Authentic Island Style Sarong and Pareo Tying Class

About this experience

Transform a simple piece of Polynesian fabric into dozens of chic, versatile outfits.

Join a native cultural practitioner on Oahu’s North Shore for a hands-on pāreu (sarong) tying masterclass. You’ll learn the techniques, history, to wrap, knot, and secure traditional textiles into stunning beachwear and elegant evening attire—all without pins.

Cultural demonstrator has authored 2 books on pareu tying with over 250 methods. She has also starred in a pareu tying video with over 1 million views.

Authentic Fastening Methods: Discover how to secure your wrap seamlessly using natural carved coconut and mother-of-pearl buckles.

Take-Home Video Guide: Receive exclusive access to our instructional digital video and website with over 20 tying methods so you can reference every style anytime, anywhere.

Convenient North Shore Location: Held inside the free-to-enter Hukilau Marketplace at the Polynesian Cultural Center (no PCC park ticket required).

At a glance

• Duration: 30 min
• Private experience

Itinerary and highlights

The Tahitian Treasures Pareo (Pāreu) Tying Activity—rooted at the Polynesian Cultural Center’s Hukilau Marketplace in Lāʻie, Hawaii—is an interactive cultural workshop where guests learn how a single piece of vibrant Polynesian fabric can be transformed into dozens of versatile garments.

What Guests Will See, Do, and Learn:

1. Hand-Dyed Textiles: An array of brightly colored, hand-dyed Tahitian cotton and rayon pareos. Live Artisanship: Demonstrations of traditional wrapping techniques by native Polynesian cultural practitioners. Cultural Adornments: Traditional carved coconut fasteners, and mother-of-pearl accents used to secure the garments.

2. What Guests Will Do: Hands-on Wrapping Practice: Try on a pareo and stand with workshop guide to practice tying various styles step-by-step. Learn practical adjustments on your own body to transform one cloth from casual beachwear into formal island evening wear. Practice using buckles and methods that stay in place without pins.

3. What Guests Will Learn

History of the Pāreu: How the transition from traditional barkcloth (tapa) to imported cotton in the 19th century created modern Tahitian wearable art.

See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.

Meeting and pickup information

• Meet at Tahitian Treasures kiosk next to the gazebo in the middle of the Hukilau Marketplace inside the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu, Hawaii.

Languages and tickets

• English — Guide
• French — Guide
• Mobile Only

Tour operator

• Hawaiian Vacation Workshops

Accessibility and practical details

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.