Drums & Dances Of Polynesia Luau Kauai – Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort

Best Polynesian Dance Performance

The Royal Sonesta Kaua’i Resort hosts the “Drums & Dances of Polynesia” luau, a vibrant cultural show featuring rhythmic drumming, mesmerizing hula, Polynesian storytelling, and a Samoan fire dance finale, alongside a buffet dinner, open bar, and oceanfront views on Kalapaki Bay, happening weekly (typically Thursdays) for an immersive island experience.

Activity Price

175 USD

Duration

3 Hours

Age

All Ages

Location

Lihue

Amenities

Resort Amenities Access – Enjoy Royal Sonesta's premium facilities before/after show
Professional Production Quality – State-of-the-art sound and lighting systems

Special Instruction

Polynesian Artistry at Its Finest

Master Polynesian Performers & Musicians

Experience performances by some of the Pacific’s most accomplished musicians and dancers who have dedicated their lives to preserving and sharing Polynesian culture. These master artists represent multiple island traditions including Hawaiian, Tahitian, Samoan, and Fijian heritage, bringing authentic techniques passed down through generations. Each performer contributes specialized skills in traditional instruments, vocals, and dance forms that create a comprehensive showcase of Pacific island artistry. Their expertise ensures every movement, rhythm, and song maintains cultural integrity while captivating audiences.

Authentic Traditional Instruments & Music

Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing sounds of traditional Polynesian instruments including authentic drums, bamboo instruments, and wooden percussion pieces crafted using ancient methods. The musical program features traditional chants, ceremonial songs, and rhythmic patterns that have accompanied Pacific island cultures for centuries. Expert musicians demonstrate the cultural significance of each instrument while creating an audio experience that transports audiences across the Pacific. The combination of vocals and instrumentation provides an authentic soundscape rarely heard outside traditional Pacific communities.

Elegant Resort Setting & Ambiance

Enjoy this spectacular cultural performance in the sophisticated ambiance of The Royal Sonesta Kaua’i Resort’s elegant venue spaces. The resort’s premium location and refined atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for experiencing Polynesian culture in comfort and style. Professional lighting, sound systems, and staging enhance the authentic performances while maintaining intimate connections between performers and audiences. The upscale setting allows guests to appreciate both the artistry and cultural significance of these traditional expressions.

Drums & Dances Show Features

About
Pricing

Drums & Dances of Polynesia Luau Experience

We invite you to experience an award-winning show that takes you on a cultural journey through Polynesia. Immerse yourself in authentic Polynesian stories and dances, and discover the rich history and vibrant traditions of the islands.

What’s Included

  • Cultural Entertainment with traditional Polynesian dances and music

  • Dinner Buffet featuring a variety of local dishes

  • Open Seating on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Lei Greeting on arrival

  • Open Bar: Includes Beer, Wine, Mai Tai, and Soft Drinks

Meeting Point

  • Location: The Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort

  • Address: 3610 Rice St, Lihue, HI

  • Check-In Location: Luau Grounds (Between Kalapaki Beach and Hau’upu Tower)

Schedule

  • 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Complimentary professional guest photography by Kauai Beach Photography LPP

  • 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Pre-show Hawaiian music performed by Keli’i Kaneali’i with hula by Elisha Kaneali’i

  • 7:20 PM – 8:30 PM: Main Luau Show

Details

  • Enjoy an open bar that includes beer, wine, Mai Tai, and soft drinks.

  • Experience the heartbeat of Polynesia as drummers accompany each mesmerizing performance, keeping you on the edge of your seat.

  • Marvel at the breathtaking view of Kalapaki Bay with its beautiful ocean and mountains as the backdrop.

Dress Code

  • Resort Casual

Menu

Salads & Appetizers

  • Local Mixed Green Salad with shaved seasonal vegetables, market salad, papaya seed dressing, and mango & calamansi vinaigrette

  • Pipikaula: Traditional dried beef salad with heirloom tomato, watercress, and ginger sesame dressing (VG/V)

  • Ulu Mac Salad: Breadfruit, potato, and macaroni salad

  • Tropical Fruits Platter: Maui Gold pineapple & papaya wedges

  • Poke Bar: Long beans & kim chee poke, Lomi Lomi salmon

  • Poi Bowl: Traditional pounded taro

  • Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: Served with lilikoi butter

Entrées & Sides

  • Local Fried Rice with spam, bacon, garlic, onion, and green onion

  • Moloka’i Sweet Potatoes with local honey glaze and coconut flakes (V/GF)

  • Island Tangle Noodles with local vegetables, bean sprouts, green onion, and mushroom oyster sauce

  • Moana’s Mahi Mahi: Dusted with Aloha spice, lemongrass & kaffir lime butter, bok choy, and blistered tomatoes

  • Whole Roasted Pig: Traditional shredded smoked pork with local green beans and cabbage

  • Grilled Flank Steak: Kalbi sauce, green onion, and smoked pineapple relish

  • Huli Huli Chicken: Hawaiian BBQ marinated chicken thighs with toasted sesame & green onion

Desserts

  • Baked Breadfruit “Ulu” with coconut syrup and toasted macadamia nuts

  • Pineapple Upside Down Cake

  • Haupia Cake with coconut milk

  • Traditional Rice Pudding with dried fruit compote

Join us for a memorable evening filled with delicious food, vibrant entertainment, and a unique cultural experience!

Prices

  • US$175 – Adults (Age 21+)

  • US$135 – Juniors (Age 13-20)

  • US$80 – Children (Age 5-12)

  • Free – Young Children (Under 5 years old)

Show Information & Details

  • The show takes place at The Royal Sonesta Kaua’i Resort in their designated performance venue. The resort is located in Lihue with convenient access and ample parking for guests attending the cultural performance.

  • The complete Drums & Dances of Polynesia show runs approximately 70 minutes including intermission. This allows sufficient time to showcase various Pacific island traditions and multiple performance segments.

  • General Admission tickets are for the cultural performance only and do not include dinner. However, The Royal Sonesta Kaua’i Resort offers excellent dining options available for purchase before or after the show.

  • Yes, beverages including cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase at the venue. The resort’s bar service operates before the show and during intermission.

  • The show is appropriate for all ages and families are welcome. The cultural content is educational and entertaining for guests of any age, making it an excellent choice for multi-generational groups.

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