Mauka Warriors Luau brings Hawaii’s history to life through the story of King Kamehameha, the hero who united the islands and became a symbol of national pride.
Traveling to Hawaii is not just an opportunity to relax, but also a chance for your children to learn, explore, and connect with nature while encountering other cultures. And if you're looking for an experience that is both exciting for adults and friendly for young children, then Mauka Warriors Luau is the ideal destination on your journey through the island of Oʻahu.
1. Making Handmade Lei
Right at the entrance, every child is welcomed with a fresh, handcrafted lei – a symbol of affection and the aloha spirit. Within the venue, children can also join a lei-making craft corner, where they learn how to string plumeria flowers and ti leaves while discovering the meaning of each plant in native culture.
This is a gentle, artistic activity that helps children develop observation skills, patience, and creativity.
Kids are enjoying making lei
2. Watching the Lighting of the Imu
For children, watching the imu-opening ceremony is an unforgettable experience:
It’s when native warriors use hot stones, banana leaves, and earth to cook food underground for many hours. Children will witness firsthand how this “ancient fire kitchen” operates, and understand how our ancestors cooked by harmonizing with nature long before electric stoves existed. This activity is not only visually powerful but also opens up lessons about patience and respect for food.
The giant imu oven will delight the kids
3. Trying the Pahu Drum and Basic Hula Steps
With guidance from friendly dancers, children can:
- Learn simple Hula movements suitable for their age.
- Try playing the Pahu drum – a sacred Hawaiian instrument – and feel the natural rhythm from the earth.
They don’t need to master it; just experiencing it is enough for children to connect with the culture in a fun and lively way.
Children learning to dance Hula
4. Listening to Hawaiian Legends Around the Campfire
As twilight falls and the drums soften, the warriors will invite everyone to gather around the fire to tell ancient stories about Maui, Pele, and the spirits of the volcanoes.
Children will hear tales of legendary figures, moral lessons, and the magic of nature — all within a mystical and warm atmosphere, just like story nights back home.
Why Mauka Is More Suitable for Kids Than Other Luaus
- Not noisy, not commercialized with blinding stage lights.
- Everything is close-knit, gently educational, yet still colorful and engaging.
- The staff and dancers are friendly, patient with young children, and always encourage participation without pressure.
Tips for Parents Bringing Kids to Mauka Warriors Luau
- Give your child a light snack beforehand, as the imu ceremony happens before the main meal.
- Bring a light jacket, as the evening can be a bit chilly.
- Bring a camera — moments when your child smiles brightly while holding a drum, dancing Hula, or listening to stories around the fire will become unforgettable memories.
Mauka Warriors Luau is sure to be a memorable experience for the kids
Mauka Warriors Luau Seating Chart
The Mauka Warriors Luau seating area is thoughtfully divided into three main sections, each corresponding to a different ticket package. Your exact seats will depend on booking time and group size, but every section is arranged to ensure a great view of the stage — no matter where you sit.
Mōʻī Experience – Royal Package
This is the premium experience, placing you right in the front row, just steps from the stage — where you can feel every drumbeat, every movement, and every fiery moment of the warriors' performance.
Includes:
- Fresh flower lei greeting
- Welcome drink
- 3 drink tickets
- Premium souvenir
- Fast-track entry and exclusive bar access
Best for: Guests who want the most immersive cultural experience with front-row visuals and premium perks.
Ali‘i Experience – Premium Package
A perfect balance of value and view, this package offers mid-section seating, giving you a clear line of sight to the stage and all the cultural rituals.
Includes:
- Traditional kukui nut lei
- 2 drink tickets
- Classic souvenir
- Prime seating close to the action
Recommended for: Families with children who want to stay close enough to the stage for great views but with a bit more space and comfort than the front row
Koa Experience – Classic Package
A budget-friendly option that still delivers the full luau atmosphere, with seating in the rear section — designed so that even from the back, nothing blocks your view.
Includes:
- Shell lei greeting
- 1 drink ticket
- Standard seating with good visibility
Ideal for: Larger groups and guests looking for a relaxed, casual experience while still enjoying the full show.
Upon check-in, guests are guided to their respective seating zones based on the ticket package purchased. Exact seat assignments are determined by when you booked and how many people are in your group. Want to sit with friends under a separate reservation? Just enter their last names when booking or contact the luau team via email or chat afterward to make a request.
Mauka Warriors Transportation
This is the most recommended option if you're staying in Waikiki. Simply add the shuttle package when booking your luau ticket, and enjoy roundtrip transportation without any hassle.
Roundtrip Shuttle Fee:
Adults (21+): $30
Teens (13–20): $30
Children (5–12): $30
Infants (<5): FREE
The shuttle picks you up in Waikiki and brings you directly to Coral Crater Adventure Park in Kapolei—where the luau takes place.
Note: Children under 5 are considered “lap children” and do not require a separate seat.
If you’re staying in Ko Olina, even better—shuttle service is FREE with pickups at these four locations:
- Beach Villas at Ko Olina AOAO – 4:00 PM
- Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club – 4:10 PM
- Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu – 4:20 PM
- Disney Aulani Resort – 4:30 PM
