FAQ
How long is the Kaula experience?
The Kaula experience is approximately 3 hours.
Guest check-in begins at 5:15PM, and the show concludes at 8:15PM.
What makes Kaula different than other luaus?
We are proud to present a show unlike any other.
- Kaula is story-driven, a joyful cultural and spiritual journey throughout Tahiti, Samoa, and Hawai’i, focusing on family and the ties that bind us all together.
- In addition to music and hula, the show features Tahitian and Samoan dance, acrobatics above the stage, and fun audience interaction unlike any other show.
- The focus on kaula (the ties) continues off the stage, too. We feature locally sourced food from Moani Grill and beverages from Island Distillers, as well as many local touches throughout our venue. Even the tables were built in Honolulu by local craftsmen.
- We make you feel like part of the family from the moment you arrive–from meeting you in the parking lot with a special surprise, to fun and games throughout the experience. You’re part of the family, and you’re part of the show.
- You can eat when you want. We don’t dismiss your table to take a spot in line at a buffet. When you’re hungry, head over to the Food Truck Courtyard and get what you wish. It’s all you can eat, when you want it.
- Without giving away too many spoilers, expect some surprises. From entertainers wandering the crowd, to rhythmic challenges (can you keep up?), and of course we have the traditional lei making and hula, too.
- Ocean’s Edge at Ko Olina was built in 2026, and features the latest in projection, sound, and lighting in a venue like no other. And did we mention the sunset on the beach?
Do you offer Fire-Knife Dancing?
We do offer fire-knife dancing, and have a husband and wife fire-knife dance team in our cast. You can learn more about their story at the show.
Even though fire-knife dance is not part of Hawaiian culture, we have chosen to honor the Samoan roots that the characters in our story share by featuring this truly spectacular performance.
When should we arrive?
If you take our bus shuttle, the nearest pickup location and time will be in your confirmation. If you’re driving yourself, plan to arrive about 15 minutes before the time on your ticket to enjoy the surprises we have waiting before you even check in.
What is the experience agenda?
While the evening flows organically, the current experience timeline is as follows (subject to minor adjustments):
5:15 PM – Guest Check-In Begins
5:15–6:15 PM – Cultural Activities (Amphitheater)
5:30 PM – VIP Food Stations Open
5:45–6:15 PM – Cultural Activities Continue (Lūʻau Lawn Opens)
5:45 PM – Standard Food Stations Open
6:30 PM – Pre-Show Hula Performances on Stage
7:15 PM – Pre-Show Hula Concludes
7:15 PM – Food Stations Close & Guests Are Seated
7:30 PM – Main Show Begins
8:15 PM – Show Concludes
We recommend arriving early to fully enjoy the cultural activities, dining, and atmosphere.
Is there parking available?
Yes. Free on-site parking is available for Kaula guests.
What transportation options are available?
Optional round-trip transportation between Waikīkī and Ko Olina is available. Transportation can be added during your online booking.
Can I book one-way transportation?
If you don’t need the bus both directions, please let us know in advance. There are no discounts for one-way trips.
What if I miss the bus?
Unfortunately, no refunds are available for missed pickups. If you will not make your pickup time, please call us immediately at 808.897.2906 to see if you can change to another collection point.
Are you in the former Paradise Cove location?
We are in a brand new venue called Ocean’s Edge at Ko Olina. Need directions?
Is there luggage storage available?
We do not have secure luggage storage available. If you’re on a red eye after our show, there is luggage storage available at the Honolulu Airport, which is between Waikiki and Ko Olina. Confirm availability and hours directly with the storage location.
What food is available?
Kaula features a thoughtfully curated, island-inspired dining experience by Hawai‘i local favorite Moani.
We offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and strive to accommodate a variety of dietary needs.
Please refer to our current menu (link: menu page) on the website for full details.
What time do we eat?
You Can Eat When You Want at Kaula. It’s unique to our show, and allows guests to eat when they’re hungry, not when they’re told. The food trucks are open from 5:30PM for VIP Guests (5:45PM for Standard Ticket Guests) and don’t close until 15 minutes before the show starts. Eat as much as you want, when you feel like it.
Is Kaula a family-friendly event?
Yes! Kaula is a family-friendly lūʻau, welcoming guests of all ages.
With interactive cultural activities, storytelling, and performances, Kaula offers an experience that keiki (children) to kupuna (elders) can enjoy together.
Are high chairs and booster seats available?
Yes, we can accommodate keiki with special seating. Please reach out to our customer service team at info@luaukaula.com to reserve a high chair or booster seat at least 24 hours before your luau. All special seating is first-come, first-served, and can’t be guaranteed. Additionally, keiki 0-2 years old are given seats on a space-available basis, and may be required to sit on your lap on sold out days. If you want to guarantee a reserved seat for your child 2 or under, book a child’s ticket.
Do you offer a Kamaaina Discount?
We offer discounts to Hawai’i locals. Use Promo Code HILOCAL, and have your ID ready at check-in. The discount applies to up to 3 additional guests on your reservation. If you’re with a group of more than 4, give us a call at 808.897.2906.
Do you offer Military Discounts?
We offer discounts to active service members. Use Promo Code MAHALO20, and have your ID ready at check-in. The discount applies to up to 3 additional guests on your reservation. If you’re with a group of more than 4, give us a call at 808.897.2906.
Do you offer Senior Discounts?
We offer senior discounts for guests 65 and over. The senior discount applies to all guests on your reservation.
Do you offer Group Discounts?
For groups of 12 or more, we offer discounts. Drop us a line at info@experiencekilohana.com with the date of the show and number of guests, and we’ll get back to you ASAP.
Can I buy tickets onsite?
If space is available, you’re welcome to buy standard or cocktail-only tickets at the door, with a few restrictions:
- On-site sales stop at 5:45PM
- Cash is not accepted for admission
- VIP Tickets are not sold at the door
We encourage you to call 808.897.2906 to confirm that space will be available upon your arrival.
What if I arrive late?
Check-in closes at 5:45. If you’ll arrive after 5:45, please call us at 808.897.2906 to let us know, and we may be able to arrange someone to meet you at the gate. No admission is permitted after 6:30pm.
Is the venue ADA accessible?
Yes. The Kaula venue is ADA accessible, including seating, pathways, and restrooms.
Who would love this event?
Kaula is for those who believe in connection — a story woven through generations. Everyone is welcome. Wherever you are from in the world or if Hawai‘i is your home, Kaula shares aloha in a fun, educational, and engaging way that resonates with anyone.
What is the proper attire?
We recommend festive aloha attire — comfortable, expressive, and weather-appropriate.
Think island elegance: breathable fabrics, aloha prints, dresses, slacks, and sandals.
We are right on the beach — you might want to bring a light cover-up in case of an ocean breeze. The show takes place during sunset into the evening.
Is everything included in my admission?
VIP and Standard Tickets include All You Can Eat food from local partners at our food truck courtyard.
Cocktail Only Tickets include a welcome drink and the show.
Additional retail items and upgraded experiences may be available for purchase online or on-site.
What extra perks are included with VIP tickets?
VIP guests enjoy an enhanced experience, including:
-A curated VIP gift bag
-One complimentary sunset photo from our professional photographer
-Preferred seating
-Cocktail service at your table during the pre-show
-Early access to dining (eat-first privileges)
Can I take photos during the event?
Yes, photography is welcome. Be sure to tag us on social media! @KaulaLuau
We kindly ask guests to avoid flash photography during fire knife performances.
For safety and show integrity, drones are not permitted.
Should I book in advance?
We recommend booking early as seats are limited and may sell out, especially during busy periods.
If you want to see our show but haven’t booked in advance, call our reservations team at 808.897.2906 to check for last-minute availability. Seats may be available through the phone line that can’t be booked online.
Do you assign seating?
You’ll be assigned to a table based on your ticket type. For the best views, choose a VIP ticket. Tables have 8 guests each, but larger parties are easily accommodated. If you want to be seated with guests from another reservation, please let us know by 10AM on the day of your show.
Do I need to print my ticket?
While the story of our show goes back hundreds of years, our technology is up to date. Your name is usually enough to check you in. If not, show your confirmation on your phone, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Do I need ID?
You may be asked to show ID at check-in to match your name with your reservation. You may also be asked to show ID to be served alcohol.
Can I buy tickets for someone else?
Of course. You can call reservations at 808.897.2906 and let them know you’re booking for someone else. Gift cards are also available through the reservations team.
Do you offer group discounts and private events?
Contact group sales at info@luaukaula.com for group sales inquiries. Discounts start with 10 or more tickets. You can also arrange a private show or rent the venue out for private parties and corporate events.
What are your cancellation and change policies?
We know plans change, so we offer the most generous cancellation policy on O’ahu. If you purchased your tickets directly from us, you can change or cancel your tickets on our website until noon the day of the performance. If you’re unable to change online, or prefer to talk to one of our friendly reservationists, call us at 808.897.2906.
If you purchased from one of our partners, their cancellation policies will apply, and it may be more strict than ours. Contact them directly for details.
We process all refunds within 24 hours of your request. Depending on where you booked your tickets, it may take up to two weeks for the credit to appear in your account.
No-shows can not be changed or refunded.
What is your policy in bad weather?
The show operates rain or shine as long as it is safe for our guests and performers. We are located at one of the driest locations on the island, so even if it rains in Waikiki, it may still be dry at Ocean’s Edge at Ko Olina.
Should we cancel prior to the show, we will contact you via the email and text numbers you provided when making your reservation and offer to rebook you to another night, or refund your purchase.
We also work with several partner luaus that have indoor options. Seating is very limited with those partners, and may not be available depending on their inventory. This option is not available for some bookings through third parties.
Is alcohol available?
Yes. Each ticket includes one welcome beverage (choice of alcoholic or non-alcoholic). Additional bar beverages will be available for purchase throughout the evening. Check out our Menu by Moani! (link to menu)
Is there a smoking area?
There is no smoking or vaping allowed on the buses or anywhere on the luau grounds.
Do you offer anything special for birthdays, anniversaries, or celebrations?
Yes. We love celebrating meaningful moments at Kaula. Let us know at least 24 hours in advance so we can plan your special day.
Who is Hawaiian Council?
Hawaiian Council is a non-profit organization with a mission to enhance the cultural, economic, political, and community development of Native Hawaiians.
Hawaiian Council ties into tourism through helping to tell Hawai‘i’s stories at the table, enhancing our destination that economically supports the community and guides the messaging while showing the destination and creating experiences to embrace the pride for the west side, workforce development, and cultural perpetuation.
What makes the Ko Olina setting unique?
Ko Olina is a destination resort working in partnership with Hawaiian Council dedicated to enhancing visitor engagement with Native Hawaiian culture, arts, and traditions while fostering a deeper connection to the heritage of Hawai’i.
Set within the Ko Olina Resort area, Kaula is framed by sweeping Pacific sunset views — where the setting becomes part of a story woven through generations.
Read the full history and learn more about this special place on their website at
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