Four Kauai Luaus Compared
The four luaus ranked below are a starting point, not a complete island roster. The Grand Hyatt Kauai Luau in Poʻipū and Wailua Nui Lūʻau also offer bookings. Compare the setting, show style, and your drive from where you are staying before choosing.
Smith’s Garden Luau has reopened, the operator confirms. Check current dates when booking.
Published starting prices include $150 for an adult at Smith's, $189–$274 per person for Luau Kalamaku's packages, and $189 for Luau Ka Hikina adult general seating before gratuity, taxes, and fees. Aulii's current rate requires checking its booking calendar.
Quick Comparison: Four Kauai Luaus
| Rank | Luau | Location | Published starting price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Luau Kalamaku | Kilohana Plantation, Lihue | $189-$274 per person | Best show, couples |
| #2 | Smith's Tropical Paradise | Wailua Marina State Park | ~$150 | Budget, families |
| #3 | Aulii Luau | Poipu (Sheraton Kauai) | Check current rate | Oceanfront, south shore |
| #4 | Luau Ka Hikina | Sheraton Coconut Beach, Kapaa | From $189, before tax/fees | East side, traditional hula |
#1: Luau Kalamaku (Kilohana Plantation)
Our top pick for a theatrical show. At historic Kilohana Plantation in Lihue, Luau Kalamaku tells the story of a Polynesian voyage with live music and fire dancing. The plantation setting is part of the experience.
Published package prices start at $189 per person for the Hawaiian Package and reach $274 per person for the Manor House Experience. Check child rates and any train option directly. Phone: (877) 622-1780.
Check Kilohana operations before booking: Kauai Safaris says its operation at Kilohana remains closed until further notice while cleanup and repairs continue after Hurricane Lowell; it gives no confirmed reopening date. Luau Kalamaku still displays its booking options; the safari notice does not confirm whether a particular luau date or the plantation train is operating. Confirm your exact date with Luau Kalamaku.
Check Luau Kalamaku Availability »
#2: Smith's Tropical Paradise
Our value pick. Smith's publishes a $150 adult Garden Luau ticket at its 30-acre Wailua River garden. Its show includes performances representing Hawaiʻi, Tahiti, Samoa, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Japan. The operator also lists separate Wailua River State Park entry and parking charges; include those when comparing totals.
For a daytime pairing, consider the Wailua River tour offered by the same company. Booking phone: (808) 821-6895.
#3: Aulii Luau (Sheraton Kauai)
The oceanfront option. Aulii Luau at the Sheraton Kauai Resort on Poʻipū Beach has Aloha standard and Aliʻi premier seating. Its performance celebrates Hawaiʻi alongside Tahiti, Aotearoa, and Samoa. Check the operator's calendar for current adult prices and what the total includes.
A South Shore option for visitors staying in Poʻipū, subject to confirmation of the exact show date with Aulii.
#4: Luau Ka Hikina (Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach)
The east-side pick. Held at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort in Kapaʻa, Luau Ka Hikina features a torch-lighting ceremony, hula kahiko, and a Hawaiian buffet. It keeps the evening in Kapaʻa for visitors staying nearby; compare the route from your lodging before choosing among east-side venues.
General seating starts at $189 per adult before gratuity, taxes, and fees.
The operator advertises tickets; confirm the exact show date and venue access before paying.
Check Luau Ka Hikina Availability »
Tips for Booking a Kauai Luau
- Book once your dates are set. Check the operator's live calendar; Luau Kalamaku advises booking ahead because shows can sell out.
- Consider Luau Kalamaku for a theatrical show if the operator confirms your date and Kilohana access. Allow for the drive from Poʻipū or Princeville.
- Compare the total, not just the ticket. Smith's publishes a $150 adult luau ticket, with separate state park entry and parking charges.
- Check what drinks are included. Bar offerings and ticket inclusions differ by operator and package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Kauai luau is best?
Our theatrical-show pick is Luau Kalamaku at Kilohana Plantation, subject to confirmation of your performance date and venue access. Smith's Garden Luau is the operator-confirmed reopened option in this comparison.
How much does a luau cost on Kauai?
Published prices include $150 for an adult Smith's Garden Luau ticket, $189–$274 per person across Luau Kalamaku packages, and $189 for Luau Ka Hikina adult general seating before gratuity, taxes, and fees. Check Aulii's current booking calendar and compare total charges for your date.
Should I book a luau in advance on Kauai?
Check the operator's calendar and book once your travel dates are set. Luau Kalamaku advises advance booking because shows can sell out. Confirm current Kilohana operations before relying on a specific date there.
Luaus on Other Islands
Visiting multiple islands? See our luau guides for Oahu, Maui, Big Island, and all Hawaiian islands.
