Admission to Voyagers of the Pacific Luau

If you’re considering adding a luau experience to your Big Island trip, the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau at the Royal Kona Resort might catch your eye. It’s a popular option, often booked about a month in advance, and offers a chance to enjoy Hawaiian culture through food, music, and dance. We’ve sifted through reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what’s on offer and whether it’s right for you.

What we love about this luau is the stunning setting overlooking Kailua Bay—the views alone make it worth considering—and the fact that the buffet includes delicious island-style dishes. Plus, the stage show featuring dancers from different regions adds a lively visual element that many find memorable. That said, a couple of downsides emerge from traveler feedback, like inconsistent food quality and some issues with the show’s setup—especially during bad weather.

This experience is probably best suited for those looking to enjoy a relaxing evening with good food and entertainment in a scenic environment. If you’re after a cultural dive or a super polished show, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you’re after a fun, scenic night that captures some of Hawaii’s spirit, this could make a nice evening out.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Kailua Bay make this luau especially scenic and photo-worthy.
• Prebooking means you can pick a date that fits your schedule and avoid disappointment.
• The buffet offers a variety of traditional island dishes, with some reviews praising the quality.
• Stage performances include dances from different Polynesian regions, adding lively entertainment.
• Some reviews mention inconsistent food and show quality, especially if weather moves the event indoors.
• The cost ($177.59) is a bit on the higher side, but many find it reasonable considering the location and entertainment.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

Location and Setting

The luau is held at the Royal Kona Resort, perched right on Kailua Bay. The location is a real highlight—imagine sitting on a patio or outdoor area with sweeping views of the water as the sun begins to set. Travelers often comment that the scenery alone elevates the experience, giving you that iconic Hawaiian sunset backdrop. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to linger and soak in the atmosphere.

Arrival and Welcome

The evening kicks off around 5:00 pm with a friendly greeting—think shell leis and Hawaiian music. Many reviews mention that the staff is welcoming and attentive, setting a relaxed tone for the night. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a shell lei greeting that makes you feel instantly immersed in the island vibe.

The Buffet Dinner

One of the most anticipated parts of any luau is the food, and this one doesn’t disappoint in that regard. The buffet features traditional island dishes—think roasted meats, tropical salads, and local favorites. Several reviews specifically praise the deliciousness of the food, with some noting it’s a good value considering the variety and quality. For diners with dietary restrictions, it’s worth noting that at least one reviewer with gluten allergies found the meal accommodating.

However, not everyone was thrilled; a few found the food to be just “okay,” and some mentioned that hot foods could be warmer or that the buffet could benefit from longer hours for seconds. Still, most agree that the overall quality and variety make it a satisfying meal.

The Entertainment Stage Show

Post-dinner, the stage lights up with dancers representing different Polynesian cultures. The fire dances are often highlighted as the show’s highlight—spectacular and engaging. Reviewers frequently mention that the dancers put a lot of effort into the performance, with some describing it as “fabulous” or “spectacular.”

That said, a few reviews note that the show’s quality can vary, and that during bad weather, the performance moves indoors where sightlines and acoustics aren’t as good. For example, one reviewer said, “Because of weather, the luau had to be moved inside, and we didn’t all get to sit together,” which dampened the experience a bit but didn’t ruin it entirely.

Weather and Indoor/Outdoor Considerations

Since the event is mostly held outdoors with beautiful views, weather can be a factor. If it rains, the whole event might be moved inside, which some guests find less enjoyable. In one review, the indoor setting was described as “not very good,” with muffled sound and poor visibility. It’s wise to check the weather forecast before booking, especially if you’re sensitive to rain or wind.

Duration and Group Size

The experience lasts about 3 hours, making it a good option for an early evening activity without feeling rushed. For those concerned about crowd size, note that this luau is generally organized and well-managed, with many praising the attentiveness of servers and staff. Most travelers find that everyone can see and hear the performance clearly, especially in the larger outdoor setting, but some mention that sound can be faint if the speaker isn’t loud enough.

Price and Value

At $177.59 per person, this isn’t exactly cheap, but considering the scenic location, buffet, and entertainment, many agree it’s a reasonable price. Several reviews mention that it’s an organized, well-run event that offers a good balance of food, fun, and views. However, some feel that the show could be longer or that the indoor experience doesn’t quite match the outdoor version.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This luau is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic evening with a solid buffet and lively entertainment. It’s particularly suited to those who want to enjoy Hawaiian culture without diving into overly touristy or high-end options. It’s also a good choice for travelers who appreciate beautiful sunsets and water views as part of their evening.

Those traveling with children or groups will find the stage show engaging, but keep in mind that the indoor experiences might be less impressive if the weather doesn’t cooperate. If you’re after a high-energy, authentic Polynesian show or a gourmet dinner, this might not meet those expectations.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For travelers who want a scenic night out with decent food and entertaining performances, the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau offers a lot of value. The setting alone makes it memorable, especially if you enjoy watching the sunset over Kailua Bay. The buffet is generally well-received, and the stage show, especially the fire dancing, is often praised as a highlight.

However, it’s worth going into this expecting some variability—reviews point to possible inconsistencies in food quality and show execution, especially if weather shifts the event indoors. For the price, most guests feel it’s a worthwhile experience, especially if you’re after a relaxed, enjoyable evening with a taste of Hawaiian culture.

If you’re traveling on a budget or looking for an ultra-authentic, polished cultural show, you might want to explore other options. But if stunning views, good food, and lively entertainment sound like your idea of a great Hawaiian night, this luau could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is there a specific start time for the luau?
Yes, it begins at 5:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the sunset views.

Can I choose my date in advance?
Absolutely, you can prebook your tickets, and the luau is held four nights a week, so you can pick a date that suits your schedule.

How long does the experience last?
The entire event is approximately 3 hours long, including dinner and the stage show.

Is the event suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s generally family-friendly, though the stage show and outdoor setting are best appreciated by those who enjoy lively entertainment and scenic views.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the outdoor or indoor stage performance, a buffet dinner with traditional island dishes, and a shell lei greeting.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the event is outdoors, poor weather might move the show indoors. Some reviews mention less favorable indoor conditions, so checking the forecast beforehand is smart.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there are unlimited drinks, including mocktails for non-drinkers, served throughout the evening, though some reviewers found the drinks to be hit or miss.

Is it good value for the price?
Most guests feel that, considering the views, food, and entertainment, it offers reasonable value. However, a few think it could be better and worth shopping around if you’re looking for something more exclusive.

Can I get a full refund if I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, you won’t receive a refund.

The Voyagers of the Pacific Luau provides a pleasant, scenic night out that captures a slice of Hawaiian culture in a beautiful setting. It may not be perfect, but many find it to be a memorable part of their Big Island visit—especially when the weather cooperates and the sunset paints the sky.