Kūhiō Beach Hula Show and other authentic cultural experiences in Waikīkī

Enjoy a cultural event that encompasses authentic Hawaiian chant, hula and song, providing a delightful cultural experience for all. The hour-long sunset show has been a regular occurrence at the Kūhiō Beach Hula Mound in Waikīkī for over 25 years.

The Kūhiō Beach Hula Show is a free hula experience in Waikīkī. The performance is held from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Saturdays, in 2023. During the winter months, the ceremony is held from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Performances are live and exclusively Hawaiian. Check times and dates at https://kbhulashow.wixsite.com/official

Each night opens with the pū kani (blowing of the conch). The first 15 minutes are the traditional hula kahiko and the remainder of the show is the modern hula ʻauana. Some shows include a hula lesson for the audience, special requests, and ways to engage with show attendees.

Narration during performances give backgrounds, explanation of myth or legend, importance of wahi pana (sacred places), the monarchy, meaning of motions, as well as translations, offering a depth of experience in Hawaiian history, culture and language.

All presenters are local cultural practitioners for whom hula, Hawaiian music and chant play a major role in their lives. An important mission of the Kūhiō Beach Hula Show is to foster respect, understanding and appreciation for authentic Hawaiian culture. It is presented by trained kumu hula (hula teachers) and their haumāna (students) who have a personal commitment to hula as an intrinsic part of their lives, who practice it as part of their livelihoods and as a way to carry on the Hawaiian Culture.  

Supporting the Oʻahu DMAP Action J, these wonderful performances provide an authentic experience of Hawaiian culture which we encourage visitors to continue to explore further at other authentic Hawaiian entertainment throughout Waikīkī.  You can find more hula and mele at locations such as The Royal Hawaiian Center, International Market Place and Waikīkī Beach Walk.  

PC: Marnie Weeks