Island Breeze Luau: Delicious Food and Beautiful Culture in Kailua-Kona

Not all luaus are created equal, either in their stories, dancing, food or location. The Island Breeze Luau in Kailua-Kona in exceptional when it comes to a Big Island luau experiences. We’ve done several luau events on the Kona Coast and so far, the Island Breeze Luau has been my favorite, and I’ll share why in a minute. While it may be that luaus are not traditional Hawaiian cultural occurrences in terms of going back hundreds of years, they’ve really become a staple in the Hawaiian tourism experience. Luaus are a wonderful way for Native Hawaiian peoples to share their stories and dances that their families have kept alive through the generations.

The Island Breeze Luau does an awesome job at sharing just that. Whether you’ve been to a luau before or if this is your first one, I think you’ll like the Island Breeze Luau. I’ve got the low down on what to expect here including tips for enjoying a luau with kids. If you have any questions about this dinner show, things to do in Kailua-Kona or planning your time on the Big Island, please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re always happy to share more and help YOU plan a wonderful Aloha trip!

Highlights of the Island Breeze Luau in Kona

Storytelling is an important part of any luau, so the theme of “Ohana” driving the progression of the stories in the Island Breeze Luau was spot on. This is such a great luau for families, and as the host and performers go through the show, it always comes back to the Hawaiian people and their ancestors acting on behalf of their families, and in turn, inviting guests to enjoy the experience as a member of the Island Breeze ohana. When you’re traveling to Hawaii and putting together activities that your crew will enjoy, doing a luau like this is a great way to draw together.

The songs and specific stories of the way finders making Hawaii a home, the greetings from the different Polynesian cultures, and the whole welcoming experience is such a pleasant and accurate snapshot of Hawaiian hospitality. Some stories are similar to the Hawai’iloa Luau, also on the Kona Coast. Cultural experiences, like the Island Breeze Luau, are important to us when we travel. We like to learn and participate when invited to do so.

I think participation in cultural activities is very special. If you’ve studied anthropology and culture, then you may be familiar with the term “exotic other.” It’s difficult to visit Hawaii and respectfully take part in island experiences without making Hawaiian culture that “exotic other” but a luau that brings you along and teaches you about certain elements of the Hawaiian culture is a great way to both support and enjoy that culture.

Get Island Breeze Luau tickets here!

Tips for a Great Evening at the Luau

We’re not all dancers or great orators, but that’s okay. When you participate in the Island Breeze Luau… yes, I said PARTICIPATE… you’re welcoming the fun and the culture into your visit. Now, nobody is being pulled up on stage but you are invited to stand at your table to learn different hula moves and you’re asked to verbally participate in learning different Polynesian phrases. Joining in is both courteous and fun. Yes, it may put you just outside of your comfort zone, but when you see everyone else being awkward or your kids watching you and smiling, you’ll know that participating in the luau is worth it.

Another thing that will make the Island Breeze Luau a great experience is arriving when they first open the gate. When you get there at opening you’re able to fully enjoy all the luau activities that lead up to the show. This includes live music, welcome cocktails, games, temporary Native Hawaiian tattoo designs, and my favorite part, the unveiling of the kalua pig for the luau feast. All of this is a part of the Island Breeze Luau and how they draw you into the “Ohana” feeling. I think it’s so special.

Doing the Island Breeze Luau with Kids

Luaus are definitely a family affair, but you’re welcome to attend and participate just as adults too. The active nature of the show and music is really engaging with kids, so it’s not typically a problem to keep them entertained. If you are bringing small children to the Island Breeze Luau, or any dinner show for that matter, it is very important that they manage their physical space appropriately. There are servers attending the many tables and at time performers are moving along the edge of the audience. You don’t want kiddos, aka keiki, either getting hurt or causing a mishap with the cast and staff during the show. It’s very much an appropriate experience for all ages, but also a place to be respectful of others so everyone can enjoy the luau.

Island Breeze Luau Menu

The first thing I’m always asked when I’m talking about luaus is what’s on the menu. For the Island Breeze Luau there is a wide variety of both Hawaiian standards and foods picky people will go for. I say “picky people” because I know that not every kid or adult is an adventurous eater. There are some delicious offerings though, including kalua pork, poke, poi, teriyaki beef, salads, pasta, vegetables and more.

And yes, there is a kids table that has lots of simple, common food options including mac ‘n cheese. When it comes to desserts, the dessert table is very Hawaii forward. Ube and coconut are at the forefront of the offerings, with pineapple and guava flavors making their way onto the table as well. If you haven’t had huapia before, this is a great opportunity to try the unique coconut concoction. And yes, cocktails are included.

Island Breeze Luau Seating

When you’re booking your Island Breeze Luau tickets, you’ll have a few options. You can either book the general seating or the Ali’i Seating. Don’t get me wrong, there isn’t a bad seat in the house and you can easily see the stage from the back of the luau lawn, but if you choose to do the Ali’i seating, these reserved tables at the front really are amazing. You get to be so very close and it really brings you into the luau experience. The Ali’i seating also includes a fresh flower lei and a printed photo to take home, so that’s a bonus.

Parking for the Island Breeze Luau

If you’re staying anywhere directly in the main area of Kailua-Kona, you can walk to the Island Breeze Luau. It’s located at the King Kamehameha Hotel directly next to Kamakahonu National Historic Site. If you need to drive, you can park behind the hotel and will be given a parking ticket to be validated while at the luau. Don’t forget to validate your parking for the discount. Once you’re parked or have arrived at the King Kamehameha Hotel, you’ll proceed to the hotel’s gallery space off the lobby for luau check in. From there you’ll be given a bracelet and will have the option of purchasing a lei (or you’ll be given one if you purchased Ali’i seating). It’s a very streamlined process and starts the evening off nicely.