Wondering what it’s like to go to a traditional Hawaiian luau in Wailea, Maui? In this blog, I share my experience at Te Au Moana at Wailea Beach Resort Marriott and offer tips so you can have the best time!
In this blog, I shareβ¦
- What is a Luau
- Luau Tradition & History
- Luau Quick Info
- Te Au Moana LΕ«Κ»au
- Highlights
- My Luau Experience
- What to Do at a Traditional Hawaiian Luau
- Luau Food & Drink Menu
- What to Wear to a Luau
- Where to Stay in Wailea, Maui
My Hawaiian Luau Adventures
The Hawaiians take great pride in their culture and have passed on many traditions that express the love and respect they have for their people, land and its spirits.
On a trip to Hawaii, I had the great pleasure of experiencing one of these traditions β a luau in Wailea!
Attending one made me realize just how different Hawaiian culture is from the rest of America. Sometimes, I even forgot that I was still in the U.S. Being in Maui may as well have been a different world. I savored every moment.
I’m so excited to share my luau adventures but, before I do, let’s cover the basics so you know what to expect! π
What is a Luau
I would be willing to bet that if you thought of a luau right now, there’d be visions of juicy, roasted pigs, women in hula skirts and dancers playing with fire! Am I right?
To you and me, a luau is basically one big, colorful occasion but, it’s also so much more than that and goes back pretty far… Learning about the history made me even more excited to attend one and now I’ll share it with you!
Luau Tradition & History
The origin of words that we use everyday are actually far more simple and absurd than we realize! Take the word luau. I bet you’d never guess that it was named after a plant that we eat!
The word luau means taro plant and was inspired by a popular Hawaiian dish with chicken and the leaves of a taro plant baked in coconut milk.
But, the gathering wasnβt always called a βluauβ. It was once called βahaβaina, (gathering meal) and used as a way to celebrate a war victory, whenever a new canoe launched or a significant life event.
However, these βahaβainas were not fun to be had by all, the guest list was quite elite.
Once upon a time, kapu (a set of restrictions) forbade Hawaiian men and women from dining together and certain food was only for the chiefs and kings.
Then in 1819, King Kamehameha II stepped in and made a bold statement by ending these restrictions once and for all. Continuing to break the societal norms, he held a feast where he dined beside women. And just like that, the βlΕ«Κ»auβ was born.
Today, the luau is a fun way for Hawaiians to come together and celebrate special life events like weddings, graduations, and the like. Luaus range from small, intimate, romantic gatherings to big, full-blown family parties.
Even my Miami Dolphins boy and native Hawaiian, Tua Tagovailoa hosted a charity event in Florida called, βLuau with Tuaβ.
Te Au Moana at Wailea Beach Resort, Marriott Maui
As it turns out, I didn’t find Te Au Moana Luau, it found me. I was staying at the Wailea Beach Resort, Marriott and after walking back to my room from the pool, I heard chanting, music and cheering so, I went to see what the heck was going on.
That’s when I saw the luau! I had no idea there was even one offered at the hotel. I didn’t want to miss out on all the fun so I booked my ticket!
Meaning of Te Au Moana LuΚ»au
The luau’s name, Te Au Moana, translates to βThe Ocean Tideβ. It couldnβt be a more fitting name as we were surrounded by the ocean at the luau but, it also has a much deeper meaning than that.
There’s a little-known continent that we often don’t hear about, Oceania. The ocean tide (Te Au Moana) has always been the one constant thing connecting Oceanian people together like the Hawaiβians and Polynesians.
During the luau, you will hear beautiful stories and songs that tell the tales of generations of not just Hawaiians but also different Oceanian cultures who share a great respect for the land and sea that gave them life.
Quick info
- Luau: Te Au Moana
- Location: Wailea Beach Resort Marriott in Wailea, Maui
- Time Frame: 4:30 β 8 PM
Te Au Moana Luau Highlights
- Beautiful oceanfront views
- Ancient Hawaiian Rituals & Demonstrations
- Traditional Stories, Songs & Dances
- Three Course Menu served to your table
- Open bar
- Imu celebration (roasted pig)
- Receive a fresh flower or kukui nut lei, or carved wooden necklace
My Luau Experience
As this was my first luau, I didnβt know what to expect! I was just really excited.
My luau adventures at Te Au Moana started with a Hawaiian gentleman greeting me and putting a lei around my neck. Theyβre very nice there and even offered to take a photo of my then partner and I.
When you first enter the luau, you don’t know where to go first. There’s so much to look at.
The Luau’s Atmosphere
The stage is set in a gorgeous garden against a beautiful ocean backdrop with panoramic views.
We got really lucky with a table in one of the front rows.
There were a bunch of friendly faces sat with us and we talked all through the night. We were even invited to go on a hike the next morning but we were too tired after stuffing ourselves at the luau. Evidently, “vacation mode” = indulging to the point of not moving. π
As sunset approached, it cast an incredible glow against everything and everyone. Then, day turned to night and youβre greeted with a dazzling purple sky with magnificent colors and twinkling stars. The sight was so incredible, it was hard to believe that it was real.
What to Do at a Traditional Hawaiian Luau
What I loved about Te Au Moana Luau is that they give you a very interactive experience, including you in their traditions. It made the whole event very special and memorable.
Little did I know that Iβd also get to experience so many of Hawaiiβs ancient rituals. It gave me an even greater appreciation of Hawaiian culture which I already was so fascinated by.
Hawaiian Rituals
Everywhere you looked, a cultural demonstration was going on.
I experienced my first ritual after making my way to the arts and crafts table where I was given a (temporary) Hawaiian tribal tattoo, known as βkΔkauβ. It almost felt like an initiation!
There were different designs, each with a meaning behind it.
There seemed to be fun things to do for people of all ages. I saw a mix of couples, friends and families. This luau is basically for anyone who enjoys live music, dancing, eating like a king and learning about the Hawaiian culture.
There were also other rituals and demonstrations to engage you like tapa making (creating fabric from trees and shrubs) and making flower leis. I liked watching the coconut husking demonstration.
You’ll also see a lot of cultural displays like Polynesian weaponry.
Imu Ceremony
I was ready for a night my dinner and a show! But, there was still so much fun to be had before they broke out the Hawaiian feast!
In the beginning of the luau, I was treated to an βImu ceremonyβ which is when a cooked kΔlua pig (kΔlua puaΚ»a) is dug up from an underground oven (imu).
Itβs a very popular, ancient Hawaiian tradition. I found it fascinating to watch, although some people may be bothered by it and opt to do something else.
When the pΕ« Hawaiian conch shell was blown, I knew it would not be too long before I was time to eat!
(NOT SO) FUN FACT
Ancient Hawaiian delicacies such as bananas, moi, reef fish and pork were only allowed to be eaten by men of a higher standing such as βAliiβ (chiefs) and the King. Thank goodness these delicious goodies can now be enjoyed by all!
Relax at Your Table
After the demonstrations and fun rituals, it was time to take our seats the scrumptious dinner and show we’d all been waiting for!
When I went, you could sit at the table of your choice at no extra cost. They now have βStandardβ and βPremiumβ seating which makes a difference in how close to the stage you want to be. Premium seating guarantees you a seat in the first two rows which is where we were seated. Itβs well worth it so you can see better.
Insider Tip: Tables are assigned in the order that your booking is received. If you want a table closest to the stage, I recommend booking ASAP.
Dinner
It was time for the big Hawaiian feast!
Even the servers were dressed in authentic attire. The luau did not miss a single detail. Then again, Iβm not Hawaiian so I wouldnβt know. Maybe this is the tourist version. π
Luau Food & Drinks
Hawaiians are my kind of people! Not only do they know how to cook, they know how to put on a show. They broke out the feast with a bang!
Thereβs no pork like the one served at a Hawaiian luau! It was the star of the show at the buffet. There were all sorts of fixings to compliment it.
I wasted no time getting to the front of the buffet line.
Since COVID, the luau has replaced the buffet with a family-style 3 course meal with unlimited servings as of this posting. Instead of going up to get your food, your server will bring it to your table. If youβre a picky eater, youβll be happy to know that thereβs no shortage of food to choose from, vegetarian options.
There is also an open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks where you can order traditional drinks like Mai Tais, Blue Hawaiβi, Lava Flow and Pina Coladas.
Menu
Starter
Hawaiian Taro Roll w/ mango butter
Accompaniments
- Veggie Stir-Fry w/ roasted garlic olive oil
- Roasted Garlic Edamame Fried Rice w/ onions & carrots
- Local Honey Glazed Sweet Potato w/ toasted coconut
- Poi
Salad
- Hawaiian Style Poke w/ diced ahi, sweet onion, ogo inamona jus
- Lomi Lomi Salmon w/ Hawaiian sea salt, diced tomato, smoked salmon, green onion
- Upcountry Mixed Greens w/ radish, carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes & orange sesame dressing
- Asian Noodle Salad w/ Kula Farms vegetables & toasted sesame vinaigrette
Hot Selections
- Imu Kalua Pork w/ green onion, volcanic sea salt
- Ginger Teriyaki Grilled Flank Steak w/ julienne bell pepper & sweet onion
- Sauteed Mahi Mahi w/ lemon butter caper sauce & tropical fruit salsa
- Huli Huli Style chicken w/ sesame seeds & scallions
Dessert
- Assorted Tropical Cookies
- Fresh Sliced Pineapples
- White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
Cocktails
- Te Au Moana Mai Tai
- Wailea Sunrise
- Rum Punch
- Blue Hawaiβi
- Maui Mule
- Pina Colada
- Lava Flow
Beer
- Maui Brewing Co. Bikini Blonde
- Maui Brewing Co. Big Swell IPA
The Show
After dinner, a blue sky faded into a beautiful purple, it was ready for the big show! The Hawaiian dancers walked around the dinner tables getting us revved up!
It was amazing to see all the different styles of traditional Hawaiian clothing. The musicians and dancers put on a spectacular performance. There was chanting, hula dancing, fire dancing. All against a gorgeous purple sky. There wasnβt a Hawaiian song or dance that I didnβt enjoy.
What made each of the performances so exciting is that they were all different and yet, they all came together very nicely. Each performer was so talented and brought a high level of energy, keeping us on our toes for the next show. Their enthusiasm was infectious. It made me want to get up and dance with them! Β
They encouraged everyone to dance, which we did! Eventually, theyβd choose members of the audience to come up and dance with them. It brought me back to a few days earlier on the Big Island when I took a hula dancing class.
One of my favorite performances was the fire dancers who were throwing flaming torches back and forth and climbing on one another.
It was definitely a night to remember. Looking back, I canβt imagine the evening being more perfect!
For the rest of the luau, you’re either eating or watching the show!
What to Do After the Luau
If you want to keep the fun going, don’t go anywhere! Marriott Wailea Beach Resort has a beautiful hotel property right on the water. After the festivities, I ordered a drink at one of the hotel’s bars and took a stroll. Then, I lounged and relaxed.
They also have cocoons and lounge chairs for you to chill out in. Since the luau was held at my hotel, I was able to conveniently go back to my room, which is nice after having a few drinks.
Te Au Moana Ticket Prices
Standard Seating:
Adults (13+) $240
Children (6 – 12) $165
Premium Seating:
Adults (13+) $275
Children (6 – 12) $190
Toddlers (5 & under) are free
You can buy tickets to Te Au Moana Luau here.
What to Wear to a Hawaiian Luau
Since Te Au Moana has more casual vibes, you can be more relaxed with what you wear.
Flower Crown & Leis
Because Iβm extra, I also decided to wear a beautiful flower crown, otherwise known as a lei poβo or haku which I ordered a week in advance from Bella Bloom, a shop in Kihei. They even delivered it to my hotel where the Marriott Wailea Luau was taking place.
If you donβt bring a lei, it is perfectly ok. They provide them to everyone at the luau. Youβll either receive a fresh flower lei, kukui nut lei, or carved wooden necklace depending on availability.
Ladies
If you didnβt order a flower crown in time, no worries. Most of the time, you can pick one up at any of the nearby flower shops. If youβre lucky, sometimes even a grocery store or airport carries them (if youβre bold enough to head to a luau on a stopover)! You go girl!
Men
If you want an extra special lei to wear to the luau, the lei ti leaf is a great choice for men. The Ti leaf has long been known to symbolize positive blessings, bring good luck and has even been used to ward off evil spirits.
Luau Outfits for Women
- Top: Blouse or dress with Hawaiian patterns
- Bottom: Skirt
- Shoes: Wedges, sandals or flip flops
You’ll be walking through grass, I would not recommend wearing heels that could get stuck.
- Accessories: Flower behind your ear
Right ear means youβre single and ready to mingle. Left ear means youβre taken.
Her Luau Style
Luau Outfits for Men
- Top: Polo or Hawaiian shirt
- Bottom: Khakis or Bermuda Shorts
- Shoes: Leather sandals or flip flops
- Accessories: puka shell or Maui hook necklaces
Other Luaus in Maui
If you’ve already been to Te Au Moana, another great luau recommended by my mom, (who lived in Hawaii for over a decade), is Old Lahaina Luau, which feels like stepping into a Hawaiian village.
His Luau Style
Where to Stay in Wailea, Maui
If you want a taste of oceanside luxury with modern amenities, pampering, a great location and convenience, I couldn’t recommend Wailea Beach Resort, Marriott Maui more. Read my mini hotel review here.
MAUI TRAVEL RESOURCES
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Earn Travel Perks & Free Trips
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How to Travel with a Chronic Illness
There are ways to travel even with a chronic illness. Check out my chronic illness travel tips and how I travel despite having Lupus.
Thatβs a Wrap!
Of all the fun things I did in Hawaii, the Te Au Moana luau in Wailea Maui was definitely the highlight of my trip! I would go again in a heartbeat.
Have you been to the Marriott Wailea luau or other luau in Hawaii? Would you go? Tell me about it in the comments below!
Thank you so much for being apart of this journey with me! I wouldnβt be here if it werenβt for you.
To join in on the fun and get helpful tips and guides, subscribe to the blog. You can also follow Geeves on Instagram, TikTok and Twitter for travel inspiration, funny stories and well, life!
Until next time⦠keep it real.
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Fact Check:
At Real Girl Review, we value truth and always strive for accuracy. Posts are updated regularly. If you read something that still doesnβt sound right, contact me at gv@realgirlreview.com. I will investigate the facts and make changes as I deem necessary.
Thank you for sharing your experience of the Hawaiian luau in Wailea, Maui. It sounds like you had a fantastic time and thoroughly enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and captivating performances. Your detailed description of the fire dancers, hula dancers, and live music creates a vivid picture of the event.
It’s great to hear that the staff was friendly and accommodating, ensuring that everyone had a memorable experience. The inclusion of cultural elements, such as the lei greeting and interactive activities, adds an authentic touch to the luau.
Your insights into the food selection and quality are helpful for those considering attending a Hawaiian luau. It’s wonderful to know that there was a variety of dishes to choose from, and the flavors exceeded your expectations. Additionally, the open bar and tasty cocktails further enhanced your overall enjoyment.
Your recommendation to arrive early and secure a good seat is valuable advice for future attendees. It’s wise to plan ahead and make the most of the evening by arriving with ample time to get settled.
Overall, your review paints a delightful picture of the Hawaiian luau in Wailea, Maui. It’s evident that you had a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Oh wow, so cool you get free flights Olivia! Definitely take advantage of them for Hawaii. Thank you for reading my blog! π
This looks like so much fun! Working at the airport we get discounted flights. Everyone uses them to hit up Hawaii first, I have yet to make that leap but this is definitely pushing me to do it sooner rather then later! Thanks for sharing!
Yayy!! So happy that you had a luau experience of your own in Hawaii. That’s wonderful. Thank you for reading Linda. π
It is funny to read this blog post just after we returned from Maui and attended a luau – although not at Te Au Moana at Wailea Beach Resort. We too loved the history of Hawaii we learned through the song and dance. We had a buffet and not a served meal. But I had to agree with you about how good the pork was! We had a great time – even without an open bar.
I really enjoyed reading about the history of a luau. I never knew there was so much that goes into it. It was fun to read the menu as well. Everything looks so yummy.
Maui Looks so amazing! Love all the information here! Hawaii is on my backlist for next year and this post is so helpful!
What great tips for my next trip! I am so ready!
Hi Jeanine!
Thank you for reading my blog! I’m so happy that you enjoyed the luau history. I was so excited to learn about it and share it. I hope you get to experience this beautiful place one day.
What a wonderful account, I love that you added all the history behind the luau…Hawaii is one place that intrigues me…and you have added to the intrigue…thank you
Hi Sharyn!
Thank you for reading my luau adventures. I’m happy to hear that you enjoyed your Wakiki luau! You’re right, they’re amazing for discovering the Hawaiian culture.
I enjoyed a luau on my first trip to Hawaii. It was at the Royal Hawaiian on Wakiki Beach. I loved it. Glad you enjoyed yours too. They are wonderful, not just for the food, but for discovering the culture.
Yes!! Hawaii is definitely place where you can let your sandals roam free.
Sounds like a lot of fun. If I ever get to Hawaii, I’ll definitely want to include something like this. I’ll be right at home with my love of sandals!