Royal Hawaiin hotel luau

Question

Does anybody know why this Luau is so expensive? And is it with the extra money? Can anyone suggest a better one, we went to Paradise Cove one years ago but I don't know if it's a good one or not. Can you help me with this please.

Answer

The Royal Hawaiian Hotel’s Aha'aina Luau is one of the most expensive luaus on Oahu, and it’s natural to wonder why. The higher price point generally reflects a combination of factors, including the premium location, the quality of the food and entertainment, and the overall experience. Here’s a breakdown of why this luau tends to cost more and whether it’s worth the extra money:

Why the Royal Hawaiian Luau is Expensive:

Location: The Royal Hawaiian Hotel is an iconic luxury property right on Waikiki Beach. The setting of the luau offers stunning views of the ocean and the hotel’s beautiful grounds, making it a premium experience. The cost of maintaining such a prime location contributes to the higher ticket price.
Quality of Food: The Aha'aina Luau is known for its upscale take on traditional Hawaiian food. It features a multi-course meal with fresh seafood, slow-roasted pork (kalua pig), and other delicacies that reflect the region’s culinary heritage. The quality and variety of the food are a significant part of the luau’s cost.
Entertainment and Atmosphere: The luau offers a sophisticated cultural experience with live Hawaiian music, hula dancing, and storytelling. The show is a more intimate and polished production compared to some of the larger luaus, with a focus on high-quality performances and traditional Hawaiian culture.
VIP Experience and Exclusivity: The Royal Hawaiian offers premium seating options with added perks like front-row views, special drinks, and personalized service. These VIP packages can make the event even more expensive, but they’re geared toward those seeking a more exclusive experience.

Is the Royal Hawaiian Luau Worth the Extra Money?

Whether or not it’s worth the extra money depends on what you’re looking for in a luau experience. If you’re after a more intimate, upscale, and visually stunning luau with high-end food and a fantastic location, then the Aha'aina Luau could be worth the price. It’s a great choice for couples or travelers looking for a special evening with a touch of luxury. However, if you’re looking for a more laid-back or family-oriented experience at a lower price, there are other luaus that may be a better fit.

Suggestions for Other Luaus:

Paradise Cove Luau: As you mentioned, you’ve been to Paradise Cove, and while it’s a popular luau, it tends to be a more casual, larger-scale experience. It’s a good value for the price, offering a wide variety of activities, such as lei making and hula lessons, along with an excellent buffet dinner and entertainment. Some might find it more fun and interactive, while others may prefer a quieter, more intimate setting like the Royal Hawaiian.
Germaine’s Luau: Known for its more laid-back and fun atmosphere, Germaine’s offers a relaxed setting with a beautiful sunset view. It’s less expensive than the Royal Hawaiian and is great for families or those looking for a more casual luau experience with plenty of food, drinks, and entertainment.
Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center: Located in Laie, about an hour from Waikiki, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers a massive, full-day experience that includes a variety of cultural exhibits, a traditional luau, and a spectacular evening show. While it's not as intimate as the Royal Hawaiian, it’s one of the most educational and immersive luau experiences on Oahu. It’s also a good value if you're looking for a full day of cultural activities in addition to the luau.
Chief’s Luau (Waimanalo): Chief’s Luau is another well-known luau on Oahu that offers a fun, high-energy experience with a great dinner, cultural performances, and lots of laughs. It’s less expensive than the Royal Hawaiian but still offers excellent entertainment and a lively atmosphere.

In Summary:

The Royal Hawaiian Luau is more expensive because of its upscale setting, premium food, and intimate atmosphere. If you're looking for a high-end luau experience in a beautiful location, it may be worth the extra cost. However, if you're seeking a more affordable, casual luau, or one with more activities, other options like Paradise Cove, Germaine’s, or Chief’s Luau might be better suited to your preferences and budget.

Royal Hawaiin hotel luau

More Oahu Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions