Oahu
Diamond Head Luau at Waikiki Aquarium
Highlights
- Hawaiian feast, along with a premium bar
- Polynesian cultural commentary and performances, including hula and an entertaining fire dance show
- Interactive cultural activities
- Convenient oceanfront location at Waikiki Aquarium (includes complimentary admission)
- Intimate setting without the massive crowds found at other luaus
Overview
Immerse yourself in a magical evening filled with Hawaii’s vibrant culture, rich history, delicious food, and captivating dance.
Located conveniently within walking distance of much of Waikiki, yet removed from the crowds and bustle, the luau takes place on the oceanfront grounds of the Waikiki Aquarium. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted with a lei and a refreshing Mai Tai cocktail. Capture the beauty of the surroundings as the sun sets over the ocean and live music fills the air. Explore the various cultural activity stations, where you can learn traditional arts such as lei making, coconut leaf headband weaving, ukulele playing, and temporary Polynesian tattoos; as part of the main program, there is also a hula lesson and fire-making demonstration.
For dinner on most days, indulge in an abundant locally-sourced meal prepared by the renowned Chart House. The high-end buffet menu showcases an array of island flavors and satisfying dishes, including tender kalua pork slow-cooked all day, poke (raw fresh-caught local tuna), guava chicken, a vegan curry, lobster linguine, crab macaroni salad, tropical desserts, and more.
Alternatively, on Fridays, the luau offers a unique culinary experience in a festival format that allows you to savor 8 signature dishes from some of Hawaii's most popular and up-and-coming restaurants. Inspired by traditional cuisine and using locally sourced ingredients, the modern gourmet menu features garlic shrimp, abalone, smoked Kailua pork, venison, Hawaiian caneles, and more. On all days, complement your meal with a variety of premium tropical cocktails, local craft beer, and liquor.
The show portion of the evening will transport you on a captivating journey through Hawaii and broader Polynesia, showcasing both the past and present. Highlights include an exciting war dance, graceful hula performances, and a climactic fire dance, all accompanied by humorous commentary and opportunities for audience participation. Not only will you be entertained, but you'll also create lasting memories and develop a newfound appreciation for Hawaii.
Looking for a lower priced luau that operates more days? Check out our Ka Moana Luau, located just outside Waikiki. You can compare these top two luaus here.
Currently the video only reflects the festival food menu, not the newer buffet menu.
TravelShack's Choice
WHY WE RECOMMEND THIS LUAU OVER OTHERS
- On Fridays, it's a gourmet dinner sourced from some of Hawaii's popular restaurants; on other days, it's a more upscale and varied buffet than the mass-produced hotel food produced for the typical luau buffets
- A more intimate setting (often around only 100 people) versus other luaus which average 400-1200+
- Convenient to most Waikiki lodgings, either a pleasant walk or short drive. Don’t dampen your evening with traffic and a long trip to a Ko Olina / west coast luau which can be about 1 hour each way with traffic or to the PCC on the North Shore (1-1.5 hours each way). Fully enjoy the bar not having to worry about driving afterwards!
- Peaceful and beautiful outdoor oceanfront location, whereas other Waikiki luau sites include an indoor hotel ballroom and a rooftop garage adjacent to noisy streets
- Fresh flower leis (some packages)
- Includes complimentary admission to Waikiki Aquarium (within 14 days of luau)
Packages
The tables below outline the differences between the packages. They all have the same cultural activities and entertainment as described above.
Buffet (all dates except Fridays)
| Standard | Deluxe | VIP | |
|
Hawaiian Necklace per person; given at check-in |
Shell Lei | Fresh Flower Lei | Fresh Flower Lei |
|
Drinks Included per person; additional can be purchased |
Welcome Mai Tai | Welcome Mai Tai | Welcome Mai Tai + 1 Premium Drink |
|
Price: Age 18+ |
$175 | $195 | $225 |
|
Price: Age 13-17 |
$145 | $165 | $195 |
|
Price: Age 4-12 Age 3 & under free (without seat) |
$125 | $145 | $175 |
Food Festival (Fridays)
| Standard | Deluxe | VIP | |
|
Hawaiian Necklace per person; given at check-in |
Shell Lei | Fresh Flower Lei | Fresh Flower Lei |
|
Drinks Included per person; additional can be purchased |
Welcome Mai Tai | Welcome Mai Tai + 2 drink tickets | Welcome Mai Tai + 2 drink tickets |
|
Price: Age 18+ |
$189 | $225 | $249 |
|
Price: Age 13-17 |
$149 | $179 | $199 |
|
Price: Age 4-12 Age 3 & under free as lap child |
$129 | $159 | $179 |
Traveler Reviews
Customer Rating:
5 out of 5 stars
Also rated on:
Guidebook Reviews
Oahu Revealed guidebook:
The Diamond Head Luau is a great choice. The smaller, more intimate setting helps give it a backyard barbecue feel. Good aloha and plenty of fun pre-show cultural activities. The young cast seems to be having most fun compared to other shows. Lots of genuine smiles and very entertaining. Another nice thing: no long drive back to your hotel afterward; you can walk. Reserve a spot well in advance.
Location
FAQ
Do I have to book in advance, and how do I get my tickets?
Yes, advance booking is required. After completing your booking here, you will get an email (usually instantly) with all the confirmation details, and you can just check in under your name (no printed tickets or vouchers required).
How is seating handled?
At the time of booking, you choose what tier of seating you want — standard, deluxe, or VIP. You will be assigned a table closer to the luau date, largely based on when you booked, and you will be provided the table number at check-in.
If booking separately than others in your party, please answer the question at checkout about associated parties so you are assigned the same table.
Most tables seat 6-12 people, but tables can be combined for larger groups.
What if I have children under the age of 4?
They are free if they are sitting on a lap or in a stroller. There are also a handful of high chairs, which are available first-come first-serve upon asking a staff member at the luau. If you'd like a standalone seat for them, please purchase an age 4+ ticket.
What is the parking situation?
A limited number of free and metered parking stalls are located along the street near the Aquarium. Metered parking is free on Sundays, Holidays, and after 6 pm.
Please note the luau site is conveniently located in Waikiki, with it walkable from many lodgings in East Waikiki or otherwise a short Uber/Lyft/taxi or trolley ride.
Are there other transport options?
If you won't have a car and don't want to walk (it is a 10-20 minute walk from Central and East Waikiki lodgings), you could consider taking a Uber/Lyft/taxi. You could also take TheBus (Route 14, 19, 20, or 22) or the Trolley’s Green line.
If you are a party of 14 or more, round-trip transportation from your Waikiki/Honolulu lodging can be arranged for $15/person. Just make a note of your lodging at checkout, and we will email you with the confirmed pickup details.
Is gratuity included?
Yes
What happens if it rains?
If rain is forecast, the entire property will be tented or you will be contacted if the luau is cancelled (with option to reschedule or refund).
Is it fully wheelchair accessible?
Yes
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