Looking for a Luau? Kona is the Place to Experience Hawaiian Culture

So, you’re on the Big Island and want the experience of an authentic Hawaiian luau Kona not only provides the best luaus on the island, it is also the center of nearly every major tour worth attending while visiting the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island.

There are so many activities in and around Kona that you’ll be hard pressed to do them all, no matter how much time you spend in this incredible place. Don’t let that stop you from having your fun though; visiting Hawaii is all about relaxing and absorbing the culture – and there’s no better way to do that than to attend an authentic Hawaiian luau.

What will I see at a Kona Luau?
At most luaus in Kona you can expect to be given a traditional greeting with a lei made of shells or flowers, and attend what’s known as an Imu ceremony before the feast begins (An imu is an underground oven which uses coals, stones and layers of leaves or other mats to steam food – traditionally kalua pork) and find yourself privy to a variety of traditional Hawaiian music and dances throughout the course of the evening.

Some luaus focus more on Polynesian historical education whereas others focus more on providing a night of entertainment and excitement, but no matter which luau you attend, you can count on eating your fill of succulent, traditional Hawaiian foods such as poi, poke, kalua pork and lomi lomi salmon and leaving the event not only feeling fully satisfied with your experience, but ready to attend again!

What other activities can I add to my luau in Kona?
The answer to this question is: Pretty much anything! You can spend the afternoon snorkeling, shell hunting or whale-watching. You could take tours of the volcanoes Mauna Loa or Kilauea or, for that matter, even fly over to explore one of the other islands’ volcanoes with enough time to get back and take a shower in before the luau starts that evening. Or, you could simply tour the local shops and historical attractions before returning to get ready for your Hawaiian cultural experience of feast and fun.

Most of the tours will accommodate your needs and schedule, helping to make sure that you have time to leisurely take in the day’s activities before they drop you off for the evening portion of your Hawaiian experience.

Attending a luau is one of the most enjoyable ways of getting a glimpse into Polynesian culture in a completely unique manner. This lively tradition of friends, food, music and dance will not leave you wanting, so when visiting the Big Island, make sure attending a luau, Kona-style is at the top of your list!