The Old Lahaina Luau

We Taste Maui's Most Famous Luau

Having heard the raves about the Old Lahaina Luau--known for its island food and hula spectacular--we strolled up to the venue with its stunning beachfront setting surrounded by tropical gardens.

The ten-foot "Old Lahaina Luau" sign carved in wood welcomed us and and we made reservations for that evening's entertainment.

Later, we took a cab from our hotel (Ka'anapali Beach) to the event, and Clarence, our friendly island driver, promised to pick us up afterwards.

The O.L.L. is the most famous of Maui luaus, known for its spectacular hula show blending song, dance and legend with a lavish feast of traditional Hawaiian food. The location is perfect--on the beach encircled by palms and tiki torches, with seating on a green grass terraced knoll.

We strolled through the tropical gardens to our places at long wooden tables arranged in tiers around a level grass stage and performance area. Drinks were ordered as we chatted with fellow travelers.  The hostess explained the tradition of wearing a flower tucked behind the ear.  Left ear for married women; right for singles.  Made everything so much easier, no questions asked.

Before the food arrived, guests stroll along the beach and look at crafts demonstrations, poi-pounding and pig roasting. The sky and beach are a blend of exquisite colors as the light changed with sunset.

Island beverages in hand, we got acquainted with our table mates, and the festivities begin. The food is an elaborate production, with course after course of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, including:
 Kalua Puaʻa Pork, roasted in the beachside Imu--Hawaiian oven, Laulau Pork wrapped in Lūʻau leaf and steamed, Maui-style Mahi Mahi; Pulehu Steak; Island-style Chicken marinated with guava sauce, garnished with fresh pineapples and toasted sesame seeds; Chicken Long Rice; stir-fried vegetables; sweet potato in coconut milk; and fried rice.

Salads are tossed Kula Greens with Papaya seed or Maui onion dressing, Pohole salad, Taro salad, tropical fruits, or a shrimp and crab salad. Other dishes include: Ahi Poke (marinated raw Ahi tuna), Lomi Lomi salmon (Salmon pieces with tomatoes and onions), the staple poi and taro, banana, and haupio bread.

Desserts include Guava Chiffon, Chocolate Mac Nut Brownie, Maui Macadamia Nut Tart and Lilikoi Mousse. Guests are free to return to the buffet tables for refills--if, by some coincidence, you still happen to be hungry--or the bar for more drinks.

This extravaganza is a delight to ear and eye - the dancers are graceful, beautifully trained in the art of hula, song-story, and Hawaiian traditions - and the show exceeded all expectations.  Guests are serenely enveloped in the rhythms, sounds, tastes of Aloha Spirit and the pleasures and legends of ancient Hawaii.

By then, we were radiating the inner joy of Aloha happiness and knew we would not want to leave.

Given The Old Lahaina Luau's great popularity, it is advisable to call ahead for reservations at: 1-800-248-5828

For further information, email me at contentink [at] yahoo.com


Old Lahaina Luau
The Aloha Spirit