Adventure Tips for the Polynesian Cultural Center

| Hawai'i Travel Tips

Your Guide to Visiting the PCC

Planning your visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center? Here are 10 helpful tips to make the most of your day with us!

1. Prepare for Rain

Hawaii, Oahu, North Shore, Surfer exiting water admires a beautiful, bright rainbow. Photo courtesy of Huffington Post
Hawaii, Oahu, North Shore, Surfer exiting water admires a beautiful, bright rainbow. Photo courtesy of Huffington Post

Bring a rain parka or umbrella (or purchase one at one of our many stores). We are on the windward side of the island and can have showers on the sunniest of days. It’s what makes us clean and green! Rain can last a handful of minutes or throughout the day. Our lūʻau and evening show venues are covered, so you won’t get rained out, ever!

2. Easily Plan Your Day with Polynesian Cultural Center App

The Polynesian Cultural Center application map view on a phone, with QR codes to download.
Get the Polynesian Cultural Center's map on your phone!

Download our app for an easy-to-follow GPS map, a schedule of presentations, cultural insights, and so much more. Free through Google Play and Apple’s App Store.

3. Dress Comfortably

 Woman and man modeling local apparel on the beach.

In Hawaiʻi, it’s common to dress up with an aloha shirt and slippahs (flip-flops). Be aware that we are mainly an outdoor venue and that it can be very hot and/or rainy. Men should wear a shirt, and all should wear comfortable walking shoes. If you wear bathing suits, please use a cover-up! To find a cute cover-up, aloha shirt, or slippahs, visit one of our on-site stores.

4. Bring Sunscreen

Bottle of coconut oil sun care.
Just in case you can’t bring your own, we do sell sunscreen at the Center. In any case, be prepared!

Oftentimes, some of our guests come or leave with bright pink faces. Most of our venue is outdoors, and even when it is cloudy, the use of sunblock is highly recommended. For your benefit, remember to apply it throughout the day. 

5. Arrive at Pick-Up Point Early

Bus for the Polynesian Cultural Center at the south parking lot.
One of the mini-buses for the Polynesian Cultural Center

If you purchased transportation from Waikīkī to the PCC, please arrive at your designated pick-up point 10 minutes early. There may be multiple shuttles arriving. Please check with the driver to confirm which shuttle you are assigned to. If you have any difficulties or questions, call us at (808) 293-3333.

6. Come Early and Get a Full Day!

Lady weaving lauhala bark
Guests can learn to weave using lauhala tree bark. Photo by Melinda Pike.

We have over 16 hours’ worth of activities and shows. Many of our guests tell us they did not get to experience everything. A full-day package comes with a free 3-day pass, so you can make the most of it! 

7. Expect to Walk

Graphic map layout of the Polynesian Cultural Center.
Map of the Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center spans 42 acres of beauty, fun, and culture. Bring walking shoes! However, if you need assistance, we have electric scooters, wheelchairs, and strollers for rent.

8. Drink Lots of Water!

 Water from a drinking fountain
We have water fountains and sell water bottles, if you didn’t bring a bottle. Stay hydrated! Photo by Rebecca Sabalones.

This is very important. Hawaiʻi temperatures average between 75–82 degrees year-round, and the humidity is often high. Plan accordingly by drinking water beforehand and bringing your favorite water bottle. Forgot one? No worries! We have water fountains and plenty of shops and kiosks throughout the Center where you can purchase a bottle.

9. Check Your Tickets When You Arrive

Aliʻi Lūʻau and show tickets
Tickets indicate when, where, and seating for your lūʻau and show.

Your tickets will indicate what time your dinner begins, so please check them carefully upon your arrival so that you can plan your day accordingly:

  • Aliʻi Lūʻau: 4:40 pm - 6:30 pm at the Hale Aloha & Hale Ohana.
  • Gateway Buffet: Doors open at 4:30 p.m - 7:00 pm at our Gateway Restaurant.

10. Find Your Seats Before the Show Starts

A view of the several rows of seats inside the Polynesian Cultural Center's Pacific Theatre.
Pacific Theater seating

Our evening show, Hā: Breath of Life, seating begins at 7:00 p.m. Show starts at 7:30 p.m.

Have fun and share your best memories during and after your visit using our hashtag: #polynesianculturalcenter

Don’t forget to review us on your favorite social media platform (Facebook, Instagram, Google, etc.) or on TripAdvisor and others!