Every Big Island Luau I've Been To (And Everything Else Worth Knowing), Ranked Honestly— Ep 135

Ranking Big Island Luaus: Best Picks in Kona, Kohala & Waikoloa (and One to Skip)The host ranks Big Island luaus and explains the episode differs because they’ve only attended three, noting Big Island has far fewer luau options than Oahu or Maui and is better known for the Merrie Monarch Festival. Their top pick is the Hawaii Loa Luau at the Fairmont Orchid for upscale setting, standout buffet (especially poke), and polished, serious hula. Second is Voyagers of the Pacific at the Royal Kona Resort, recommended for a solid show (Tahitian opener, hula kahiko, Samoan fire knife, garment segment), good value, and easy return to rooms if staying on-site. They strongly caution against Island Breeze at the King Kamehameha Hotel based on a rain-night indoor experience with long waits, disappointing food, and a poorly executed show, though they acknowledge others enjoy it outdoors near historic sites. They also outline other options—Hale Ho’oloha (Mauna Lani), Waikoloa Beach Marriott’s Sunset Luau (with added service charge), and Feast and Fire (Outrigger Kona Resort)—and offer practical selection tips.00:00 Why Big Island Luaus Differ01:32 How to Choose a Luau01:52 Top Pick Fairmont Orchid03:37 Why the Hula Matters04:19 Best Value Royal Kona06:12 Island Breeze Warning08:22 Picking Tips and Logistics08:54 Other Luau Options10:46 Final Rankings and WrapWho this episode is for: Anyone booking a Big Island luau who wants an honest ranking instead of marketing copy.What you'll learn: Marcie's ranking of Big Island luaus, what sets the top pick apart, which one to avoid, and how to pick the right luau for your trip.Places discussed:KonaKohalaWaikoloaActivities discussed:Attending a luau (hula kahiko, Tahitian and Samoan fire knife performances, buffet dining)Merrie Monarch Festival (mentioned as Big Island's bigger hula draw vs. commercial luaus)Hotels discussed:Fairmont Orchid — home of Hawaii Loa Luau, Marcie's top pickRoyal Kona Resort — home of Voyagers of the Pacific, second pick, good value, easy for on-site guestsKing Kamehameha Hotel — home of Island Breeze, Marcie's caution pickMauna Lani — Hale Ho'oloha luauWaikoloa Beach Marriott — Sunset Luau, has an added service chargeOutrigger Kona Resort — Feast and Fire luauMarcie's recommendations:Top pick: Hawaii Loa Luau at the Fairmont Orchid, for the upscale setting, standout buffet (especially the poke), and polished hulaSecond pick: Voyagers of the Pacific at Royal Kona Resort, for good value and a strong show including a Tahitian opener, hula kahiko, and Samoan fire knife segmentCaution: Island Breeze at King Kamehameha Hotel, based on a rain-night experience with long waits, disappointing food, and a poorly executed show, though outdoor nights near the historic site may be betterNote the added service charge at Waikoloa Beach Marriott's Sunset Luau when comparing pricesRelated Hawaii Travel Made Easy episodes:Hawaii Travel Guide: Are Luaus Worth It? Everything You Need to Know— Ep 6Luau vs Cultural Experience: Which Hawaii Cultural Activity Is Worth It?— Ep 42Every Oahu Luau I've Been To (Ranked Honestly)— Ep 95Every Maui Luau I've Been To (And Everything Else Worth Knowing), Ranked Honestly— Ep 129Every Kauai Luau I've Been To, Ranked Honestly — Ep 131Related articles: Big Island Luaus: Which One Won’t Disappoint Your Family? (2026 Prices)Big Island Travel GuideAbout Your Host: Marcie Cheung is a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert who has visited Hawaii 40+ times and spent 20+ years as a professional hula dancer. Through Hawaii Travel with Kids, she helps families plan authentic, affordable Hawaii vacations that respect local culture while creating unforgettable memories.Learn more at hawaiitravelwithkids.comConnect: @hawaiitravelwithkids on Instagram | Book a Consultation🌺 Join 11,000+ families receiving free Hawaii travel tips, island guides, and insider advice - subscribe now!https://hawaiitravelwithkids.com/free-5-day-email-course-how-to-travel-to-hawaii-like-a-pro/