Seemor

Te Au MoanaB+Worth Trying

Name: Te Au Moana
Address: 3700 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753, Wailea, United States
Rating: 4.6

3700 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753 · Dinner theater, Hawaiian restaurant, Tourist attraction · 4.6/5 Google (983 reviews)

Reservations

Spectacular oceanfront luau with lively performances and open bar; food is good but inconsistent and logistics can frustrate at a very high price.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Te Au Moana delivers a memorable evening through exceptional oceanfront sunset ambiance and theatrical staging paired with warm, attentive service. However, inconsistent food execution—with standout kalua pork offset by dry meats and forgettable desserts—and crowded shared-table seating with view limitations prevent a higher grade. This is a show-first experience where spectacle justifies the premium price for families and visitors seeking a cultural performance, not a culinary pilgrimage.

Restaurant Summary

Set on resort lawns with the ocean as a backdrop, Te Au Moana leans into spectacle: leis on arrival, pre-show crafts, and a torchlit stage that glows at sunset. Service is broadly warm and the emcee ties dances to place and history. One guest said the evening felt like a "magic postcard come to life," though some found bar lines frustrating and navigation confusing from parking. The cooking favors classic luau comforts over experimentation: platters of kalua pork, chicken, ribs, poke, and sides circle a big round table while the show unfolds. Many report generous refills and good flavors, while others call meats dry or desserts forgettable. Think resort-style reliability with a show-first focus, not a culinary pilgrimage. Families do well here: mocktails, temporary tattoos, and pre-show activities keep kids busy, and the family-style format suits groups. That said, there is no clear kids menu and vegetarian diners report sparse options, so plan snacks or adjustments if picky eaters or plant-based diets are in the mix.

At a Glance

Oceanfront sunset setting and fire dance finale wow most guests
Family-style service avoids buffet lines and allows refills
Very expensive fixed pricing with mixed food consistency
Bar queues and early last call can disappoint
Weather and seating/view issues can undercut experience

What Sets It Apart

oceanfront_sunset_stage
family_style_service_no_buffet
fire_dance_finale

What People Love

Sunset views that feel cinematic
Energetic dancers and thrilling fire finale
Open bar and attentive table refills
Cultural narration that adds meaning

Points of Concern

Pricing is genuinely high for a fixed package; some call it a tourist trap
Bar service bottlenecks create long lines and missed last-call drinks
Seating/view can be blocked by phones or row placement, even with premium
Vegetarian options limited and desserts underwhelm
Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (hyperbolic praise language), which may not reflect every diner experience

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$260-$300 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Based on reviews: request extra portions of favorites, confirm vegetarian accommodations in advance, and plan for the fixed-price package.

Perfect For

First-time Maui visitors seeking a polished luau night
Honeymooners wanting sunset photos and a big show
Family celebrations where shared platters make sense
Groups prioritizing entertainment over culinary adventure

Location Insights

Area: Upscale resort zone with oceanfront vistas, luxury hotels, and sunset views popular with honeymooners and families.

Safety: Generally very safe, well-lit resort grounds with steady foot traffic; navigation signage can be confusing at night.

Nearby: Set on Marriott Wailea Beach Resort lawns with ocean backdrop; garage and valet nearby; artisan vendors pre-show.

Wailea ResortThe Wailea Resort neighborhood is characterized by its high-end hotels, condominiums, and world-class golf courses. Dining options here range from casual beachfront eateries to fine dining establishments, catering primarily to visitors and resort guests looking for quality and ambiance in a scenic setting.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Available: Reservations

View full analysis on Seemor →