Polynesian Cultural Center

The basics

The Polynesian Cultural Center features distinct exhibition areas covering the islands of Hawaii, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Fiji, Samoa, Tahiti, Tonga, and Rapa Nui (Easter island). Full-day Polynesian Cultural Center tickets grant full access to the site, a dinner experience with a luau option, and the thrilling “Ha: Breath of Life” night show, or half-day afternoon tickets for access to one island village, dinner, and the night show.

Many travelers also visit as part of a circle island tour of Oahu, which may also stop at other notable sites such as the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Diamond Head, or the Dole Plantation.

Things to know before you go

• All major areas are wheelchair accessible, and American Sign Language interpreters are available for most shows. Wheelchairs and scooters can be rented on site for an additional fee.

• A number of gift shops and restaurants are set throughout the park, including the main Hukilau Marketplace.

• A limited number of foreign-language tours are offered.

• Lockers are available on a first-come, first-served basis and run from.

• While cameras are welcome around the site, photos and video are not allowed during the “Ha: Breath of Life” show.

How to get there

The Polynesian Cultural Center is set in the North Shore town of Laie, about 38 miles (61 kilometers) or one hour from Waikiki Beach in Honolulu by road. Most travelers drive independently or choose a Polynesian Cultural Center tours that include round-trip transportation. Free parking is available on site.

When to get there

The Polynesian Cultural Center is open Monday to Saturday from 11:45am to 9pm. The island villages are open from 12-5:30pm, and canoe rides are available until 6pm. Dining begins at 5:30pm and the evening show, “Ha: Breath of Life,” runs from 7:30 to 9pm. Because the center offers so many activities, it’s best to plan what you’d like to see and allot your time accordingly.

Circle Island tours

Because the Polynesian Cultural Center is open in the afternoon, many full-day circle island tours spend the morning visiting sites on Oahu’s east and north shores such as Waimea Bay and the Halona Blowhole before arriving at the center around noon. If you’d like to experience the nighttime events including dinner and the show, choose an extended circle island tour that includes the evening entertainment.

Can you visit the Polynesian Cultural Center without a luau?

Yes. You can visit the Polynesian Cultural Center without buying a full-day luau package. Alternatives include a self-guided Islands of Polynesia tour that showcases the six island villages, or the Gateway Buffet, which includes a village tour and buffet dinner. Some Oahu island excursions also just cover the center’s villages.

What time should I get to the Polynesian Cultural Center?

If you’ve booked any Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) package, you need to check in when it opens at 12:30pm. If you’re there just for the Ha: Breath of Life show, arrive by 7pm. To extend your visit, consider eating out or shopping at the PCC’s Hukilau Marketplace, open from 12pm.

How long does it take to walk around the Polynesian Cultural Center?

The Polynesian Cultural Center encompasses six Polynesian island villages dotted around 42 acres (17 hectares) of tropical gardens—so expect to do some serious walking. Getting to the villages and enjoying their cultural activities and presentations, can take anything from 4-5 hours depending on your pace.

Is there free parking at the Polynesian Cultural Center?

Yes, you can park for free at the Polynesian Cultural Center, in the large parking lots by the main gate. People with mobility difficulties or who use wheelchairs will find accessible spaces near the center entrance. Electric vehicle charging stations, available on a first come first served basis, are also in the lots.

What should you not miss at the Polynesian Cultural Center?

You shouldn’t miss the Polynesian island villages: Each is a unique cultural experience. Highlights include hula dancing at Hawaii, drummers at Tonga, and seeing Samoa’s coconut collectors shimmy up palm trees. Other musts include lagoon canoe tours, the luau feast, and the spectacular Ha: Breath of Life show, featuring dance, music, and fire knives.

Do you need a reservation for the Polynesian Cultural Center?

No, but booking in advance is strongly recommended. First, you can claim discounts for booking select packages at least 10 days ahead. Second, many packages, including those featuring the luau buffet or Ha: Breath of Life show, sell out quickly, so prebooking secures your spot on your chosen day.

Ways to explore

The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) introduces visitors to six distinct “villages”—exhibition areas that highlight the cultures of Hawaii, New Zealand, Fiji, Samoa, Tahiti, and Tonga—by showcasing each island’s traditional architecture, music, and dance. Full-day tickets grant full access to the site and seats for the thrilling HĀ: Breath of Life show; upgraded options include a buffet dinner with live music or a luau dinner experience.

Many travelers visit as part of a circle-island tour of Oahu, which may also stop at other notable sites such as the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Diamond Head, and the Dole Plantation.

Accessibility

The PCC is accessible to visitors with mobility, hearing, and visual disabilities. Wheelchairs are available to rent, and service animals are welcome.

Age limits

There are no age restrictions; children under 4 receive free admission.

What to pack

Sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, refillable water bottle, camera

What to wear

Dress comfortably for the weather and wear footwear that you can walk around in. Visitors are not allowed to wear bathing suits or any clothing that may be considered offensive.

Not allowed

Guests are not allowed to take photographs or video during the HĀ: Breath of Life show.

Amenities

Gift stores, storage lockers with power outlets (for a fee), Wi-Fi

Address

The PCC is on Oahu’s North Shore, in the town of Laie, which is around 38 miles (61 kilometers) or one hour from Waikiki. There are multiple ways to get there, including rental car, bus, and a PCC-operated shuttle.

Driving

From Waikiki, take H‑1 W. Exit onto Likelike Highway (Route 63), then turn onto Kahekili Highway, which becomes Kamehameha Highway (Route 83); continue north to Laie. Free parking is available on-site.

Public transportation

From Ala Moana Center or downtown Honolulu, take TheBus Route 60 and get off at the Laie/Polynesian Cultural Center stop, a short walk from the center. The journey takes around 80 minutes.

Best times to visit

The center opens at noon; plan to get there around then so that you can spend the whole day exploring the villages. Hā: Breath of Life is in the evening.

Best days to visit

Mondays and Thursdays are typically the quietest. The center is closed on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Best months to visit

Hawaii’s shoulder seasons—April to early June and September to early November—promise the smallest crowds and good weather.

Special events

The center hosts special events throughout the year, including a lei-making contest on Lei Day (May 1).