Unique Lū‘au Brings Aloha Spirit With Heart
By Janet Brindle and Tyler Bohlman
Hawaiʻi’s story can’t be told in just words or photos. It floats in the fragrances from delicate velvet plumeria petals, is heard in the music of a rhythmic ukulele, and is tasted in its unique island flavors.
But mostly, you discover it through its people. The spirit of aloha and the Polynesian culture is preserved in storytelling by individuals like Chief Sielu Avea. This Samoan-born entertainer and showrunner has been charming guests for decades in a unique lū‘au show that blends reverent storytelling, flashy fire dancing, and genuine connections, bringing generations of families back year after year.
Avea says the Fia Fia Lū‘au at Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club is more than an award-winning show. It’s a celebration of all of the South Pacific Islands.
“I want people to feel and understand that what we do is representative of the lives and cultures of the Polynesian people,” he said. “We’re not just telling a story.”
After all, no trip to Hawai‘i is complete without experiencing an authentic lū‘au — and when you stay at Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club, one of O‘ahu’s most well-known shows is performed at the resort weekly like it has been for decades.
Each Tuesday night in a beachfront cove is where a little magic happens. Avea brings together his specially selected group of storytellers, dancers, and Polynesian Warriors to share the aloha spirit with families from around the globe.
“We want people to feel a connection to our way of living and the spirit of aloha through the way we perform,” Avea said. “It’s more than just food and a show.”
A Passion Discovered
Here's how it happened: Avea moved to O‘ahu in 1981 to attend Brigham Young University–Hawaiʻi, and as many students did then, he worked at the Polynesian Cultural Center. There, he taught himself how to fire knife dance and honed his craft of performing, comedy, and sharing his culture with others — what would eventually become his life’s work.
He went on to win multiple competitions and developed relationships with those in production and comedy. And in 2002, he threw the family spear that ignited the ceremonial torch at the Stadium of Fire prior to the Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City.
When he left the Polynesian Cultural Center more than 20 years ago, Avea wanted to continue on his own — and Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club gave him the chance to perform for guests. Through the years, he has made connections with Owners who have traveled to see him year after year.
“We’re very honored to be a part of the Ko Olina family and be able to share our talents with the people who come to Ko Olina,” he said of the Fia Fia team.
Now, the next generation is coming to hear the stories of his ancestors.
“There will always be a different place in my heart for Ko Olina,” he said. “It is a special place.”
Avea said he’s able to connect with the audience, no matter what language they speak, because their show’s theme of love and connection is universal.
“We want people to feel the spirit of the past and the ancestors,” he said. “It’s even more important that everyone helps keep that alive in the culture that we are living in right now.”
How to Book?
The unforgettable lū‘au-style dinner show featuring talented performers, including the award-winning Fire Knife World Champion Chief Sielu Avea, is offered on Tuesdays starting at 5 p.m.
Select your preferred seating levels in the intimate beachfront setting. Both include pre-show activities followed by an authentic Hawaiian dinner buffet, main show, and fire knife dancing.
Premium lū’au admission includes:
- Front section seating
- Fresh flower lei
- Handmade palm leaf headband
- Two premium drinks
- Pineapple appetizer
Adults (12 and older): $225.14
Children (4-11): $162.30
Infants (0-3): Free
General lū’au admission includes:
- General seating
- Handmade kukui nut lei
- One premium drink
Adults (12 and older): $185.23
Children (4-11): $122.51
Infants (0-3): Free
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What’s on the Menu?
The adult dinner buffet includes roasted pulehu prime rib, grilled teriyaki chicken, Hawaiian-style kalua pork, fresh island catch, traditional poi, onolicious lomi lomi salmon, local-style potato macaroni salad, baked Okinawan sweet potato with coconut syrup, Hawaiian haupia coconut pudding, and more.
In addition, kids will enjoy a choice of spaghetti and meatballs, chicken nuggets, grilled cheese, and corn.
Insider Tip:
Don't miss the fun pre-show activities including arts and crafts, temporary tattoos, and photo opportunities.
Book Your Lū’au
Call 808-679-4728 for more information or for reservations.
Where to Stay:
Take your next trip to a beachside hideaway in Hawai‘i. Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club welcomes you with a dazzling array of lush greens, sparkling pools, and convenient beach access. Get your sun in by the resort’s relaxing pools, sit on the lawn, or sip on a refreshing drink while laying out. When the pull of the ocean calls, head down for direct beach access and a cool, blue ocean. Hungry? Thirsty? There are an array of pool bars serving snacks and drinks that pair perfectly with the Hawaiian sun.
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Your Concierge:
To learn more about this and other unique vacation experiences in O‘ahu, feel free to contact our local experts.
Or stay in the heart of Waikīkī at Marriott Vacation Club®, Waikīkī, part of The Marriott Vacation Clubs™ City Collection. You’ll be surrounded by island beauty as you explore nearby shopping, dining, and entertainment. Head to the roof to relax by the pool or have a tasty drink at the bar. Plus, experience this vibrant city by day under the Hawaiian sun and under its cool, comfortable skies at night.
Let curiosity be your guide, discovery be your agenda, and The Marriott Vacation Clubs City Collection properties be your host for exploring storied destinations. From finding off-the-beaten-path local favorites to enjoying a side of breathtaking downtown views with dinner and drinks, the City Collection is the key to unlocking the best of these vibrant cities.