Diamond Head Luau
Diamond Head Luau
4
Monday
5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Friday
5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Sunday
5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
About
Fire knives will soar and drums will roar as entertainment enchants the night... All packages include a lei greeting, Mai Tai welcome, interactive cultural activities, an 8-course meal from local restaurants and vendors, drinks and entertainment. All of this and more is matched perfectly with a flawless Hawaiian sunset, here at the magical Diamond Head Luau!
Duration: 2-3 hours
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4.0
1,170 reviews
Excellent
593
Very good
280
Average
159
Poor
75
Terrible
63
Aaron C
Brisbane, Australia17 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
Diamond head luau is definitely a must see for anyone visiting Waikiki. It was such a great experience with pre show activities leaning about traditional way of life. The food was fantastic and generous. And you can’t forget the very talented and entertaining dancers.
Written 9 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha,
Mahalo for leaving us a 5-star review! We were so happy to read you had such a wonderful evening with us sharing Aloha and eating delicious food :) A hui hou!
Written 13 July 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Beachgirl1234
Glendale, AZ126 contributions
Aug 2023
This was a fun experience for one who's never done a luau. Given what I've heard about some others, this was okay. There is a TON of food from several different vendors which was fun. Far too much for any person to eat. Drinks were decent as well. You get vouchers for the aquarium the next day. The location is fun. The execution is a little lacking. You do get a beautiful lei and photo to start. The photos are available at the end, one for $36 and two for $50ish. They were cute. They didn't explain well how to get your food or where all of the vendors were located. You're given tickets for each vendor you ordered food from, plus two drink tickets. There is water available. They also had headband making and some other little thing to do (but no explanation of what was what).
The show itself was pretty fun. Live music and dancing was great and ending with a fire show. For the location, which was at the Waikiki aquarium, I would recommend this one. No need to spend extra for 'better' seating, as it's just a bunch of tables and chairs set out in front of the stage and easily seen from the second set of tables.
The show itself was pretty fun. Live music and dancing was great and ending with a fire show. For the location, which was at the Waikiki aquarium, I would recommend this one. No need to spend extra for 'better' seating, as it's just a bunch of tables and chairs set out in front of the stage and easily seen from the second set of tables.
Written 15 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Juan L
4 contributions
Sept 2023
This was by far the best Luau we have been to on Oahu. Not a very big crowd which was great but the setting at the Aquarium cant be beat. The food selection from many local vendors introduced us to many vendors we would never have found on our own. The entertain from the MC to the performers was just top notch. Well worth the price of admission.
Written 15 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sunseekers315
Oakville, Canada44 contributions
Jul 2018 • Family
I spent a considerable amount of time looking for a luau in Oahu and finally settled on the one for the following reasons:
- close to all Waikiki hotels (took Uber there, but could have walked)
- farm to table experience with food
- included admission to aquarium
- wanted an entertaining night out, but wanted it to be over at a reasonable hour.
- had a nightly front row seat to the Hilton Waikiki Starlight luau from my balcony for a week (hosted on top of the parking garage) and didn’t want that experience.
If you are new to the luau scene, you are in for $100 minimum for adult regardless of the experience. It’s the cost of admission.
Second, if you want to travel to a beach or farther away for a luau, go ahead. Be warned, Waikiki traffic is not great, so factor that into your plans.
This luau exceeded all of my expectations:
- greeted with fresh Flower leis
- photo op (optional purchase of $30 for 3 photos plus digital file)
- toured aquarium (self guided)
- outside (behind the aquarium and by the water) was beautifully decorated with flowers, tents and lights
- activity stations were set up for kids and adults alike (flower bracelets, musical instruments, ukulele lessons, weaving, tattoos, etc.)
- hors d’oeuvres (shrimp and bean salad and taro chips with dips)
- welcome drink (alcohol and non-alcohol options)
- 2 drink tickets per adult
- hula dance lessons
- great interactive show
- wonderful buffet, including: green salads, fresh fruit, grilled veggies, tofu warm dish, rice, chicken, Kobe beef ribs, pork and cabbage, poke, and several Hawaiian desserts
The food quality exceeded my expectations, it was buffet style, well organized and there was plenty of seconds available. Drinks flowing at the bar for those who wanted them.
The show was great - for all ages and had an excellent band. It was just the right length of time. Doors opened at 5:15 and everything was wrapped up by 7:45.
Overall an excellent experience that exceeded my expectations. I would recommend this luau for families and couples alike. Great value for money, lovely atmosphere and entertaining show under the sunset and stars!
- close to all Waikiki hotels (took Uber there, but could have walked)
- farm to table experience with food
- included admission to aquarium
- wanted an entertaining night out, but wanted it to be over at a reasonable hour.
- had a nightly front row seat to the Hilton Waikiki Starlight luau from my balcony for a week (hosted on top of the parking garage) and didn’t want that experience.
If you are new to the luau scene, you are in for $100 minimum for adult regardless of the experience. It’s the cost of admission.
Second, if you want to travel to a beach or farther away for a luau, go ahead. Be warned, Waikiki traffic is not great, so factor that into your plans.
This luau exceeded all of my expectations:
- greeted with fresh Flower leis
- photo op (optional purchase of $30 for 3 photos plus digital file)
- toured aquarium (self guided)
- outside (behind the aquarium and by the water) was beautifully decorated with flowers, tents and lights
- activity stations were set up for kids and adults alike (flower bracelets, musical instruments, ukulele lessons, weaving, tattoos, etc.)
- hors d’oeuvres (shrimp and bean salad and taro chips with dips)
- welcome drink (alcohol and non-alcohol options)
- 2 drink tickets per adult
- hula dance lessons
- great interactive show
- wonderful buffet, including: green salads, fresh fruit, grilled veggies, tofu warm dish, rice, chicken, Kobe beef ribs, pork and cabbage, poke, and several Hawaiian desserts
The food quality exceeded my expectations, it was buffet style, well organized and there was plenty of seconds available. Drinks flowing at the bar for those who wanted them.
The show was great - for all ages and had an excellent band. It was just the right length of time. Doors opened at 5:15 and everything was wrapped up by 7:45.
Overall an excellent experience that exceeded my expectations. I would recommend this luau for families and couples alike. Great value for money, lovely atmosphere and entertaining show under the sunset and stars!
Written 2 July 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha! Thank you so very much for this all-star review about your experience with us, we are so grateful for the time it took to go into such detail about each aspect of the evening for our future guests to read. Our location at the Waikiki Aquarium is truly so convenient and we are delighted to read you enjoyed everything from your flower lei greeting and the fresh farm to table buffet to the band and performances!
Mahalo for joining us, we hope to see you again when you have the chance! Aloha, a hui hou
Written 25 July 2018
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
1london2
Cypress, CA118 contributions
Jun 2018
I go to Oahu regularly. I've been to a few Luaus. I was taking my 2 little kids back to the island and wanted them to experience the whole effect.Going to a Luaus is the best way to enjoy the culture and learn about it.I tried to book a show through my Hotel but the date was blacked out.My concierge had suggested the Diamond Head Luau.It was over 400.00 for the 4 of us.The Luau is located right by the aquarium. The only thing negative I can say is the wait outside is not to people friendly as they have no seating. So if you arrive early like I did there is no where to sit until your seated. Once we got inside I didnt care about the wait or the price because it was pretty cool. We were greeted by tribal dancers and entertainers. As we entered the area of long tables There are several different activite centers. The entertainers have stations that encourage you to go and participate in the island crafts and activities..We got to make leis, Take ukele lessons, get a tribal tattoo, weave headband. etc..The staff is very good about getting the people involved. The dinner is then provided and it is a good size buffet and you can return for seconds if you like..After that there is a very impressive dance show. It took about 3 to 4 hours..
Written 18 June 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Heather A
1 contribution
Jun 2020 • Family
DO NOT use this company!! We had a trip planned for the end of June. I had made our reservation ahead of time for the Luau because it stated cancellations were available as long as it was in advance. I have tried a million times to get someone on the phone, but it is never answered. I contacted them in May and June by email letting them know due to Covid and Hawaii’s 14 day quarantine we were pushing our trip to the end of July and I needed to cancel or change our June reservation. We ended up having to cancel all together because the 14day quarantine was extended through July. I have never received a response to either email and still can not get anyone on the phone. We are currently disputing the charge with the credit card company now. When we are able to take our trip we will NOT be going to this Luau!!
Written 5 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris C
Space Coast, FL126 contributions
Feb 2020
OK, these people who use the word 'disappointing' must've had some sort of lofty expectations based on having gone to real traditional luaus, because I thought this was a pretty alright experience. I bought the 'basic' tickets, so I knew I'd be waiting until after the VIP's had gotten their food. There was PLENTY for EVERYONE and you were WELCOMED to go back for SECONDS and THIRDS if you wanted. The bartenders were generous and we thought they did a great job pouring drinks throughout the show. I didn't think the cake was going to be all that great, and it really didn't impress me as a 'traditional luau food,' but it was still pretty darn good, and yes, you could go back for seconds on the cake if you wanted. There was plenty of anything you'd like.
THE SHOW was excellent. OK, maybe it misses the mark set by the multi-million dollar Mormon extravaganza on the other side of the island, or it lacks the production qualities of the theme-park production that is a $60 each-way uber ride from downtown H-town, but it's authentic and performed with the most important element of all: ALOHA SPIRIT. The servers, the cast, the bartenders, the ticket-takers, everyone here was welcoming and nice.
Rundown on the food: I skipped the salad, because I could have that anywhere. I ate the tofu, chicken, beef and pork. All were delicious, well-seasoned and since you dole out your portions, I had as much as I wanted. I thought the Poi was delicious, the fresh fruit was REALLY fresh. The appetizers of taro chips, poi, and salsa were all very good, and definitely appetizing.
So here's the rub: If you want a beachside luau, with good food and a good show, that doesn't require a big trip to go somewhere, then this is the luau you're looking for. Is it expensive? You decide. You can spend your money and go to this one, or you can spend your money and go somewhere else. For my money (and this is AFTER a week on Pride of America and during a week at a timeshare in Honolulu), it was definitely a winner. While I wouldn't hesitate to try other luaus, I wouldn't steer anyone away from Diamond Head Luau.
THE SHOW was excellent. OK, maybe it misses the mark set by the multi-million dollar Mormon extravaganza on the other side of the island, or it lacks the production qualities of the theme-park production that is a $60 each-way uber ride from downtown H-town, but it's authentic and performed with the most important element of all: ALOHA SPIRIT. The servers, the cast, the bartenders, the ticket-takers, everyone here was welcoming and nice.
Rundown on the food: I skipped the salad, because I could have that anywhere. I ate the tofu, chicken, beef and pork. All were delicious, well-seasoned and since you dole out your portions, I had as much as I wanted. I thought the Poi was delicious, the fresh fruit was REALLY fresh. The appetizers of taro chips, poi, and salsa were all very good, and definitely appetizing.
So here's the rub: If you want a beachside luau, with good food and a good show, that doesn't require a big trip to go somewhere, then this is the luau you're looking for. Is it expensive? You decide. You can spend your money and go to this one, or you can spend your money and go somewhere else. For my money (and this is AFTER a week on Pride of America and during a week at a timeshare in Honolulu), it was definitely a winner. While I wouldn't hesitate to try other luaus, I wouldn't steer anyone away from Diamond Head Luau.
Written 11 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha Chris,
Mahalo nui loa for this in-depth and honest review of your evening with us. We truly appreciate all of your comments and detailed explanations of each aspect of the Lūʻau! Welcoming both visitors and locals with Aloha is always our main goal :)
Again, thank you very much for taking the time to leave us your feedback!
Aloha, a hui hou
Written 18 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Karen M
Brisbane, Australia145 contributions
Jun 2018
If you go Friday night, at the end of the luau you can watch the fireworks from the water's edge, put on by the Surfrider hotel which makes a nice finale to the night. We stayed at the Aston Waikiki which was about 5 minutes walk to the aquarium where this luau is held. Don't pay the extra $50 for premium seating because the view of the stage is good from any table. You get to go the the buffet first, but we were one of the last tables and they were quick to replenish dishes as they got low. 'Farm to Table' - well, I haven't been to another luau to compare, but the food to me was typical buffet style. The appetizers were sweet potato chips and dip and a bean salad with one or two Insy winsy prawns. Some people didn't like the size of the bean salad and asked for more, which I thought was generous of them to scoop more into their plate! It was interesting the free alcoholic drink - where they swished the alcohol over the top of the cup of juice. Wouldn't have been a nip (as we Australians call it). Everything was well organised with different stations to try your hand at activities such as leaf crown or lei making, as well as a few other activities. I wasn't aware you could walk through the aquarium, perhaps they should mention this. There were some other interactive activities you could participate in on stage, as well. The stage entertainment included dances from every South Pacific Island. I did start to count what islands they hadn't done after a while, thinking how many more dances to go! The highlight for me was the 11 year old performing the fire dance - he was awesome! I think $227 is expensive for two hours, but they have a lot of people angaged to provide you with a variety of experiences.
Written 8 July 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rome
San Jose, CA503 contributions
Mar 2020
Very fun evening, but expensive for what it is. I would look into other options if you are on a tight budget.
Recommendation, do this on one of your first nights on the island because the buffet will likely be all the food you've been eating daily since arriving to the island (Poke & Hawaii bbq) & salad.
For the price, I felt that the event was very short, and based off of the online seating map I expected stadium seating rather than a large family picnic arrangement. I was glad I didn't pay for the VIP seating's as it was only one table in front of us in a 2 row arrangement.
What to expect:
-Check-In (arrive early, lines can be long)
-Receive your Lay -Professional Photo Op (Pictures Available for purchase at the end of the night)
-Sprint to the Bar if you want to drink out of a pineapple for the night (an additional $17 on top of your ticket)
- Walk around the Aquarium
-Activity stations (temp tattoos, dance, Ukulele, & hats)
-Dinner Buffet
-House Band
-Feautured Show
Recommendation, do this on one of your first nights on the island because the buffet will likely be all the food you've been eating daily since arriving to the island (Poke & Hawaii bbq) & salad.
For the price, I felt that the event was very short, and based off of the online seating map I expected stadium seating rather than a large family picnic arrangement. I was glad I didn't pay for the VIP seating's as it was only one table in front of us in a 2 row arrangement.
What to expect:
-Check-In (arrive early, lines can be long)
-Receive your Lay -Professional Photo Op (Pictures Available for purchase at the end of the night)
-Sprint to the Bar if you want to drink out of a pineapple for the night (an additional $17 on top of your ticket)
- Walk around the Aquarium
-Activity stations (temp tattoos, dance, Ukulele, & hats)
-Dinner Buffet
-House Band
-Feautured Show
Written 24 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha & Mahalo for taking the time to leave us your review here on TripAdvisor. We are pleased to see overall you had a fun evening with us and we appreciate your feedback very much as we continue to improve the experience.
Written 10 July 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Maple Leopard
Seattle, WA339 contributions
Jun 2018
This Luau was the best! We had fun making Hawaiian crafts with a beautiful view of Waikiki for a backdrop. The food, music and entertainment were superb. You will love this Luau and you will talk about the good food for days!
Written 21 December 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mahalo nui for this wonderful 5-star review!
Written 21 February 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Is there parking available at the location? And if so is it free?
Written 24 May 2018
Tori M
Honolulu, Hawaii
Aloha,
There is street and metered parking along Kalakaua, directly in front of and down either side of our location at the Waikiki Aquarium.
Mahalo for the inquiry!
Written 29 May 2018
Is there a cash bar and what is the general price for a beer or wine?
Written 26 December 2017
If you buy the VIP tickets, you get a drink upon arrival and two drink tickets as well. Kids can get soda, etc.
Written 27 December 2017
Is there a separate kid/ toddler food table?
Written 16 October 2017
The food is buffet style for those who aren’t at VIP tables. Kids and adults all get their food at the same buffet tables. There isn’t a child’s buffet table. I hope this helps.
Written 16 October 2017
Hi, Margaretsreview. What would you like to know about this attraction?
What is the capacity of the venue - I was looking for a smaller luau. Thanks!
Written 14 September 2017
While I do not know exactly how many people attend each night, I can tell you that each table holds 6 people, and the tables are separated, so you don't feel like sardines!! It was not an overly large crowd, even though every seat was filled. If it is in your budget, I would splurge on the VIP tickets, as you have better seats, and you don't have to stand on the buffet line or go up for your drinks- the servers bring plates of food to you (and will go back to refill anything you need) and they also will serve you your drinks. If you call them to book, ask what discounts they offer - we called and they gave us 40% off the VIP tickets just for asking!!
Written 14 September 2017
Do you recommend upgrading to VIP? How were the lines to the food and view of entertainment from non-VIP seats? This will be our first luau experience. Thank you!
Written 9 September 2017
To be honest we were not it VIP and the lines were fine. Everyone is up moving around all the time and we saw just fine where we sat!!!
Written 16 September 2017
Can you see the Friday fireworks from here if you are at the luau on a Friday?
Written 28 June 2017
Yes. We saw the fireworks. Though you aren't as close to the them. So I'm not sure if the view is better further up in Waikiki.
Written 28 June 2017
Hello, my daughter is vegan and she managed to eat well and avoided the meat and seafood. She particularly enjoyed the purple yam vegetable with the salads.
Written 1 June 2017
We are going on Pride of america in few months so I am curious about your comment that it is same as on ship. what is name of show on ship? thank you for information.
Written 20 May 2017
Aloha,
The Diamond Head Luau is not affiliated with the cruise ship. If there is any over lap it would not be in the show but rather the entertainers. Many of hula dancers perform at different venues. We hope you'll join us at the Diamond Head Luau for a night of entertainment, food and fun! Mahalo.
Written 21 May 2017
What is on the menu? I have a Granddaughter who won't eat pork. And how long can we take in the aquarium?
Written 30 April 2017
Aloha, we have something for everyone, even vegetarians. Our food selection is diverse and delicious. The Waikiki Aquarium is small but unique. It is funded by the University of Hawaii and is part of many research projects for UH students, including a coral regeneration. It has a comprehensive sea horse and jellyfish exhibits and is very education focused. While it is small in size, it's huge on information. We suggest you enjoy the pre show cultural activities and then go through the aquarium after the show. Don't forget there's a meet and greet with the dancers during that time too.
Written 21 May 2017
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