Best on Oʻahu 2026: Polynesian Cultural Center Wins Magazine Awards
The Polynesian Cultural Center has been recognized by both the HONOLULU Magazine and HAWAI’I Magazine in their 2026 readers' choice awards, celebrating some of Oʻahu's best visitor experiences.
These honors reflect the Polynesian Cultural Center’s commitment to sharing and preserving Polynesian cultures through storytelling, dance, and immersive experiences.
2026 Magazine Readers' Choice Awards at a Glance
- Best Lūʻau on Oʻahu: Aliʻi Lūʻau (HAWAI'I Magazine)
- Best Outdoor Adventure Activity: Polynesian Cultural Center (HONOLULU Magazine)
- Best Place to Play Tourist: Polynesian Cultural Center (HONOLULU Magazine)
- Best Place to Experience Cultural Activities: Polynesian Cultural Center (HONOLULU Magazine)
- Second Place, Best Live Show (Not a Lūʻau): HĀ: Breath of Life (HAWAI'I Magazine)
- Second Place, Best Guided Tour: Polynesian Cultural Center (HAWAI'I Magazine)
HONOLULU Magazine Names the Center Among Oʻahu's Best Experiences 2026
HONOLULU Magazine’s annual Best of HONOLULU awards recognize standout places, businesses, and experiences across the island. In 2026, the Polynesian Cultural Center received recognition in its Entertainment & Leisure and Best of HONOLULU Family categories.
Best Outdoor Adventure Activity and Best Place to Play Tourist
The Polynesian Cultural Center was named both "Best Outdoor Adventure Activity" and "Best Place to Play Tourist" in the Entertainment & Leisure category of the 2026 HONOLULU Magazine. We also were finalists for the title "Best Place to Take Out-of-Towners."
Across 42 acres, the Center recreates traditional Polynesian villages that immerse you in your own island journey. Explore six island villages, enjoy an authentic Lūʻau dinner, and cap off the day with an evening show of traditional dances from across the Pacific.
Best Place to Experience Cultural Activities
The Polynesian Cultural Center also won "Best Place to Experience Cultural Activities" in the Best of Honolulu Family 2026 category. Families can enjoy hands-on activities in each of the Center’s six Polynesian villages, along with live cultural presentations.
HAWAI'I Magazine Readers Name Ali'i Lūʻau the Best Lūʻau on Oʻahu 2026
The HAWAI'I Magazine has been sharing stories of the Islands since 1984, helping travelers to love and respect Hawai'i the same ways locals do. It highlights authentic experiences in rich and rooted storytelling.
The Polynesian Cultural Center’s Ali’i Lūʻau was named “Best Lūʻau” on Oʻahu in the Best Outdoor Adventures on Oʻahu category by HAWAI’I Magazine. This royal celebration includes an imu (underground oven) ceremony, a traditional Hawaiian feast, and live Hawaiian dances set to music composed by Queen Lili’uokalani.
Second Place: Best Guided Tour and Best Live Show (not a Lūʻau)
Our evening show, HĀ: Breath of Life, took second place for “Best Live Show (not a Lūʻau).” The show blends traditional Polynesian dances, a fire-knife performance, and a moving story about family, love, and the islands.
The Polynesian Cultural Center also earned second place for “Best Guided Tour.” The Ali’i Lūʻau package includes a group tour, while the Super Ambassador package offers a private guided tour and premium seating for the village cultural presentations and the HĀ: Breath of Life evening show.
Experience an Award-Winning Visit at the Polynesian Cultural Center
Plan your visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center in Lāʻie and experience these award-winning cultural activities, dining, and entertainment for yourself. Explore our ticket packages and discover all the Center’s 2026 awards.