‘Lu‘au Kalamaku’ at Kilohana a true Hawaiian experience

Visitors love a Hawaiian lu‘au. But locals surely wouldn’t miss an opportunity to attend a lu‘au, especially when it’s such a visually breathtaking and culturally rich show. We checked out “Lu‘au Kalamaku,” at Kilohana Plantation, and had a top-notch experience.

The evening started at 5 p.m., catching a ride on the Kaua‘i Plantation Railway. A humorous tale of old plantation days by Brandon Rose kept everyone amused.

Back on the lu‘au grounds, an open-bar with tropical drinks and local beer quenched the thirst for local spirits. Outside on the lawn, local artisans sold their art.

At exactly 6:15 p.m. the Imu ceremony showed how Hawaiians used to roast pigs: inside deep pits layered with burning lava rocks covered with banana leaves. The tradition is still practiced today.

Fifteen minutes later everyone was already comfortable on their assigned seats, enjoying their dinner, complete with coffee and dessert. Live music and traditional hula kept the merriment going.

Right at 7:30 p.m. the main show started. Lu‘au Kalamaku is an amazing theatrical tale of Polynesian migration, exploring true stories of the epic voyages from Tahiti to Kaua‘i, and mixing them with fantastic Polynesian beliefs.

Whether a tourist or a born-and-raised local, the lu‘au is for everyone. The show teaches some Hawaiian history while mesmerizing the audience. The food, all based on Hawaiian cuisine, is delicious and abundant.

Lu‘au Kalamaku happens every Tuesday and Friday. The prices are affordable, and the whole evening is well worth it, and kama‘ainas have a special 25 percent off discount from the regular rates. For reservations, call 877-622-1780. The local reservation number is 245-5247.