Kapaa Luaus

Why Kapaa?

Wailua Nui Lū‘au is rooted in the idea that Wailua is one of Kaua‘i’s most storied places, a region long tied to chiefs, voyaging, and life shaped by the ocean. The show pulls from that, using mele and hula to bring legendary mo‘olelo to life, especially stories that honor ancient navigators and the playful spirit of Kaua‘i’s fishermen. It’s also a newer addition to the island’s lū‘au scene, built to spotlight Kaua‘i history and artistry in a setting that feels right at home on Wailua Bay.

What makes Wailua Nui feel like one of the best picks on Kaua‘i is how much you get in one smooth, oceanfront evening, without the hassle. The setting on Wailua Bay is the kind of backdrop you can’t fake, sunset, trade winds, and torches all working together, then you add the imu moment, a buffet that actually satisfies, and a show that stays rooted in Kaua‘i storytelling instead of feeling generic. It’s also a win if you want a top-tier lū‘au experience that’s easy to reach from Kapa‘a or Līhu‘e, so you’re not staring down a long drive back when the night’s over.

The Smith Garden Luau has all the features you would expect from a top-notch luau: an imu unveiling ceremony, an extravagant feast, and a memorable show in a stunning location. But it’s the production’s undeniable Hawaiian hospitality that makes Smith Garden Luau one of the best Kauai luaus.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a shell lei— often handed out by sweet Grandma Smith herself. The luau celebrations kick-off with an imu unveiling ceremony, MC’d by general manager Kamika Smith or his father. After the ceremony, enjoy a generous feast featuring secret Smith family recipes like Cousin Gary’s teriyaki beef, sweet and sour Mahi Mahi, kalua pork, Chinese fried rice, Lomi Lomi salmon, and other delights.

The performances at the Smith Family Luau embody Hawaii’s melting pot of cultures. The luau features dances from China, Japan, and the Philippines, as well as Pacific Island cultures. Luau days differ seasonally. Choose from “show only” or dinner and show tickets.

Luau Ka Hikina’s venue alone is worth writing home about— the elegant thatched-roof pavilion is perched feet from ancient royal surfing grounds on Kauai’s Coconut Coast.

Festivities commence with an impressive torch-lighting ceremony, followed by enchanting hula kahiko choreographed by award-winning hula master Leilani Rivera Low. The show also celebrates Tongan, Tahitian, Maori, and Samoan dances.

Luau Ka Hikina’s enticing feast honors Kauai’s bounty, featuring a mouthwatering spread of locally-sourced fares and Hawaiian favorites. Meanwhile, tropical drinks like mai tais flow from the open bar until the show starts. Luau Ka Hikina is hosted every Tuesday and Thursday (occasional shows added). Seating for general admission ticket holders is first-come, first serve, so arrive early!

We hope this helped you narrow down your possible luau options for Kauai’s Kapaa Area, and wish you all a lovely adventure and aloha experience on The Garden Isle. Remember to reserve your luau spots early, and share your experiences with us! Mahalo for reading, and a hui hou.