What to wear to a luau

There is no strict dress code at any Oahu luau, but there is a comfortable one: resort casual, for a warm evening outdoors on grass. Here is what to wear, what to leave at the hotel, and the small points of luau etiquette.

The easy formula

Men: an aloha shirt or a light short-sleeved shirt, shorts or light trousers, sandals. Women: a sundress, a skirt and top, or light trousers, with flat sandals. Kids: whatever they are comfortable in, plus a spare layer. Bright colors and floral prints are traditional and look great in photos, but nobody checks. Many visitors buy an aloha shirt or dress in Waikiki for the occasion.

What not to wear, and is black OK?

Black is fine; there is no rule against it, although lighter colors are cooler in the late-afternoon heat. Skip high heels (most luaus are on grass or sand), anything you would be sad to spill kalua pork on, and heavy or formal clothes. At Toa Luau, bring swimwear and a towel if you want to swim at Waimea Falls before the luau. Evenings by the ocean get breezy after sunset, so pack a light cardigan or jacket and bug spray.

Luau etiquette

Accept the lei with thanks and wear it through the evening; it is impolite to take it off in front of the giver. Join in when the hosts invite guests on stage; it is part of the fun. Keep your phone below head height during the show so the people behind you can see (a common complaint in reviews). Tips are usually not included: about 10 percent at a buffet luau, 15 percent with table service, and about $1 per bar drink is the common guideline. Bring some cash. For the rest of the planning, see plan your visit and our luau prices guide.