Paina Waikiki Luau at Waikiki Beach Marriott
4.5
Paina Waikiki Luau at Waikiki Beach Marriott
By Paina Waikiki Luau - Honolulu, Oahu
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-100
Duration: 3h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Written guide: Japanese
Print or digital reading material such as a guide, map, brochure, etc.
More
- Fresh Flower Lei
- Lei Making Demonstrations & Temporary Polynesian Tattoos
- Hawaiian Luau & Prime Rib Buffet (Not included in Show Only tickets)
- Luau Music & Dance Performance
- Fire Knife Dancing Finale
- Mai Tai Greeting (VIP Ticket Holders receive two additional cocktails)
- Entry/Admission - Oahu
What's not included- Gratuities
- Transportation NOT Provided
- NO outside food or beverages allowed in the luau
- Wheelchair accessible
- Pushchair accessible
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 415485P1- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Most travellers can participate
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 415485P1
From
AU$210.44
per adult
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- Pioneer4658950 contributionsA fun informative eveningA really great evening for the family- ages 3.5-77yrs. Very well run, good food ( buffet ) and a great show. The table service was very good. Met all our expectations.Written 9 March 2025
- Adrian V0 contributionsGood Luau but a beach one would be betterFinding the location of the Luau was half the fun (not) they really need some signage as to where to go.. The seats were uncomfortable for the 3 hour show but that's all the negatives The show was awesome and the food was better than other Hawaiian food we have sampled. The show has some great surprises that I'll leave for you to encounterWritten 3 February 2025
- Jeffrey J0 contributionsFirst timerDinner was real good. The performance was amazing. Great group of people working here. You can tell the performers all enjoy what they do.Written 29 January 2025
- julialharris0 contributionsDisappointedSo disappointed to get to the Marriott and find out the luau was on a hotel rooftop. This is my 3rd luau. First on a rooftop instead of a beach. No signage in the hotel to guide you to the luau. Crowded. Mai Tais were very sour! Seating close and uncomfortable. Food ok. Would not choose this luau as it is not even close to genuine.Written 19 January 2025
- Dream667663697680 contributionsDisappointed in the communication.I attended the luau for my mother's 86 birthday. I bought the VIP tickets for her and her 2 sister, which is 90 and 84. The VIP tickets was purchased because of their age. I didn't want them standing in long lines. Needless to say, I was very disappointed and upset. First time ever writing review. I'm sending a letter to corporate as well.Written 1 May 2024
- lilet8190 contributionsSO SO.... NOT WORTH THE PRICEPaina Waikiki Luau.... done in Marriott Hotel, Waikiki... Prime Rib was cold. Food was not too delicious. Servers were efficient, friendly and quick to deliver requests. LUAU dance was exciting but could have been more delightful. I come from a country where Hawaiian and Tahitian dances are performed more beautifully... so I was disappointed. NOT WORTH THE PRICEWritten 12 April 2024
- 836kenh0 contributionsSurprisingly goodSurprisingly very good Luau. We have been to most on the island over the years, and the food quality and the show rated with best. The smaller venue allowed all to get a much closer and intimate view of the excellent performers.Written 27 January 2024
- 559ericm0 contributionsGo see this!Paina Luau truly stands out as a memorable experience. The food was delicious, surpassing the quality of the last two luaus I've attended. Each dish was a delightful fusion of traditional flavors and modern culinary delight, The show was equally impressive, featuring high-level performers who brought the rich Hawaiian culture to life with their energy and talent. The MC of the show had a beautiful voice. The blend of captivating dance, music, and storytelling made for an unforgettable evening. Whether it's your first luau or you're a seasoned attendee, Paina Luau is highly recommended for an authentic and enjoyable Hawaiian experience.Written 26 December 2023
- gabeandzee0 contributionsHighly encourage!Food delicious! The show was just so beautiful. I was looking for a luau and we really didn’t have to go far. They had it at the Marriott trust me it’s a great show and again the food just so delicious!Written 25 November 2023
- bamba0 contributionsVery happy Birthday 🎂🎁🧁My husband took me to the Luau for my birthday. When we arrived they greeted us with a beautiful flower lei. We purchased the VIP pkg. which included three drink tickets. Our first drink was a Mai Tae. There were activities you could participate in such as getting a tattoo. The food was a buffet with several food choices. All of the food was very delicious. The show was great and very entertaining. I had a very Happy Birthday.Written 18 October 2023
- johncV2200QZ0 contributionsFinally something WORTH the moneyAs many people touring the islands know there are excursions and trips you say WTH did i just pay for? And some you just say WOW too. This is a WOW. The food was buffet style but great. The pork was better then the prime rib flavor wise which is weird for me to say as a prime rib junkie. but all were good. The show itself is advertised and assigned seating. Don't fall for this. You do NOT have a assigned seat like 21B you have an assigned section. VIP is front and general is back half of room. That's it, and the reason I gave it 4 instead of 5 stars. If you want to sit close go in early Otherwise - show was awesome. My wife has never been to Hawaii and never to a Polynesian show like this and she was really loving it. the dancers were spread around the room so everyone gets to see something up close. The 11year old fire dancer was amazing. The routines were a great sampling of the variety of island culture. And the energy was fun. Some shows you get the feeling you're watching them just go through the motions. This show was like they were filming for TV and wanting every moment to be its absolute best.Written 13 September 2023
- markcM4997AJ0 contributionsFun!Fun and great show! Amazing dancers, performers, and mc. The show features the traditional fire dance!Written 8 September 2023
- Christine R0 contributionsBest Event of Waikiki!Spectacular event the entire evening! We enjoyed the fabulous food, performances, and atmosphere. Highly recommended.Written 22 June 2023
- Sueded740 contributionsVery fun eveningThey were wonderful! Very gracious staff & fun show. The food was very good as well. Highly recommend.Written 21 June 2023
- brette8150 contributionsAmazing Luau!!Beautifully done, intimate atmosphere close to the entertainment. Food was excellent with live prime rib carving station! Wonderful experience!Written 16 June 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members 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.
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4.5
229 reviews
Excellent
174
Very good
28
Average
12
Poor
11
Terrible
4
Paul A.
North Vancouver, Canada5 contributions
Here’s a polished version of your review for the Pāʻina Lūʻau at Waikīkī Marriott:
The Pāʻina Lūʻau at the Waikīkī Marriott was a highlight of our trip to Oʻahu and an experience I highly recommend.
The Buffet:
This was my only opportunity to sample a wide variety of Hawaiian dishes in one sitting, and I was impressed. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The standout for me was the kalua pork—absolutely to die for! The fresh salads and hot dishes were constantly replenished, ensuring great quality throughout the night. The service was outstanding, with the staff working tirelessly to keep drinks flowing and tables cleared. These servers truly run their butts off, and it shows!
The Drinks:
The cocktails were delicious and added to the overall enjoyment of the evening.
VIP Experience:
We opted for the VIP package, which I’d highly recommend if you want to sit in the front section near the stage. This also included two drinks, which was a nice bonus. A tip: arrive earlier than the advertised 5:15 PM start time if you want prime seating.
Price:
The cost for two came to over 650 CAD, given the current exchange rate (69 cents to the US dollar), which admittedly stung at first. However, the luau show was so fantastic that it made me forget the price entirely. It felt worth every penny.
The Show:
The host was exceptional—a fantastic singer and storyteller. I particularly appreciated his narration of the land’s history, offering a glimpse into Waikīkī before it became the bustling hub of hotels and condos we see today. It made the experience feel meaningful and connected to the culture.
While this wasn’t the “traditional luau on a remote beach” often depicted in movies, it didn’t need to be. The artistry of the band and dancers transported us, making us forget where we were. The performers delivered world-class entertainment with professionalism and passion, making every moment feel fresh and joyful—even though they perform multiple times a week.
Final Thoughts:
This was my partner’s third luau, and he declared it the best he’s ever attended. Some reviewers might come expecting a Hollywood version of a luau, but this experience is authentic in its own right. It celebrates Hawaiian culture with beauty, artistry, and warmth.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable evening of food, music, and storytelling, this is a must-see.
The Pāʻina Lūʻau at the Waikīkī Marriott was a highlight of our trip to Oʻahu and an experience I highly recommend.
The Buffet:
This was my only opportunity to sample a wide variety of Hawaiian dishes in one sitting, and I was impressed. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The standout for me was the kalua pork—absolutely to die for! The fresh salads and hot dishes were constantly replenished, ensuring great quality throughout the night. The service was outstanding, with the staff working tirelessly to keep drinks flowing and tables cleared. These servers truly run their butts off, and it shows!
The Drinks:
The cocktails were delicious and added to the overall enjoyment of the evening.
VIP Experience:
We opted for the VIP package, which I’d highly recommend if you want to sit in the front section near the stage. This also included two drinks, which was a nice bonus. A tip: arrive earlier than the advertised 5:15 PM start time if you want prime seating.
Price:
The cost for two came to over 650 CAD, given the current exchange rate (69 cents to the US dollar), which admittedly stung at first. However, the luau show was so fantastic that it made me forget the price entirely. It felt worth every penny.
The Show:
The host was exceptional—a fantastic singer and storyteller. I particularly appreciated his narration of the land’s history, offering a glimpse into Waikīkī before it became the bustling hub of hotels and condos we see today. It made the experience feel meaningful and connected to the culture.
While this wasn’t the “traditional luau on a remote beach” often depicted in movies, it didn’t need to be. The artistry of the band and dancers transported us, making us forget where we were. The performers delivered world-class entertainment with professionalism and passion, making every moment feel fresh and joyful—even though they perform multiple times a week.
Final Thoughts:
This was my partner’s third luau, and he declared it the best he’s ever attended. Some reviewers might come expecting a Hollywood version of a luau, but this experience is authentic in its own right. It celebrates Hawaiian culture with beauty, artistry, and warmth.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable evening of food, music, and storytelling, this is a must-see.
Written 7 January 2025
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.
Traveler29140875918
3 contributions
June 2024 • Friends
I was born and raised on O’ahu but moved away to CA. I am of Hawaiian descent, and grew up eating Hawaiian food, I returned with friends who wanted to attend a luau so we purchased the VIP service which was a great value.
The Waikiki Beach Marriott Pā’ina Lu’au was EXCELLENT in all ways! On a scale of 1-10, it’s easily a 15. I’ve been to many lu’aus across O’ahu and the food here was scrumptious! There is also prime rib on the buffet which other locations don’t offer. There are more than enough options of Pacific fusion entreés for those not willing to sample poi and other authentic dishes. Since it’s a buffet, you can choose what you want to eat and the amount per serving. Second or third servings are dependent on the amount of room your belly can hold.
The service is top notch. The waithelp was responsive removing plates and refilling drinks. The Aloha spirit was present from beginning to end.
I can’t say enough about how great the entertainment was. I am a hula dancer and I enjoyed watching all dancers. My favorite was the young grandson performing the fire dance. It was a beautiful show and I highly recommend it.
I’ve been to other lu’aus across Oahu and by far, the Pā’ina Lu’au at the Waikiki Beach Marriott is the best. Also because it is located in Waikiki, the central proximity to hotels allows you to have a full day and not have to leave hours earlier because of the long bus ride to the venue. I highly, highly recommend!!!
The Waikiki Beach Marriott Pā’ina Lu’au was EXCELLENT in all ways! On a scale of 1-10, it’s easily a 15. I’ve been to many lu’aus across O’ahu and the food here was scrumptious! There is also prime rib on the buffet which other locations don’t offer. There are more than enough options of Pacific fusion entreés for those not willing to sample poi and other authentic dishes. Since it’s a buffet, you can choose what you want to eat and the amount per serving. Second or third servings are dependent on the amount of room your belly can hold.
The service is top notch. The waithelp was responsive removing plates and refilling drinks. The Aloha spirit was present from beginning to end.
I can’t say enough about how great the entertainment was. I am a hula dancer and I enjoyed watching all dancers. My favorite was the young grandson performing the fire dance. It was a beautiful show and I highly recommend it.
I’ve been to other lu’aus across Oahu and by far, the Pā’ina Lu’au at the Waikiki Beach Marriott is the best. Also because it is located in Waikiki, the central proximity to hotels allows you to have a full day and not have to leave hours earlier because of the long bus ride to the venue. I highly, highly recommend!!!
Written 19 June 2024
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.
Myranda G
2 contributions
Nov 2024 • Business
This was such an amazing experience! The staff was so great, attentive and kind. We sat in VIP and I strongly recommend (as you get three drink tickets, a fresh lei, a front row view and higher change of getting called up on stage!) Before the show we got temporary tattoos and did some lei making. The food was then served and it was a buffet line and the food was delicious with many options. I am vegetarian and my plate was filled haha! Two people from our group got called up to the stage and danced with the performers at the end and it was hilarious and just a perfect way to end the show.
Written 4 December 2024
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.
M N
337 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
We were offered a luau at the Marriott Waikiki Beach resort at a discounted rate. We took advantage of the offer and we are glad did. We have been to many luaus over the years, but this is our first since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Many things have changed since then, and this luau is a sample of things that have changed. Not that it was bad, I believe that just the lavishness of entertainment productions and food have diminished.
If I had to rate the luaus we have attended it is the Maui productions at the Hilton wailea, the lahina luau, the Polynesian cultural center and the luan here at the Marriott Waikiki Beach resort as the best.
The food was delicious, but offerings of dishes limited per post pandemic standards. Drinks were free flowing and included options of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. I would like to have seen more protein offerings, maybe teriyaki chicken or Hawaiian short ribs, but everything about the food was great.
The entertainment included Hulu dancers, and dances from specific islands, Tahiti, Tonga Samoa etc. the highlight of the entertainment was the Samoan fre dancers.
In all one of the best we have attended.
Many things have changed since then, and this luau is a sample of things that have changed. Not that it was bad, I believe that just the lavishness of entertainment productions and food have diminished.
If I had to rate the luaus we have attended it is the Maui productions at the Hilton wailea, the lahina luau, the Polynesian cultural center and the luan here at the Marriott Waikiki Beach resort as the best.
The food was delicious, but offerings of dishes limited per post pandemic standards. Drinks were free flowing and included options of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. I would like to have seen more protein offerings, maybe teriyaki chicken or Hawaiian short ribs, but everything about the food was great.
The entertainment included Hulu dancers, and dances from specific islands, Tahiti, Tonga Samoa etc. the highlight of the entertainment was the Samoan fre dancers.
In all one of the best we have attended.
Written 14 May 2024
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.
Mary K
4 contributions
July 2024 • Family
This was my 3rd luau on the islands, and Paina Waikiki did not disappoint! The talented performers put on a spectacular show with a classic luau style. I loved the MC and his vintage lounge vibe. Definitely the freshest tasting food and the best drinks that I’ve had at any luau. I also loved the convenience of walking to the hotel at the appointed time instead of dealing with a shuttle. The VIP ticket option gets you 4 drinks per guest, table service, and earlier access to the buffet, which I thought was worth it. I think the stage view and sound quality is probably good from any of the seats though.
Written 8 July 2024
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.
Claire C
8 contributions
Dec 2024 • Family
Pros; the performers and show were very well done and the waiting staff were good.
Cons; food was average, when my husband went up to get some more rice they were already tidying the food away (we were one of the last tables to be called up) so $170 a ticket and no 2nd plate is not acceptable.
It was very expensive for what it was. I willingly paid the price but this has made me think twice about spending that amount of money on another Luau or event in this area.
The table set up wasn’t good, my husband and son had a pole blocking some of their view.
I understand all Luau’s are different and I have only been to one other one on another Island. Unfortunately, my family and I were really looking forward to this one but were very disappointed with the food, location/set up and cost. Unfortunately I would not recommend this Luau to friends of family.
Cons; food was average, when my husband went up to get some more rice they were already tidying the food away (we were one of the last tables to be called up) so $170 a ticket and no 2nd plate is not acceptable.
It was very expensive for what it was. I willingly paid the price but this has made me think twice about spending that amount of money on another Luau or event in this area.
The table set up wasn’t good, my husband and son had a pole blocking some of their view.
I understand all Luau’s are different and I have only been to one other one on another Island. Unfortunately, my family and I were really looking forward to this one but were very disappointed with the food, location/set up and cost. Unfortunately I would not recommend this Luau to friends of family.
Written 3 January 2025
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 for your feedback. We appreciate you acknowledging our talented performers and friendly service staff. We sincerely apologize for the food service and table setup not meeting your expectations. We are always working to improve the guest experience and we hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back in the future.
Written 6 January 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
P9118VYdennise
Taft, United States2 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
The luau comprises a show and a buffet meal. The meal was excellent, and the professionalism of the catering services was obvious. They were very clear about food allergies etc. and the food was indeed varied, authentic, plentiful and delicious. The dining area was also the seating area for the show.
The seating was side on to the show, so that you have to twist the chairs around to watch - not a big deal since we finished eating before the show started.
The dining area and stage were outside on the 3rd floor so there was a lovely airy feeling, but exposure to rain (they provided rain ponchos in case). The last luau I went to was staged with the ocean/sunset as an immediate backdrop to the stage. This gives a much better atmosphere to the show than we had here.
The show was still excellent and the performers top quality.
We paid for VIP seating at the front. Those who didn't were much further away, with a significant artificial distance between the two seating areas. Those people had a mini-stage where one of the beautiful performers copied the dancing on the main stage.
The music was first class.
We thoroughly enjoyed the show, and fet we'd had a great spectacle and a cultural experience.
The seating was side on to the show, so that you have to twist the chairs around to watch - not a big deal since we finished eating before the show started.
The dining area and stage were outside on the 3rd floor so there was a lovely airy feeling, but exposure to rain (they provided rain ponchos in case). The last luau I went to was staged with the ocean/sunset as an immediate backdrop to the stage. This gives a much better atmosphere to the show than we had here.
The show was still excellent and the performers top quality.
We paid for VIP seating at the front. Those who didn't were much further away, with a significant artificial distance between the two seating areas. Those people had a mini-stage where one of the beautiful performers copied the dancing on the main stage.
The music was first class.
We thoroughly enjoyed the show, and fet we'd had a great spectacle and a cultural experience.
Written 25 October 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.
Mahalo for sharing this stellar review with the TripAdvisor community. We are thrilled to hear how much you enjoyed the luau and we are glad you found the VIP seating to be a great value! We appreciate your support and hope you'll join us for another memorable experience in the near future. Aloha!
Written 30 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Saad A
1 contribution
Sept 2023 • Solo
must say the food was delicious & service was excellent people very friendly and efficient the show was great they tried to tell us a story about Waikiki and how everything came about. Felt it was a good way to learn about Hawaii. And the dancers and singers were the best. Definitely would recommend to anyone who wants to eat good food and listen to great music about Hawaii .
Written 8 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.
Sandy N
1 contribution
June 2023 • Friends
It was so good to see a new luʻau open in Waikiki. The food was delicious and I felt like was a great value for the cost. The dancers were exciting, entertaining, and very talented. The MC...was fantastic. I could see her hosting events for years to come. The fire knife was really cool and it was amazing being so close to the action, but also feeling safe at the same time. The kid performers were so good - they were excellent at engaging the crowd and were very adorable. The luʻau was in the Marriott Waikiki and the team there was friendly and accommodating. I look forward to going back.
Written 30 June 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.
ernie i
2 contributions
My wife and I have lived in Hawaii all our lives but took our two grand children visiting us to a luau and must say we all enjoyed the food and cocktails non alcoholic for the children. service was excellent people very friendly and efficient the show was great they tried to tell us a story about Waikiki and how everything came about. Felt it was a good way to learn about Hawaii. And the dancers and singers were the best. Definitely would recommend to anyone who wants to eat good food and listen to great music about Hawaii .
Written 24 August 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.
No questions have been asked about this experience
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.