Polynesian Cultural Center: Review (Video & Pics)

Nestled on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, is the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC). This 42-acre facility is more than a tourist destination; it’s a living museum and cultural hub that brings the spirit of Polynesia to life. In this blog post, we provide an in-depth review of the Polynesian Cultural Center and explore the six island villages: Samoa, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Fiji, Hawaii, Tahiti, and Tonga.

Table of Contents

What to Expect?

As a visitor at the PCC, you’re not just observing; you’re immersing yourself in the traditions, histories, and lifestyles of the diverse Polynesian cultures. You can rotate across the six island villages. Immerse yourself in interactive activities before or after catching presentations offered at the top and half hour across the center.

What makes the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) Unique?

What sets the PCC apart is its commitment to authenticity and education. The center employs students from the neighboring Brigham Young University-Hawaii, many of whom are natives of the islands they represent. This not only provides them with educational and financial opportunities but also ensures that the cultural representations are genuine and heartfelt.

History and Background of the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC)

Establishment: The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) was officially opened on October 12, 1963. Its creation was spearheaded by leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), particularly those associated with Brigham Young University-Hawaii (BYU-Hawaii), located nearby.

Purpose: The center’s mission was designed to preserve and celebrate the cultures of Polynesia. It was initially established to provide employment and educational opportunities for students at BYU-Hawaii, many of whom came from the Pacific Islands. It was also designed to preserve and celebrate the cultures of Polynesia.

Legacy: Over the years, the PCC has expanded in size and the scope of its cultural representations. It added more exhibits, cultural presentations, and activities, becoming one of Hawaii’s top tourist attractions.

Exploring the 6 Island Villages at the PCC

The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is home to representations of six Polynesian island nations:

Samoa
Aotearoa (New Zealand)
Fiji
Hawaii
Tahiti
Tonga

Each village offers a unique experience with traditional buildings, demonstrations, and interactive activities.

Samoa

The Samoan village is a lively and engaging start to your journey. Here, you can witness the thrilling ‘fire knife dance’ and learn about Samoan cooking techniques, like the ‘umu,’ an underground oven. Watch a man climb 40-foot coconut trees in their bare feet. Interactive sessions like coconut husking are both fun and educational.

Key attractions and activities: Fire knife dance, coconut tree climbing
Interactive experiences: Coconut husking, banana cooking

Aotearoa (New Zealand)

Step into the world of the Maori people in the Aotearoa village. The powerful ‘haka’ dance is a must-see, and the intricate carvings and detailed tattoos displayed around the village offer a deep insight into Maori artistic heritage.

Highlights of Maori culture: ‘Haka’ war dance, ‘marae’ meeting house, play the “Stick Game”
Artistic elements: Carvings, tribal tattoos, food preservation, and traditional crafts.

Fiji

The Fijian village embodies serenity and showcases the Fijians’ skilled boat craftsmanship, similar to the boat used in Disney’s Moana. The Fijian temple, music, dance, and demonstrations of pottery and tapa cloth production are culturally enriching experiences.

Fijian temple and architectural significance.
Cultural demonstrations: Pottery making, tapa cloth production, tribal tattoos.

Hawaii

The Hawaiian village provides a familiar yet refreshing look at Hawaiian culture. Activities like lei making, hula dancing, and the ‘imu’ demonstration highlight traditional Hawaiian life. Learn about the ingenious navigation and fishing techniques of the native Hawaiians.

Hawaiian traditions: Lei making, hula dancing, ‘imu’ underground oven.
Insights into native Hawaiian navigation and fishing techniques.

Tahiti

The Tahitian village is a celebration of romance and vibrant traditions. The fast-paced Tahitian dances, traditional weddings, and interactive games like spear-throwing immerse you in the joyous spirit of Tahiti.

Unique aspects of Tahitian culture: Dance performances and traditional weddings.
Interactive activities: Pearl farming, Sample coconut bread, learn about Tahitian mythology.

Tonga

My final stop was the Tongan village, often called the “Friendly Islands.” The highlight here was the hilarious and interactive drum show, where visitors are invited to participate. Tongan culture is rich in music and rhythm, evident in every performance and demonstration. The lighthearted, jovial atmosphere of the village made it a delightful end to my tour of the Polynesian islands.

Key attractions and activities: Interactive drum show. Visit the Queen’s Summer House
Interactive activities: Tongan Shuffeboard (LAFO), weave a pinwheel, paddle an outrigger canoe, spear throwing.

Polynesian Cultural Center Highlights

Take a Canoe Ride
Attend the Luau
Watch Ha’ Breathe of Life

Canoe Ride

Attend the Luau

The Polynesian Cultural Center offers a range of dining options, from traditional Polynesian lauas to traditional foods, all prepared with an island twist. Check out my Polynesian Cultural Center Luau Review for all the details.

Watch the “Ha: Breath of Life” Show

Your visit isn’t complete without experiencing the “Ha: Breath of Life” show at The Pacific Theater, a stunning evening performance that tells a Polynesian story through music, dance, and fire.

Tickets & Pricing

There are various ticket pricing options, starting around $95.00 for children under age 12 and $119.95 for adults. However, I would highly recommend the Ali’i Lu’Au Package. The Ali’i Lu’Au Package is around $150.00 for children and $189.00 for adults. This may seem rather steep. However, the Ali’i Lu’Au Package gives you a lot of bang for your buck since it is an all-day ticket to multiple events. For example, you get all-day entertainment visiting the six islands, dinner and entertainment at the authentic Hawaiian luau, where they provide you with real flower leis, and a ticket to the Ha’ Breath of Life show, which is 90 minutes of top-notch outdoor theatre entertainment.

If you want to visit the islands during the day and skip the luau and evening shows, you may want to consider purchasing the “All Inclusive” GoCity Oahu Pass during your trip.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my experience at the PCC was remarkable. The destination offers a comprehensive and immersive look into the diverse cultures of Polynesia. Whether you’re interested in the cultural heritage, the interactive activities, or just the beauty of the islands, the PCC is a must-visit for anyone, including families, traveling to Hawaii.

Interested in what else you can do with your family on Oahu?

Polynesian Cultural Center: Review (Video & Pics)

What to Expect?

What makes the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) Unique?

History and Background of the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC)