Te Au Moana Luau at The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort on Maui, Hawaii

Planning a night out on Maui that blends culture, entertainment, and good food? The Te Au Moana Luau offers exactly that, giving visitors a chance to enjoy authentic Polynesian performances and a tasty meal in a gorgeous setting. While I haven’t personally attended, reviews suggest it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a lively, culturally rich evening.

What really draws people in are the spectacular ocean views and engaging performances. Plus, the all-in-one package—dinner, show, and souvenirs—makes it a hassle-free way to spend an evening. However, some mention the price point might be steep for what you get, especially if you’re sensitive to value. This tour is best suited for visitors who want an immersive night of Hawaiian culture without the fuss of planning every detail themselves.

If you’re after a memorable experience that captures the spirit of the islands, and don’t mind paying a little extra for convenience and entertainment, this luau could be just the ticket. It’s also great if you enjoy shows with vibrant costumes, storytelling through dance, and a scenic setting to watch the sunset.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion with Polynesian dance and storytelling in an engaging performance
• Beautiful waterfront location with sunset views enhancing the experience
• Three-course family-style meal featuring Hawaiian specialties
• Souvenir leis or necklaces to remember your night
• All-inclusive entertainment and dining, with options for special menus during holidays
• Group size is capped at 15, creating a more intimate experience

What to Expect from the Te Au Moana Luau

This experience kicks off with lively pre-show music and entertainment that set a festive tone. You’ll be greeted with a flower lei or necklace (subject to availability), which adds a personal touch and a bit of Hawaiian tradition right from the start. Expect to settle into your table—most are family-style, so you’ll be sharing with others—which encourages a communal feel.

The star of the night is “Te Au Moana: The Ocean Tide,” a performance that beautifully weaves stories of Polynesian ancestors, emphasizing their skills in fishing, gathering, and voyaging. Expect vibrant dance, traditional costumes, and a compelling narrative that helps you understand the deep cultural roots of these islands. Alongside this, a fire knife performance provides a dramatic highlight, showcasing the skill and daring of performers.

The meal is served tableside in three courses, with Hawaiian dishes that reflect local flavors. While some reviews praise the quality of the food, others mention it’s not spectacular, with a tendency toward blandness and minimal seasoning in line with regional cuisine. Still, the presentation and variety generally satisfy most guests. The buffet-style setup means no need to choose from a menu—just relax and enjoy the flavors.

Post-show, guests are free to explore, take photos (souvenir photos are available to purchase), or simply soak in the views. The setting is beautifully positioned by the water, providing a perfect backdrop for your evening.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Arrival and Check-In

Your evening begins with a warm welcome and check-in, where you’ll receive your festive lei or necklace—an authentic token of Hawaiian hospitality. Reviewers note that check-in is smooth, and many appreciated the prompt communication sent via text, including table assignments and check-in times.

Pre-Show Entertainment

Before the main performance, expect lively music and traditional dances that set the festive tone. This pre-show acts as an introduction, giving guests a taste of Polynesian culture through dances that depict stories of fishing, gathering, and voyaging. Many reviewers found this part engaging, with comments like: “I like how they helped get us into the show with some dances,” emphasizing how this warm-up gets you excited for what’s to come.

The “Te Au Moana” Show

The core of the evening is the “Te Au Moana: The Ocean Tide” performance. This show features talented dancers and musicians who portray stories of Polynesian heritage, emphasizing their navigation skills and connection to the ocean. The energetic dance routines and colorful costumes appeal to both adults and kids alike. Notably, the fire knife performance is a showstopper, adding a dramatic flair and adrenaline to the night.

Guests are often impressed by the storytelling aspect of the dance, which makes the experience more meaningful. As one review puts it: “The show was great, and I really enjoyed the historical context.” The intimacy of the show, capped at 15 guests, keeps the atmosphere lively and personal.

Dinner Service

After the show, you’re served a three-course family-style meal right at your table. The menu features Hawaiian favorites, and the buffet setup means you can sample a bit of everything. Some common dishes might include tropical fruits, local fish, and traditional sides like macaroni potato salad. While the overall quality gets mixed reviews, most agree that the presentation is generous and the setting adds to the enjoyment.

Post-Performance

Once the show wraps up, you’re free to explore, take photos, or relax by the water. Some guests mention the opportunity to purchase souvenirs like leis, kukui nut necklaces, or carved wooden items. Others appreciated the scenic backdrop, especially at sunset, making it a perfect moment for photos or just soaking in the view.

The Experience Environment and Group Dynamics

The venue is set right by the ocean, with many guests mentioning the stunning sunset views as a highlight. The setting enhances the overall magic of the evening, giving you a true sense of being immersed in island life. The group is limited to a small size, which makes for a more personalized experience and allows for better interaction with performers.

The dress code is described as smart casual, and most guests opt for comfortable yet neat attire. For those with mobility concerns, a helpful tip from reviewers is to request a golf cart for transportation if walking distances are a concern—especially for older visitors.

Price and Value

At $278 per person, this luau isn’t exactly budget-friendly. But considering what it includes—an engaging cultural show, a three-course buffet, a souvenir lei or necklace, and scenic views—it’s a decent value for a night of entertainment and cultural education. Some reviews suggest it’s a bit overpriced, especially if food quality isn’t at the top for everyone, but many find the experience worth it for the overall ambiance and storytelling.

For holiday occasions like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve, special festive menus are offered, adding an extra layer of celebration. Keep in mind, the activity is best suited for those who prioritize cultural authenticity and scenic settings over purely culinary experiences.

Who Should Consider This Luau?

This experience appeals most to travelers who want a hassle-free, all-in-one evening experience. It’s perfect if you’re looking for entertainment, scenic views, and a taste of Hawaiian tradition in one package. Families, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy performances, storytelling, and social dining will likely enjoy this. If you’re sensitive to spending and seek a more gourmet meal, you might want to weigh the value carefully.

People with mobility issues might want to request assistance due to walking distances, and those with food restrictions should note that dietary accommodations are available, though it’s best to specify these when booking.

The Sum Up

The Te Au Moana Luau at the Wailea Beach Marriott offers a memorable way to experience Hawaiian culture without the hassle of planning. The scenic beachfront setting paired with lively performances and a family-style dinner creates a festive atmosphere that many guests find enchanting. While the food isn’t gourmet and the price might feel steep for some, the overall experience—especially the storytelling, the talented performers, and the sunset views—adds significant value.

This luau is ideal for visitors who love cultural shows, enjoy beautiful ocean settings, and are happy to spend a bit more for an all-inclusive night of entertainment. It’s not a casual, quick dinner; it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that showcases the islands’ heritage in a fun, engaging way.

For those seeking a lively, scenic, and culturally immersive evening, it’s a solid choice. Just keep your expectations in check regarding the food and the pricing, and you’re likely to leave with a smile and some great memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Te Au Moana Luau suitable for young children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-oriented, many reviews mention it being a fun experience for kids. The show is energetic and colorful, and there are fun crafts like leis and tattoos for kids and adults alike. Just keep in mind that the setting involves walking and some standing, so plan accordingly.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cultural performance, a three-course family-style dinner served at your table, a souvenir lei or necklace, pre-show music and entertainment, and access to scenic views. Souvenir photos are available for purchase separately.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the tour notes that dietary restrictions are politely and graciously accommodated. It’s best to mention any food allergies at the time of booking for smooth arrangements.

What is the dress code?
Smart casual is recommended, which means neat, comfortable clothing suitable for an outdoor, scenic setting. Many guests dress in casual island wear.

How long does the luau last?
The entire experience takes about 3 to 4 hours, starting in the early evening and wrapping up after the show and dinner.

Is parking easy?
Valet parking is available for $55, or you can self-park for free with validation if exiting after 8:30 pm. Public transportation options are nearby.

What if the weather is bad?
The event requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Always check the weather forecast before booking.

Whether you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion or just want an easy, enjoyable night out, the Te Au Moana Luau promises a taste of Hawaiian culture, scenic beauty, and lively entertainment—all in one package.