacific.

Unlike any other show on the Big Island, "Firenesia" is a production that proudly displays the Polynesian culture, as it demonstrates the skills and strengths of its people. The evening is truly a unique Polynesian experience that cannot be missed.

You will also have the opportunity to partake from a delicious feast which includes a variety of local Hawaiian favorites!

More info on this Big Island Luau
Photos coutesy of Firenesia Luau