Royal Kona Luau

When the conch shell sounds, everyone gathers for the imu ceremony. Chefs lift a whole kalua pig from its bed of hot stones, and fragrant smoke guides you to a buffet stocked with ginger-soy chicken, island-caught fish, sweet-potato mash, lomi salmon, crisp greens and haupia squares. Unlimited soft drinks flow all night, and the open bar mixes mai tais, local beer and house wine without long waits.

The stage stands only a few yards from the farthest chair, so you feel pahu drums in your chest as graceful hula honors Hawai'i Island legends. Tahitian hip-shakes quicken the pace, Maori poi balls trace glowing circles in torchlight, and a heart-pounding Samoan fire-knife finale sends sparks swirling into the night sky. Narration ties each dance to ancient voyaging routes, turning movement into living history rather than simple spectacle.

You can choose Standard or Ali'i seating. Upgrades provide priority entrance, souvenir tiki mugs and closer tables, but every guest enjoys the shoreline backdrop, generous buffet and open bar. Professional photographers circulate throughout the evening, and digital downloads arrive in your inbox before breakfast.

Plan to arrive by 4:45 pm for sunset photos and pre-show activities. Self-parking is available in the resort garage for a modest fee and is validated at check-in; valet service is also offered. Wear comfortable sandals for grassy paths and bring a light layer—the coastal breeze turns cool once the torches replace the sun.

Ready to add this oceanfront feast to your Kona plans? Reserve seats through our collection of Big Island luaus, then browse the full catalog of Big Island tours and activities to round out a day that flows from reef-bright morning to torch-lit night.