Been to a few luau's and this one seemed was the most elevated and authentic experience. You're…read moregreeted with a fresh lei and personally escorted to the bar for the first of as many mai tai's as you'd like. The performances were culturally focused and I left learning a few things about the history of luaus and the influence of Polynesian heritage in Hawaii's formation. Performers were all talented and entertaining, but you won't get a fire-knife guy or an emcee who's cracking jokes. If you're looking for a minstrel show for tourists, this ain't it. The 4 course-menu was tastefully prepared and presented. Our server explained each of the dishes and I got the sense that everything was locally sourced within a few mile radius. The service was outstanding. Before dinner, you'll get the typical roast pig unearthing. And there were a few other stations that were interesting - Hawaiian bowling, hula demonstration, live band, etc. And of course, you're right on the waterfront so you can watch the sun set and have a beautiful view while you sip the aforementioned unlimited mai tai's. This luau has been going strong for 40 years, and I am so glad they survived the Lahaina fires. I felt good about supporting a Lahaina community that takes pride in their heritage and history.

Pros: - Authentically Hawaiian, not just a mashup of Pacific…read moreIslander countries and cultures. - AYCE(?). You can definitely get seconds, but not sure beyond that. Keep in mind there are a lot of courses, so you don't want to stuff yourself and miss something later. - AYCD. I had so many lava flows the waitress was giving me grief (in a joking and welcomed way). - Entertaining performance. There's a story through the whole show and multiple acts, sorta like how Cirque du Soleil does it. It's more culturally educational than flashy. Even my hula-nerd dining companion was impressed. - Locally based, so your money goes into the community and not some hotel conglomerate 2000+ miles away. - Food was plentiful (even before asking for more), with more hits than misses. Not the best food I've had on Maui, but nowhere near the worst. - The view and locale, duh. - All the staff were great, with plenty of aloha. Cons: - Yeah, it's pricey. The way I look at it though is you're paying for the food, the show, AND supporting the local community to keep its rich culture and history alive as well as helping them in a small way recover from the tragic fires. Plus tips are already included. - Wish there was a non-alcoholic price option so the non-drinkers aren't subsidizing the drinkers. - The pre-dinner walk around time was a bit short. You don't really have enough time to stop by every display/event/demo. I know they time the dinner & show with sunset, but maybe open up a little earlier? Etc: - Most people are kinda dressed up (aloha shirts, flowy dresses), but shorts and tees weren't too uncommon. Athletic wear and men's tank tops would probably be out of place. - Veteran discount available.

We had a really good experience at the Luau. I think you have to go into it with managed…read moreexpectations. The food is buffet style which naturally limits how good it can be. We all found food that we liked (pulled pork and chow fun noodles were the stars). The show was really good. They made it fun and ages 5-80 were all entertained. The staff was nice and they handled a large crowd well. It's not a Broadway Show or Merriman's but it is a good family Luau experience if that's what you are looking for.

The story line and entertainment were great, the liquor was above average, the food was overdone…read moreand dry. The MC kept us engaged throughout and the entertainments appeared to enjoy themselves, drawing the crowd in. While the servers were attentive, we ended up going back for our own drinks. The food looked sad, the Mac and cheese were the highlight of the buffet line. Even the desserts were mediocre. Overall, it was a fun evening, something to experience. I would certainly not pay $200. for event; this was included in our travel package.

Great food and service. Also a good way to learn a little bit about Hawaiian culture.read more

Super solid luau at the Ritz Carlton!…read more Staying near Kapalua on our latest visit - I decided to surprise wifey with one of the newer luaus on the island, the Tales of the Kapa Moe! Had to make my reservations a few weeks in advance since the luau is only on Tuesdays and Fridays! Some limited, ah?! Taking place at the Ritz newly renovated Aloha Garden Pavilion, such a sight when you walk in! Welcomed by staff and given a fresh flower lei and a stiff cocktail (or TWO) right away! Now that's what I call the Aloha Spirit...quite literally LOL! -Blue Hawaiian -Kapalua Mai Tai (fave of the night, strong & vibrant!) Before going to your assigned seating in the covered pavilion, you can partake in the Hawaiian cultural activities in the lanai, and get your pictures taken underneath the beautiful garden backdrop! Then when you're ready you get escorted to your table for the luau pre-show! I gotta say - the highlight of the night is the luau dinner, pretty swanky! Before they call you up to the buffet line by table, they bring out the whole roasted pig for showing off as it heads to the display line for service! I noticed though that the pig is not made in an underground imu as is the traditional Hawaiian method - it is cooked in a Caja China, which can also produce succulent meat! The buffet is stacked well, and you can go back as your heart desires! So much to eat: Salads -Hawaiian Chopped Salad -Caesar Salad -Kula Beets with Arugula (for you vegans) -Soba Noodle Salad Entrees -Whole Roasted Pig -Macadamia Nut Crusted Fresh Fish Catch -Westside Huli Huli Chicken -North Shore Oahu Garlic Shrimp Sides -Wok Fired Island Vegetables -Local Molokai Sweet Potatoes -Ginger & Soy Steamed Bok Choy -Garlic Mushroom Fried Rice There's even a Build your own Poke Station with ahi and kimchi tako poke and tons of condiments! AND even a Keiki Menu that includes Fried Chicken Tenders and Mac & Cheese! I know this isn't what folks in ancient Hawaiian times ate, but cheee hooo the food overall is ONO! The Kula Beets with Arugula and Soba Noodle salads were faves! Some crazy flavor combos going there and good starters! Cannot go wrong with a poke bowl with your own fixings as an appetizer as well! The Whole Roasted Pig was nice & moist (especially the belly sections), delicious when served with the mu shu buns, poi, pickled vegetables, and hoisin chili sauce. Like basically an Asian taco! The Macadamia Nut Crusted Fresh Fish was delectable too, delicate fish with their mild Thai coconut curry sauce was very good! The North Shore Oahu Garlic Shrimp was liked as well, so much garlic and lemon butter! And what goes well with protein? Why, a heaping serving of Garlic Mushroom Fried Rice of course! More of a modern meal take on the Hawaiian luau, but I ain't mad! I made sure to eat enough for my ancestors HA! After the buffet dinner, relax, digest and get ready for the show. The Tales of the Kapa Moe! Great local host, makes you get interactive too, work off some of that luau food! The show is a lively depiction of a day in the life of the Hawaiian ancestors, showcasing the different tasks of everyone in the village. Many tales to enlighten your senses: *Koʻi Honua - A story of the creation of the islands *Pele - Goddess of the volcano and its molten lava *Kanehekili - God of thunder bringing forth rain to start growth *Laka - Goddess of the forest and all earthly vegetation *Ka I ka hoe - Audience participation chant lesson *Huakaʻi Hele - Migration of our ancestors from the south pacific *Ka wailele o Honokohau - Acrobat in the form of a waterfall *Ae Kakou - Men dance expressing their love for fish and poi *Lānaʻi - The beauty of Lānaʻi displayed as our women dance in a cloud *Moea awakens - Fire finale representing that the fire of our people its heritage will continue to live and burn strong And while you're enjoying the history, don't forget to grab some desserts: -Mochi Tart (must try!) -Mango Pudding -Mango Cheesecake -Kapalua Bar -Macadamia Chocolate Crunch Cake What an experience of a luau, very nuanced! Especially the fire show at the end, super LIT is an understatement! My only note is that this luau is a bit pricey for the 3 hour dinner & show - about $260 per person for Ohana Seating, and about $316 per person for the Ali'i Premium Seating (right near the front row). But if you're a kama'aina don't despair - let them know and you can get 20% off with valid Hawaii ID! Awesome time for wifey & I at the Tales of the Kapa Moe Luau Show! This was us early celebrating our 15th anniversary! Can't go wrong with this luau at the Ritz! AWWWRIGHT!!

I compared a lot of luaus and did a lot of research before selecting this one. We finally went and…read morehere is my breakdown. Overall, I do recommend it, but you must go in knowing that the price is extremely expensive for what you actually get so set your expectations. Location: the location is very easily accessible. You can easily walk from Whalers Village. What we did was hang out and shop around Whalers Village a bit, grab lunch and then we walked over to the Westin. Right next-door inside the Westin is an arcade so if you're going with Kids, you could hit up the arcade first as well. But be aware the arcade is very expensive. A $50 game card lasted my kids under 30 minutes. But it was fun. Arrival time: No need to arrive too early. When we arrived 20 minutes early there was already a long line to get in. But what we find out is that it's not first come first serve. The tables are already assigned to you. So as long as you show up on time, it is OK. With this being said keep in mind the earlier you actually book your tickets the better table you get. We got regular seating and not premium. We were literally one table behind the premium table. So therefore, I don't think it's worth getting premium unless you're booking your tickets last minute. if you can reserve your tickets at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance I think you will get a good enough regular seating table that you won't actually need premium. premium is closer to the stage but for me I was happy with my regular seating and saw the stage just fine. The buffet: come hungry. The buffet had plenty of food and they call up one table at a time so it doesn't get overly crowded. They also had a kids buffet with kids type food such as chicken nuggets, french fries and mac & cheese. I'm not a huge fan of the phase, but I would say that this one was definitely above average. They had a lot of local favorites like pulled pork, sweet potatoes, pineapples, rice, and fish. It's definitely enough to keep you full. They also had a special table for dessert buffets. The drinks: It's open Bar and you can drink as much alcohol as you like. They've a variety of mixed drinks as well as wines and beers. They also have kids drinks and sodas and lemonade. It will also have a coffee section with unlimited coffee and tea and hot drinks. Recommendations: the show is very slow to start. In the beginning it's a lot of sitting around. Yes the bar is open and you can drink but the kids definitely got bored. I went with an 8 and a 12 year-old. What I recommend is bringing sunglasses cause you're sitting in the sun and heat waiting. Perhaps even a hat. And a deck of cards to keep the kids at the table busy. Value: This is the part that gets me. I felt that it's very expensive for what you get. To me the price is outrageous. For regular seating we paid over $550 for two adults two kids. This is a lot of money! Yes, the show is good, but it's not excellent. It starts off very slow, but the end is the best. The fire part is actually the best part. when comparing other luaus I chose this one specifically because I thought my kids would love the fire part and honestly, I think the fire part was the best part of the entire show. The show itself is definitely above average. I would say go if money is not an issue. Let's be real, Hawaii is expensive. And this show is just like everything else - overpriced. But it was a fun night. It's one of those things you go to once.

Despite a little rain early in the show this was fabulous! Hot tip- premium seating gets you closer…read moreto the stage but isn't covered. When it was raining they provided ponchos but I was jealous of the Ohana seating under the roof until the skies cleared. First the show- wow! These are very talented dancers/performers. I was impressed by the range of dances and songs. The live band support was solid, and why I think my husband and son found to be most thrilling was the fire performance at the end. Dude licked and grabbed Fire. Second the food- I'm a vegan and was a little nervous about having enough options but they really had something for everyone. My son enjoyed the separate kids buffet, my usually picky husband loved all the fresh fish options and I had more than enough to fill up on, my favorite turned out to be purple sweet potatoes in a coconut milk sauce.

My family and I loved this luau experience! The drinks and food were great and so was the show! We…read moreloved the beautiful story telling of Hawaii from the MC and all of the performers and workers were amazing! :)

We purchased VIP tickets for Drums of the Pacific expecting a special experience, but unfortunately…read moreit turned into one of the most disappointing experiences of our trip. After being seated at our VIP table (#16), we got our drinks and began chatting with our tablemates. Shortly afterward, we noticed water starting to pool around our table. As the water continued rising, it became clear that it wasn't just rainwater, it had a strong sewer-like odor. Guests at surrounding tables were also noticing it and looking around wondering if anyone was going to address the situation. Waiters and staff walked by repeatedly, but no one acknowledged what was happening. The water continued to rise beneath our table and nearby tables. I ended up keeping my feet elevated because I wasn't willing to sit with my feet in foul-smelling water. Several guests from our table complained to staff, waiters, and management, yet little was done until multiple people continued raising concerns. We eventually got up to get food from the buffet, hoping the issue would be resolved. When we requested to speak with management, the interaction was disappointing. We were told the flooding was due to water coming from the parking lot. When we asked if there was another place we could sit, we were met with a dismissive response that left us feeling like our concerns were not being taken seriously. As paying VIP guests, we weren't trying to dictate a solution, we simply expected the staff to find a reasonable accommodation. When we asked about a refund, we took the food we had already served ourselves and moved to a small bench off to the side while deciding what to do. Within a couple of minutes, a representative from Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa approached us and told us that we either needed to leave immediately or pay for the luau. I found this response unprofessional and unnecessarily confrontational. What was most disappointing was the lack of effort to make the situation right. We fully understand that unexpected issues happen. Flooding is not something the staff could have prevented. However, customer service is measured by how situations are handled. A simple acknowledgment, apology, and effort to accommodate affected guests would have gone a long way. Something as simple as, "We're so sorry for this unexpected situation. We still want you to enjoy your evening. You may finish your meal, but if you choose to stay for the show, the refund would no longer apply," would have been completely reasonable. Instead, after agreeing to leave, we went outside to finish the food already on our plates and were then told by Hyatt Regency staff that we could not stand outside and eat either. We weren't allowed to sit elsewhere inside, and we weren't allowed to finish our food outside. The entire situation became increasingly frustrating and left a very negative impression. I also felt especially bad for the honeymooning couple seated next to us, whose special evening was impacted as well. The flooding itself wasn't the issue. The issue was the response. There seemed to be no urgency, little empathy, and no meaningful attempt to accommodate guests who had paid a premium price for a VIP experience. I'm sure the luau itself is wonderful, and under normal circumstances it may have been a great experience. However, seeing how Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa handled this situation makes me hesitant to ever return. The flooding itself was unfortunate, but unexpected situations happen. What guests remember is how those situations are handled. Throughout the evening, there seemed to be very little urgency, empathy, or effort to accommodate guests who had paid a premium price for a VIP experience. The hospitality, warmth, and aloha spirit that are so often associated with Hawaiian culture were not reflected in our experience that evening. What should have been a memorable night became memorable for all the wrong reasons. Based on how this situation was handled, I would give this experience 1 star.

Hmmmmmm how to rate.... Well, afterward, my husband and I said it was "mid." So I think 3 stars is…read morefair. Our only other experience with a luau was the Old Lahaina Luau, approx 10 years ago on our honeymoon, so I am using that for comparison. At that time, everyone told us the OLL was the best in Maui. In comparison, the Maui Nui Luau doesn't quite hold up. First impressions are everything, and the plastic tables and chairs don't give off an upscale "you're in for a treat" vibe. The buffet food was completely decent. I enjoyed everything on my plate. It wasn't spectacular, but I thought it was good. If you have picky children, they might not want anything other than bread rolls and dessert. It's nice having an open bar, but if you're not a drinker, it might be hard to get your money's worth at any luau. Entertainment was cool--before the dancing starts, there's a few activities mainly geared towards kids (temp tattoos, stamped bookmarks, etc) as well as some vendors set up on the sides. During the show, the MC was good without being over the top. The fire dancers were obviously the best. Being able to see fire dancers was the only reason we chose not to go to OLL again, because I thought our son would enjoy this part the best. All-in-all, if you have a picky eater, non-drinkers, or aren't quite sure if you'd get the value of a luau, you could skip this one (and probably skip any other one, too). They're extremely expensive. It was not worth the nearly $600 price tag.

While still on my Hawaii Maui vacation, I had to take the time to write this 5 star review…read more Luau - Let's start with what it means and is. A luau is a Hawaiian tradition, where people gather to celebrate and eat with entertainment. This also means in our own understanding like a "wedding", "baby shower", and/or "birthday". Having been to a dozen of luau's, I feel a compelling need to review from a perspective of one who appreciates the arts and culture. Let's start off with price - This is by far a VERY affordable luau. You're not just paying for a Buffett but the entertainment is included. They literally entertain you for 3 full hours. If you're bougie and hate waiting don't be a cheapskate and pay extra to be preferred. If you can't afford to pay extra for preferred then get there early, be the first in line to get seated at the tables behind the preferred seating. Is there a wait, yes, if you're not preferred you wait. That is typically how preferred and VIP works. I paid for the preferred because I don't like to wait and yes, I like to be front and center and I like the perks of being "first" so I paid for the extra service, well worth every extra penny. Staff: 5 stars EVERYONE was extremely nice! IFKYK: If I had read the reviews first I might not have paid to come to the show, these reviews are a mix of good/bad but more bad than good and I'll have to admit Yelpies on this one got it WRONG! Let's just say, more people are inclined to write a negative review before a positive review. It's almost as if the "negative crew" left their sentiments. But honestly it's fairly priced, weather is the weather, it's Hawaii, plan to be hot, in rain, they perform rain or shine. Is it crowded, YES, it's just not going to be just you and your 3 kids and wife. Think of church, if you go, a big ole crowded church! Are there long lines? Yes, but they go extremely fast. Can you experience a bigger show elsewhere? Absolutely you can, if you're going to Oahu and can visit the cultural center, then do that experience or even on the Big Island but for Maui, this is a fantastic experience! Let's get into it! It's a Buffet and given its Hawaiian theme this foodie gives it a solid 10! Food was full of flavor, a little cold but we had windy rainy weather which is no fault to them. Overall, a Maui vacation is going to cost 10k easy (that's cheap)! Add 2-3k for entertainment while you're here and enjoy this beautiful experience! Kudos to the entertainment crew, grateful to see how much love, passion and heart put into this show. Mahalo nui loa for continuing to share the legacy of beautiful Hawaii!

Maui Theatre is home to `Ulalena, a show that explores the relationships between people, nature and…read moremythology. The show integrates Hawaiian chants and dances to support the talents of unique performers. Unfortunately, I didn't get to see `Ulalena on this particular trip to Maui. I was disappointed but I got over it quick because I actually had to go to Maui Theatre because I had the honor of being one of the judges for the 2015 Miss Maui Scholarship Competition/Pageant. The theatre shares a parking lot with the Maui Outlets along Front Street and the theatre screams `Ulalena right as you walk in with multiple posters that advertise the show. They also had some beautiful paintings on the wall of hula dancers and comfy cushioned chairs with a Hawaiian print design on them. The restrooms were overall clean and spacious. The theatre itself is small compared to others in Hawaii but adequate enough for Lahaina. The Miss Maui pageant however was no small feat because for the first time, they combined the Miss Maui Outstanding Teen and the Mister Maui Scholarship pageant with the competition. All of the contestants were incredibly talented and they put on a fantastic show and competition. I think Maui Theatre was the perfect place to hold the competition and the stage, lighting and sounds complemented the contestants really well. I hope to be able to have the honor of being a judge again and also return to Maui Theatre to watch the renowned `Ulalena.

Anywhere you sit in this theater is good for you. It's pretty much the stadium kind so you will be…read morefine. We where here to watch the show Ulalena. Acoustics are great. The location of their instruments makes a difference. It's high above to your right. In fact you will be surrounded by the great accompanying sounds of the show. Clear signage. Odd numbers to your left and even to your right. Door wise. If you have a ticket no need to fall in line as you walk in. Head on straight to the door or the concession area. For picking up your ticket. There are two ways: if the instructions from the hotel is to go to Bubba Gump restaurant; it is right across from it in a KIOSK. That's where the tickets are. Or head to the theater if you are doing the will call. Fall in line. It moves quickly. Enjoy the show!

We are staying at Napili Kai Resort and the stage for this is here. There are about 100 seats and…read moreadmission is open seating or up front VIP for extra pay. This came highly recommended, we ll walk over in ten minutes. later: It was excellent and a full house. We were in row 5 of 10. Views just fine. I always get more education going to something like this. i didn't realize the introduction of the guitar to Hawaiian music came from the influence during the ranching era and cowmen from Spain and Mexico that brought music and instruments to the Big Island where Ranching remains to this day. Or that the men's higher pitch or falsetto voice in Hawaiian songs came from singing in churches for what would be a soprano or woman's part. It was a full 2 hour event with A wonderful Hula on some songs. After this, you will not forget the experience. A special time for my landmark # review, 2222.

Great show. Disappointed that who I thought was performing was in Cali, but Shem Kahawaii is an…read moreamazing musician with such a voice-- won't be my first time hearing him. Led Kapaana was fabulous; a privilege to finally hear him perform in person. Loved the availability to buy merch, meet the artists and take photos with them . Great set up- intimate setting but did not appreciate hate having paid for the general seating seats (row 5 and back, getting there early and sitting in row 5, only to have latecomers sit in row 4 right in front of us when there were available seats... so I'm dropping the review from 5 stars to 3. Please follow your own rules:(

Definitely a must see! Seth is very entertaining and his magic wows you! This was an exciting but…read morerelaxed way to spend a night in Hawaii. Hands down best illusionist/magic show I have seen.

What an amazing show tonight. Awesome magic and comedy show in one. Highly recommend seeing Seth…read moreand his crew.