Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu, Hawaii
The Polynesian Cultural Center, which attracts 1 million visitors a year, is the state’s top paid visitor attraction. It has earned its reputation many times over.
Spread over 42 acres in La’ie on Oahu’s northeastern shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a full-day experience with plenty to do and see for the entire family.
For nearly 50 years, the Center has delivered exotic customs, cultures and traditions of ancient Polynesia. Visitors can “Go Native” and test their skills in Tahitian spear throwing, a New Zealand war dance and other Polynesian cultural practices. Visitors are part of the show at PCC.
The Center was founded in 1963 by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to help support student attendance at the church’s nearby college, Brigham Young University-Hawaii. It features Pacific Island villages, an extravagant evening show with a cast of 100 native performers called Horizons, a canoe pageant, an award-winning luau, an arts and handicrafts marketplace and an IMAX theater.
It is designed to celebrate the people and culture of the Polynesian islands, which range from New Zealand in the south and Easter Island in the far east, to Hawaii in the north, and include islands like Samoa, Tonga, the Cook Islands and Fiji.
The Ali’i Luau, which is Hawaii’s largest and most authentic luau, is set against a backdrop of waterfalls and lush gardens. The venue features talented dancers and musicians, in addition to fresh flower leis for each guest.
In October 2013, the PCC was proud to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
One of the most successful cultural theme attractions in the world, the Polynesian Cultural Center skillfully blends education with entertainment.
The Center also offers visitors a choice of several restaurants for dining plus a wide range of gifts, souvenirs and authentic Polynesian handicrafts.
The Polynesian Cultural Center is open from 11:45 to 9:15 p.m. daily except Sundays. Island villages opens at 12:05 p.m.
Note, there is no longer a charge for parking at the PCC grounds.
Photo credit – Polynesian Cultural Center
