There’s a reason Kauai is sometimes referred to as Hollywood’s tropical backlot.
The island’s visually stunning and remote landscapes are perfectly believable homes for dinosaurs and pirates.
And while you won’t actually find a T-Rex on the “Garden Isle” — at least, we don’t think you will, anyway — you will discover that the scenery that translates so well to the big screen also makes Kauai a fantastic place to enjoy a luau.
What Makes Kauai a Unique Luau Location?
Kauai is known as the “Garden Isle” because the vegetation here is on another level.
The island gets quite a bit of rain — indeed, Kauai’s Mount Waialeale is among the wettest places on Earth — leading to quite a bit of lush greenery.
Wide-open spaces such as Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon just add to the overall vibe of the island: visually stunning, peaceful, serene.
That atmosphere translates nicely to the island’s various luau settings, where the traditional Hawaiian feast, dance, and music combine with Kauai’s beauty to make for a memorable experience.
Smith Family Garden Luau
Let’s dive right in to that “Garden Isle” concept with a luau that’s literally held in a garden. Smith’s Tropical Paradise encompasses a 30-acre botanical garden along the Wailua River on the windward side of the island. This unique luau setting is well worth a visit, but tickets sell fast so book well ahead of time. We recommend being there when the doors open so you can spend some time strolling the garden before the luau ceremonies begin.
Luau Kalamaku
This luau takes place on the grounds of the 104-acre Kilohana Plantation in Lihue. There’s a lot to see and do here — take a train ride, peruse the artisan market, enjoy the Koloa Rum tasting room — so you could easily make a day of it, then relax and enjoy the luau festivities in the evening.
Aulii Luau
The oceanfront Aulii Luau is available twice a week at the famous and beautiful Poipu Beach on the island’s south shore. The luau includes lots of activity stations, including lei-making, poi-pounding, weaving, and coconut-husking. Parking is available at the resort lot.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Luau
Keoniloa Bay is the scenic backdrop for this South Shore luau on the Grand Hyatt’s resort grounds. Seating is available on a first-come basis, so arrive when the doors open to secure your spot and enjoy the variety of activities that are available before the buffet-style feast begins.
Luau Ka Hikina
This luau on Kauai’s windward coast is set alongside the beach in the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort’s open-air pavilion. The calm ocean waters on this side of the island are visible from all over the grounds, which include local vendors selling crafts and souvenirs.
Before You Go
We always recommend securing your luau tickets ahead of time to make sure your spot is reserved; many visitors to Kauai have gone home disappointed because the luau they wanted to attend was sold out by the time they arrived on the island. Don’t make that mistake!
For the best deals and selection, [book right here on hawaii.com!]
And check out our [insider tips for how to pick a luau] to ensure you get the most of your experience on Kauai.
Ready to experience the magic of a Kauai luau surrounded by stunning island beauty? Whether you’re drawn to tropical gardens, oceanfront settings, or the charm of plantation grounds, Kauai offers unforgettable luaus. Book your perfect Kauai luau on Hawaii.com today to secure your spot and make lasting memories in paradise!