Germaine's Luau: A Hawaiian Tradition

As the sun sets over Oahu’s Leeward Coast, a slight breeze ripples through palms silhouetted against the ocean. When you hear the sounding of the conch shell, you’ll find yourself in the midst of a native Hawaiian festival – where food, music, dance, and drink cultivate a feeling of ohana (family) you can’t get anywhere else. What is this majestic place? Welcome to Germaine’s Luau, a Hawaiian institution that has been bringing native island culture to visitors for more than 40 years. With your Go Oahu Card attractions pass in your pocket, you’ll be greeted with a traditional shell lei and an enthusiastic “aloha” from your hosts. Germaine’s Luau has been featured on television shows like ABC’s Good Morning America and has been called the best luau in America. Wondering what to expect during this loud, colorful, and community-style celebration?

The Feast

The ‘aha’aina, which literally means “feast,” is the focal point of the celebration. As tradition necessitates, your Hawaiian hosts will ceremoniously uncover the imu (underground oven) before presenting the main course: Kalua Pua’u, or roasted pig. The extensive menu features a buffet of Hawaiian and American fare, so if the roasted pig isn’t up your alley, you’ll still find something delicious to fill your belly for the night’s festivities. Some dinner selections include Teriyaki beef, Island Fish, Poi, Potato Macaroni Salad, and Coconut Pudding. Of course, no feast would be complete without beverages. Fruit bunch, iced tea, and sodas will quench your thirst, while the main bar features specialty alcholoic drinks for the 21+ crowd. There’s just nothing like sipping a Mai Tai under the stars in Hawaii.

The Entertainment

You’re probably familiar with hula – the expressive storytelling dance most often associated with Hawaiian culture in the media. While the hula dancers are beautiful and talented, they aren’t the only entertainment for the night. The show you’ll see will feature dances from Samoa, Tahiti, New Zealand, and (of course) Hawaii, giving you an overview of the Polynesian culture. The thrilling Samoan fire-knife dance, the Samoan Slap Dance (during which men literally slap their chests in a show of bravery), and Tahitian dancers in elaborate headdresses are all crowd pleasers at Germaine’s Luau. If you’re the adventurous type, you may even get the chance to join in on some of these dances!

The Facts

Germaine’s Luau is located in Kapolei on the western coast of Oahu, 27 miles from the Waikiki resort area. When you choose Germaine’s Luau with your Go Oahu Card attractions pass, you’ll also receive free round-trip transportation and a friendly bus driver/tour guide. Germaine’s backyard-style luau can accommodate up to 600 guests! You’ll be eating family-style at outdoor banquet tables. Bring insect repellent, and, if it looks like it may rain, throw a poncho in your bag as well.