Maui's luaus are held on lawns facing the sunset over Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi, which gives them a setting few places can match. The island is also home to what many consider the most authentically Hawaiian luau in the islands, which survived the 2023 Lahaina fire and reopened to welcome visitors again. Here is how to choose.
What is a luau?
A luau is a Hawaiian feast. In old Hawaii, men and women ate separately; in 1819 King Kamehameha II broke the kapu (taboo) system by eating with women, and feasts became shared celebrations. The word lūʻau comes from the taro leaves used in a favourite dish. Today a luau typically includes a welcome lei, the unearthing of a pig from the imu, a buffet or served dinner, and a show of hula and Polynesian dance, often ending with a Samoan fire-knife dance.
The best luaus on Maui
Old Lahaina Luau (Lahaina)
Focused on Hawaiian, rather than pan-Polynesian, culture, with storytelling through hula and music and no fire-knife dance. It survived the August 2023 fire at the northern edge of Lahaina and reopened in 2024. About $230 per adult; it sells out weeks ahead.
Feast at Mōkapu (Wailea)
An upscale, served-dinner luau at the Andaz Maui, with Polynesian storytelling and a fire-knife finale.
Te Au Moana (Wailea)
An oceanfront luau at the Wailea Beach Resort, popular with families.
Drums of the Pacific (Kāʻanapali)
A large resort luau at the Hyatt Regency with dances from across Polynesia.
Myths of Maui (North Kāʻanapali)
A family-friendly luau at the Royal Lahaina.
Maui Nui Lūʻau (Kāʻanapali)
At the Sheraton, near Black Rock.
Most Maui luaus cost about $150–250 per adult; check each for current prices and schedules.
Visiting Lahaina respectfully
The Old Lahaina Luau sits outside the burn zone, which remains closed while Lahaina is rebuilt. Drive directly to the luau and do not detour through the burn zone or take photos there. Supporting reopened Lahaina businesses helps the town recover. See where to stay on Maui.
How to choose
| If you want… | Choose |
|---|---|
| Authentic Hawaiian culture | Old Lahaina Luau |
| Upscale, served dinner | Feast at Mōkapu |
| South Maui and families | Te Au Moana |
| West Maui resort show | Drums of the Pacific, Myths of Maui, Maui Nui |
Luau tips
- Book ahead, especially in winter and summer.
- Choose seating: premium tiers bring closer seats and table service.
- Arrive early for the imu ceremony and activities.
- Bring a light layer: evenings by the sea can be breezy.
- Check what is included: drinks, photos and transport vary.
What to wear? See what to wear to a luau. Hungry for more? What to eat in Hawaii.
Hula and storytelling
Maui's best luaus are as much about story as spectacle. Hula kahiko, the ancient style, is performed to chant and the beat of the ipu (gourd drum); hula ʻauana, the modern style, to ukulele, guitar and song. At the Old Lahaina Luau, dancers trace the story of Hawaii from the arrival of the first voyaging canoes to the present day. Watch the dancers' hands: they describe waves, rain, flowers and canoes, and the chant tells you what they mean.
Many Maui luaus also tell stories of the demigod Māui, who, in legend, pulled the islands from the sea and slowed the sun from the summit of Haleakalā.
Quick answers
What is the best luau on Maui?
The Old Lahaina Luau is widely considered the most authentically Hawaiian. Feast at Mōkapu and Te Au Moana are popular in Wailea.
Is the Old Lahaina Luau open after the fire?
Yes. It survived the August 2023 fire and reopened in 2024.
How much is a luau on Maui?
Usually about $150–250 per adult; the Old Lahaina Luau costs about $230.
Does the Old Lahaina Luau have a fire dance?
No. It focuses on Hawaiian culture, and the fire-knife dance is Samoan.
Facts checked October 2026. Prices, schedules and rules change, so confirm with the operator or official source before you book.
