Polynesian Cultural Center

Visit All of Polynesia!

Polynesian Cultural Center- Immerse yourself in the lifestyles of island cultures with demonstrations. And don’t forget the IMAX theater, Alii Luau and “Horizons” show; it’s non-stop discovery!

Travel into a completely different time and place as you drift down a picturesque lagoon amid tropical foliage. Feel as if you’re part of the traditional lifestyles of Fiji, Hawaii, Maori, New Zealand, the Marquesas, Samoa, Tahiti and Tonga.

Become immersed in the village experience on a leisurely walking tour. Friendly villagers greet and involve you in hands-on activities. Make tapa cloth from the bark of mulberry, climb a coconut tree, pound boiled taro roots into poi or go to a Maori woodcarver’s school.

When you’re ready to eat, sample island foods in the villages, enjoy the traditional Hawaiian luau at the award-winning Ali‘i Luau. The Gateway Restaurant features an all-you-can-eat dinner buffet or fine dining menu.

Now in its 36th year, Polynesian Cultural Center stages a variety of shows and special events annually. At 2:30 each afternoon, see the Canoe Pageant in the main lagoon area, a colorful introduction to the multi-talented young people of Polynesia featuring their myths and legends. “Horizons” is a 90-minute evening extravaganza complete with fiery volcano, water and high-tech light and sound effects.

Now shoppers can get into the Treasures of Polynesia Marketplace for free, as well as participate in craft demonstrations, sample local foods and purchase unique souvenirs found no where else in Hawaii. The marketplace is open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. daily except Sunday.

The Polynesian Cultural Center received the Kahili Award for its efforts to preserve Hawaiian culture. Open 12:30-9:00 p.m. daily; closed Sundays, (808)293-3333.

GETTING THERE FROM WAIKIKI
•By bus: Take #8, 19, 20 or 47 to Ala Moana Shopping Center, then board #55 to “Circle Island”
•Driving: H-1 West to 63 North (Likelike Hwy.) to 83 West

TOP SITES ALONG THE WAY
•Byodo-In Temple in Valley of the Temples
•Noriko’s of Hawaii
•Senator Fong’s Plantation and Gardens
•Chinaman’s Hat
•Orchids ready for mailing at Ching’s and Hiromi’s Nursery
•Kualoa Beach Park and Ranch, (808)237-8515
•Crouching Lion Inn Restaurant and Art Gallery, (808)237-8511
•Visit McKay Foyer and Information Center at BYU Hawaii. Campus tours available by arrangement, (808)293-3660

TOP SITE IN LAIE
•Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Hawaii Temple Visitor’s Center. Free tours including audiovisual presentation, open daily 9 a.m.-8 p.m., (808)293-9297