Amazing show, so fun, great talent. Emcee, dancers, band and fire dancers. Ambiance is outside but on a rooftop. So if the weather does not cooperate, it could be dicey. We didn't get a few drops but not too bad. Food was ok, salads, sides were very good. The meats not so much. The only thing was really good was the barbecue pork. The kalua pork was dry and tasteless. The fish was inedible and so dry. No seasonings on the kalua pork. Desserts were ok, a pineapple cake, coconut pannacotta and mini Malasaga donuts. Mai tais were good, not a lot of liquor but good. You come for the show and was the best. See my pics. read more

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My brother secured reservations for our family at the Hilton's Friday Fireworks Luau on the Great Lawn ($249 each). Since my family was already staying at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, my husband and I trekked it over to their part of Waikiki. We had Golden Circle seating which was not VIP but we had 3 drink tickets each along with a welcome drink upon entering. We were seated with an okay view of the stage. It was warm and it was nice to be dining al fresco. They had live music and we were called up to the buffet table-by-table. The food was so-so but we found things to eat. There was Kahlua pork, roasted chicken, fish, salad, bread, etc. For the drink tickets, it's easier to go up to the bartender and order rather than wait for a server. Drinks that were available to us included: soft drinks, POG, beer, wine, and premixed cocktails. Needless to say, we did not use up our tickets but my husband tried and he even tried giving a few away. While dining, they started the show on the stage. The talented performers put on a great show and even my dad got in on the fun. Once the performance ended and the dining concluded, we were directed towards the lagoon where we would have a great view of the fireworks. The staff was on top of clearing plates and helping guests. The fireworks show lasted about 10 minutes or so but it was a lovely way to spend an evening with family. read more

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A group of us made reservations to attend the Waikiki Starlight Luau for a Friday night. The luau started at 5:30 and ended at 8:30 PM. We had to be in line at 5 PM. The check-in line was very long. While in line we were all given lei's. Unfortunately they were very masculine (black and white). We were given 3 drink tickets each. There was a bar off set from the food. Nothing top shelf however. Wine was decent. Once in, were were given an opportunity to have your picture taken. The group of 16 took one picture. Later we found out the 1 photograph was $88 a piece ($45 per photo there after). Venders were setup to sell their hand carved (?) items. The prices were too expensive for my liking. You can buy the same stuff elsewhere for far less. Buffet style meal. 300 in attendance - there were 2 set ups for the buffet. You could go up to grab your food once your "table" was released. It took about 20 minutes to make it to the food table. The entire party found the food and deserts to be less than fair. They served salads - a green salad, macaroni with pineapple salad and cole slaw with pineapple. The meats were pork, BBQ, brisket that was tough, chicken on the bone, and some kind of Hawaiian fish. For desert there was pineapple upside cake, coconut flan (but not typical flan), and donut holes. Separately, there was a small table that included kids foods such as mini meatballs, chicken wings, and french fries. The entertainment was good but short. We were seated toward the back so it was very difficult to watch. If you want to see anything you had to get up and stand. There were many people that stood just outside of the lawn where the luau was and watched the entire show for free! In fact they likely had a better view of the show than we did. The promotion stated it included fireworks - what a scam. The fireworks were free for anyone who wanted to see them. Additionally they only lasted 5 minutes. Certainly noting exciting. All in all this luau was not worth the very expensive tickets we paid to attend. If they were $100 the price would be acceptable. However we paid 3 times that much and left unfulfilled and disappointed. I do not recommend this luau. It is not as advertised. read more

Waikiki Starlight Luau - Eating dinner - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

We reserved seats just for the show due to having dinner plans. The buffet looks great from a distance as far as presentation, not sure how the food was though. Drinks were ok. The show is what we went for and it was absolutely amazing. I have only been to one other luau so not much to compare to but we had a great time! read more

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Outstanding experience and one of the best luau meals I have ever had!! Can't recommend coming here to experience a Luau, enough! You are greeted promptly at 5:30pm, take a nice professional photography photo, given a delicious drink upon arrival, and taken to your seat. The timing and pacing of the event was great. You are given three drink tickets per person for nonalcoholic and or alcoholic beverages. We did the Friday evening luau with the fireworks and highly recommend, such a great experience! read more

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Reserved this LUAU experience on the second night upon arrival !! Located on the roof top of the 3 floor parking structure in the Hilton Vacation Village ! When Doors opened few of the stage performers gently placed a painted black and white Kukui nuts lei on our necks! We were handed out a Mai Tai cocktails for the adults while kids a cup of juice ! There was a center stage and white long tables with a beautiful colorful tablecloth. Next stop was a pose for souvenir photos ! It was handed out later for purchase in a nice hard cover folder! We were escorted to our table for 6 which had a nice center view of the stage!! Before lining up for the buffet a whole roasted pig was paraded and made it to the center stage for everyone's mouth watering appetite!! Deliciously lavished prepared luau buffet dishes were plenty!!Just the shredded Kalua pork needed more seasoning it was bland. I loved the flavorful BBQ Pork Belly Slice!! An exclusive buffet kiosk was also avaible for toddlers who prefer french fries, nuggets, or hash browns!! TheiPolynesian dance numbers depicting the Hawaiian legends and history were entertaining! The fire dance was the show stopper and wonderfully choreographed !!! read more

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If you're in Honolulu and don't want to travel too far this luau will do. I've been to many other luaus not located at a hotel and were much better for the price. With that said, due the convenience this luau marks all the boxes. Food was good, MC entertaining, dancers and entertainers were great! The staff was very friendly and helpful as well. I do wish there was more engagement and activities for the kids. We went on a Tuesday evening and it was held on the front lawn next to the lagoon which made for pretty sunset views. Overall, decent luaua, but for the price I wish there was just more interaction and activities. read more

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It is convenient if you are staying at the Hilton and the walk to see the fireworks right after the show can't be beat but it isn't the best by far out there. The performers are good but you can't see them unless you are upfront. It is pricey, lacks authenticity and fees very rushed and busy. We didn't get the food but it looked mid at best. read more

we decided to try out the Waikiki starlight luau because we were staying at the Hawaiian Hilton Village and it was super convenient for us and it was just right out on the front lawn. So the prices for the golden Circle seating was $ 185 for adults and $120 dollars for childrens for 4-11. So the doors open at 5 PM but try to get there 30 to 45 minutes before because the line wraps around so long and you want to get good seats! when the doors open you'll be greeted with a lei, and also a welcome beverage and live music!! everyone was so nice and welcoming, and it really made the experience so cool!! we really love luau, no matter how the experience was. We just like the atmosphere and watching the different dances and shows and fire dancing and all the other things that come with it was a little hard since we had babies with us but thats okay it was still an awesome dinner and luau!! if ur staying at hilton hawaiian village its a perfect luau since its at the same resort! read more

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This is a revised review of my experience from three years ago. While things may have changed since then, I feel it's worth sharing--especially after recently attending another luau that truly blew me away and far exceeded my expectations. That comparison really highlighted just how underwhelming this experience was. To start with the positives: the performance itself was enjoyable. The entertainers were talented, and the show had good energy. It could have been a bit longer, but it was still a fun part of the evening. Unfortunately, the food was where things completely fell apart. It lacked freshness, flavor, and variety. There was no buffet-style setup, and the overall quality was extremely poor--so much so that both my mother and I ended up feeling sick afterward. For the price we paid, it was shocking and disappointing. The location was fine, and the souvenir photos were a nice idea, but they felt overpriced for what they were. In the end, while the show had its moments, the rest of the experience didn't come close to being worth the cost. Compared to other luaus I've experienced since--especially one that set the bar incredibly high--this just didn't measure up. I wouldn't return based on that experience, though I do hope things have improved over time. read more

My daughter and I recently went with family to the Starlight Luau in the Hilton. It was a fun experience especially since we're from Hawaii so we don't really go to luaus on our own. It was my daughter's first experience too so she had a great time. My husband's family is from California and they wanted to go to the luau. This is how the luau evening went. You buy your tickets online but even if you buy your tickets online it doesn't reserve your seat, just what section you will be in. So go early if you want to get a good seat up front. We got there pretty early and was standing at the door waiting for it to open. There were a lot of people with the same idea. Once the doors open, you're taken to get a lei and get a group photo taken. Then from there you can go and get your seat. We got really good seats, right in the front. It was a super sunny day that day so we were in the direct sunlight for a bit. But it was okay because soon the sun went down and it was perfect. Perfect temperature and perfect weather. After everyone was seated they had a little intro show with the host and then we were able to get our food. The food is on a buffet line. There's a line on each side of the facility. They had quite a selection. Was hoping for Lau lau but I knew it wouldn't be there. Could end up just wasting that laulau since most tourists don't know what that was. Instead they had kalua pig which was very good. It wasn't dry and it was very juicy. They also had chicken and other things. My favorite was a the kalua pig. The desserts they had mini malasada (mini donut) and haupia square. The haupia was pretty good. After dinner the show began. The show was great. The host was very charismatic and you could tell he enjoyed what he did night after night. He was basically the storyteller. They were traveling to different parts and sharing the culture of their dances. It was so interesting to see the different styles of dances and different outfits. In the end they call for volunteers "brave souls" to come up to learn how to hula. Of course my daughter raises her hand. I swear I don't know where she comes from because I would never raise my hand to go on stage. The first round was the men going up and being taught by the women dancers. She didn't know that but she was disappointed she didn't get chosen. But then the men started going out and she raised her hand again. And one of the men chose her. She was so excited. He took her to the back of the stage and she learned some moves. You can see her shake her hips in my video, she's hilarious and brave. She loved every minute of it. Great show and we had a lot of fun. If you ever get the chance, come and watch this show. read more

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The show is good, except the fire knife is a pathetic 3 minutes when other shows are 6 to 8 minutes,

From what I heard, Waikiki is a very popular and overrated place according yo many locals and Hawaiians. I find it hilarious because it's true. However, as expensive as it is here, the convenience is nice and you are surrounded by plenty of people, mostly Asian people. The show however is a very inconvenient experience. We paid about 400$ total with the discount of participating in the most ludicrous tour of some time shares around waikiki, honolulu. Unfortunately, you are forced to take this 2 hour time consumer to get the 500$ discount I which the total price was about 950$. Luckily, since we did the 2 hour tour we were able to get this 500$ discount. We booked this luau on Sunday, before our vacation came to an end. The food inside is a buffet like setting. The food overall was average in my opinion. I had some decent food such as the taro sweet potatoes, the salad, some fruit like: pineapple, strawberries, Blueberries, grapes, watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew and kiwi. These were the highlights. The shredded pork, teriyaki chicken, BBQ beef brisket, pasta, tater tots, corn and desserts were awful. Unfortunately, majority of my family thought the same. As I was eating, there was this downpour of rain just splashing all over my food and luckily for us, we received some ponchos to mitigate the irritance of the cold water coming from the sky. One of the biggest issues is that the people from the hotel and outside the ropes get a free show. The location is also located next to a parking garage and can get crowded due to the tourists coming in and the polluted air from the cars drifts to the tables. The show was pretty good. Very enjoyable with great performers and a variety of unique colors, dances and music. It was loud. The female belly dancers were hot and the male dancers looked silly. To be honest, I laughed at the male dancers because they all had long hair and were out of control. In fact, the people next to our table laughed at them as well. Most of the tourists are families from California. Near the end of the show I am typing this review because after that things got boring real quick. At night, there was barely any light and it was difficult to maneuver around with a ton of people nearby. The drinks you receive in the beginning as well were too sweet. They didn't even show cooking of the pig at any point, which was disappointing. Overall, very silly experience. read more

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When in Hawaii, check out a luau. Easy to walk to this luau at the Hilton Hawaiian Village from our beach walk Hilton Grand Vacations Hotel. In February, each family had their own table. After being greeted and given a fresh orchid lei, you could choose your table. While waiting for the show, you could try a hula dance or grab a fruity drink. No buffets, but generous servings of appetizers, salads, entrees and desserts were brought to each family. Although it was a limited menu, service was great and there was plenty of food. The appetizers and salads were delicious. Edamame, generous bowls of fresh ahi poke, and a beef jerky started the dinner. The fresh salad with a papaya dressing and the cold ube salad were also very good. Choices for the main meal included huli huli chicken, mahi-mahi and pork. We skipped the pork and the mahi-mahi was inedible. The chicken was good with the rice and veggies that came with the main meal. For dessert, we were given a huge bowl of fresh fruit, so good, and a plate of sweet coconut macaroons with chocolate, brownies and haupia coconut jellies. Thanks, Robert, for the to go boxes for later. Two drink tickets could be used for sodas, beer or cocktails. Coffee and tea were available on a back table. The show was really great. Hula dancers, fire twirlers and a hostess with a lovely voice. Being able to sit outside, enjoy a meal and a show while enjoying a magical sunset was so nice. I am not sure that I would have paid the $160 price tag to come here, but it was a perfect perk of our Hilton Grand Vacations package which included 6 days and 5 nights in a beautiful Waikiki hotel. Mahalo! read more

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I have been to many Luaus, so I do NOT go out of my way any more, but we were invited to this as guests. So when in Oahu... Quality/Quantity - We ended up sitting in the center back near the bar. :) Better than I expected, especially the food. The food was so good that I over ate, probably ate myself sick, why do I do this to myself. Told the family that the two buffets we had this year were two too many!! Drinks Okay, I drank too much also. Mai Tai Punch - Sorry I can not recommend, but they did put generous alcohol in it. Pineapple Margarita - Yes, this is the one!! It was too good. Kona Beer - Most popular HI beer, especially in the mainland, so nothing special to me (just because I have drank too much of it in my life). Show was good, but again I really did not pay too much attention as I have been to so many Luaus. Atmosphere - Convenient location as we are staying at the Hilton. :) Tattoo (sharpie pen) station, Orchid lei station for wrists, they give you a real floral orchid lei necklace when you enter. There was also an area where they sold souvenirs. Luau 5 days a week, see website for specific days. Service - 6 stars, team was friendly from check in to seating to waiters, etc. Thank you. Price - $160 a person if we paid. $210 premium seating which gives you closer seating (further away from the bar) and first dibs on the food; don't worry when I went for seconds, there was more than enough food to feed everyone again!! Owner Comment - Congrats on your success! I had a much better time than I expected. read more

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If I could give this luau negative stars I would. I've been to many luaus over the years and was beyond disappointed and even angered by this pathetic excuse for a luau. We showed up at 4:45pm to line up outside for the luau (begins at 5:30pm). I'm so glad we got there early, because the line wrapped all the way around the lagoon. So what? That means that if you didn't get a decent spot in the line, you'd be waiting until right before 7pm to get inside and seated. Online it says dinner begins at 6:15. This was not the case, as food was served around 7. The food was mediocre and the pork was dry (they don't even have the actual pig out there, nor do they have poi - a typical luau staple item). There was an expectation of possible rain, so what did Hilton do to accommodate this? Ponchos. That's right, they KNEW about rain and basically said "here is a poncho and if it rains good luck with everything else on the lawn." By that, I mean it started POURING right as food was being served and they didn't even have coverings for the buffet food. No cover AT ALL for the guests who are all spending $170 to $210 a person before taxes, so we all had to eat in the pouring rain as our plates filled up with rain water. Absolutely disgusting and unbelievable how little they care about guests at this place. With a ticket you also get a second drink, but with the rain, nobody could even drink it. The luau show (which online says it starts at 7) started after we ate (no entertainment during dinner, although the rain was entertaining enough), and ended shortly after 8pm. No interacting with the performers before or after, and you have to grab the lei yourself instead of them putting it on you, but if they cared about covid one bit they wouldn't be doing a full buffet with hundreds of people in attendance and no masks, so the excuse that covid is the reason why they have a terribly planned, poorly serviced luau is not an excuse. It's pure laziness and a money grab with complete disrespect for guests. By the way, that cute picture you take at the beginning which holds up the line is a whopping $45, so make sure to take your own photos (or honestly spend your money at literally ANY other luau). read more

Waikiki Starlight Luau - These times are incredibly inaccurate - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Great evening of entertainment with food and drinks!! The dancers were so graceful in their storytelling of all the different Polynesian cultures. read more

09-22-24 This was our first Luau, really did not know what to expected. I've researched other Luau companies via google maps and they appear much larger and on the grounds near water. This one is located on top of a building on cement. The footprint is small compared to others. Might be a good thing since the call you up by table to get buffet style food. The alcohol drinks are watered down. I recommend getting a bottle or can of something. The food is good. The entertainment I enjoyed very much. This Luau is pricey. The MC was funny. read more

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We attended the show on 9/25. The entertainment itself was great. Dancers were amazing. The buffet was really good. Here is where it felt short. The whole evening felt rushed. We paid for VIP seating with 2 drink tickets. We barely had time to spend 1 ticket. We were never told that the bar was closing. The VIP seats we got were the back side of the stage so not a good view for paying extra. My biggest complaint is that the two male hosts overall were extremely rude. They do not belong in a customer service positions. If not for the dancers and the food, it would have been a 1 especially because of the hosts. read more

So this was my first luau! I have no other luau to compare it too. The price is a bit high at $200 a ticket. And that's the cheap seats. But this is average for luau's around the Island. I chose this experience because this was literally at the hotel I was staying at and it was most convenient. Upon arrival you have to stand in line for about 30-40 minutes. Once they open the gate you are presented with either a lay or in our experience some Hawaiian Tree nuts ( also referred to as kukui nuts). I was happy with the necklace because I bought a few to bring back to Maryland but not enough for my neighbors and parents. The official state tree of Hawaii is the kukui nut tree or kukui tree. They began with telling us about the buffet serving drinks and explaining how the night would proceed. The weather held up and watching the sunset over the lagoon and the ocean was beautiful. The artistry and beauty was breathtaking. The food was phenomenal. I honestly could not eat $200 worth of food. But the experience was worth $400 and I got an education about the importance of Hawaii and the first people on the islands. It was beautiful and a great experience overall. read more

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This is a must do when you are visiting Hawaii! Yes Luaus are very expensive but when you recognize the work that goes into it, the price makes sense. I had planned to attend at least one Luau while visiting Hawaii. There were other places in the area that had Luaus but obviously it would be ultimately convenient to attend the one at our resort. We were very fortunate that staff my husband was working with provided us with tickets to the Luau! Not only that, but it was also VIP access! I was and am so eternally grateful for that! The Luau is somewhat complicated to get to. You have to go up an elevator to a specific floor and then walk up a flight or two of stairs. Luckily there are signs to guide you. We arrived and our tickets were checked and then we were guided to enter through the VIP entrance. Upon entering, we were then greeted with a lei and choice of tropical drink. We then had our photo taken l, followed by being ushered to our seats. We were seating right in front of the stage, which was amazing! We had this very nice Asian couple sitting with us. Although we didn't speak each other's languages, they were still very nice and we all had fun together. A plate full of snacks (or maybe Pupus) were set on the table for the four of us to share. I have no idea what some of the items were but I tried it all. The MC came on the microphone, introduced himself, and provided an itinerary of the show. He was awesome because throughout the entire Luau, he educated the crowd on everything. The dancers came out and not only danced but there were different outfits they modeled that the MC educated us on. There was even a part of the show where the dancers grabbed people from the crowd to learn and dance with them. Hubs was chosen and of course he was totally awkward lol. The last part of the entertainment was the fire portion-so friggin awesome! There was this massive buffet we were provided with and although I was unfamiliar with several items, I still grabbed some so I could try. Everything was delicious and tasted fresh! The photographer came around showing everyone their photos (printed out) and was selling them for some ridiculous amount of money. We declined of course. I think it was $40 for 1 photo! I tried after the show to negotiate because they are just going to throw them away but he didn't budge. Instead, upon leaving, people were able to take photos with the dancers, which of course I took advantage of. I commended the dancers and thanked them for an amazing show. I highly, highly, highly recommend attending this Luau! read more

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I had a blast at this luau! I was in town for a conference and flying solo. I was so delighted to be seated next to someone who was also traveling alone for the same conference. We had so much fun chatting and enjoying the show. What's more, the food was phenomenal!!!! There was an abundance of everything. One downside is that there are flies that are also well aware of the delicious food and drinks. I got a drink and as soon as I got to my table, there was a fly in it. They swapped it out without issue. Highly recommend!! read more

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After I had checked into the hotel, I was directed where I was able to reserve a spot for the next evening's performance. Best part was, I was able to charge the fee to the room. The agent was very friendly and reviewed the types of plans. I'm glad I did my research before I had arrived. I thought the rates were reasonable for the dinner and the show. At 5pm, guests are started to be seated so arrive early. I had arrived around 4:30pm, and yes, there was a long line, however, the line went relatively fast. Once I made it to the entrance, I was greeted and received a lei. I chose the Gold plan so I was a little further away from the stage, but still a good view. The evening MC, came out to let us know about the night's activities including about the meal. So there wouldn't be a long line at the banquet style food, the hostess came to each table to advise us when we can get into line. There were couple of salads, plenty of proteins and sides to choose from. On a seperate table, were the desserts. Since this was banquet style, I really didn't have high expectations regarding the food. I will say, I was surprise how good the food was. Everything was was supposed to be cold was cold. Everything was supposed to be hot was hot. Cudos to the kitchen crew!! The banquet staff did a great job of keeping the tables cleaned. The show itself, was very entertaining and moved right along. My favorite part was the fire dance portion. Incredible. Because, of my seating location, I wasn't able to get good pictures or video. So I was really able to enjoy the show instead of trying for the pictures or video. Overall, the laua was great and I would highly recommend to check out at least one laua. read more

Disappointing Experience - Do Not Purchase This Luau! It started when we asked about another luau, Paradise Cove, the concierge had nothing but negative things to say about our original choice. He even mentioned that some of the fire dancers had left due to mistreatment, including a dancer who was supposedly pregnant. I regret to say that our experience with this luau was incredibly disappointing. We were assured by the Hilton concierge that specific accommodations would be made for our group, as we had a member in a wheelchair. Unfortunately, those promises were not fulfilled, leaving us feeling neglected and frustrated. Despite the concierge's assurance that he would contact the luau to confirm our needs, nothing was done. It felt like a classic bait and switch--what we were promised did not match the reality we encountered. Overall, I would strongly advise against purchasing tickets for this luau. Save your money and seek out a more reputable experience where your needs will be taken seriously. I looked at the current 3 star (2.9) as of today (09Aug2024) and that rating is too high. read more

Worst luau ever! Overpriced and ordinary. The luau worker (big guy) physically pushed me to the side of the buffet table he wanted me to go to. I told him not to touch me. He ignored me and walked away. If Hilton is interested, I have his picture. read more

Waikiki Starlight Luau - That's it? - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Nice Luau in Waikīkī. The dancers were very good. The food was served buffet style and was ok. Come for the dancers and show.

Who holds a luau on the top of a parking garage? This is just so very very odd. Hard to have an imu ceremony without jackhammering through cement. Maybe this is just a temporary location, but until it moves back, you might want to consider another. read more

Waikiki Starlight Luau - Who holds a luau on the roof of a parking garage? - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Have been to a number of luaus before and this one was a bit strange being on the top floor of a parking garage. There is a Friday night option on the great lawn of the resort near the water (which was expensive) but we opted for the less expensive option. The food was average luau food with large quantities which was nice. The wait staff were efficient and friendly. The entertainers were excellent and the show overall well done. The MC told the story well and had a beautiful voice. read more

Wow! What a night! This was on our first Friday right after we moved on the Island just a few days before! What a beautiful beginning! Loved the food and the performances! Drinks were meh and the line to get to it was super long but all in all a beautiful experience! It was pricey but worth every penny! Loved it! read more

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Sow was great. Food was adequate. I paid extra for premier seating and wound up sitting further back than regular admission tickets.

Worst food ever. I paid $150 for the Luau. I have been to multiple Luaus in Oahu and Waikiki starlight is the worst Luau. Music & Dancers were good but no dancers while we were eating. Food was really bad. . Pork was salty and boiled vegetable had no flavor. My sons ended up leaving early because they were getting bites on their legs. read more

Waikiki Starlight Luau - It was bad. Over cooked fish, salty pork, boiled vegetables, how can you mess up on the rice!?!? - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I was worried based on the awful reviews we read on here so maybe our expectations were low but we actually really enjoyed the starlight luau. Our server Andres was very hospitable and took good care of our table. Becuase of Covid the luau is on the great lawn in front of the lagoon overlooking the sunset and each party gets their own table so our small party of 3 got a table that fit 6. The luau started with a lei greeting (you put it on yourself becuase of Covid to maintain physical distance) and either a Mai tai or virgin punch. They then seat you and your table has pre-set root vegetable chips (taro, sweet potato, purple yam) and Maui onion dip, a plate of poke, pipikaula, and edamame, and a basket of bread. It was hard not to fill up on just the pre-set appetizers alone. You get a drink ticket for drink of your choice and then a salad is served followed by your entree plate that includes mahi mahi, Kalua pork, and huli huli chicken (kind of like a Hawaiian version of teriyaki chicken), a scoop of rice, and veggies. By the time our entree came we were already pretty stuffed off appetizers but the nice thing was that they give you to-go boxes for your leftovers. (I hate wasting food). Then they give you a giant bowl of fresh cut fruit and a platter of desserts with macaroons, macadamia nut brownies, and haupia (coconut jello) Even though it's not a buffet anymore, it's still plenty of food. Food wasn't nearly as bad as many of these reviews say they are. Not the best (we just had Helena's the night before) but not the worst. The show was also very nice. The 5-time award winning fire dancer was impressive. We've gone to a few luaus on the island (Polynesian cultural center, Kawa'a at Aulani) and this one seemed more intimate and my husband actually liked the performances better. read more

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This Luau was fun. There was time for dancing, food and drinks. Since they are using a lawn area it would be better to have the stage raised that way no matter where you are you get a decent view. Nonetheless, it was a nice and if you're staying in Waikiki VERY convenient. They take a photo of your for purchase and it's available that night printed or digitally read more

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I felt it was overpriced and somewhat dull. From our seats we had to strain to see the performances. I went to the Paradise Cove luau last August. It was amazing. The food was fantastic, the venue was beautiful and the show lasted for a very long time. That show was superb with an amazing theme, talented dancers and performances. Unfortunately, I paid more for this show and it was fairly low budget. The food was decent. The dancers were very good, but they performed for only about 5 or six short dances. The location was definitely convenient, but I recommend driving to Paradise Cove. It's worth the trip. read more

I went with family and we all absolutely loved the show. Dinner was amazing and the environment was beautiful. Very organized and safe. Highly recommend. read more

Waikiki Starlight Luau - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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We had a great time at this luau! We were a little skeptical at buying tickets because we had read complaints about it being on top of a parking structure, but I hardly noticed. We had beautiful views of the ocean and the decor was beautiful. As for the shows, the dancing was on point and the fire sequence in particular was amazing. My only complaint was that we were among the last to make it to the buffet, and they started pouring the food away shortly after so we didn't have time for seconds...but I just made myself two plates the first time so I didn't need to come back! We tried several authentic hawaiian dishes and some Japanese-inspired ones as well. Overall, bang for the buck this is probably one of the best luaus in Waikiki and probably Oahu. read more

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This was first-ever luau, so I had ideas in my head about how it would go. Definitely wasn't expecting this though. I'll focus on the positive first, which were the actual entertainers. They are professional as hell and are dedicated to their craft. I was pretty impressed with the way they were perfectly synchronized with each other on every single dance. And yes, the fire dance was about as crazy as I could've imagined. This was more or less the only saving grace of the luau. The location left a lot to be desired. I looked at the property beforehand and the Hilton has a pretty significant footprint on Waikiki. Hell, they literally have their own portion of the beach right behind it. And yet...they stick us on top of a parking garage. Granted, a convention center is on top of the parking garage as well, but come on. I expected a beachside celebration, not being surrounded by buildings and concrete. The only saving grace is that we did this in the fall, so the sun had for the most part went down by the time the main show started. Food was alright, I guess. I had to be a bit selective with the luau I chose since my girlfriend has to be gluten-free, and it's not like many luaus are explicit about what kind of gluten-free food they have. But yeah, the food wasn't nothing home to shout about and pretty forgettable. I guess that's what you get for buffet food. The experience of this luau was alright, but I would definitely do a different one that's more authentic next time. read more

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Great show and good food. Service was good and the interactions with the cast/crew was excellent

Reading the negative reviews on here, I'm convinced the authors of those reviews attended another luau. I've attended Starlight more than once (as well as other luaus in Waikiki) and Starlight is easily the best in Waikiki. The food was delicious-- contrary to the negative reviews, I did not see any food run out and it was not cold. The show is entertaining and is head and shoulders above the Marriott luau. I suggest buying the premium tickets-- you get let in first, you sit closer to the stage, and you get to eat first. It's well worth the money. read more

Waikiki Starlight Luau - Performing Arts Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Wanted to start off this review by saying the performers of the show were great! Very energetic, put on a great show from what we could see. Unfortunately that is the problem with this review. Me and my wife we paid over $300 to watch the back of everybody's head and everybody's phone trying to tape the same thing that we were trying to watch. It would be an amazing experience, if there was any shot of seeing the stage comfortably, without having to watch the back of peoples heads throughout the Show... if they would set up a Latables and not try to cram as many people as possible it would be more enjoyable experience. I would recommend trying a different one so you can have a better experience with what an actual luau is. read more