3 Best Performing Arts Venues in Kauai, Hawaii

A 30-acre tropical garden on the Wailua River provides the lovely setting for this popular luau, which begins with the traditional blowing of the conch shell and imu (pig roast) ceremony, followed by cocktails, an island feast, great music, hula, and an international show in the amphitheater overlooking a torchlit lagoon. Presented Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in winter, and also Tuesday and Thursday in summer, it's fairly authentic and the oldest commercial luau on Kauai. Advance reservations strongly recommended.

Excellent unlimited buffet food, an open bar, and exciting music and Polynesian dance performances characterize this traditional luau, held twice weekly (Wednesday and Saturday) in a garden setting near majestic Keoneloa Bay.

Set on the grounds of a historic plantation-era mansion, this luau bills itself as the only "theatrical" luau on Kauai, with both Hawaiian and Polynesian dancing. The luau feast is served buffet style, there's an open bar, and the performers aim to both entertain and educate about Hawaiian culture. Guests sit at tables around a circular stage; tables farther from the stage are elevated, providing unobstructed views. Additional packages offer visitors the opportunity to watch the show only, take a train ride, eat a special four-course meal, and enjoy romantic perks like a lei greeting and champagne. The luau is staged Tuesday and Friday nights only; reservations are highly recommended.