Wailea, Maui2.45 hours
The Lū'au at Grand Wailea - Standard Seating
Lūʻau Experience in Maui, Hawaii
From
$300
Luau Company
The Lu'au at Grand Wailea: Tickets, Menu, Seating and Review (2026)
Wailea, South Maui, Hawaii · Grand Wailea Resort · Standard from $300 · Ali'i VIP from $360
The Lu'au at Grand Wailea is the premier luau in Wailea and one of the most celebrated luau experiences on all of Maui. Set on the grounds of the Grand Wailea Resort — Maui's most iconic luxury property on Wailea Beach — the show offers two seating tiers: Standard Seating (from $300) and the Ali'i Premium VIP Seating (from $360). Both include a 2-hour 45-minute evening of Hawaiian cultural performance, imu ceremony, open bar, and a full island-inspired buffet.
What Is the Lu'au at Grand Wailea?
The Lu'au at Grand Wailea is widely regarded as the best luau in Wailea — and a strong contender for the finest luxury luau experience on Maui. Held on the grounds of the Grand Wailea Resort, Autograph Collection, the show takes place on the resort's ocean-adjacent gardens overlooking Wailea Beach on the South Maui coast. For visitors staying anywhere in the Wailea resort corridor — the Grand Wailea, Four Seasons Maui, Andaz Maui, or Wailea Beach Resort Marriott — this is the luau in Wailea that is closest, most convenient, and most consistently praised.
What sets the Grand Wailea luau apart from other Wailea resort luau options is the setting. The Grand Wailea is one of the most visually dramatic properties in Hawaii — a 40-acre resort with sprawling gardens, waterfalls, and a legendary pool complex — and the luau grounds reflect that ambiance. The experience feels genuinely upscale from the moment of the lei greeting to the final fire knife performance, in a way that more casual outdoor shows do not replicate.
The show is available in two seating tiers. Standard Seating (from $300) provides full access to all elements of the luau at the general floor level. The Ali'i Premium VIP Seating (from $360) adds reserved front-row tables, priority buffet access, dedicated table service, premium spirit options, a welcome cocktail, and an exclusive Ali'i souvenir. Both tiers cover the same 2-hour 45-minute program: the imu ceremony, the full buffet dinner with open bar, and the complete Polynesian performance show.
4.4 / 5
Food Quality
4.6 / 5
Entertainment
4.7 / 5
Venue & Setting
4.1 / 5
Value for Money
4.5 / 5
Overall Experience
Ratings are editorial estimates based on aggregated guest reviews from TripAdvisor and Google. Scores should be updated with verified aggregated data prior to publishing.
Choose your Grand Wailea luau seating option:
Wailea, MauiView Details →
Wailea, Maui2.45 hours
The Lū'au at Grand Wailea - Aliʻi Premium VIP Seating
VIP Seating Experience Maui Hawaii
From
$360
Which seating tier should you choose?
Choose Standard Seating if you are traveling with a group or family where the primary goal is the full luau experience at a strong value relative to comparable shows. Choose Ali'i Premium VIP if you are celebrating a special occasion — a honeymoon, anniversary, or milestone birthday — where the dedicated service, front-row view, and elevated treatment are worth the $60-per-person upgrade.
Grand Wailea Luau Seating: Standard vs. Ali'i Premium VIP — Full Comparison
The Grand Wailea luau offers two distinct seating tiers. Here is a complete side-by-side breakdown of what each includes so you can decide which is right for your trip.
| Feature | Standard Seating | Ali'i Premium VIP Seating |
|---|---|---|
| Price (from) | $300 per adult | $360 per adult |
| Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Seat Position | Open general floor seating | Reserved front-and-center Ali'i tables |
| Check-in | Standard arrival | Priority early check-in |
| Lei Greeting | Yes | Yes — premium lei upgrade |
| Welcome Drink | Included in open bar | Dedicated welcome cocktail on arrival |
| Open Bar | Yes, full duration | Yes, premium spirits tier included |
| Buffet Access | Standard access | Priority seating and first access |
| Kalua Pig (imu) | Yes | Yes |
| Imu Ceremony View | General viewing area | Front-row imu viewing position |
| Table Service | Self-serve / shared | Dedicated Ali'i table service |
| Show View | General floor view | Preferred unobstructed front-row view |
| Souvenir | Not included | Exclusive Ali'i souvenir included |
| Photo Opportunity | Shared photo station | Private photo moment with performers |
| Best For | Groups, families, first-timers | Couples, anniversaries, special occasions |
| Booking Lead Time | 4 to 8 weeks (peak: 10+) | 6 to 10 weeks (peak: 12+) |
Prices are starting rates and vary by date. Children ages 3 to 12 receive a discounted rate (approximately 40 to 50 percent of adult pricing). Children under 3 typically attend free. Verify current pricing and children's rates at checkout.
Best Luau in Wailea: How the Grand Wailea Luau Compares
Wailea has more high-quality luau options per square mile than anywhere else in Hawaii. Here is how the Lu'au at Grand Wailea stacks up against the other leading Wailea and South Maui luau experiences.
| Feature | The Lu'au at Grand Wailea | Te Au Moana (Wailea Marriott) | Feast at Lele (Lahaina) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Wailea, South Maui | Wailea, South Maui | Lahaina, West Maui |
| Venue | Grand Wailea Resort grounds | Wailea Beach Marriott beach | Oceanfront terrace, Lahaina |
| Price (from) | $300 Standard / $360 VIP | $180 to $220 (approx.) | $250 (approx.) |
| Duration | 2 hrs 45 min | 3 hrs (approx.) | 2.5 hrs (plated) |
| Format | Buffet + open bar + show | Buffet + open bar + show | Plated multi-course + show |
| Seating Tiers | 2 (Standard + Ali'i VIP) | 1 to 2 tiers | 1 tier (all premium) |
| Resort Setting | Grand luxury resort | Beachfront Marriott | Boutique terrace |
| Cultural Depth | High — Hawaiian storytelling | High — Polynesian traditions | High — 4 Pacific cultures |
| Best For | Luxury travelers, Wailea guests | Wailea families, mid-budget | Special occasions, foodies |
| Booking Lead | 6 to 10 weeks (peak: 12+) | 4 to 6 weeks | 6 to 10 weeks (peak: 12+) |
Note: "Maui luau Wailea Marriott" refers to Te Au Moana at the Wailea Beach Resort Marriott — a separate property from the Grand Wailea. Both are located in Wailea but are distinct shows at different venues. Competitor prices are estimates based on publicly available data and may vary by season.
What to Expect at the Lu'au at Grand Wailea
What Is the Grand Wailea Luau Like?
The Lu'au at Grand Wailea is an evening that begins with a cocktail reception in the resort gardens and ends with a fire knife performance against the darkening Wailea sky. Between those two bookends, guests move through the imu ceremony, a generously stocked buffet dinner, an open bar that runs the full 2 hours and 45 minutes, and a cultural show that covers Hawaiian hula, Tahitian dance, and Samoan and Tongan performance traditions.
The setting is the defining element. Grand Wailea's grounds — lush tropical gardens, cascading water features, and manicured lawn areas with ocean views to the west — create an ambient quality that resort ballroom shows or garden terrace venues cannot match.
Evening Timeline: How the 2 Hours 45 Minutes Are Structured
- Arrival and welcome reception (45 min): fresh lei and welcome cocktail at the entrance. Resort gardens host pre-show cultural activities — lauhala weaving, Hawaiian games, and a photo station.
- Imu ceremony (20 to 30 min): ceremonial opening of the underground oven. A cultural host narrates the imu tradition as the pig is unearthed. Front-row positioning is a key benefit of the Ali'i Premium VIP tier.
- Buffet dinner service: opens after the imu ceremony and runs concurrently with the first portion of the entertainment. Ali'i VIP guests access the buffet first.
- Main performance (~90 min): ancient hula kahiko, modern hula auana, Tahitian ori, and the Samoan fire knife finale — building steadily to the fire knife climax.
What Is an Imu? The Hawaiian Underground Oven Explained
An imu is a traditional Hawaiian underground oven: a pit lined with kiawe hardwood and superheated volcanic lava rocks, layered with banana leaves and ti leaves that trap heat and create a natural steam chamber. A whole pig — typically between 120 and 200 pounds — is placed inside, sealed with additional leaves and burlap, and slow-roasted for 10 to 12 hours.
The result is kalua pig: shredded pork that is distinctively smoky, tender, and infused with the flavor of the volcanic rocks and banana leaves. The word "kalua" literally refers to the underground cooking method.
The Performance: What Dances Are Included?
- Ancient hula kahiko — ceremonial hula performed to traditional percussion and chant
- Modern hula auana — the flowing, melody-accompanied style with stringed instruments and vocals
- Tahitian ori — the high-energy, hip-centered dance tradition of French Polynesia
- Samoan and Tongan traditions — ensemble performances drawing on warrior dances and celebration traditions
- Samoan fire knife finale — the closing performance with flaming batons against the dark Wailea sky
Grand Wailea Luau Menu: Full Food and Drink Guide (2026)
What food is served at the Grand Wailea luau?
The Grand Wailea luau menu is one of the most extensive in Wailea, reflecting the resort's positioning as a luxury destination. The centerpiece is the kalua pig from the imu, surrounded by a full spread of traditional Hawaiian dishes, island-fusion preparations, and Pacific-inspired selections. The open bar — included with both Standard and Ali'i VIP tickets — runs the full duration of the show and features the Grand Wailea's signature mai tai alongside a broad cocktail, beer, and wine selection. The Ali'i Premium VIP tier receives access to a premium spirits bar and dedicated table service.
| Menu Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Poi — traditional pounded taro root | Traditional Hawaiian |
| Lomi lomi salmon | Traditional Hawaiian |
| Sashimi display with island fish | Fusion / Hawaiian |
| Fresh tropical fruit and melon display | Hawaiian |
| Chilled prawn cocktail | Western addition |
| Artisan salad bar with house dressings | Mixed |
| Kalua pig from the imu (underground oven) | Traditional Hawaiian centerpiece |
| Huli huli chicken — rotisserie-style with island glaze | Hawaiian classic |
| Grilled mahi-mahi with pineapple salsa | Hawaiian seafood |
| Braised short rib with taro and sweet potato | Island fusion |
| Ahi poke station with wonton chips | Hawaiian signature |
| Steamed white rice and brown rice | Local-style |
| Vegetable stir-fry with tofu option | Vegetarian-friendly |
| Taro rolls and Hawaiian sweet bread | Local-style |
| Haupia — coconut milk pudding | Traditional Hawaiian |
| Guava chiffon cake | Local-style |
| Chocolate macadamia nut brownie | Hawaii-influenced |
| Fresh pineapple and tropical fruit station | Hawaiian |
| Signature Grand Wailea mai tai | House cocktail — open bar |
| Blue Hawaii and tropical punch cocktails | Open bar — included |
| Premium spirits (Ali'i VIP tier) | VIP upgrade |
| Local craft beer and wine selection | Open bar — included |
| Non-alcoholic: juice, soda, water, coffee, tea | All guests |
Menu items are based on historical Grand Wailea luau menus and are subject to seasonal variation. The Grand Wailea kitchen accommodates pre-arranged dietary requests — contact the resort directly at least 72 hours before your show date.
Dietary Accommodations at the Grand Wailea Luau
- Vegetarian: multiple options at every show including salads, vegetable stir-fry, tofu, taro rolls, rice, fresh fruit, and haupia.
- Gluten-free: naturally gluten-free items include kalua pig, poi, lomi lomi salmon, ahi poke, fresh fruit, and haupia. Cross-contamination is a risk in a shared buffet — celiacs should contact the Grand Wailea dining team directly.
- Vegan: options exist (stir-fry, rice, salads, fruit, poi) but the menu is not comprehensively vegan. Pre-arrangement is recommended.
- Nut allergies: macadamia and other tree nuts appear in some desserts. Alert the venue team on arrival.
- Children: child-friendly options alongside Hawaiian dishes. Children's pricing for ages 3 to 12; non-alcoholic beverages available for all ages.
Grand Wailea Luau Tickets: Pricing, Booking, and What Is Included
How do I buy Grand Wailea luau tickets?
Grand Wailea luau tickets are available in two tiers: Standard Seating (from $300 per adult) and Ali'i Premium VIP Seating (from $360 per adult). Select your preferred tier, choose your date, and complete checkout on the activity booking pages linked below. Tickets are issued digitally and presented on arrival at the Grand Wailea luau entrance. Advance booking is required — same-day availability is rarely possible, particularly during peak season.
What Is Included in Grand Wailea Luau Tickets?
Both ticket tiers include the same core experience:
- Full 2-hour 45-minute show (imu ceremony, buffet dinner, performance program, fire knife finale)
- Traditional Hawaiian and Polynesian buffet dinner
- Open bar for the full duration of the show
- Fresh lei greeting on arrival
- Access to all pre-show cultural activity stations
The Ali'i Premium VIP tier additionally includes:
- Reserved front-and-center table with unobstructed show view
- Priority imu ceremony viewing position
- Dedicated table service (drinks and food brought to your table)
- Welcome cocktail on arrival
- Premium spirits bar access
- Exclusive Ali'i souvenir
- Private photo moment with performers
Grand Wailea Luau Ticket Pricing
- Standard Seating adult (13+): From $300 per person
- Ali'i VIP adult (13+): From $360 per person
- Child (3 to 12): Approximately 40 to 50 percent of adult rate — confirm at checkout
- Child (under 3): Generally free — confirm with venue
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
- Low season (September to October): 2 to 4 weeks out
- Shoulder season (April, May, November): 4 to 6 weeks out
- High season (February, March, June): 6 to 8 weeks out
- Peak season (July, August, December, Thanksgiving): 10 to 14 weeks out
The Ali'i Premium VIP tier sells out faster than Standard Seating due to the limited number of front-row tables. For a special occasion, prioritize the VIP tier booking window.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Most Grand Wailea luau bookings allow cancellation 48 to 72 hours before the show for a full refund. Third-party booking platforms may operate different cancellation windows. Read the refund terms carefully before completing checkout.
Grand Wailea Luau Reviews: Is It Worth the Price?
Yes — for travelers who are already staying at Grand Wailea or in the Wailea resort area, and who want a genuinely upscale luau experience. At $300 for Standard Seating, the Grand Wailea luau is at the premium end of the Maui luau price range, but it delivers on that price point: the resort grounds provide an ambient luxury that cannot be faked, the food quality is consistently above the buffet-luau average, and the Ali'i VIP tier provides a level of service that justifies the premium for special occasions.
Travelers on a budget who want a solid luau experience in Wailea would find strong value at Te Au Moana at the Wailea Beach Marriott ($180 to $220) before considering the Grand Wailea's higher price. But for guests for whom the luau is the centerpiece of the Maui experience, the Grand Wailea luau is the best luau in Wailea and one of the finest on the island.
What Guests Praise Most
- The resort setting: the gardens, water features, and oceanfront positioning are described as the single biggest differentiator from other Maui luaus.
- Fire knife performance quality: consistently cited as the strongest fire knife performance in the Wailea area.
- Ali'i VIP service level: the dedicated table service and front-row placement are described as transformative — many reviews specifically note the $60-per-person upgrade is worth it for honeymooners.
- Food quality relative to price: the ahi poke station and the Grand Wailea signature mai tai draw particular praise.
- Cultural depth of the show: praised for balancing entertainment appeal with genuine cultural education.
Common Constructive Feedback
- Price point: at $300 Standard / $360 VIP, this is one of the most expensive luaus in Hawaii.
- Duration vs price: some guests feel 2 hours 45 minutes is short relative to the price tag — the counterargument is that the Grand Wailea delivers a higher-quality 165 minutes than many shows deliver in 300.
- Parking: Grand Wailea Resort parking is managed by the resort and can be expensive for non-staying guests.
Our Editorial Verdict
The Lu'au at Grand Wailea is the best luau in Wailea and a top-three luau on Maui. The resort setting is unmatched in South Maui, the Ali'i Premium VIP tier delivers genuine luxury-tier service, and the Grand Wailea delivers a higher-quality 165 minutes than many shows deliver in 300.
Practical Information: Location, Dress Code, and What to Bring
Where Is the Grand Wailea Luau Located?
The Lu'au at Grand Wailea takes place on the grounds of the Grand Wailea Resort, Autograph Collection, at 3850 Wailea Alanui Drive, Wailea, Maui, HI 96753. The resort sits on Wailea Beach — the premier beach of South Maui — approximately 17 miles south of Kahului Airport (OGG) and 7 miles south of Kihei.
Guests staying in Wailea are typically within a 5-minute drive or short walk of the resort. The nearby Andaz Maui, Four Seasons Maui, and Wailea Beach Resort Marriott are all within a 10-minute drive. See more luaus in Wailea.
What Is the Dress Code for the Grand Wailea Luau?
Smart-casual resort wear is appropriate. Aloha shirts, sundresses, linen pants, and resort casual clothing all fit the setting. Open sandals or casual shoes work well. Bring a light wrap or cardigan for the later evening portions — Wailea evenings in the open air can cool after sunset, particularly in winter months.
What Should I Bring?
- Digital ticket or booking confirmation for check-in
- A light layer for post-sunset evening air
- Camera or smartphone with a strong low-light mode for the fire knife finale
- Cash or card for gratuities — tipping the table service team $10 to $15 per couple is customary at the VIP tier
- Valid ID if alcohol service is requested
Is There Parking at the Grand Wailea for Luau Guests?
Yes. The Grand Wailea Resort offers valet parking and self-parking for luau guests. Parking costs vary by season and may not be complimentary for guests not staying at the resort. Rideshare (Uber, Lyft) drop-off and pickup is available at the main entrance.
More to Explore: Tickets, Planning Guides, and All Maui Luaus
Book the Lu'au at Grand Wailea
Essential Maui Luau Planning Guides
Browse All Maui Luau Experiences
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Book the Lu'au at Grand Wailea?
Secure your date for the best luau in Wailea — Maui's premier oceanfront luxury luau on the grounds of the Grand Wailea Resort.