Choosing to vacation in Hawaii, particularly Oahu, is one of the best decisions a family can make. The beautiful island of Oahu is not only home to one of the world’s most sumptuous cities (Honolulu), but, around every corner, there are ample opportunities to learn more about Hawaii’s distinct culture. It’s common for first-time visitors to seek hula lessons, poke bowls, and history tours. However, a habitual request that Prince Waikiki’s worldly concierge team receives is the precise location of the best luau in Oahu. Very few sights on earth are more dazzling than an authentic Hawaiian luau—it’s an experience that should rest atop everyone’s Honolulu bucket list. Keep reading to learn more about the top-reviewed luau in Waikiki: Diamond Head Luau.

Finding a Luau in Waikiki

While the Diamond Head Luau is unquestionably the best luau in Waikiki, it can sell out several weeks in advance. So, remember to book a reservation a month or two before an arrival date. Otherwise, a handful of other shows have earned rave reviews over the years, including Ka Moana Luau, Kuhio Beach Hula Show, and Magic of Polynesia. All three of these shows differ in price, location, style, and overall scope. Ka Moana Luau, in particular, is an authentic visual delight. However, when guests search for a “luau near me,” they typically stumble upon Diamond Head’s world-famous farm-to-table luau.

Diamond Head Luau

Diamond Head Luau remains Hawaii’s only farm-to-table luau. In fact, it’s one of the only such experiences in the world. The luaus run from 5–7:45 p.m. four days a week along the Pacific Ocean’s edge near the breathtaking Diamond Head State Monument, a spellbinding volcanic crater that dates back approximately 300,000 years. As the premier luau in Waikiki, the team at Diamond Head is always looking for ways to enhance the visitor experience. Thus, the package now includes seating, two drink tickets, a fresh lei, a cocktail greeting, admission to the Waikiki Aquarium, and a spectacular farm-to-table buffet. The buffet features a plethora of delicious Hawaiian eats, such as poke, lomi lomi salmon, and kalua pig. Visitors can also partake in a wide variety of cultural activities, including hula lessons, lei making, ukulele lessons, and henna tattoos.