If your priority is to put money toward smaller businesses, have a great time, and learn something along the way...this is your activity. I've been to a couple obligatory luaus in the past which are always nice and fun and fancy but over the years I was hoping to find something smaller, and that would honor the cultures tied to the experience. Toa luau came up in my searches and the appeal for me was that it's family run as opposed to a big corporation or a large religion, it's located in waimea valley which from previous experiences features cultural demonstrations and I hoped this might indicate how the luau would go, and if course the positive reviews.
There's a main parking area right at the visitor center area with overflow parking about a five minute walk down the road on the approach to the visitor center. Drive past all the little lots that say beach parking to reach those two lots.
Check in happens at the waimea valley ticket booth which is just past the visitor center area. I visited in March, left Waikiki area by car around 1, and had enough time to stop at Matsumoto's shave ice, and then do a quick paced walk to the waterfall in waimea valley, and get back to the ticket area/ visitor center area at 445 on the dot for check in to the luau. My suspicion is in the summer months traffic on the north shore might be worse and that timing won't work. Bring your proof of reservation to park and show at the ticket area for free entry into the valley. Gather on the porch area near the visitor center restrooms since that's where they'll let people in.
They'll check you in and give you drink tickets, along with your lei, and then direct you outside from the covered dining area to the grassy space. They'll have four to six stations setup to watch and participate in. The demonstrators are engaging and are great working with children as well.
As mentioned in the reviews, the host is spot on. He has the humor and skill to hold and audience's attention and also, along the way he slips in a narrative that shares about traditions, family, and all around culture. He also dispels a lot of myths perpetuated by media and honestly some other luaus, in a humorous and gentle way.
The food is great with more available upon request but...I was definitely stuffed with one plate. Plate included chicken, pork, salad with macademia nut dressing, roll, rice, macaroni salad, fresh fruit variety, haupia, and cake from Ted's bakery. I had added a note in my reservation that I needed a dairy free plate and a nut allergy plate. I didn't know if they'd accommodate and had simply planned to ask once I arrived what my family could eat but the servers had separate plates set up already. Fancy food? No. Solid really good option, definitely. Drinks are available at the bar including options for kids.
You are assigned to a table with about 9 people each. I purchased the silver ticket and was pleasantly surprised that the back tables are bar height with bar stools so even my short 7 year old could see the performance no problem at all.
I loved that the program tells more about the music and instruments, something often missed in other luaus. The program also distinguishes well between the dances and traditions from different Polynesian islands. It's not just a single mention... it's a quick dive into past tradition and often something more current about the place or nation.
The demonstrators and performers are tremendous. They are the same people serving as well. This is ..a lot of work for the crew.
My 7 year old was engaged the entire time, even though we were a little jet lagged. Starting out the evening from about 5-6 with time to move around outside and also the ability to go outside if kiddo finished eating dinner was great.
I would highly, highly recommend the Toa Luau. They've only been around for four years. I hope they'll be able to keep the smaller, intimate setting. The size is perfect for everyone to participate and easily see what's happening.
Thanks Toa Luau and Billy for your time and energy and commitment to the visitor and the many cultures across Polynesia. There's a main parking area right at the visitor center area with overflow parking about a five minute walk down the road on the approach to the visitor center. Drive past all the little lots that say beach parking to reach those two lots.