Polynesian Cultural Center (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Polynesian Cultural Center?
What makes it 90% Kids-Friendly: Interactive villages, canoe paddling, Huki pageant, and fire-knife finale thrill 4-12s; safe flat walkways and half-price dinners help parents, yet late 9 pm finish can tire kids.
Positives:
- Free for kids under 4: Children under 4 enter at no charge for daytime activities and shows.
- Stroller-friendly paths: Flat, shaded walkways make it easy to navigate with a stroller.
Challenges:
- Limited highchairs: Bring a child seat harness; on-site highchairs fill up quickly.
- Sun exposure: Wear sunscreen and hats; many exhibits are outdoors.
What is Polynesian Cultural Center?
- A nonprofit cultural center on Oahu devoted to preserving and showcasing the traditional arts and customs of Polynesian island societies.
- Comprising seven recreated villages that illustrate island-specific architecture, crafts and communal practices drawn from across the Pacific.
- Anchored by artisan workshops and choreographed performances that embody the historical narratives and living traditions of Polynesian cultures.
What is so special about Polynesian Cultural Center for with kids?
- Hands-on cultural demos in six island villages
- Colorful Huki canoe pageant on the lagoon
- Guided canoe rides perfect for kids
- Stroller-friendly paths and tram tour
- Free admission for children under 4
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: 3–4 hours lets families explore all villages, take canoe tours and catch the pageant without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Polynesian Cultural Center
Interactive Village Exhibits:
Visit all six island villages for spear-throwing, weaving and ukulele demos.
Tip: Go to the Fiji and Tahiti villages first to avoid midday crowds.
Huki Canoe Pageant:
Watch the 12:40 PM lagoon show with traditional outrigger canoes.
Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early for seating along the water’s edge.
Lagoon Canoe Ride:
Paddle across the lagoon on a guided double-hulled canoe.
Tip: Have kids wear life jackets and bring a change of clothes.
Village Dance Demos:
Join ukulele sing-alongs and hula demos in the Hawai‘i Village.
Tip: Let kids clap along and meet student performers afterward.
Laie & Temple Tram Tour:
Take the short tram to Laie Point and stop for photos.
Tip: Use the tram as a rest for little legs between villages.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Polynesian Cultural Center
- Use the tram: Hop on the Laie tram to rest tired legs between villages.
- Beat the crowds: Start at the back villages (Fiji, Tahiti) to avoid peak crowds.
Reviews of Polynesian Cultural Center
Ashley Leopold
First off I wanna say this is a full day experience! Give yourself plenty of time! Each of the villages have different things to offer. I will say some are more interesting than others. As far as the workers go, I felt like some of them were super nice, but others seemed disinterested and not super friendly, which was kind of disappointing. It was super cool to learn about all the different cultu...
Norman Dollar
I highly recommend the super ambassador tour. It is well worth the extra money and you get a wonderful experience. The entire area is wonderful as you move through the different islands and learn about each individual culture. The dinner is amazing with wonderful food and a great treat drink. After dinner you get an absolutely fantastic show. I don't want to go into too much detail as to not spoil...
Tom Johnson
The Polynesian Cultural Center is vibrant, impressive -- there's no denying the talent of the dancers and performers. The music, shows, and "warrior" demonstrations are entertaining and captivating. Good if you're looking for a lively, culturally-themed show. However, I felt it was more of a Disneyland theme park than a truly educational one. The focus seemed skewed toward music, dance, and dram...
Hazel Hoy
Had a great experience with the family at Polynesian culture. I loved that there were so many different activities you could partake in the individual islands. The buffet was also great at accommodating a very large group seating in the same table or close to each other. The buffet food has great selection and were delicious. And the Ha: Breath of life show afterwards was incredible to see as well...
Brandi Gilbert
This was my second time (my family’s first) and it was just as amazing! We caught the charter bus close to our hotel, the driver was funny and informative. The PCC itself was beautiful. We did a guided group tour- our tour guide was very entertaining and helpful. The only thing I wish was that we could have seen all the villages in the day, but it was still a wonderful experience. The luau and foo...
When is the best time to visit Polynesian Cultural Center (Hawaii, United States)?
Shows and village schedules change on Sundays, Wednesdays and major holidays. Summer months are busy; arrive early. Pack a light rain jacket for brief showers.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 Adult admission | USD 370 |
| Child (ages 4–12) admission | USD 185 |
| Meals and snacks | USD 60 |
| Souvenir | USD 20 |
| Total Estimated | USD 635 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Polynesian Cultural Center
Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762, USA
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About Polynesian Cultural Center
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 800-367-7060Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
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