As the only waterfront luau on Kauai, the Aulii Luau is a truly unique experience you must try at least once. Held at the Sheraton Kauai in Koloa, this performance brings ancient Polynesian stories to life through song and dance. To elevate the show, even more, they proudly serve up decadent Hawaiian style plates and the drinks to match
Throughout most of the year, they only hold the luau two days a week. During the tourist season, they bring Monday shows into the mix, although that doesn’t boost seat availability all that much. For that reason, it’s wise to buy your tickets as soon as you know you’ll be on the island. To do that, you’ll need to first choose between their basic and premier seating.
Dubbed ‘Aloha seating,’ their standard tickets come with general seating at round tables, starting with a shell lei greeting. The premier or ‘Alii,’ seating adds to the experience by giving you seats in the first four rows. And you’ll get to go through the premier check-in line to get in the doors fast. Beyond all that, the team will provide you with a specialty lei made from shells, seasonal flowers, or kukui nuts. Both ticket types let you get a welcome cocktail, plus access to the full dinner, open bar, and the entire show.
To avoid missing out on a minute of the show, you’ll want to arrive around 5:00 pm at the latest. That will give you enough time to grab a parking spot, and then hop in line. The team starts seating everyone at 5:30 pm, which can take a while due to their warm greetings complete with leis. Once you get seated, you’ll have a chance to order cocktails. Want craft brews instead? They can do that, too.
Pupus come out soon after that to whet your appetite with amazing Hawaiian flavors. Then, the performers will provide pre-show entertainment until the dinner buffet starts at 6:15. During that time, you may get to hear fun stories, learn how to hula, and watch amazing dances.
After you’re done with the buffet, the Polynesian Revue will begin, treating you to amazing songs and dances. All throughout the performance, you’re welcome to take full advantage of the open bar. Desserts will come your way as well, ending the night on a sweet note. Although you might want to focus on your scrumptious treats, keep your eyes firmly on the stage to avoid missing the wonderful fire knife dance grand finale.
During the show, you’ll get to enjoy:
Pupus
The pupus serve as the perfect way to kick off your dining experience. If you get the premier tickets, they’ll bring out Tako Poke, Cucumber Kimchee, Ginger Tofu Salad, and Hawaiian Chili Pepper Beef Pipi Kaula. Otherwise, you can expect to enjoy Crispy Hawaii Potato Chips, Sesame Garlic Edamame, Roasted Hawaiian Purple Potatoes, and their famous Hawaiian Chili Pepper Beef.
Entrees
The traditional entrees promise to satisfy all your cravings and leave you full to the top. In their buffet spread, you’ll find Island Veggie Chow Mein Noodles, Kalua Pig & Cabbage, Huli Huli Moa, and many other fan favorites. Don’t forget to pair them with sticky white rice and taro rolls to bring it all together.
Dessert
As the best island flavors dance through the desserts, giving you bite after bite of homemade goodness. The Pineapple Upside Down Cake is always super popular, of course. But they also have wickedly good Coconut Cake, Mango Cake, and Chocolate Brownies.
If you cannot make it to the luau, be sure to cancel your reservations at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, you will have to pay a 50% cancellation charge. If you simply do not show up for your reservations, the venue will not issue a refund at all.
Insider Tips:
-Are you celebrating a special occasion? Let them know when booking your table. They’ll plan something special to help you celebrate in style.
-Stop by the ATM before you arrive, so you have enough cash to buy fresh flower leis, crowns, and other fun souvenirs from the talented vendors.
-Expect heavy traffic while traveling to Koloa. Leave as early as possible, so you can avoid missing out on all the fun.