How to Have a Home-Made Hawai’ian Luau

This time last year, my mother and I were basking in the sun on the beaches of Oahu, talking about what we were going to wear to the hotel’s luau later. While we can’t be there now and there’s no amount of piña coladas in the world that could transport us physically, there’s no harm in trying to recreate the magic at home.

With the help of resident luau experts at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, home-bound beachgoers can use these tips to bring the tropical atmosphere of Hawai’i home.

Pineapple Everything

Yes, you will need the fruit for piña coladas, both in the cocktail and on the rim, as well as on the grill with dinner (trust us, it’s an underrated grill option best accompanied with pork), but don’t forget décor — you may already have some pineapple-themed home goods tucked away.

Bring Out the Plants

While maybe not on your list of essentials, next time you’re on a supply run, think about grabbing a plant or two. While the greenery will add a nice touch for your home luau, it will also help circulate air and promote a cleaner air quality at home.

Cue Music!

One of the most important aspects of your homemade luau? Music! Find a playlist on Amazon Music, Spotify or your preferred music streaming service and let the sounds of the ukulele move you into the next step of the party.

Hyatt Regency Maui – Kara Harms

Dance!

Hula dancing may look easy when the professionals do it, but there’s actually a lot that goes into it. Follow along with helpful videos or make it up as you go and have fun.

Scents of the Tropics

Light some of your more summery candles around the house. They can act as tiki torches and fill the room with floral and fruity aromas.

Mai Tai. Photo: Hyatt Regency Maui Luau

Mai Tais All Around

Do as the Hyatt Regency Maui would do and create a traditional Mai Tai. The resort’s recipe includes 2 ounces of light rum, 1 ounce of dark rum, 3 ounces of pineapple juice, 1 ounce of orange curacao, 2 teaspoons of orgeat syrup, 2 ounces of sweet and sour mix, and a piece of pineapple as a garnish.

Cook Traditional Cuisine

Try your hand at offerings served at Drums of the Pacific Luau at Hyatt Regency Maui, including Huli Huli Chicken, Polynesian fried rice, Pacific ahi poke and chocolate macadamia nut pie with these recipes.