If you thought the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) was mostly just a luau, you’d only be scratching the surface. Don’t get me wrong—their luau is solid—but it’s nothing compared to everything else you can experience here.
The real magic happens in the Islands of Polynesia, where you can row a traditional outrigger canoe, learn how to twirl poi balls, throw spears like the warriors did, make fire the Samoan way, take ukulele lessons, learn how to hula, and even taste freshly cooked ‘ulu (breadfruit).
The immersive, hands-on aspect is what’s coolest about the Islands of Polynesia. It’s a great place to experience what it’s like to have lived on these islands because you can take part in so many activities that are unique to each island.
And just when you think you’ve done it all, the Hā: Breath of Life evening show will absolutely blow you away—it’s hands-down the best Polynesian performance on the island.
Even with 8 hours of opportunity to explore, feast, and be entertained beyond belief, you won’t be able to see/do it all at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Heck, we’ve been there six times and we STILL have yet to do every single activity there!
To help you prioritize your time better, I’m going to give you a breakdown of the hands-on activities at PCC that I personally think are must-dos. Given that there are literally dozens of other activities, cultural demonstrations, and mini shows you could partake in, this is just a small handful that I think are totally worth your time!
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Table of Contents
Hā: Breath of Life Evening Show
This had to be listed first! Personally speaking, I think the Hā: Breath of Life evening show is the best part about PCC. Yes, even better than the luau!
This show is truly entertaining! I don’t want to give any major spoilers, but this large-scale production features over 100 Polynesian natives, special effects, animation, and surround sound. It is a Pacific isle saga of birth and death, love and family, tragedy and triumph.
From your stadium-style seat, you can expect a lot of traditional dancing (there’s a segment for each of the different ‘villages’ / islands), a good plot, lots of acting, and fire dancing!
I gotta give a special shoutout to the fire dancing section of the show. They’ve recently revamped the show, and the fire dancing segment was PURE AMAZEMENT!
The Ali’i Luau
The Ali’i Luau is a traditional luau set up, where a couple hundred people will attend and dine around the main stage. When you arrive, you’ll get lei’ed and have the option to take a group pic (for purchase).
Upon getting seated, you’ll get a fun little welcome drink: a non-alcoholic pina colada inside of a pineapple! The food is served buffet-style for about 30 minutes before the entertainment begins.
You can expect typical luau buffet-style food such as taro rolls, poke, Imu Pua’a Pork (a pig cooked onsite and underground), steamed Kona kanpachi fish in ti leaves, pan-seared local fish, teriyaki brisket, huli chicken, fried saimin, salads, assorted fruits, and desserts.
The entertainment usually lasts around 30 to 45 minutes and is comprised of a mix of professional performers (hula dancers and young kiddies) and bits where the host is calling people up to the stage to dance.
If you don’t opt for the luau, there are also chances to eat at the Gateway Buffet or the restaurants at the Hukilau Marketplace area of the complex. While I haven’t eaten at the Gateway Buffet, I’d guess that the food is pretty good, given what I experienced at the Ali’i Luau.
If this is your first time in Hawaii OR you have yet to experience a luau for yourself, I say go for the Ali’i Luau!
Traditional Canoe Paddling (Tonga)
If you’re looking for a physical, hands-on experience that connects you to Polynesian history and culture, paddling an outrigger canoe is the way to go.
Outrigger canoes are traditional boats featuring lateral support floats (or outriggers) attached to one side. These sturdy vessels have been used for centuries by Polynesians to navigate vast ocean distances, fish, and even engage in friendly racing.
I did competitive outrigger canoeing, so outrigger canoes are nostalgic to me–I’ll always jump at the chance to get on the water and row whenever I can!
Enjoy the canoe tour
For those of you who prefer a more relaxed experience, there’s also a canoe tour where you simply sit back in a 20-passenger double-hulled canoe and listen as a guide steers and shares stories about the different islands.
This canoe ride will take you to the other side of the park, so it’s a great way to learn some info while hitching a ride. It’s a nice little break for your feet/legs if you’ve been walking too much!
Samoan Cultural Presentation (featuring Kap)
The cultural presentation that featured Kap (pictured above) is essentially a comedy skit with a lot of Samoan-related facts thrown in. During the show, he talks about how in Samoan culture, the men do all the cooking. You’ll even learn how to crack open a coconut using a small rock.
This is usually immediately followed by coconut tree climbing and fire knife spinning. We’ve seen this presentation at least three times, and we never get tired of it.
It’s SO funny, and if you catch the later shows (around 4pm and after) you’ll even catch some really impressive fireknife dancing!
Samoan Cooking Demonstration
This was one of the newer activities that we were pleasantly surprised to see on the brochure!
During our visit, they were whipping up ‘ulu (breadfruit) cooked with coconut milk, salt, and onion. What resulted was a super delicious, savory comfort food!
If you’re unfamiliar with ‘ulu, imagine a starchy, hearty fruit that looks a bit like a durian but has a texture closer to a creamy potato when cooked. It’s been a staple in Polynesian diets for centuries, valued for its versatility, nutrition, and ability to feed entire communities.
If you’ve never tried ‘ulu before, this is the perfect introduction to a beloved island staple!
Aotearoa Cultural Presentation
The Aotearoa Village at the Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the most engaging and visually striking stops in the Islands of Polynesia experience.
The entire village is photogenic. You’re surrounded by intricately carved meeting houses, bold geometric patterns, and detailed artwork that reflect the deep traditions of the Māori people.
Whenever we find ourselves at PCC, we always try to make it a point to catch the Aotearoa cultural presentations — I love watching their high-energy singing and dancing performances.
We’ve seen multiple versions of Aotearoa’s cultural presentation since they alternate throughout the day, and while they are all good and informative, the wedding one is really good. You’ll get to witness traditional ceremonial dances like the haka!
Beyond the cultural presentations, you’ll get the chance to enjoy activities like:
- The Poi dance – showcasing precise coordination and rhythm.
- The Tītī-tōrea stick game – a test of timing, agility, and teamwork.
- The unique sounds of Māori music
Poi Ball Lessons (Aotearoa)
If you’re looking for a hands-on activity that’s both fun and deceptively tricky, don’t skip the Poi Ball Lessons at the Aotearoa Village!
This was actually my cousin’s favorite activity—he had so much fun trying to get the movements right that he even bought a set to bring home so he could keep practicing and perfecting his technique.
Poi balls are weighted balls attached to a string, traditionally used by the Māori people for storytelling through dance. While they may look simple, mastering the rhythm, swinging them smoothly, and even crossing them over takes a bit of coordination. This activity station is a great way to test your dexterity and get a taste of Māori performance arts.
Kids will also love this one—just be warned, you might leave wanting your own set to keep practicing at home!
Poi Tasting (Hawaii)
If you’re eating at some of the traditional Hawaiian restaurants I recommend in my Oahu food guide, you’ll probably come across poi on the menu. But if you haven’t tried it yet, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a great place to start.
Don’t confuse this with the poi ball lessons over in the Aotearoa Village—totally different thing. This version of the word ‘poi’ is meant to be eaten, not twirled!
At the Poi Tasting Station, you’ll learn how this iconic Hawaiian staple is made—from pounding steamed taro root with a lava rock poi pounder to achieving the smooth, slightly tangy consistency that has nourished generations of Native Hawaiians. You’ll even get to try it paired with cuttlefish, which serves as a protein source.
Hula Lessons (Hawaii)
Hula is a language of storytelling with the use of graceful movements, where every hand gesture and step represents elements of nature, history, and Hawaiian life.
During the hula lesson, you’ll learn the meanings behind motions for water, sun, wind, and more, all while picking up a simple routine and performing it in full at the end of the lesson!
It’s definitely a fun, interactive way to connect with Hawaiian culture beyond just watching performances.
Playing Ancient Games (Hawaii)
Think you’d make a great Hawaiian warrior or strategist? Try your hand at ancient Hawaiian games, designed for both fun and skill-building.
We played a game similar to checkers where you have to jump over your opponent’s stones, but unlike checkers, you can only move vertically or horizontally, which makes for a surprisingly strategic challenge!
Another simple game involved tossing a weighted ball into a net, kind of like an old-school version of Kendama. On a previous visit, we played a game where in order to win, we had to spin three tops (made out of kukui nuts) simultaneously without letting them stop.
These games were once used to sharpen reflexes, coordination, and strategic thinking—and they were all a ton of fun despite how simple they were.
Getting Temporary Tattoos (Hawaii + Fiji)
Across Polynesia, tattoos are almost synonymous with culture and identity. Each pattern carries meaning, representing family, nature, protection, and personal achievements.
At PCC, both the Hawai‘i and Fiji villages offer temporary tattoo stations where you can choose a design that resonates with you.
In the Hawai‘i station, you might pick a symbol for family, a bird, or the ocean, while in the Fiji station, you’ll see bold geometric patterns inspired by traditional Fijian tattooing. The kids love this activity!
Learn about chiefs at the Chief’s Home (Fiji)
In Polynesian societies, chiefs weren’t just leaders—they were the caretakers of their people and land, guiding communities with wisdom and tradition. At the Fijian village, you can step inside a chief’s home, where a guide will walk you through the importance of rank, hospitality, and symbolism in the design of the dwelling.
Inside, you’ll see intricately carved wooden pillars, woven mats, and artifacts that tell the story of leadership and tradition. It’s an eye-opening look at how chiefs lived and governed—and an experience that gives you a deeper appreciation for Polynesian culture beyond just the games and the food.
Traditional Leaf Weaving (Samoa + Hawaii)
Lauhala weaving is an ancient Polynesian art form that transforms pandanus leaves and coconut palm leaves into everyday items like mats, baskets, and even hats. At PCC, you can try your hand at this tradition by weaving your own small fishing toy to take home!
Both the Samoa and Hawai‘i villages offer this hands-on experience, showing you how skilled hands turn simple leaves into functional and beautiful crafts.
To learn even more about traditionally woven handicrafts, head to the basket weaving stand where you’ll be able to see all kinds of goods made out of leaves, such as baskets, wreaths, hats, and even handbags.
Spear Throwing (Tahiti + Tonga)
Think you have good aim? Try your hand at spear throwing, a skill once used for hunting and battle.
- In the village of Tahiti, your challenge is to hit a coconut on top of a tall pole—it’s tougher than it looks!
- In the village of Tonga, you’ll aim at a target, just as warriors once practiced for accuracy and strength.
Both versions require focus, control, and a steady hand, making this a super fun and interactive way to experience Polynesian warrior traditions firsthand.
Ukelele Lessons (Early Mission Settlement)
The ukulele is synonymous with Hawaiian music, and at PCC’s Early Mission Settlement area, you can sit in on a mini lesson to learn a few simple chords.
This is one of PCC’s newer additions, and while we didn’t explore this area much, we did notice an outdoor porch overlooking the water where guests were learning to play.
Also in this area is a small classroom, as well as a printing press station showcasing early missionary-era activities.
If the lesson inspires you to take up the ukulele, there’s a ukulele shop near the entrance where you can check out a variety of ukuleles, ranging from affordable beginner-friendly options to high-end handcrafted pieces.
The Islands Of Polynesia: Overview Of The Villages
There are six villages at the Polynesian Cultural Center: Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Tahiti, Aotearoa (New Zealand) and Hawaii. Despite them all being Polynesian islands, each island has its own distinct history and heritage, as you’ll soon learn for yourself!
One of the coolest aspects of visiting the villages of PCC is that most of the people staffing each village are actually from the island they’re representing! Here’s what you can expect from each of the islands.
Samoa
Samoans are known throughout Polynesia as the “happy people”! Samoans are famous for their cooking skills as well as fireknife dances. You can experience both of these skills at the Samoan Village.
Since Papu is half Samoan, we always like spending a little extra time in this village.
Activities include:
- Weaving your own fish with coconut leaves
- Learning how to spin a fireknife
- Making fire the Samoan way (without matches!)
Fiji
Fijians may be most famous for their skills in battle, but they are also wonderful singers and makers of clay pottery. This is definitely a very energetic and exciting village to visit!
Activities include:
- Discovering how coconut oil is made
- Learning about an authentic Camakau (Fijian outrigger canoe)
- Learn to play the derua (bamboo instrument)
- Getting a washable Fijian warrior tattoo
- Make your own Kesakesa Pattern
Tonga
If you’re at PCC and you hear drumming in the distance, chances are it’s coming from Tongan village. This area is a ton of fun, as you’ll get to try your hand at a lot of activities such as spear-throwing and even paddling in an outrigger canoe.
The canoes here are NOT on a track, so you’ll actually have to paddle to get moving! For a more leisurely canoe ride where you can just sit back and relax, hop on the 20-person canoe ride instead.
The cultural presentation at Tonga is a lot of fun, as there’s a lot of focus on dance, music, the Nafa (drums), and cultural core values.
Activities include:
- Paddling in a Tongan-inspired outrigger canoe (my personal fave!)
- Trying lafo (Tongan shuffle board), an ancient royal game
- Touring a replica of the Queen Salote’s Summer Home
- Weaving a windmill from coconut leaves
- Trying your hand at hiko, the ancient art of juggling
- Learning Nafa-drumming
Tahiti
On top of showcasing the dancing skills that they’re so famously known for, you’ll also get to learn about other aspects of Tahitian culture such as love and marriage, fishing and cooking.
You’ll find multiple types of cultural presentations at the Tahiti area throughout the day. At the time of writing, there’s the Intro to French Polynesia, Rhythms of the Islands, and the Tahitian Wedding Ceremony.
I’ve personally seen the wedding ceremony show at it’s great!
Activities include:
- Tasting handmade coconut bread
- Fishing in the lagoon with bamboo poles
- Learning how to dance the Ori Tahiti
- Get a washable Tahitian tattoo
- Spear throwing
- Witness a traditional Tahitian wedding ceremony
Aotearoa (New Zealand)
Aotearoa (The Land of the Long White Cloud) is the home of the Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand.
Māori people are known for their elaborately carved meeting houses as well as their dancing, including the Haka which many of you may have already seen without knowing it at some point in your lives!
Activities include:
- Twirling the double-long Poi (ball on end of string)
- Try the Kapo Rākau to help you quicken your reflexes and reaction time
- Testing your hand-eye coordination skills with Titi-torea (Maori stick game)
- Exploring replicas of an ancient dwelling site, ancestral meeting house, Māori war canoe, and more
Hawaii
Hawaiians are great storytellers, and at the Hawaiian village, you’re going to hear a lot about not only the beauty of their islands but the beauty of their culture as well.
Our favorite activities here and taking the hula lessons and trying the freshly made poi! If you’re a fan of hula dancing, do not miss their cultural presentation, The Sound of Hula.
Activities include:
- Practicing Hawaiian hula
- Watching how poi is made (and then tasting it for yourself!)
- See all of the beautiful items that can be made with lauhala
- Try your hand at traditional Hawaiian games of skill
- Traditional net throwing
- Get a washable Hawaiian tattoo
Iosepa Learning Center
Don’t forget to head to the corner of the Hawaiian village, where you’ll find the Iosepa Canoe and Learning Center. The canoe is a working replica of a traditional Hawaiian double-hulled voyaging canoe, and it’s MASSIVE.
We found that it was so awe-inspiring being that close to it, imagining what life would have been like in the past, traveling on such a massive yet traditional watercraft!
While you’re here, you can also learn a bunch of things, including:
- learning how to make ropes with coconut husks
- learning how to navigate by the stars
- learn about the wood species used to build canoes
- Building wooden canoe puzzles
- learning how to tie sailing knots
Rapa Nui (Easter Island)
This smaller island exhibit in the center of the villages features seven hand-carved moai, or stone statues, created onsite by artisans from Rapa Nui.
There are no activities in this area, but there sure is a lot to learn via the interpretive signs detailing the Rapa Nui history.
🎟️ Book your Polynesian Cultural Center tickets on the official site here!
How To Get Discounted Tickets To Polynesian Cultural Center
Book Tickets Early
The most straightforward way to get your tickets is to go straight to their website and book directly. The PCC website clearly outlines all of the ticket package options, and even provides you with a 10% discount on packages purchased at least 10 days in advance.
This is a great deal because finding Polynesian Cultural Center promo codes or coupons is pretty hard to do. Check out all of the ticket options here.
👉 DEAL ALERT: Save 10% on select packages when you book at least 10 days in advance!
Get The Go City Oahu Pass
If you only want basic admission to the villages (no luau, no evening show), you can actually get access to the Islands of Polynesia via the Go City Oahu Pass.
This is actually how we got into PCC during one of our visits!
Should you want to upgrade and add on the luau and/or show, you can pay an additional fee upon making your reservation and have the best of both worlds.
I’m actually shocked more people don’t know about this pass. The Go City digital attraction pass includes a bunch of other fun cultural activities on Oahu, so it’s actually an excellent value.
Beyond the immersive villages at Polynesian Cultural Center, you can take a farm tour of Kualoa Ranch, make your own lei on the beach, explore countless traditional Polynesian artifacts, take an hour-long hula class on the North Shore, weave coconut baskets, pound taro, and even try fire dancing. In total, there are over 40 activities included with the pass!
You can learn more about the attraction pass on the Go City website.
Essential Tips For Your Polynesian Cultural Center Visit
- Arrive early! And we mean it! You will need all of the hours PCC is open in order to see everything in the Islands of Polynesia area. (This is the exact reason I’ve gone 3 times–I’ve always gone later in the day and ran out of time to explore.)
- Take advantage of the transportation option from Waikiki if you aren’t renting a car for the duration of your trip. More on that below.
- You will walk a lot (several miles worth of walking), so wear comfortable shoes–you can go with comfortable walking shoes or supportive sandals.
- It can get very hot during the summer months so make sure you pack plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day. Bring a water bottle and refill it throughout the day.
- Shoes and shirts must be worn at all times; no swimsuits.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat! The Polynesian Cultural Center is mostly outdoors with grassy fields. The cultural demonstration shows do have shaded seating, but some of it can be in the sun (depending on time of day and whether you can get a seat or not).
- Two great reef-safe sunscreens that we like to use when we go to tropical destinations are: Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen or Kokua Sun Care 50/80 Min Water Resistance Reef Safe Natural Zinc Sunscreen
- When an island/village is putting on its cultural presentation (usually about 30 minutes long), the island activities will not be held. You have two choices here–either watch the main show or visit other villages until they resume their activities once the show is over.
- Island villages close at around 5:30 pm to allow visitors who opted in for the luau to eat before the evening show (seating starts at 7 pm).
- For those visiting with very young children who may also be jet-lagged: the evening show runs from about 7:30-9 pm Hawaii time. This can be really late depending on what your home time is, especially for those who are dealing with a large time change. Do carefully consider whether or not they can make it through the show without being too fussy and disrupting others’ viewing experience.
- Be aware that strobe lights and sudden loud noises are used in the show.
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