Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center, which attracts 1 million visitors a year, is the state’s top paid visitor attraction. It has earned its reputation many times over.

Spread over 42 acres in La’ie on Oahu’s northeastern shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a full-day experience with plenty to do and see for the entire family.

For nearly 50 years, the Center has delivered exotic customs, cultures and traditions of ancient Polynesia. Visitors can “Go Native” and test their skills in Tongan spear throwing, a New Zealand war dance and other Polynesian cultural practices. Visitors are part of the show at PCC.

The Center was founded in 1963 by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to help support student attendance at the church’s nearby college, Brigham Young University-Hawaii. It features Pacific Island villages, an extravagant evening show with a cast of 100 native performers called Horizons, a canoe pageant, an award-winning luau, an arts and handicrafts marketplace and an IMAX theater.

It is designed to celebrate the people and culture of the Polynesian islands, which range from New Zealand in the south and Easter Island in the far east, to Hawaii in the north, and include islands like Samoa, Tonga, the Cook Islands and Fiji.

The Ali’i Luau, Hawaii’s largest and most authentic luau, is set against a backdrop of waterfalls and lush gardens. It features dancers, musicians and fresh flower leis for each guest.

One of the most successful cultural theme attractions in the world, the Polynesian Cultural Center skillfully blends education with entertainment. The Center offers a choice of several restaurants and a wide range of gifts, souvenirs and Polynesian handicrafts.

The Polynesian Cultural Center is open from 12:30 to 9 p.m. daily except Sundays. Island villages open at 1 p.m.

For a great selection of places to stay with discount prices, visit Hawaii Hotels for more information.

Tagged as: Hawaii, luau, Oahu, Polynesian Cultural Center