A Trip to the Polynesian Cultural Center – It’s a Small World After All!
A trip to the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu is a bit like getting the Disney version of Hawaii, it is a very polished and perfectly manicured look at island life in the South Pacific. Which isn’t to say its not worth a visit, just be prepared for a squeaky clean, ‘happiest place on earth’ vibe.
The Center offers a look into many different Polynesian cultures through replica villages, interactive shows, hands-on activities for all ages, canoe rides, “imax” movies, nightly luaus, etc. Tucked into Oahu’s north shore along the eastern edge, it is a drive from Honolulu. With prices ranging from $65 for adult general admission to packages of $240 that include luaus, private tours, and premium seating, it is on the pricey side but offers a lot for those willing to make the trek.
The view on the way to the Polynesian Cultural Center.
Staying on the western shore, the long drive and the higher prices made me seriously consider whether I wanted to make the trip with my kids on our Hawaiian vacation. It is about an hour and a half drive from where we were staying and flooding along the eastern shore had made some of the roads dangerous. We ended up making the trip and after the drive and about an hour navigating parking, admissions and finding the actual entrance – it was not an effortless visit. Add in two kids (one who wants to be held), a large bag and no stroller, and I was beginning to regret the decision to come.
So far, I know I’m not selling it, but… I think it is ultimately worth the trip. The evening show is rated one of the best in the islands and, when purchased with admission, is more affordable. The Park also offered a great peek into the cultures of many Polynesian islands with lots of opportunities for kids and adults to participate. The Canoe Pageant and various shows happening all day throughout the Park offer entertainment and cool visuals. Park staff are friendly and dressed in the distinct costumes of Polynesia.
On our trip we learned to paddle a Tongan canoe, throw a Tahitian spear, and dance the Hawaiian hula. We also visited the Maori statues of Easter Island, watched traditional Samoan songs and dances, saw the Hawaiian Journey short film, and toured the park in an outrigger canoe. I only realized months later how well my kids took it all in when my 3-year old daughter started singing in very convincing ‘Hawaiian.’
The ‘Ha: Breath of Life’ evening show was the highlight of the trip. Unfortunately, it starts pretty late and my kiddos were tuckered out so we had to leave right before the finale. (Note: If you think this might be an issue for you too, choose a seat along the aisle so you can get out easily.) The show is pretty intense with battle scenes and lots of loud noises. My kids were a little overwhelmed by this, with my youngest insisting on sitting in my lap for the entire show. If you have a child that is sensitive to loud noises, this probably isn’t the show for you.
Overall, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a great way to spend the day with kids in Oahu. Kids will be excited by the park and all there is to see and do – and you’ll add some Polynesian culture to your beach vacation itinerary!
Polynesian Cultural Center Trip Tips:
Dining Options:
For adults and those with older kids (or those with more versatile palettes), I suggest going to one of the nightly buffets. The Ali'i Luau dinner buffet & show has two seatings and offers the quintessential Hawaiian luau experience. There is also a Prime Rib Buffet with prime rib (surprise!) and crab legs. I didn’t try either of these so I can’t vouch for the quality of food. I did see huge crowds go in though, so be prepared for a meal experience shared with many.
There are also many dining experiences right outside the Park but still on the grounds of the Park. Near the Hukilau Marketplace there are a couple of Restaurant & Grill options. We ate at Pounders which offered the kids an opportunity to make their own pizzas – an experience they loved!
Getting There:
If you’re staying in Waikiki without a car, don’t despair! The Park offers shuttle service to the Park and there is an Island Tour in the morning as well that includes a visit to the Park.
If you’ve rented your own vehicle, it is an easy drive from almost anywhere on the Island. We went after some big storms had hit the eastern shore and caused major flooding. We saw a lot of signs for flooding as we drove up the eastern shore but didn’t have any problems. The road is narrow at points with foliage right up to the road and stretches right along the shore – drive carefully!
Making the Most of Your Time:
Get there early. The Park doesn’t open until 12, which gives you time to visit the beach in the morning before heading to Park, right? We unfortunately got a little hung up on our beach activities and got to the Park later than I would’ve liked. This made for a bit of a rushed experience as the Park is spread out over a large area and there is a lot to see and do. Plan accordingly!
Have an itinerary. We just kind of stumbled around to wherever looked interesting. With timed shows and activities though, we lost out on some cool things to see and do because we weren’t in the right place at the right time. All show times are listed on the website, so make sure you schedule the things you really don’t want to miss.
Take the stroller. If you have small kids, take the stroller. I ended up doing the trip solo with the kids which ended up being okay as then we could go at our own pace and not worry about slowing others down. That being said, I opted not to take our stroller due to the terrain of the park and the many boat rides. I didn’t want to be responsible for the stroller but that meant I was carrying all of our gear, which was a bit of a pain. In the end, all the boat rides can drop you off at the same place it picked you up, so you don’t need to worry about the stroller being left behind.
And a final note, this is a alcohol free zone so prepare yourself mentally. I could have used a drink with dinner but somehow survived the evening!
