Visit Oahu: Paradise Cove Luau Review

I've received quite a few inquiries on social media about which luau to go to when visiting Oahu, but because I hadn't gone to a luau since I was in elementary school, I could never recommend any...until now.

Our family went to the Paradise Cove Luau recently, and it was a wonderful experience!

We arrived at the Paradise Cove just after 5pm, when the gates opened, and the weather was gorgeous.

Upon arrival we were given our Cove Cards (cards with credit used towards drinks or anywhere else the card is accepted, such as the gift shop) and greeted with some local music, tropical drinks (punch for the kids, Mai Tais for the adults), and shell lei. 

After taking a photo with some "cousins" - the staff members refer to themselves and the guests as "cousins" - as we are all one big happy `ohana (family) - we were on our way to participate in the numerous activities.

We played some traditional Hawaiian games (‘O’o ihe: Spear throwing, ‘Ulu maika: Rolling stone disks, Moa pahe’e: Dart sliding), went for a canoe ride around the lagoon, and got some tattoos!

Guests could also participate in Hawaiian crafts, go shopping, or watch some mini shows, such as the Shower of Flowers, in which a cousin climbs to the top of a tree and throws flowers to the guests down below.

Right before the luau starts is the Imu Ceremony, in which a pig that has been cooking underground for several hours is unveiled.

Of course, the actual luau feast was highly anticipated.  Guests could choose from a variety of dishes, including salad, poi, lomi lomi salmon, fried chicken, fish with a macadamia nut creme sauce, kalua pig, haupia, banana coconut cake, and more!

I thought the food options were good (my fave was the kalua pig!) and that there were enough options for those who may have shied away from Hawaiian foods like poi and lomi salmon.

The performances were another big highlight of the luau.

Guests were entertained with song and dance, and there were a few opportunities for the audience to participate as well!

My favorite part of the show was the fireknife dancer (you can check out the quick video I posted on Facebook here).

Our family had a fantastic time at Paradise Cove Luau!

The one thing that really sticks out about our experience was the Aloha spirit.  All of the cousins were so friendly and welcoming, and everyone from the gate attendants to the performers greeted us warmly, joked around with us, and "talked story" with us like we really were `ohana.

The Paradise Cove Luau is a great way for guests to experience Hawaii - through the activities, the performances, the food, the surroundings, and the Aloha spirit!

Paradise Cove Luau
92-1089 Aliinui Dr, Kapolei, HI 96707
(808) 842-5911

Click here for package rates; Kama`aina rates available.

Thank you to Paradise Cove Luau for the media discount on my admission.