We thought that the Old Lahaina Luau sounded very nice, but it was just over an hour from the condo to Lahaina and write-ups say it is not as good as it used to be. The second place we researched was the Feast at Lele. This is a very personal luau. You are seated at your own table and the food is brought to you. It is not as crowded and the show is great. The reasons we didn’t choose that one was the price ($99 times 11 people!), and again it was in Lahaina. We will definitely consider The Feast at Lele on our next visit, though.

We arrived at the hotel at 5:30pm. They take a picture of your group with a Polynesian dancer, "lei" you with a shell lei, and then seat you. The Luau is set on a beautiful grassy area overlooking the ocean. You are encouraged to stroll around the grounds. The sunset was spectacular.

They have a Hawaiian band playing when you arrive. You have an opportunity to try out a few local customs, such as the many ways to wear traditional clothing, learn how to swing those pompom balls attached to a cord (boy, I sure can’t remember what they are called, and I couldn’t get them to work the way they can), and then watch them dig the Kalua Pig from the Imu.

Then comes the dinner. This is an all-you-can-eat buffet, and they even use platters instead of plates. Make sure you come hungry. The menu is on the website. My favorite item was the charbroiled teriyaki steaks. The drinks are free.

The entertainment starts after the dishes have been cleared. The show was a journey through the history of the islands. Anyone who was willing was invited up on the stage to learn the hula and a few other dances. This was a hoot. The evening ends with the Samoan Fire Knife Dance, and it was great to watch.

At the end of the evening, they have your group picture available. This makes a wonderful remembrance from your evening.

Don’t pass up going to a luau. I do recommend going to one, but pick the one that suits your location and style.