Last Updated on March 9, 2023 by Jerardo Gomez
*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.
Introduction: The Ultimate Polynesian Cultural Experience
The Polynesian Cultural Center, located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, is a world-renowned attraction that offers a window into the rich history, arts, and traditions of the Pacific Islands ran as a nonprofit center. With its stunning natural beauty, immersive experiences, and exceptional entertainment, the Polynesian Cultural Center provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse cultures of Polynesia.
I recommend going here for at least a day to participate in fun activities, and have traditional course meals, and learn about the amazing Polynesian people to include in your trip itinerary. In this blog post, we’ll explore what the PCC has to offer and why it’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the vibrant culture of the Pacific Islands.
The Polynesian Cultural Center is a world-renowned theme park tourist attraction on the North Shore of Oahu, dedicated to preserving and celebrating the culture and history of the Polynesian Islands. It has many options for tourists and is family-friendly. Visitors can explore an incredible variety of interactive experiences, learning about the customs, cuisine, music, dance, and other aspects of life in Polynesia. The center also offers traditional hands-on activities, tours, entertainment, and traditional food experiences.
*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.
History and Significance
The Polynesian Cultural Center was established in 1963 by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a way to provide employment opportunities for students of Brigham Young University – Hawaii and to promote the preservation of Polynesian culture. The center has since become a popular destination for visitors from all over the world, attracting over 1 million visitors annually.
At its core, the Polynesian Cultural Center is dedicated to preserving the culture, arts, and traditions of the Pacific Islands. Through interactive experiences, performances, and exhibitions, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of the rich diversity of Polynesian cultures. The center is made up of different island villages representing various Pacific Island cultures, including Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Tahiti, and Aotearoa (New Zealand).
The center’s significance extends beyond its role as a tourist attraction, however. It serves as a hub for cultural education and preservation, offering employment and educational opportunities to local residents and students. The center also hosts cultural events and festivals throughout the year, further promoting and celebrating the traditions of the Pacific Islands.
In addition to its cultural significance, the Polynesian Cultural Center also plays a vital role in the local economy. The center is one of the largest employers in Laie, Hawaii, and its operations support a range of local businesses.
Overall, the Polynesian Cultural Center is much more than just a tourist attraction – it’s a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditions of the Pacific Islands. Its significance as a center for education, employment, and community engagement makes it a vital part of the local community and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the vibrant culture of the Pacific Islands.
Attractions and Activities: Discovering the Beauty of Polynesian Culture
The Polynesian Cultural Center offers a variety of attractions and activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant cultures of the Pacific Islands.
One of the center’s main draws is its collection of island villages, which represent different Pacific Island cultures. These villages are staffed by cultural ambassadors who share their knowledge and traditions with visitors through interactive presentations, performances, and demonstrations.
The Six Villages
Visitors can explore six different island villages, each offering a unique glimpse into the customs and practices of the Pacific Islands:
The Hawaii village, for example, showcases the art of hula dancing and features demonstrations of traditional crafts such as lei making and lauhala weaving. If you want to have additional fun, try learning the hula dance.
The Samoa village offers a chance to witness the fiery spectacle of a traditional Samoan fire knife dance. You also see men climbing up coconut trees and get to learn how to start a fire the traditional way. Samoa is one of the most prominent cultures in the area.
While the Tonga village provides opportunities to learn about the ancient art of Tonga drumming as well as see cultural performances and learn games from Tonga you can take back home.
On the Island of Tahiti, this village presents dance presentations, pole fishing, and spear-throwing at coconuts. You can experience a Tahiti vacation right here in the North Shore!
At the Fiji Village, you get to have presentations, and live entertainment, learn how to make coconut oil, and the way of life in Fiji.
At the last village of Aotearoa which represents the Maori of New Zealand, you get to test out your agility with ancient games that the Natives of New Zealand played. You also get to watch artisans make weapons and learn about cooking preservation methods.
Other attractions and activities
In addition to the island villages, the Polynesian Cultural Center also offers a range of other attractions and activities. Visitors can take a canoe tour of the center’s lagoon and learn about the traditional voyaging practices of Pacific Islanders. They can also attend cultural presentations that provide insights into the daily lives of islanders, including cooking and food preparation techniques, tattooing practices, and even ancient navigation methods.
For those looking for a more hands-on experience, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers interactive activities such as learning to dance hula or playing island games. Visitors can also try their hand at traditional arts and crafts, including wood carving, coconut husking, and tī leaf weaving.
Overall, the Polynesian Cultural Center provides a rich and immersive experience that allows visitors to gain a deeper appreciation of the cultures, arts, and traditions of the Pacific Islands. With its diverse range of attractions and activities, there’s something for everyone at this unique and fascinating destination.
- Traditional arts and crafts demonstrations
- Canoe ride and cultural presentations
- Interactive experiences, such as learning to dance the hula or play island games
IV. Entertainment
One of the highlights of any visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center is the entertainment on offer. The center is home to a range of shows and performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Pacific Islands. This is a must for your trip because it is a fantastic show for a spectacular evening.
Perhaps the most well-known of these shows is “Ha: Breath of Life,” a theatrical production that tells the story of life in Polynesia through song, dance, and acrobatics. It really is a whole production with dancing, fire dancers, and acting.
This spectacular show features a talented cast of performers and takes audiences on a journey through the trials and triumphs of Polynesian life. “Ha: Breath of Life” is performed multiple times a week and is included in the price of general admission to the center.
In addition to “Ha: Breath of Life,” visitors can also enjoy a range of traditional music and dance performances from different Pacific Island cultures. These shows take place throughout the day in various locations around the center, with each performance offering a unique glimpse into the vibrant music and dance traditions of the Pacific Islands.
Tickets for the shows and performances at the Polynesian Cultural Center can be purchased in advance or on the day of your visit. Admission to “Ha: Breath of Life” is included in the price of general admission, but VIP tickets are also available for an additional fee, which includes preferred seating and a backstage tour.
V. Dining
After a day of exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Pacific Islands, visitors to the Polynesian Cultural Center can eat a range of delicious dining options. The center offers a variety of dining experiences to suit all tastes and budgets, from quick snacks to full-service luau buffets.
For those looking for a full-service dining experience, the award-winning Ali’i Luau is a must-try. This fantastic traditional Hawaiian feast features an extensive buffet with a wide selection of island favorites, including kalua pork, lomi salmon, and poi. Guests can also enjoy a range of salads, sides, and desserts, as well as unlimited soft drinks and tropical beverages. You get to experience this famous royal feast with live entertainment for the whole family. The Alii Luau is served nightly and offers two seating options.
For a more casual dining experience, the Polynesian Cultural Center also offers a range of quick service options. The Gateway Restaurant offers a variety of snacks and light meals, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options. Guests can also enjoy a range of tropical drinks and smoothies, as well as soft serve ice cream and shave ice.
VI. Shopping
The PCC is not only a great place to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Pacific Islands, but it’s also a great place to shop for unique and authentic souvenirs. Visitors to the center can explore a range of shops that offer traditional Pacific Island crafts, artwork, and clothing.
One of the most popular shopping options is the Hukilau Marketplace. Here, visitors can find a range of shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs, including handmade jewelry, wood carvings, and woven baskets. Guests can also browse a selection of Pacific Island artwork, including paintings, prints, and sculptures. Prices for items in the Marketplace can vary, depending on the size and complexity of the item, but visitors can expect to find souvenirs and gifts ranging from a few dollars to several hundred dollars.
For those looking for clothing and accessories reflecting Pacific Island cultures, the Island Treasures shop is a must-visit. This shop offers a range of items, including Hawaiian shirts, dresses, and sarongs, as well as jewelry, hats, and bags. Visitors can also find a range of musical instruments, such as ukuleles and nose flutes. Prices in Island Treasures can vary, but visitors can expect to find clothing items starting at around $20 and accessories ranging from a few dollars to several hundred dollars.
VII. Conclusion
The Polynesian Cultural Center is a must-visit destination for those interested in experiencing the rich and diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands when visiting Hawaii. You can find adventure in this vacation with tour rides of the Island and Canno rides. From exploring island villages and watching traditional arts and crafts demonstrations to enjoying interactive experiences like learning to dance hula or play island games, visitors can immerse themselves in the fascinating history and traditions of the region.
In addition to these attractions and activities, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers a range of entertaining shows and performances, including the “Ha: Breath of Life” theatrical production and traditional music and dance performances. Visitors can also indulge in delicious island cuisine at the luau buffet or enjoy quick service options for snacks and light meals.
For those looking to take home a piece of the Pacific Islands, the center’s Marketplace and Island Treasures shops offer a variety of traditional crafts, artwork, and clothing.
Overall, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers something for everyone, making it a perfect destination for families and individuals alike. So why not plan your visit today and experience the rich culture and traditions of the Pacific Islands firsthand? For additional tours guide, packages, and costs, keep reading below.
Tours, Packages, and Food ticket options
Super ambassador lūʻau package
- Private tour guide through 6 island villages
- Enjoy our award-winning Alii Luau buffet with live entertainment
- Platinum-level seating at “HA: Breath of Life” show
- Kukui nut lei greeting – Receive a warm greeting with a rare white kukui nut lei upon arrival
- Reserved seating at all village presentations
- Free preselected digital photo – Get a free digital souvenir photo with additional photos available for purchase
- Reserved Canoe tour – Enjoy reserved seating on our Super Ambassador double-hulled narrated canoe tours across our beautiful lagoon
- Free Smoothie – Free Smoothie at Aliʻi Lūʻau
- Free 3-day pass to our island villages (after initial visit)
- Alii Luau Buffet with live entertainment (seating begins at 4:40 pm) – award-winning Aliʻi Lūʻau is a royal celebration of our cultural heritage which includes the Royal Court procession, presentation of the imu (underground oven), delicious traditional food, and lively Hawaiian entertainment held in a covered outdoor venue against a background of waterfalls and lush gardens
- Flower lei greeting at the luau – Be greeted with a fresh orchid lei as you enter the lūʻau
- Platinum-level seating at “HĀ: Breath of Life” evening show
aliʻi lūʻau package
- Group tour guide through 6 authentic island villages
- Enjoy our award-winning Alii Luau buffet with live entertainment
- Gold-level seating at “HA: Breath of Life” show
- Free pre-selected digital photo
- Free 3 day pass
Gateway Buffet Package
- 3 day pass admissions
- Silver-level seating at “HĀ: Breath of Life” evening show
- Gateway Buffet dinner with live music
Islands of Polynesia & ha: breath of life package
- 3-Day admission
- Seating for Ha: Breath of Life show
- Dinner not included
Islands of Polynesia
- Park admission only
Oahu Circle Island Tour
Polynesian Cultural Center Tours
Oahu Circle Island Tour Schedule:
6:45 am
Depart Waikiki
6:45 am -12:30 pm
Narrated historical and cultural tour of the beautiful island of Oahu.
12:30 pm
Arrive at Polynesian Cultural Center
6:30 pm or 9:30 pm
Return to Waikiki from PCC
Other things to do in Oahu
- Visit Pearl Harbor
- Learn about Rapa Nui people of Easter Island at the PCC
- Spend the day exploring North Shore Beaches and food
Frequently Asked Questions
The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is an interactive theme park and living museum located in the Laie area of Oahu, Hawaii. Opened in 1963, it is the largest living cultural center of its kind in the world. It is dedicated to celebrating the cultures and traditions of the Pacific Islands and educating visitors.
The Polynesian Cultural Center is open from Monday through Saturday from 12:30 pm to 9 p.m., with their last admission being at 6:00 p.m. The center is closed on Sundays and some holidays such as Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, and Thanksgiving Day. Special events may also impact admissions.
The cost of admission varies by what package you would like such as dinner and shows. Buying ahead of time also gets you a discount.
The Polynesian Cultural Center offers a variety of activities that allow visitors to experience the rich culture and heritage of the Pacific Islands. The center has six separate villages, each representing a different culture from across Polynesia. Guests can take part in hands-on activities such as making traditional crafts, playing games, hula dancing, eating, and more.
