Maui Luau: Gilligans’ Island Luau in Kihei

Thinking about adding a luau to your Maui itinerary? This Gilligans’ Island Luau in Kihei offers a cozy, authentic experience that feels a step away from the big resort crowds. We’ve looked into what makes this event special—and what might give some travelers pause—so you can decide if it fits your style.

What we love about this luau? First, the smaller, more intimate setting makes it feel personal and relaxed, unlike the typical large-scale shows. Second, the delicious all-you-can-eat Hawaiian buffet provides a hearty taste of local flavors, with options that many reviews praise highly. On the flip side, one possible consideration is that the venue’s size might limit visibility for some, especially if you’re seated in the middle of the crowd. This event seems perfect for those seeking a laid-back, culturally rich evening, especially if you’re traveling by car and want a genuine experience outside busy resorts.

Key Points

• Intimate venue with less than a third of the capacity of larger luaus, offering a more personal experience.
• All-inclusive: dinner, drinks, and entertainment are included in the price.
• Authentic performances featuring Hawaiian, Tahitian, and New Zealand dancers, plus a Samoan fire show.
• Delicious buffet with a variety of local dishes like Kalua pork, teriyaki chicken, and fresh seafood.
• Convenient for travelers with a car; parking and accessibility are straightforward.
• Mixed reviews on visibility; some find the performance space limited depending on seating.

What to Expect at the Maui Gilligans’ Island Luau

The Setting and Atmosphere

Right from the start, you’ll notice this luau feels less like a tourist trap and more like a gathering of friends sharing their culture. It’s held on a cozy outdoor patio, set against the backdrop of a sunset, mountains, and coconut trees—picturesque but small enough to foster a friendly vibe. Many reviews mention the beautiful setting and friendly staff, which contribute to a welcoming atmosphere.

One guest described it as a “very small and private luau on a golf course”, which hints at how less commercialized it is. The exclusive feel, with fewer than 50 people in the audience, allows for better interaction and a more relaxed pace.

Performing Arts and Cultural Highlights

The star of the event is undoubtedly the entertainment. You’ll be treated to traditional Hawaiian hula dancing, as well as performances from dancers representing Tahiti and New Zealand. The show is designed as a story told through dance and music, which many guests find both educational and emotionally moving.

A standout element is the fire dance finale, which many reviews describe as “amazing” and “spectacular.” The performers change costumes for each dance, adding a visual flair that keeps the audience engaged. Several reviews note that the performance quality is high, with talented dancers and engaging musicians.

Food and Drinks

One of the most praised aspects of Gilligans’ Island Luau is the all-you-can-eat buffet. You can expect Hawaiian favorites like Kalua pork and teriyaki chicken, as well as seafood options such as panko-crusted mahi mahi with lemon dill cream sauce. The menu also includes vegetarian options like hummus with vegetable crudites, plus traditional staples like poi, rice, and mac salad.

Guests frequently mention the deliciousness of the food—it’s a step above what some other luaus offer. The drinks flow freely with an open bar that includes tropical well drinks, house wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. Several reviews highlight the unlimited drinks service, which makes the evening even more laid-back.

Group Size and Seating

This luau’s small size allows for a more intimate experience, but it also means that seating can influence your view. Some guests found themselves in the middle of the crowd, making it tough to see the dancers. Reviews like “sometimes it was tough to see what was going on” remind us that arriving early or upgrading to VIP seating might enhance your experience.

Accessibility and Location

The event is best suited for travelers with a car, as it’s located about 30 minutes from Kihei. Parking appears to be straightforward, and the outdoor venue provides a laid-back, open-air environment perfect for relaxing and enjoying the evening.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $166.49 per person, this luau isn’t the cheapest in Maui but considering everything included—dinner, drinks, and entertainment—the value feels fair. The smaller size and quality of the performances, along with the tasty buffet, make it a good pick for travelers looking to experience Polynesian culture without the mega-resort vibe.

Reviews and Guest Opinions

The majority of reviews are glowing, with many giving 5 stars. Guests loved the delicious food, friendly staff, and high-quality performances. For instance, LeaA_L shared that “the food was delicious,” and the fire show was “amazing,” while Kennethia_P described the setting as “beautiful and fun.” Several guests appreciated the authentic storytelling through dance, making it more than just a show—it feels like a cultural introduction.

However, not all feedback is perfect. A few reviews mention issues with visibility —especially for those seated in the middle—and service that can sometimes be inconsistent. One guest pointed out that the performance space is not elevated, which could limit what you see unless seated toward the front.

Who Will Love This Luau?

This experience is ideal for those who want a more intimate and relaxed Polynesian cultural night out. If you appreciate good food, live entertainment, and a setting that feels less commercialized, you’ll likely enjoy Gilligans’ Island Luau. It’s also suitable if you prefer a smaller crowd and don’t mind a bit of the unpredictability that comes with outdoor venues.

Travelers who value authentic performances and don’t require a large-scale production will find this a charming choice. It’s especially perfect for those driving around Maui, as it’s a bit outside the main resort areas, offering a quieter, more personal experience.

The Bottom Line

Gilligans’ Island Luau offers a cozy, authentic Polynesian night that balances cultural storytelling with delicious food and good drinks. The small venue creates a welcoming atmosphere, making it easier to connect with performers and other guests. Its quality performances and beautiful setting make it a standout among Maui luaus, especially for those seeking a more personal experience.

That said, it’s not the best choice if you’re after a large, stage-driven show or if viewing might be obstructed depending on your seating. The price is reasonable considering the all-inclusive setup, and the positive reviews speak to its value.

If you’re in Maui and want to experience local culture without the crowds, this luau could be a great fit—just plan ahead for transportation and seating.

FAQ

Is this luau suitable for travelers without a car?
While it’s best suited for those with a car due to its location outside central Kihei, you might find transportation options on your own. Many reviews suggest it’s easier if you have your own way to get there.

How long does the event last?
The duration is approximately 2 to 3 hours, making it a manageable evening activity that includes dinner, drinks, and a lively show.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which gives you peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

Is the event family-friendly?
While most reviews highlight an enjoyable experience for adults, the event is described as family-friendly, so families with children comfortable with outdoor venues and moderate crowds should feel comfortable attending.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there is an open bar with tropical well drinks, house wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages, all included in the ticket price.

What’s the food like?
Guests consistently praise the buffet for being delicious and plentiful, featuring local favorites like Kalua pork, teriyaki chicken, mahi mahi, poi, and more.

Is this luaus’ setting scenic?
Yes, the outdoor patio offers a lovely backdrop with sunset views, mountains, and coconut trees, making it a memorable setting to enjoy the show and meal.

If you’re after an authentic, intimate, and flavorful Polynesian night, Gilligans’ Island Luau might just be the relaxed cultural experience you’re looking for in Maui.