Rock-a-Hula

Rock-A-Hula - The Hottest Show in Waikiki
Local Expert's Rating:
4.5 / 5
The Bottom Line:

Rock-A-Hula is a fun experience for all ages. Enjoy a high-quality and entertaining show and consider coming early to enjoy some delicious buffet-style food or staying late to hang out in the Music Lounge.

- The HawaiianIslands.com Local Expert Team

Experiencing the Hawaiian culture is one of the most rewarding experiences when visiting the islands. Rock-A-Hula allows visitors to go on a “Hawaiian Journey” that spans from the 1920s to today. Watch powerful performances that include hula, fire knife dancing, Tahitian, and talented musicians. Performances take place in the 750-seat Royal Hawaiian Theater. There are several ticket packages available, allowing you to piece together the right evening for you. 

Here is a look at the available ticket packages:

Rock n’ Show
This is the least expensive ticket option, which includes general seating for the Rock-A-Hula show and a meet and greets with the cast.

Original Waikiki Luau Buffet and Show
The next level includes a welcome hula, an upscale luau buffet dinner in an outdoor cabana, and a welcome Mai Tai. In addition, guests can see the Rock-A-Hula Show and attend a meet and greet with the cast.

VIP Waikiki Luau Buffet and Show
The VIP option includes a welcome hula, a fresh orchid lei, a welcome Mai Tai, two super-premium beverages, and an upscale luau buffet dinner in an outdoor cabana. Also, this option includes preferred seats for the Rock-A-Hula Show and a meet and greet with the cast. 

The Royal Hawaiian Theater is located in Honolulu between the Honolulu Zoo and Kahanamoku Beach. There is a parking structure available and if you validate with rock-A-Hula, you will receive a discounted rate. 

If you are opting to eat dinner at the venue, it is served before the show so that the performers can have your full attention. The daily show lasts about 70 minutes and children are welcome to attend. 

The upscale luau buffet dinner includes many types of food. For meat, find island roasted whole suckling pig, top round grade roast beef, teriyaki glazed chicken, and macadamia-crusted fish of the day. For sides, enjoy passion fruit roasted uala sweet potatoes, vegetarian fried rice, Hawaiian mixed greens with grape tomatoes, and island-style macaroni potato salad.

Additional food options include homemade lomilomi salmon, limu tofu poke, fresh fruit, and freshly baked taro rolls with butter by Elvin’s Bakery. Save room for dessert, because selections include chocolate dobash cake, coconut haupia, and rainbow sorbet. 

In addition to the buffet and show, there is also a new cocktail lounge on the top floor of the Royal Hawaiian Center. It overlooks Kalakaua Avenue and provides an intimate experience that includes craft cocktails, champagne, and live music. All guests must be 21 years or older and there are several options for ticket packages. You can consider the Cocktail Music Lounge Package, which includes one super premium beverage, premium dry snacks, and live music. The other option is the Premier Cocktail Music Lounge Package. This includes two super-premium beverages, premium dry snacks, a pupu platter light, live music, and a VIP seat. 

No matter which experience you choose, this is a terrific venue to check out in Honolulu. It’s also possible to host special events here if you have a work function or want to get your extended family together. Bring everyone to a luau or show, or consider theater and pavilion rentals. Last, you can elevate your off-site party with performers from Rock-a-Hula. 

Insider Tips:
-Holiday specials are available for Valentine’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. 
-If you are coming just for the show, you can still show up early to get a fuller experience. You can have some drinks and hang out with your group before the show starts.