Te Au Moana Luau at The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort on Maui, Hawaii

The Te Au Moana Luau at the Wailea Beach Marriott Resort on Maui offers a captivating evening of Polynesian storytelling, lively dance performances, and delicious Hawaiian cuisine. Priced at $278 per person, this experience lasts around 3 to 4 hours and is perfect for those interested in culture set against the stunning backdrop of Maui’s coastline. The tour is led by Tihati Productions Ltd., a reputable entertainment company known for authentic performances. While the experience includes a three-course family-style dinner and a fire knife performance, it is notably popular, often booked 37 days in advance. The luau is especially suitable for travelers seeking an engaging mix of culture, entertainment, and scenic views, though some reviewers note that the food may be bland for certain palates and that pricing is on the higher side.

Key Points

• Authentic Polynesian performances including traditional dances and a fire knife show
• Delicious three-course family-style Hawaiian dinner served tableside
• Stunning oceanfront setting at the Wailea Beach Marriott Resort
• Includes a souvenir lei or necklace upon check-in
• Approximately 3 to 4 hours in duration, with lively pre-show entertainment
• Free self-parking; valet parking available for a fee

Introduction to the Te Au Moana Luau Experience

The Te Au Moana Luau at the Wailea Beach Marriott is a cultural event that runs for about 3 to 4 hours on the beautiful shores of Maui. Priced at $278 per person, it delivers a well-rounded evening of storytelling, dance, and music rooted in Polynesian heritage. The experience begins with pre-show music and entertainment, setting the mood for an immersive night by the ocean. The highlight is the “Te Au Moana: The Ocean Tide” performance, which vividly portrays the stories of fishing, gathering, and voyaging that are central to Hawaiian and Polynesian traditions.

What makes this luau stand out is its location at the Wailea Beach Marriott, offering guests spectacular water views and a scenic backdrop for the festivities. From the moment of check-in, visitors receive a souvenir lei or necklace, adding a special touch to the evening. The event is designed to combine cultural education with lively entertainment, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or anyone interested in Hawaiian stories and traditions.

The Cultural Significance of the Ocean Tide

“Te Au Moana,” translating to “the ocean tide,” reflects the vital connection the Polynesian ancestors had with the sea. This theme runs throughout the luau, emphasizing how ancient Hawaiians traversed these ocean tides for fishing, gathering, and voyaging. The performance seeks to bring these stories to life through dance and song, offering a glimpse into the expert skills and deep respect that Polynesian peoples have for nature and the ocean.

The show’s creators, Tihati Productions Ltd., focus on artistic storytelling, with performances accompanied by live music. These acts are not only visually engaging but also serve to educate guests about the history and traditions of the islands, making this luau more than just a dinner show. It acts as a cultural bridge that connects visitors with the ancestral roots of Hawaii, all set to a backdrop of peaceful ocean views.

What the Pre-Show Entertainment Offers

Before the main performance, guests are treated to vibrant pre-show music and entertainment, which help set the tone for the evening. This lively segment features traditional Hawaiian and Polynesian music, along with dances that showcase local traditions. The pre-show serves as an engaging introduction, helping visitors understand the significance of the upcoming performance and encouraging participation.

The enthusiastic atmosphere encourages guests to relax and enjoy the cultural storytelling from the start. This segment is also a good opportunity to appreciate the musical talent and get into the spirit of the luau before the main show begins. The entire experience is designed to create an immersive and memorable night that emphasizes the vibrancy and richness of Polynesian culture.

The “Te Au Moana: The Ocean Tide” Show Highlights

The main performance, “Te Au Moana: The Ocean Tide,” is the centerpiece of the evening. It portrays the stories of Polynesian ancestors, with authentic dance moves and costumes that reflect traditional island attire. The show includes dances depicting fishing, gathering, and voyaging, offering a visually stunning and informative experience.

A fire knife performance caps off the show, providing a spectacular display of skill and coordination that excites audiences. The performers are enthusiastic and talented, making each act engaging and lively. This segment is designed to capture the spirit of Polynesia and leave guests with a lasting impression of the islands’ cultural richness.

The Family-Style Three-Course Hawaiian Dinner

During the performance, guests enjoy a three-course family-style meal, served tableside for convenience and a communal feel. The menu features Hawaiian specialties, offering a broad sampling of local flavors. While reviews mention that some dishes are bland or lightly seasoned, the overall consensus is that the food is decent and satisfying.

The dinner setup uses lazy Susan-style turntables at each table, sharing the dishes among diners. This communal setup encourages interaction and adds to the relaxed, festive atmosphere of the luau. Special dietary accommodations, including allergy considerations, are possible, making it suitable for varied needs.

Souvenir Gifts and Check-in Process

A notable feature of the luau is the souvenir presentation upon check-in, which includes a flower lei, kukui nut lei, or carved wooden necklace. This small gift provides a tangible memory of the evening and adds to the festive Hawaiian experience.

Guests are asked to provide hotel details and a cell phone number for check-in convenience, as the process includes text message updates with table assignments and check-in times. Valet parking is available for $55, while self-parking is free with validation after 8:30 pm, making logistics straightforward for visitors driving to the venue.

The Scenic Setting and Location Advantages

Set at the Wailea Beach Marriott Resort, the luau boasts an oceanfront location that enhances the overall experience. Guests can enjoy the sunset in the background, adding a romantic and picturesque touch to the evening. The beachside setup provides ample space for performances and creates an authentic island ambiance.

The venue’s beautiful water views and nearby public transportation options make it an accessible choice for many travelers. The outdoor setting also allows for breathtaking sunsets and the gentle sounds of the ocean, which complement the cultural storytelling and entertainment.

Practical Tips for Attending the Luau

Guests should dress smart casual for the event, with comfortable shoes for walking, especially if they have mobility concerns—a tip from reviews suggests requesting a golf cart if necessary. The event is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and an age restriction of 21 and over for alcohol consumption.

Since the tour is capped at 15 travelers, it benefits from an intimate atmosphere, though it can feel crowded during peak times. The best time to book is roughly 37 days in advance, given its popularity, and the experience is weather-dependent—in case of rain, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Comparing the Experience to Other Maui Attractions

The Te Au Moana Luau is distinguished by its authentic performances and scenic oceanfront setting. While some reviews mention the cost being high, many find the quality of entertainment and cultural storytelling to justify the price. It offers more than just a dinner; it provides an educational glimpse into Polynesian traditions, making it a thoughtful addition to any Maui itinerary.

In comparison to other local tours, this luau emphasizes traditional dance and storytelling over adventure activities like snorkeling or ATV rides. It is best suited for those interested in cultural experiences and families seeking lively entertainment in a relaxed environment.

The Sum Up: Worth Considering for a Cultural Night Out

The Te Au Moana Luau at the Wailea Beach Marriott offers an engaging and scenic way to experience Hawaiian and Polynesian culture. Its spectacular ocean views, authentic performances, and family-style dinner make it a memorable evening, especially for visitors wanting a blend of entertainment and education.

While some reviews point out that the food can be bland and the price is steep, many guests find the setting and performances to be worth the expense. This luau is particularly well-suited for families, couples, or groups seeking a culturally rich night in a beautiful location. In short, it delivers an enjoyable, scenic, and lively experience that captures the spirit of aloha.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking available at the venue?
Yes, self-parking is free with validation after 8:30 pm, and valet parking is available for $55.

How long does the luau last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, including pre-show entertainment, the main performance, and dinner.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the luau can accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions, but guests should specify these when booking.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers admission to the luau, a three-course family-style dinner, pre-show entertainment, and a souvenir lei or necklace.

Is the event suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, age restrictions apply for alcohol consumption (21+), but children enjoy the performances, crafts, and family-friendly atmosphere.

What should I wear to the luau?
Smart casual attire is recommended, and comfortable shoes are advised, especially if mobility is a concern.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The luau requires good weather, and in case of rain, full refunds or rescheduling are available.

Can I buy photos of the performance?
Yes, souvenir photos are available for purchase online from Blinnk Photography.