May 23, 2022 4 min read

The Top 10 Luau Party Ideas

Think Hawaii, and you probably think of one thing: luaus! Themed parties are all the rage these days, and there’s no party quite like a luau. It’s the perfect opportunity to dress up in grass skirts and Hawaiian shirts, eat delicious food, and drink fruity cocktails.

Hawaii is known for its breathtaking landscape, crystal clear water, and relaxing atmosphere. A luau party captures all the best aspects of a Hawaiian vacation without the expensive plane ticket.

Whether you’re planning a birthday party, corporate event, or just a fun get-together with friends, here are the top 10 luau party ideas to make your event a success.

The Top 10 Luau Party Ideas

#1. Send Out Tropical Invitations

Get your guests in the mood for a party with tropical invitations. You can find Hawaiian-themed invitations online or at your local party store. Or, for a DIY option, make your own invitations using construction paper, markers, and glitter. 
Be sure to include all the essential party details, like the date, time, and location. And don’t forget to mention the dress code!


#2. Set the Scene with Luau Decorations


Once you have the invitations taken care of, it’s time to start thinking about decorations. A luau party is all about creating a tropical atmosphere. To do this, you’ll need to bring the outdoors in.
Start by covering your walls with palm trees, hanging tiki torches from the ceiling, and draping green and yellow tablecloths over your tables. You can also add tropical flowers to your tables and around the room for a pop of color.


#3. Put together a Playlist of Tropical Tunes


No party is complete without a great playlist. And a luau is no exception. So put together a mix of tropical tunes to get your guests in the mood to party. Think steel drums, reggae, and island-style pop music. Don’t forget the classics like “Margaritaville” and “Brown Eyed Girl.” Then, sit back, relax, and let the music take you away to a tropical paradise.


#4. Serve Up Delicious Luau Foods


One of the best parts about a luau is the food. And there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. Traditional luau foods include Kalua pig, poi, Poké bowls, and spam musubi. But you can also serve up more familiar fare like burgers, hot dogs, and chips. Just be sure to add a Hawaiian twist with Pineapple Salsa or mango-glazed chicken.


#5. Offer Tropical Drinks


What’s a luau without tropical drinks? Serve refreshing cocktails like Mai Tais, Pina Coladas, and Lava Flows. Or, for a non-alcoholic option, try a Hawaiian Punch or Virgin Pina Colada. And don’t forget the garnishes! Pineapples, coconuts, and flowers make for beautiful (and delicious) drink decorations. You can also serve beer in coconuts for a fun twist on the classic.


#6. Play Hawaiian-Themed Games


Try your hand at some Hawaiian-themed games to get your guests up and moving. Limbo is always a hit, or you can try your luck at hula hoop or Piñata whacking. For a more low-key option, set up a table with Hawaiian-themed arts and crafts. Guests can make their own leis or grass skirts to wear at the party. This way, everyone can get in on the fun, no matter their activity level.


#7. Have a Hawaiian Photo Booth


Using a photo booth, you can capture all the memories of your luau party. Set up a tropical backdrop and props like palm trees, tiki torches, and leis. Then, let your guests take turns posing for photos. Be sure to have plenty of films or digital storage available so you can print out the pictures later. Or, set up a photo booth with a live photographer to take professional-grade photos of your guests.


#8. Give Out Luau-Themed Favors


Thank your guests for coming with luau-themed favors. Popular options include Hawaiian-themed keychains, magnets, and shot glasses. You can also put together a care package with sunblock, sunglasses, and a beach towel. For a DIY option, make your own leis out of construction paper or fabric. Whatever you choose, your guests are sure to appreciate the thought.


#9. Hold a Fire Dance Performance


For a truly memorable experience, hire a fire dancer to perform at your luau party. Fire dancers are artists who use fire as their medium to create stunning visual displays. They spin, twirl, and toss burning torches to create patterns of light and sound. It’s an amazing spectacle that your guests will be talking about long after the party is over. If you’re feeling brave, you can even try your hand at fire dancing yourself.


#10. Use Solar Torch Lights


Light up your luau party with solar torch lights. These lights are powered by the sun, so they’re environmentally friendly. And they’re easy to use – just stick them in the ground and let the sun do the work.


Solar torch lights are perfect for lighting up a pathway, illuminating a garden, or adding a touch of ambiance to any outdoor space. Whether you’re having a small backyard gathering or a large formal affair, use solar lights to light up your luau party.


There you have it – the top 10 luau party ideas. With these tips, you’re sure to have a fun party for all. So, put on your grass skirt, grab a drink, and let the good times roll. Mahalo!