Ka oha is the greeting of affection shared by the Polynesian people of the Marquesas — a beautiful group of high-rise tropical islands near the equator that may not be as well known as other parts of Polynesia...at least at first.

The Marquesas, which today are part of French Polynesia, were once heavily populated with a highly advanced Polynesian culture. The people had their own language and unique customs. Marquesan tattooing and carving, for example, are distinctive in design. The ancestors of some Hawaiians are known to have migrated from there. Western artists such as Paul Gauguin and Herman Melville were inspired by the beauty of the people and place; and the Marquesan tohua, or ceremonial platform that has been carefully recreated at the Polynesian Cultural Center, is exquisite.

Feature presentations:
Five times each afternoon — at 1:00, 2:00, 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30 — the Marquesan's present fascinating insights into their ancient culture:

The Marquesas will enchant you with their ancient style of dancing: You can definitely see the sounds and motions of nature in their choreography, and you won't want to miss the pig hunt dance. Temporary tattoos are one of the most popular things to acquire there; and along with demonstrations of weaving and other crafts, the Marquesan's also share samples of breadfruit in season. Discover what it tastes like.

The tohua:
Unlike other parts of the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Marquesas islands area does not represent a typical village, but rather a high chief's residential compound that centuries ago would have been the focal point of a village, or a chiefly plaza of sorts where important events took place.

The Marquesan tohua, which is unique throughout Polynesia, consists of the Hakaiki or chief's residence, the Ha'e Ko'o'ua or "old men's house," a drumming platform, the Ha'e Patu Tiki or "tattooing house," the Ha'e Tukau or "religious sanctuary," a Ha'e Toa or "warrior's house," the Ha'e Manihi'i or "guest house," the Ha'e Vehine for women and children, a medicine hut and a Ha'e Kuki cooking area.

Learn more about the Marquesas