Royal Lahaina Lu'au

Sure this is touristy and sometimes slightly hokey...but the talent/skills of the ensemble at the Royla Lahaina Lu'au is undeniable.  

The drinks were weak and sugary (unless you get beer) but it was plentiful as was the food.  The kid's table with hot dogs and mac and cheese was a pleasant surprise.  Some of the other "adult" dishes were good...I'm even wondering if their version of poi is truly authentic because I didn't mind it so much this time!  

There wasn't much table service for us though our neighbors were regularly asked if they needed anything else to drink.  (Did they pay extra??)

The setting was lovely (on the beach) and some of the dance numbers were poignant and beautiful.  One dancer who stood out to me ended up being the mother of one of the other dancers!  

Definitely something you need to do at least once even if it seems like a tourist trap.  Just stay away from the souvenirs (we did buy our photo) and cuddle up to the dancers afterwards!

For first timers this an excellent way to know a bit more of the past. In general in all these types of Luau's you have to take in consideration that's is a commercially and profitability driven product, so to expect the world out of 1 hour show its unfair.

The best louau's one could attend and witness would be one hosted by a local family in one of the islands, the rest it's what we American's think its the real thing, the larger the better, the more the merrier... The closest I have gotten to experienced it, is in eastern island

Honestly, the local buffet at home had better food. The purple yams were interesting, something new to try. Chocolate cake was moist but the coconut pudding was not right. The steak, according to my carnivore mate, was pretty good but the chicken and pork was average. He spit out some type of mandarin salad-violently rejected. Vegetarian options were limited, the highlights were fried rice and stir fry noodles (add soy sauce, salt and pepper). Most drinks were unlimited but came with 80% ice unless made to order. There was no id check. Some guy went through the line as we waited to enter and asked if we might get a cocktail after entering. A yes earned you a smiley face stamp on your left wrist, which meant nothing once you entered. It wad family style seating at banquet tables filling an outdoor area near the water. It felt like we were at a wedding reception as distant friends of the family. Many of the performances felt like a school play or low-budget community event...and then there was Fire...The absolute best part of the entire experience. The fire performer dropped his flaming baton twice but that didn't take away from the wonderful performance. Find a discount because full price is definitely not worth it...Unimpressive Food, Banquet Seating, Great Fire Dance.