Kauai: Luau Ka Hikina Dinner, Lei Greeting & Hula Show Ticket

Summary

Lei greeting, torchlight hula, local feast and laughter on Kauai’s shore

You’ll be welcomed to Luau Ka Hikina in Kauai with a lei greeting and Mai Tai before settling in for torch lighting, live hula dancing led by award-winning Leilani Rivera Low, and a buffet dinner full of local flavors. Expect laughter with locals and travelers alike—plus moments that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

You walk in and the first thing that hits you is the smoky sweetness from the grill — not just food but something earthy, like wet grass after rain. Someone slips a lei over my head (I still have the faint scent on my shirt), and there’s this quick exchange of smiles with the auntie who hands me a Mai Tai. It’s not stiff or formal — everyone’s just sort of shuffling around, checking out little craft tables or chatting quietly while kids dart between chairs. I remember thinking I’d feel out of place but it was more like being at someone’s family party where you don’t know anyone yet.

Our host, Kimo, joked about how he always forgets which side to wear his flower on (“married left, single right — but who remembers?”). He pointed out the old surfing grounds just past the torches — apparently ancient royals used to ride those waves. The torch-lighting ceremony started with a rush of drums and this sudden hush fell over everyone. The light flickered across faces; even the little ones stopped fidgeting for a second. I didn’t expect to get goosebumps from fire and chanting but there it was.

The buffet line moved fast (pro tip: go for the kalua pork early). Everything tasted fresh — taro rolls were pillowy, poke cold and bright. I sat next to a couple from Oahu who teased me for piling too much poi on my plate (“you’ll learn”). Between bites you could hear laughter from another table and somewhere behind us, ukulele strumming started up soft. When Leilani Rivera Low came out with her dancers for hula kahiko, it felt less like a performance and more like watching stories unfold right in front of you. I still think about that part sometimes when I hear certain songs.

By the end we were all sticky-fingered from dessert and a little sunburnt around the nose. No one rushed off — people lingered by the edge of the lawn, talking under those string lights while staff cleared plates without fuss. There wasn’t any big sendoff or grand finale; just warm goodbyes and that last salty breeze before heading back into regular life.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luau Ka Hikina evening experience

• Check in at 5:00pm
• Seating begins at 5:30pm
• Enjoy lei greeting and welcome drink
• Participate in cultural activities and visit vendors
• Access hosted open bar until show starts
• Watch torch lighting ceremony
• Experience hula kahiko dances
• Enjoy traditional Hawaiian feast
• Listen to live music

Top questions

Is transportation included for Luau Ka Hikina?

No, transportation is not included or provided for this luau experience.

What time does check-in begin for Luau Ka Hikina?

Check-in starts at 5:00pm with seating beginning at 5:30pm.

Are drinks included at Luau Ka Hikina?

A complimentary Mai Tai or fruit punch is served upon arrival, plus an open bar until performances begin.

Is Luau Ka Hikina wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Can infants or small children attend?

Yes, infants and small children can attend; prams or strollers are allowed.

Are service animals permitted at Luau Ka Hikina?

Yes, service animals are allowed at this event.

What kind of food is served at the luau dinner?

A buffet-style traditional Hawaiian dinner with options for all ages is included.

Do I need to call ahead for large groups?

If your party is over 9 people, you should call [phone] directly for availability.

What’s included

Your evening includes an arrival lei greeting as soon as you check in at Luau Ka Hikina in Kauai, plus a complimentary welcome Mai Tai or fruit punch. Enjoy a hosted open bar before performances begin and help yourself to a buffet-style traditional Hawaiian dinner with plenty of options for everyone in your group before heading home whenever you're ready.