We waited too long to reserve the top favorites of the Maui luau circuit (according to the reviews and travel rankings), so we booked the standard seating of the Sheraton Luau through a local travel group. We had previously attended the Sheraton Luau, let’s just say ‘several’ years ago; and we tried the Feist at Lei Lei too in the past. So we were glad to see positive reviews about the Sheraton and we were excited to have a fun night ahead.
Either way, we showed up early to help our party of 6 get a good seat for the standard seating. Remember to bring your parking voucher to the ticket table, for credit ($5 valet and $2 lot with credit). Standard seating is first come and first seated and buffeted. Haha. Everyone stands in a line across the lawn sidewalk. One thing about the Sheraton Luau to remember is that it occurs in the middle of the grass lawn between the hotel and the beach. Very little coverage from the sun. I would suggest bringing in a small umbrella (as we did) to keep the sun and heat from your party while you await dinner and the show.
They are very prompt about the line starting on time and being seated quickly. The ticket lady wasn’t very friendly, but the rest of the staff was awesome. The male and female bartenders and dance crews were friendly, welcoming and appeared to have fun all night. We were joking with several of them and were impressed how hard they were working for our entertainment. As for drinks, they offered pina colada’s, Mai Tai’s, an open bar with lower end hard liquors as soon as you get through the gate. The drinks were not that strong, except at the open bar where tipping helped the pours. But overall, with temperatures at 85+ degrees, ice cold water was the best choice.
Back to the Luau, the food was incredible, from simple salads, breads, and desserts to the Ahi Poke, Shredded Pork (‘cooked in the pit’ and part of the show), Fresh Fish, and Chicken, Steak. Honestly, the food was very fresh and tasted great. The lines and process moved quickly. The entire night was well executed and fun.
The show included dancing, fire shows, singing, and audience participation. It was a great show. I do have to say that we were lucky to have 4 other great people join us to complete our table of ten in the 3rd row. Bob, Suzanne, from Arizona and Bill and Brittany from California. Bill was popping the question the next day so hopefully things went well!
In a nutshell, Sheraton Luau was great for us this year and I would recommend it. Dress casually but comfortably, Valet Park at the Hotel, bring your parking stub for credit, get their early to get a better table in the front rows (rows 1-2 are priority only), bring a little umbrella, talk to others at your table, have someone take your picture (their pictures are too expensive), and then have a great night.
Thanks for a fun night Sheraton Luau crew. We loved it and will be looking to return the next time we visit. Great job!