This is another in our Top 10 Activities on the Big Island Series. Click the link for the full list and links to other posts!
Luau Features Hawaiian Traditions
Attending a Luau was one of those tacky touristy things that mom and dad felt they had to do. We attended the Luau on the grounds of the Marriott at Waikoloa Beach. The hotel was a quick walk from our condo which allowed us to save the time and energy it would have taken to drive to some of the other options such as the Fairmont’s Gathering of the Kings or the Island Breeze Luau at the venerable King Kamehameha Hotel in Kona. The number and range of Luau options is extensive and sure to include something that fits your time and budget
They really did cook that pig in the ground!
Our kids were fairly bored during the seemingly endless pre-event photo, drinks and mingling hour but our early arrival meant we were able to secure seats near the stage. The highlight of the pre-event was the unearthing of the pig, which had been cooked in a traditional sand fire pit. They thought that was very cool and had to get up close to see what it looked like.
Polynesian Dancing Under the Stars
Dinner offered enough choices that our somewhat picky eaters found enough to get by although I don’t think they were big fans of the food. However, the main event held their interest as the dancers displayed a range of Polynesian styles representing the islands of Tahiti, New Zealand, Hawaii, and Samoa. The topper was the Samoan fire dance! For Hockey Princess, who is a dancer herself, it was a really great event. Number One son would have been happier back with his video games but he was a good sport and I suspect enjoyed it at least a little bit. All in all, the luau is the event we probably would not do again, although it is one of those campy things you should expose your kids to at least once!
