Discover the Magic of the Polynesian Cultural Center

This article was updated Jan. 5, 2025

The Polynesian Cultural Center in Lā‘ie is far more than just an award-winning tourist attraction, it’s a vibrant tribute to the living cultures of the Pacific. Through beautifully recreated island villages, the center brings Polynesia to life with arts, music, dance and hands-on experiences.

As a local, it’s a place I return to often, especially when family and friends are in town. We wander from village to village, weaving coconut leaves, learning hula and marveling at fire-starting demos. The day ends with a hearty lū‘au feast followed by “Hā: Breath of Life,” a Polynesian performance that tells the story of Mana and Lani through music and dance.

Established on October 12, 1963, this living museum is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and occupies 42 acres of land belonging to Brigham Young University-Hawaiʻi. As a non-profit organization, the center uses its revenue to support daily operations and educational initiatives, making it a place where culture and learning go hand in hand.

Walk through the Polynesian Cultural Center, and you’ll be immersed in the vibrant traditions of the South Pacific. The center’s dedication to preserving Polynesian culture is evident in every corner, from the meticulously recreated village settings to the engaging performances by native artists. It’s not just a visit; it’s a journey through time and tradition, offering a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures that make up Polynesia.

The Polynesian Cultural Center was established to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the Pacific Islands, and this mission is evident in every aspect of the center. Whether you’re engaging with performers, exploring the exhibits, or participating in interactive activities, each experience offers a deeper understanding of Polynesian culture and life.

Island Villages Brought to Life

Walking through the Polynesian Cultural Center in Hawai’i is like stepping into another world. The park’s 42 acres are divided into six islands featuring Hawai‘i, Samoa, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Fiji, Tonga and Tahiti. Each village offers hands-on activities, cultural demonstrations and performances that bring island traditions to life.

Designed to replicate the traditional architecture and surroundings of their respective islands, the villages provide an authentic glimpse into island life. As you wander, you’ll encounter native performers who demonstrate various arts and crafts, such as woodcarving, tattooing, and weaving. These artisans not only showcase their skills but also share the stories and significance behind their crafts. Visitors can join in traditional activities like hula dancing and coconut husking, making the experience both educational and interactive. We learned how to weave a fish out of coconut leaves.

We learn something new every time we visit. Most people can guess that ancient Polynesians used the sun, moon and stars to navigate the oceans. But did you know they also used swells and wave patterns to detect islands beyond the horizon?

Some of our favorite experiences include:

• Tonga: The interactive drumming show is both hilarious and energetic. Don’t be shy. They will invite guests on stage to try their hand at performing. Step up and bang away!

• Samoa: Here, you can watch a fire-starting demonstration, see someone climb a coconut tree and taste fresh coconut prepared right in front of your eyes.

• Aotearoa (New Zealand): The powerful haka (war dance) performed by Maori warriors never fails to impress.

Huki: A New Canoe Experience

One of the most incredible parts of the Polynesian Cultural Center experience is the canoe performance "Huki." This daily event, taking place daily at 12:40 pm showcases each Polynesian culture as dancers perform on canoes floating along a tranquil lagoon. The rhythmic drumbeats, colorful costumes and synchronized movements make for an awe-inspiring display of island heritage. This is not your average canoe ride!

The Polynesian Cultural Center’s evening show, “Hā: Breath of Life,” is a spectacular performance that showcases the music, dance and culture of the Pacific Islands. Featuring over 100 performers from across the Pacific, it combines tradition with technology and special effects to create a mesmerizing display that captivates audiences.

“Hā” refers to the breath of life and the spirit of the Pacific Islands, a theme that is woven throughout the performance. The show tells a universal story of love, loss and triumph through Polynesian dance and music, with stunning visuals, chants and fireknife performances that create an immersive experience.

Visitors can enjoy the show from a variety of seating options, including front row and side seats, ensuring that everyone has a great view of the action.

Book Tickets

Plan Your Visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center

Polynesian Cultural Center hours: Open every day except Sunday. 12:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.

Island Villages hours: 12:30-5:30 p.m.

Hā: Breath of Life: 7:00 p.m.

Tickets: It’s recommended to book Polynesian Cultural Center tickets in advance, especially during peak season as they do sell out. There are a variety of package options, from general admission to premium VIP that include dinner and preferred seating.

How to get there: Drive along the Kamehameha Highway coast or ride TheBus (Route 60). 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy Lāʻie, Hawaiʻi 96762

Shuttle service from Waikīkī can be purchased with your ticket.

Parking: Free

Dress code: Shoes and shirts are required. No bathing suits. Anything with an offensive design is strictly prohibited. We recommend wearing comfy shoes and bringing a hat and sunscreen.