A luau is the Hawaiian feast: a communal celebration of food, music and dance, historically held for births, victories and harvests. Island Breeze is one of the Kona coast's long-running oceanfront shows, staged at sunset on the Kailua-Kona waterfront. The evening opens with a welcome and the unearthing of the pig from the imu, the underground oven, then a buffet of island dishes before a stage show that moves through Hawaiian and wider Polynesian traditions, finishing with fire dancing. It is a lively introduction to the culture and a satisfying night out.
Expect a lei greeting, a welcome drink and time to look at craft displays or have a photo taken before the buffet opens. Dishes typically include kalua pork, chicken, fish, salad, rice, poi and tropical desserts, with vegetarian options available if requested. The show uses live drumming, chants and choreographed hula, and the story arc usually travels from Hawaii to Tahiti, Samoa, Tonga and Aotearoa.
Seating is assigned or tiered, with some packages offering premium tables closer to the stage. Arrive early for the best choice of seats and so you do not miss the imu ceremony. Mai tais and other drinks are often an additional purchase, and prices for photographs add up, so decide beforehand what you want.
Keep expectations realistic
Commercial luaus are entertainment, not a replica of a family feast, but good ones are rooted in genuine tradition and performed by skilled artists. For a more intimate cultural experience, pair the evening with a daytime visit to Puuhonua o Honaunau or a Hawaiian cultural class. Wear casual clothes, bring a jacket for the breeze and book ahead in busy periods.
If you have the choice, book the earliest seating for the best selection of tables, and arrive in time to see the imu ceremony, which is the heart of the traditional feast. Watch the dancers' hands and listen to the chanting between numbers, as the hula tells stories in gesture. Bring a little cash for tips or crafts, and a light shawl or jacket for the breeze that arrives with the dark.
What to expect
The experience
An oceanfront luau on the Kona coast with imu ceremony, buffet dinner and a Polynesian music and dance show.
Best time
Evening, timed to arrive for the sunset and imu ceremony.
How long
About three hours.
Tips
Arrive early, book ahead and mention dietary needs.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors seeking a classic Hawaiian evening.
- Families
- Lively and fun for kids.
- Couples
- A festive night with dinner and a show.
- Pair with
- A sunset sail or Puuhonua o Honaunau.
- Time needed
- One evening.
Good questions
What food is served?+
A buffet of Hawaiian and island dishes such as kalua pork, fish, salads and desserts.
Are vegetarian options available?+
Usually, if requested ahead.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes. The show is family friendly.
What is the imu?+
The traditional underground oven used to cook the pig.
Should I book ahead?+
Yes, especially in busy seasons.
