Polynesian Cultural Center (Oahu) Verified listing

The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC), located in Lā‘ie on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, is a unique cultural theme park that showcases the diverse cultures of Polynesia. Established in 1963, the center was created as both an educational and cultural preservation initiative, operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in partnership with Brigham Young University–Hawaii. Covering 42 acres, the center serves as a living museum, offering immersive, hands-on experiences that celebrate the traditions, lifestyles, and heritage of the Pacific Islands.

At the heart of the PCC are its six themed villages, each representing a different Polynesian culture: Hawai‘i, Samoa, Tonga, Tahiti, Fiji, and Aotearoa (New Zealand). Visitors can engage in a variety of cultural activities such as fire-starting demonstrations, traditional games, canoe paddling, and dance performances. One of the highlights of the center is the daily “Huki: A Canoe Celebration” parade, where performers showcase island music and dances on double-hulled canoes. The day typically concludes with the grand evening show, “Hā: Breath of Life,” a theatrical production that tells a Polynesian story through music, dance, and fire-knife performances.

Beyond cultural exhibitions, the center also offers traditional dining experiences like the Ali‘i Lū‘au, where guests can enjoy Hawaiian food alongside live performances. The PCC is not only a major tourist attraction but also a nonprofit institution that supports the education of international students at BYU–Hawaii, many of whom work at the center. With its blend of entertainment, education, and cultural preservation, the Polynesian Cultural Center stands as a meaningful and memorable experience for anyone interested in the rich traditions of the Pacific Islands.