Hawaii is brimming with places to explore and majestic sights to behold, but it’s also one of the most culturally rich vacation destinations you can choose. If you’re seeking ways to immerse yourself in the tradition and history of the land, there are plenty of Hawaiian cultural experiences to try.

3 Must-Try Hawaiian Cultural Experiences

1. Watch a Hula Show

The captivating art of hula is far more than a dance alone. Its roots extend back to a time before Western missionaries arrived, and people danced hula as a form of storytelling and preserving their history and culture. While the dance, as with many aspects of Hawaiian culture, was repressed with the early arrival of missionaries, King David Kalakaua restored tradition during his rule in 1874. Today, hula can be enjoyed at many celebrations and dinners.

2. Go to a Luau

The luau is an ancient Hawaiian and Polynesian ritual in which people gather to celebrate a significant event. Historically, the luau was often used to signify a war victory or launching a new canoe. Today, modern versions are held to celebrate milestones, such as birthdays and weddings. Although the feasts have evolved, they typically encompass elements of a traditional luau, such as serving poi and kalua pig as well as featuring Hawaiian music.

3. Try Local Food

Hawaii is well-known for its unique cuisine, and traditionally, many meals were prepared in an imu. This large, underground oven was created with a digging stick and was used for cooking a variety of foods, including kalua pig, lau lau, bananas, and fish. The cooking process is slow and uses plant materials to steam the food to ensure it’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. While it was largely used in ancient Hawaii, the imu is still used to prepare meals for modern luaus.

If you want to enjoy any of these Hawaiian cultural experiences, contact the team at Experience Nutridge in Honolulu, HI. The food for this captivating luau is prepared in an imu, and guests can enjoy their authentic meal while watching a beautiful hula performance. Located on a macadamia nut plantation, this immersive cultural experience also offers guests a sweeping sunset view of the island’s rainforest. Learn more about their shows online, or call (808) 531-5050 to make a reservation.