Maui Kihei: Small Group Luau Show & Buffet Dinner

Summary

Polynesian dance, fire shows and Hawaiian flavors in Kihei’s only intimate luau

You’ll join Maui’s only small-group luau in Kihei for an evening of Polynesian music, hula dancing, and a Samoan fire finale—plus unlimited drinks and a full Hawaiian buffet dinner. Every seat is close to the action, so you’ll really feel part of it all. Expect laughter, new flavors, and maybe even a little bit of ohana by night’s end.

What’s the experience like?

“If you can say ‘ono,’ you’ll fit right in,” our host grinned as she handed me my first mai tai. I tried it — “oh-no?” — and Li laughed from across the table. The air smelled like sweet grass and grilled meat, and honestly, I didn’t expect the whole thing to feel so relaxed. Gilligans’ Island Luau isn’t huge or flashy; it’s tucked on the edge of the Maui Nui Golf Course in Kihei, with just enough tables that everyone could actually see the stage without craning their necks. I liked that. It felt more like being invited to someone’s backyard party than a big resort event.

The show started while we were still working on plates of kalua pork and panko mahi mahi (I took seconds — don’t judge). Our guide explained how each dance told a story, sometimes switching between English and Hawaiian so smoothly I barely noticed. There was this moment when the Samoan fire dancer came out — you could feel the heat even from our seats, which was wild. Kids at another table gasped every time he spun those torches. And then there was poi, which I’d heard mixed things about but actually liked with a bit of salty salmon on top.

I kept glancing around at people — locals mixing with visitors, everyone clapping along to the drummers or just chatting over dessert (those lilikoi bars disappeared fast). The light shifted pink as sunset hit the palms behind us, and for a second I forgot about my phone entirely. Maybe it was the open bar talking, but by the end I felt sort of connected to everyone there. Our host said something about “ohana” before we left; it stuck with me more than I thought it would.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Attend Gilligans' Island Luau in Kihei

• Arrive at Maui Nui Golf Course
• Enjoy open bar with tropical drinks
• Dine on Hawaiian all-you-can-eat buffet
• Watch Polynesian cultural performances
• See Samoan Fire Dancer finale
• Try Hawaiian desserts

Top questions

Is this luau suitable for families with kids?

Yes, children are welcome and there are family-friendly performances throughout the show.

Where is Gilligans’ Island Luau located in Kihei?

It’s held at Gilligans on the Maui Nui Golf Course in Kihei.

What food is served at this luau?

The buffet includes kalua pork, teriyaki chicken, panko mahi mahi, vegetables, salads, poi, sweet rolls with honey butter, desserts like lilikoi bars and haupia pie.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?

Yes, your ticket includes an open bar with tropical cocktails, beer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks.

How big is this luau compared to others on Maui?

This is an intimate event—less than one third the size of most luaus on Maui.

Is transportation provided to Gilligans’ Island Luau?

No hotel pickup is included; guests need to arrange their own transport to the venue.

Is Gilligans’ Island Luau wheelchair accessible?

Yes—all areas are wheelchair accessible and specialized infant seats are available if needed.

Do I need to book ahead for this luau?

Yes—it often sells out due to limited seating so advance booking is recommended.

What’s included

Your evening includes entry tickets for Gilligans’ Island Luau in Kihei with all-you-can-eat Hawaiian buffet dinner featuring local favorites like kalua pork and fresh desserts. You’ll enjoy unlimited drinks from an open bar throughout live Polynesian music and dance performances—including a Samoan fire dancer finale—before heading out under Maui’s stars.