Best Luaus on the Big Island of Hawaii

If you are in Hawaii and on the Big Island, a luau is a must see. You've probably been to somebody's backyard luau, but nothing beats the real thing. Hula dancing, roasted pig, and mai tais, you simply can't go wrong. The following are the best luaus on the Big Island of Hawaii.

In the resort area of Kohala on the Big Island, the Mauna Kea luau is great with an ocean view as its backdrop. For about $86 you get soulful music, great hula dancing, fire throwing and delicious Hawaiian cuisine. The buffet line is extensive featuring island favorites such as lomi lomi salmon, kalua pig and turkey, and haupia. After the show you can check out some of the grounds at the resort including the manta ray area to watch sea life up close. The Mauna Kea Luau is one of the oldest luaus on the island, starting in the 1960s for Newsweek magazine, making it one of the best luaus on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Also in Kohala at the Waikoloa Beach Marriot you will find one of the most authentic luaus on the Big Island, making it one of the best luaus on the Big Island of Hawaii. The show starts with a welcoming from the sound of the conch shell. You will witness the emu ceremony, which is the unveiling of the roasted pig from its underground oven. The menu at the Waikoloa Beach Marriot luau is superb, and considered one of the best on the island. The menu features traditional luau fair including pulehu chicken, sweet potatoes, island fresh papaya and pineapple, and guava chiffon coconut cake. Waikoloa Beach Marriot luau also has an open bar for its guests serving up the island favorite Mai Tai. The Waikoloa Beach Marriot luau is also one of the most reasonably priced luaus on the island costing about $70.

Moving down to Kona, you will find one of the best luaus on the Big Island of Hawaii at the Royal Kona Resort. This luau features a show called Lava, Legends and Legacies Polynesian Luau produced by the award winning Tihati Productions. The show features the Polynesians journey across the South Pacific and their Hawaiian story. The luau offers Hawaiian favorites including kalua pork, poi, and pineapple upside down cake. The Royal Kona Resort luau also offers an open bar. This luau costs about $65 and is a real bargain for the food and entertainment, which includes great fire throwing theatrics.

Luaus are a must see if you are planning a visit to the Hawaiian Islands. The Big Island has some great luaus to choose from, all of which offer great entertainment and delicious food in an intimate setting, something you may not get when visiting the more populated island of Oahu.