Polynesian Culture Center
Arts & Culture · Laie, HI
About
This venue is best suited for travelers interested in an educational, family-friendly exploration of Polynesian cultures. The Polynesian Culture Center is a 42-acre theme park owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with simulations of ancient societies and frequent live dance and music shows. Staffed largely by students from BYU-Hawaii, it offers a crash course in the diverse cultures of Polynesia, from New Zealand to Easter Island.
Plan a full day to explore the grounds and catch the main stage performances. The center is located on Oahu's North Shore, accessible by car or tour from Waikiki. Note that the Mormon affiliation, while part of the experience, may influence the presentation of cultural elements. If you have extra time, consider pairing your visit with a trip to the nearby Bishop Museum for a deeper dive into Hawaiian history.
Located in Honolulu on the North Shore of Oahu, the center is a short drive from Waikiki and accessible via many tours.
Features
- ✓Walk-through simulations of ancient Polynesian cultures
- ✓Live dance and music performances throughout the day
- ✓Multiple dining options on-site
- ✓Educational exhibits on Maori, Tahiti, and more
Practical
What people say
Rated from 2,559 reviews. 2 community ratings. View this venue on Yelp
From the community
An expensive but wonderful way to spend a day. It's educational, interactive, and fun, with many uplifting experiences showcasing Polynesian culture.
A visitor · Over a year ago
“Mormon owned.”
This could be a great place to visit if not for the fact that it is owned and funded by the Mormon church.
A guest · Over a year ago
“Get a taste of Polynesia”
It seems like a theme park, but it's actually an educational center that teaches tourists about the various cultures of Polynesia. Many people only think of Hawaii or Tahiti, but Polynesia includes many islands from the Maori in New Zealand to Papua New Guinea to Easter Island. Different sections of the park are dedicated to each culture, and there is a show on the main stage where you can see dances and war chants. The center is run by the Mormon church and staffed by many students from BYU-Hawaii. I would recommend visiting at least once during a trip to Oahu. It is on the North Shore; you can drive or take one of the many tours from Waikiki.
A recent visitor · Over a year ago
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours of operation? +
The Polynesian Culture Center is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 12:15 pm to 9 pm. It is closed on Wednesdays and Sundays.
Is the venue LGBTQ+-friendly? +
The center is owned by the Mormon church and may reflect its values, but it is generally welcoming to all visitors. Some reviews note the religious affiliation as a consideration.
What is the ticket price? +
The price tier is expensive ($$$$). Exact ticket prices are not provided; check their website for current rates.
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