FAQs

Planning your evening at Kaula begins here. Find answers about tickets, dining, transportation, accessibility, arrival times, and what to expect at our oceanfront lūʻau in Ko Olina.

Tickets

  • Choose your ticket based on your preferred seating, dining access, and included amenities.

    VIP Admission includes premium seating, early access to dinner, one welcome beverage, a welcome gift, pre-show activities, and admission to the main production.

    Standard Admission includes dinner, one welcome beverage, standard seating, pre-show activities, and admission to the main production.

    Cocktail Admission includes one welcome beverage, outer-ring seating, pre-show activities, and admission to the main production. Dinner is not included.

  • Every ticket includes access to the cultural activities, games, live entertainment, and main theatrical production.

    Dinner is included with VIP and Standard Admission. Cocktail Admission is designed for guests who would like to attend the activities and show without dinner.

    Retail items, additional beverages, photographs, and ticket upgrades may be available for purchase separately.

  • Yes. Cocktail Admission includes the pre-show activities, one welcome beverage, outer-ring seating, and the main production without dinner.

  • Yes. Seating is assigned according to ticket type and reservation size.

    VIP guests receive premium seating. Standard and Cocktail guests are seated in their designated sections. Tables may be shared with other parties.

    To sit with guests booked under another reservation, contact the reservations team before the day of the performance. Seating requests are subject to availability.

  • VIP Admission offers the closest and most centrally located seating available.

    Every section is designed to provide a clear view of the production. Standard and Cocktail sections are positioned farther from the center of the performance area.

  • Kamaʻāina discount?

    • Yes. Hawaiʻi residents may use the promotional code HILOCAL30 when booking. A valid Hawaiʻi ID is required at check-in. The discount applies to the reservation holder and up to three additional guests.

    Military discount?

    • Yes. Eligible military guests may use the promotional code MAHALO20 when booking. A valid military ID is required at check-in. The discount applies to the reservation holder and up to three additional guests.

    Kūpuna or senior discount?

    • Yes. Guests age 65 and older may use the promotional code KUPUNA10 for 10% off eligible tickets. Valid identification may be requested at check-in.

  • Group booking options are available for parties of 15 or more.

    Contact the Kaula reservations team before purchasing so the group can be seated together and available rates can be confirmed.

  • Standard and Cocktail Admission may be available for onsite purchase when the performance has not sold out.

    VIP Admission must be reserved in advance. Onsite ticket availability is not guaranteed, and cash is not accepted. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.

  • Yes. Performances may sell out, especially during weekends, holidays, and peak visitor seasons.

    Booking early also provides the best selection of ticket types and transportation options.

  • Yes. You may make a reservation using the attending guest’s name and contact information.

    Gift cards may also be available for guests who would prefer to let the recipient choose the performance date.

  • Ticket upgrades may be available when space remains in the requested section.

    Contact the reservations team before the performance date. Guests are responsible for any difference in ticket price

  • Yes. Ocean’s Edge may be available for private celebrations, corporate gatherings, weddings, group experiences, and venue rentals.

    Event options depend on the group size, date, and production schedule. Contact the Kaula team directly for availability.

Booking

  • The complete Kaula experience lasts approximately three hours, including check-in, dinner, activities, pre-show entertainment, and the main production.

    Summer: June 1–August 21
    Check-in begins at 5:45 PM. The evening concludes at approximately 8:45 PM.

    Winter: August 22–May 31
    Check-in begins at 5:15 PM. The evening concludes at approximately 8:15 PM.

    Times may change for special events. Refer to your confirmation for the schedule on your selected date.

  • The evening begins with a lei greeting and live Hawaiian music.

    Guests can explore activities such as lei making, hula lessons, weaving, drumming, temporary tattoos, net throwing, trivia, and friendly competitions. Wandering performers and cultural demonstrations continue throughout the dining period.

    Activities may vary by performance.

  • Kaula draws from the stories, music, movement, and cultural traditions of Hawaiʻi, Tahiti, and Samoa.

    Each chapter is developed with cultural guidance and presented through live performance, theatrical design, and storytelling.

  • Yes. The production includes Samoan fire knife dancing.

    The performance honors the Samoan cultural traditions represented within the larger story. Flash photography is prohibited during the fire performance.

  • Yes. Audience participation is included throughout the pre-show experience and may also appear during the production.

    Participation is encouraged but voluntary. Guests who prefer to observe may enjoy the experience without joining an activity.

  • Yes. Personal photography and short personal videos are welcome.

    Flash photography is prohibited during fire performances. Drones, professional lighting equipment, and equipment that obstructs another guest’s view are not permitted without prior approval.

    Guests are encouraged to tag @KaulaLuau when sharing their experience.

  • The primary narration is presented in English. Hawaiian and other Pacific languages are woven throughout the music, chant, dance, and cultural elements of the production.

    Guests can follow the central story through movement, music, staging, and visual performance.

  • Yes. Kaula is a popular setting for birthdays, anniversaries, family gatherings, and other celebrations.

    Add the occasion to your reservation notes or contact the team before your visit. Special recognition or seating arrangements are subject to availability.

  • The evening closes with a celebratory dance party before guests depart Ocean’s Edge or return to their scheduled transportation.

Kaula Lūʻau 

Experience

Getting

Here    

  • Kaula is presented at Ocean’s Edge in Ko Olina, on the west side of Oʻahu.

    The open-air venue offers ocean views and a sunset setting for the pre-show experience and main production.

  • Yes. Complimentary parking is available in the designated Kaula parking area.

    Follow onsite signs and staff instructions when entering the property.

  • Yes. Round-trip transportation between select Waikīkī pickup locations and Ko Olina may be added during booking.

    Pickup times and locations are listed in the reservation confirmation. Guests should arrive at the pickup point before the scheduled departure time.

  • Missed shuttle pickups are non-refundable.

    Call the reservations team immediately. Staff may be able to direct you to another pickup location or help you determine whether you can reach Ko Olina independently. Alternate transportation is not guaranteed.

  • VIP Admission offers the closest and most centrally located seating available.

    Every section is designed to provide a clear view of the production. Standard and Cocktail sections are positioned farther from the center of the performance area.

  • Guests driving to Ocean’s Edge should arrive approximately 15 minutes before the check-in time printed on their ticket.

    Guests using Kaula transportation should follow the pickup time listed in their confirmation.

  • Secure luggage storage is not available at the venue.

    Guests should leave suitcases and other large belongings at their hotel, vacation rental, or vehicle before arriving.

Food     

& Drinks

  • Dinner is included with VIP and Standard Admission.

    Cocktail Admission does not include dinner. All ticket types include one welcome beverage.

  • Kaula uses an open dining format rather than releasing every table into one traditional buffet line.

    Guests with dinner admission can visit the food stations during the pre-show dining period and enjoy the meal at their own pace. Food service closes before the main production begins.

  • Yes. The menu includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free selections.

    Dietary labels are provided where applicable. Guests with strict dietary restrictions should review the current menu and contact the team before booking.

  • Guests should notify the Kaula team of food allergies before the performance date.

    The culinary team can provide available ingredient information and explain which menu items may be appropriate. Because food is prepared and served in shared environments, the venue cannot guarantee that any item is completely free from cross-contact.

    Guests with severe allergies should speak with the team before purchasing tickets.

  • Dinner service begins when the venue opens.

    VIP guests receive early access. Standard guests are invited to dine shortly afterward. Food service continues through the pre-show period and closes approximately 15 minutes before the main production begins.

  • Each ticket includes one welcome beverage, which may be alcoholic or non-alcoholic.

    Additional beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase during the evening. Guests purchasing alcohol must present valid identification.

  • The menu features island-inspired food prepared for the Kaula experience. Current selections may include:

    Huli-Huli Chicken and Garlic Mash

    Hawaiian Tower

    • Lomi tomato

    • Kālua pig and rice

    • Fresh poi tasting

    Roasted Vegetables

    House Salad with Papaya Dressing

    Vegetable Yakisoba

    Poke Bowl

    • Island ahi

    • Inamona

    • Limu

    • Sweet onions

    • Sesame

    • Chili flakes

    • Sushi rice

    Dessert

    • Moani popo coconut sweet bread

    • Fresh fruit

    Menu items and preparation may change based on seasonality and availability.

Families,      

Accessibility
& Comfort

  • Yes. Kaula welcomes guests of all ages, from keiki to kūpuna.

    The evening includes live music, movement, activities, comedy, storytelling, aerial performance, and fire knife dancing. Parents should use their judgment if a child is sensitive to loud music, darkness, or fire effects.

  • High chairs are available in limited quantities and should be requested at least 24 hours before arrival.

    Requests are fulfilled on a first-come, first-served basis. On sold-out evenings, children ages three and younger with an infant ticket may need to sit on an adult’s lap.

    Purchasing a child ticket reserves a seat. Infant admission does not include food or beverages.

  • Yes. Kaula is presented at an open-air oceanfront venue.

    Weather and temperatures can change after sunset. Guests may want to bring a light layer for the evening breeze.

  • Festive aloha attire is recommended.

    Aloha shirts, dresses, skirts, slacks, and comfortable resort wear are all appropriate. Comfortable shoes are encouraged because guests will move between the check-in area, activity stations, dining areas, and seating.

  • Bring your mobile confirmation or reservation information, a valid ID, a camera or phone, and a light jacket.

    Large bags and unnecessary valuables should be left at your hotel or secured in your vehicle.

  • Yes. Accessible pathways, seating, and restrooms are available.

    Guests who need accessible seating or additional assistance should include the request when booking or contact the team before arrival.

  • Yes. Wheelchairs, mobility devices, and strollers are welcome.

    Staff can assist guests with accessible routes and seating. Advance notice is recommended when additional space or support is needed.

  • Trained service animals are welcome in accordance with applicable accessibility requirements.

    Contact the team before arrival when specific accommodations are needed. Pets and emotional-support animals that do not qualify as trained service animals may not be permitted.

  • Yes. Restrooms are available onsite, including accessible facilities.

Cancellations
& Policies

  • Guests who are running late should call the reservations team as soon as possible.

    Late admission is limited because dinner service, activities, and the production follow a set schedule. Entry may no longer be available after the main show begins.

    Missed portions of the experience are not refundable.

  • Reservations purchased directly through Kaula may be changed or canceled online until 12:00 PM on the day of the performance.

    No-shows and cancellations submitted after the deadline are non-refundable. Refunds may be processed promptly, but financial institutions can take additional time to post the funds.

    Tickets purchased through another booking provider are subject to that company’s cancellation and change policies.

  • Kaula operates rain or shine when conditions are safe.

    If weather conditions require Kaula to cancel the performance, guests may be offered a new date or a refund. An alternate venue may be offered when one is available.

    Guests should check their email and phone messages before departure when severe weather is expected.

  • No. A mobile confirmation or the name listed on the reservation is typically sufficient for check-in.

    Keep the confirmation accessible until your party has entered the venue.

  • Identification may be requested to verify the reservation, apply a resident or military discount, or purchase alcoholic beverages.

    The name on the reservation should match the primary guest’s identification whenever possible.

  • Yes. Cash is not accepted for onsite ticket purchases.

    Guests should bring a valid credit or debit card for additional beverages, retail items, photographs, and other available purchases.