Is the Polynesian Cultural Center worth visiting?
The Polynesian Cultural Center is a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors to Oahu, Hawaii. Located in Laie on the North Shore of Oahu, the Center is a living museum of eight villages. The gardens that provide a complete look at traditional Polynesian culture and heritage. Visitors can experience hands-on activities such as canoeing, spear throwing, coconut husking and more.
In short, the Polynesian Cultural Center is definitely worth visiting.
The Center also features an extensive collection of artifacts from various Polynesian cultures. There are also live performances and demonstrations throughout the day. Book your package using this link and save 10% when you book 10 days in advance.
The mission of the Polynesian Cultural Center is to preserve the different island cultures that make up today’s Polynesia. Additionally, visitors can witness ancient stories come alive in hula performances or traditional chants from villages that represent Tahiti, Tonga, Fiji and other islands native to this region.
Editor Notes: I’ve visited the Cultural Center many times. The performances are incredible and I’ve always had a great time while there. When friends and family are visiting Oahu for the first time, the Polynesian Cultural Center is always on my list of places to visit.
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Overview of Polynesian Cultural Center
The Center also offers extraordinary night shows for those looking to get the full cultural experience while visiting Oahu. “Ha: Breath of Life” takes place at an amphitheater every evening at sunset where guests can enjoy a show filled with music, dancing, pageantry and acrobatics featuring performers from all around the Pacific Islands. Another evening event is “Horizons: Where Day Meets Night” which features special effects such as fire dancers or fire eating.
Throughout the day are various cultural activities that guests can take part in such as stone carving classes or Haka dance lessons from New Zealand natives. Other interactive activities include weaving baskets out of pandanus leaves. You can also learn how to make floral leis out of plumeria flowers. Leis were worn by royalty in ancient times as symbols of power or wealth.
The Polynesian Cultural Center truly offers something unique for everyone. You’ll leave here feeling enriched after your visit. It’s important to understand our past so we may better appreciate our present.
Hours of Operation
Below are the hours of operation provided by Polynesia.com.
Polynesian Cultural Center:
Monday-Saturday, 12:30 – 9:00 pm
Closed Sundays, Wednesdays, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day
Ticketing Office:
Monday-Saturday, 12:00 – 8:00 pm
Closed Sundays, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day
Hukilau Marketplace:
Monday-Saturday, 11:00 am – 8:30 pm
Closed Sundays, Wednesdays, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day
Pounders Restaurant:
Monday – Saturday: 11:00 am – 8:30 pm
Closed Wednesdays & Sundays
Getting to the Polynesian Cultural Center from Waikiki
It is a 35 miles drive from Waikiki to the Polynesian Cultural Center that takes about an 1hour to 1.5hours depending on traffic. The scenic drive takes you over the Pali and along the east side of Oahu. The Polynesian Cultural Center is in the small town of Laie, just south of Kahuku. Be sure to fuel up before leaving Waikiki with a big breakfast. You will be doing a fair amount of walking when you get to the center.
Luau & Packages Pricing
Pricing and links to each package are available below. Note that prices my change throughout the year. Check here to book early to get the best rates.
Super Ambassador Lūʻau Package
Adult $269.95, Child (4-11) $215.96
- Private guided tour through 6 island villages
- Enjoy our award winning Alii Luau buffet with live entertainment
- Platinum level seating at “HA: Breath of Life” show
Aliʻi Lūʻau Package
Adult $189.95, Child (4-11) $151.96
- Group guided tour through 6 authentic island villages
- Enjoy our award winning Alii Luau buffet with live entertainment
- Gold level seating at “HA: Breath of Life” show
Gateway Buffet Package
Adult $139.95, Child (4-11) $111.96
- Self-guided experience through 6 island villages
- Gateway Buffet dinner with live music
- Silver level seating at “HĀ: Breath of Life” evening show
Islands of Polynesia
Adult $79.95, Child (4-11) $63.96
- Self-guided experience through 6 island villages
- Visit the islands at your own pace and in your own way
- Interact with our island villagers on a personal setting
Islands of Polynesia & Hā: Breath of Life Package
Adult $119.95, Child (4-11) $95.96
- Self-guided experience through 6 island villages
- Bronze level seating at “HĀ: Breath of Life” evening show
- Dinner NOT included
Luau at The Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center offers a truly unique experience with its traditional luau feast. Guests are welcomed with a vibrant procession of performers in vibrant island costumes, complete with drums and chanting as they proceed to the seating area. The evening is filled with exciting performances of traditional hula dancing, Hawaiian music and fire knife twirling. For dinner, guests are served an authentic Hawaiian meal featuring popular local dishes such as kalua pork, poi, and lomi salmon salad.
A trip to the Polynesian Cultural Center is not complete without experiencing an unforgettable luau. From vibrant processions and traditional hula dancing to a delicious feast and engaging activities, this is one experience you won’t forget.
Editor Notes: I really enjoyed the Luau at the Cultural Center. The food is some of best I have had at a “touristy” destination. If you have never had Hawaiian food before, this is a great place to start. All together, the combination of entertainment and ono (Hawaiian for “delicious”) food is hard to beat.
Ha: Breath of Life
The Polynesian Cultural Center’s Breath of Life show that takes audiences on an immersive journey. This outdoor stage performance celebrates the traditions, culture, and lore of Polynesia. The audience is treated to an unforgettable evening full of awe-inspiring performances such as:
- Samoan fire knife dancing
- Haka war dance from New Zealand
- Hawaiian hula.
As each scene progresses, guests are captivated by tales of powerful gods and powerful warriors. Each scene is performed in their native languages.
At its core, ‘Ha: Breath of Life’ provides visitors with a unique opportunity to appreciate traditional cultures. The show showcases some of the most treasured stories and legends native to these islands.
Looking for more things to do in Oahu? Try surfing in Waikiki or running around Diamond Head.
