You’ll step into Myrtle Beach’s Polynesian Fire Luau with a lei greeting before sharing a lively buffet dinner and live island music. Watch dancers from across Polynesia light up the stage—literally—when world champion fire knife performers close out the night. Expect laughter, heat from the flames, and moments that linger long after you leave.
I didn’t really know what to expect from a luau in Myrtle Beach — I mean, it’s not Hawaii, right? But as soon as we walked into St John's Inn and got those flower leis slipped around our necks (mine smelled faintly sweet, like sunscreen and orchids), it just felt… easy. The band was already playing something mellow onstage and there were families everywhere, some kids in flip-flops dancing by the tables. Our guide for the night — I wish I remembered her name — showed us where to sit and told us to grab food whenever we were ready. She had this huge smile that made you feel like you’d been invited to someone’s backyard party.
The buffet line moved fast. I piled my plate with chicken (a little sticky-sweet), pork, rice, and something with coconut that I still can’t pronounce. Tea and water were included but there was a cash bar too — heads up if you want anything stronger. The music kept rolling while we ate; at one point the lead singer called out a birthday in the crowd and everyone cheered. It was loud but not overwhelming, just kind of lively in that way where nobody cares if you drop your fork or laugh too loud.
After dinner came the main event: the Polynesian Fire Luau show itself. Dancers from Hawaii, Tahiti, Tonga, New Zealand… each group did their own thing with drums or chanting or these wild swirling skirts (the colors were so bright under the lights). The Samoan fire knife team closed it out — I honestly held my breath when they started spinning those flaming knives so close you could feel a little heat on your face if you sat up front. One guy winked at a kid who was watching wide-eyed from his dad’s lap. There’s something about seeing people do what they love right in front of you that sticks with you after.
I left smelling faintly of barbecue smoke and flowers, which is not a bad combo if you ask me. If you’re looking for something different to do in Myrtle Beach — especially with family or friends — this luau is one of those nights where you remember how much fun it is just to watch people dance together. Not perfect, maybe, but real fun. I still think about that last burst of fire against the dark stage.
Yes, your ticket includes a buffet dinner along with tea and water; other drinks are available for purchase at a cash bar.
The luau takes place at St John's Inn located at 6803 N Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach.
Vegetarian options are limited to what is offered on the main buffet; no special vegetarian menu is available.
There is limited free parking onsite; additional paid parking is available across the street.
You should check in 30 minutes prior to your scheduled start time for seating and greeting.
Yes, children are welcome; kids aged 2 and under attend free if seated on an adult’s lap.
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible for guests attending the luau show.
No; only tea and water are included. Other beverages can be purchased separately at a cash bar inside.
Your evening includes entry to Myrtle Beach’s Polynesian Fire Luau show with live performances by dancers from multiple islands, a lei greeting on arrival, buffet dinner with tea and water (cash bar available), plus all entertainment from live music through to the Samoan fire knife finale before heading home whenever you’re ready.
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