Big Island: Mauna Lani Luau Night & Hawaiian Buffet Dinner

Hawaiian stories, imu-roasted pork, hula and fire dance at Mauna Lani

You’ll be welcomed into Kalāhuipuaʻa with traditional chants before joining locals for hands-on activities and watching an imu-roasted pig emerge from its smoky pit. Savor Hawaiian buffet favorites as hula dancers move between tables and finish your night under Big Island stars with a fire knife performance—it’s something you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s included

Your evening includes valet parking upon arrival at Mauna Lani, a welcome cocktail followed by soft drinks throughout dinner, access to all preliminary activities with local performers, witnessing the traditional unveiling of an imu-roasted pig before enjoying a full Hawaiian buffet dinner—and plenty of music and dance before you head home satisfied (and probably full).

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hale Hoaloha Luau celebration

• Arrive at Mauna Lani, Kalāhuipuaʻa
• Welcome with traditional Oli chant
• Participate in preliminary activities
• Watch pig removed from imu pit
• Enjoy Hawaiian buffet feast
• Watch traditional and modern Hula dances
• See Samoan Siva Afi fire knife dance

The Experience

We stepped onto the Mauna Lani grounds just as the sun was dipping low—there was this hush in the air, broken only by the sound of a conch shell and then that first chant, the Oli. I didn’t know what to expect from a luau on the Big Island, but right away, it felt like more than just a show. Our guide, Kaleo, grinned and handed us welcome drinks (mine tasted faintly of guava and something floral) while explaining how this place—Kalāhuipuaʻa—was once where King Kamehameha himself came to heal. The air smelled like plumeria and roasted meat already drifting over from somewhere behind the stage.

I wandered over to watch them uncover the pig from the imu pit—a real smoky earthiness hit me as they lifted banana leaves and burlap. Kids pressed close for a better look; one auntie joked about “secret family recipes” while she helped with the heavy lifting. There was laughter everywhere, even when I tried (badly) to join in on some basic hula steps before dinner. The buffet itself? It’s hard to describe without sounding dramatic—taro rolls still warm, poke that tasted like it came straight off a boat that morning, kalua pork so tender you barely needed a fork. I probably ate too much but no regrets.

After dinner, we all drifted back to our seats just as the first notes of live music started up. Hula dancers told stories with their hands—I caught myself watching their feet shuffle through sand-colored light—and then came that moment everyone waits for: the Samoan fire knife dancer spinning flame so fast you could feel heat in your face if you sat close enough. I think I forgot to breathe for a second there. When it ended, there was this soft applause mixed with real awe. Even now, days later, I keep thinking about how it felt sitting there under those old palm trees with strangers who didn’t feel like strangers by the end.

Top questions

Is valet parking included at Mauna Lani luau?

Yes, valet parking is included for luau guests at Mauna Lani.

Are drinks provided during the luau dinner?

You’ll get a welcome cocktail plus soft drinks included with your meal.

Is this luau wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible including transportation options.

What food is served at the Mauna Lani luau?

The buffet includes traditional Hawaiian dishes like kalua pork from an imu pit and poke.

Are children allowed at this Big Island luau?

Yes, infants and children are welcome; strollers and infant seats are available.

Where is Hale Hoaloha Luau held?

The luau takes place at Mauna Lani Auberge Collection in Kalāhuipuaʻa on Big Island.

Is hotel pickup included for this luau?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; valet parking is provided instead.