Old Lahaina Lūʻau on Maui is Back and Better Than Ever

The popular lūʻau returns to continue nearly 40 years of Hawaiian tradition and culture.

Step back in time and into the heart of Hawaiian hospitality at the Old Lahaina Lūʻau, which reopened its doors on March 12 following a seven-month hiatus.

The return of Old Lahaina Lūʻau marks a historic milestone and a beacon of hope after the Aug. 8 wildfire that destroyed Lahaina Town, including homes inhabited by around half of the lūʻau’s nearly 300 employees. At least 101 people were killed.

Miraculously, the lūʻau grounds were spared by the fire and are now one of the only remaining pieces of Front Street. But there was still extensive cleaning, repairs and restoration required before welcoming the public back.

“There’s an employee response in coming back to work and I’ve never seen them so unified in the synergy,” said Kawika Freitas, director of public and cultural relations. “The guests’ response has been from the very first day: People really feel that by attending, they’re helping the economy and giving employees’ work.”

Many of the lūʻau’s employees lost their homes in the Lahaina wildfires. // Photo courtesy of Old Lahaina Lūʻau

Ahead of the reopening, employees from the lūʻau alongside others from the Na Hoaloha ʻEkolu restaurant group—which includes Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop, Aloha Mixed Plate (both have also reopened in their original locations) and Star Noodle—gathered for a blessing of the lūʻau grounds.

The ceremony incorporated the planting of native ʻulu (breadfruit) and loulu palm trees from Hāna on Maui, which were placed in each corner of the property. These trees were then nourished by coconut water, red fish, fresh soil and a “Ka ʻUlu” chant that filled the space with intentions for the vegetation to grow alongside the business and Lahaina itself.

Featuring its revitalized oceanfront property and exceptional staff, this beloved cultural institution has emerged anew, beckoning guests to immerse themselves in an authentic celebration of island traditions and heritage.

More than 4 million guests have attended Old Lahaina Lūʻau since its inception in 1986. // Photo courtesy of Old Lahaina Lūʻau

The award-winning experience has served more than 4 million guests since its inception in 1986, and will continue providing unparalleled entertainment and delicious dinners every Tuesday through Saturday.

During these evenings, visitors will enjoy unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean, spectacular sunsets, traditional Hawaiian architecture and games, handmade crafts by local artisans for purchase, an imu (underground oven) ceremony, a welcome cocktail and open bar for guests who are 21 or older, a four-course dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients, and hula performances.

As guests depart with full hearts and bellies, they carry more than just memories of a magical evening as their support ensures that the legacy of Lahaina will endure and continue to enrich the lives of future generations.

For more information, visit oldlahainaluau.com.

Lead image courtesy of Old Lahaina Lūʻau