About this experience
Located on O‘ahu’s North Shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a one-of-a-kind attraction showcasing the people, culture, arts, and crafts of Polynesia. Since 1963, it has welcomed millions of visitors and remains a favorite for both locals and tourists. As a non-profit, 100% of its revenue supports daily operations and the education of its student employees from nearby Brigham Young University-Hawaii.
The Gateway Buffet Package offers a full day of immersive experiences, including hands-on activities and cultural presentations across six Polynesian Island Villages. Enjoy a delicious all-you-can-eat feast at the Gateway Buffet, featuring island-inspired dishes, a salad bar, and desserts, all served in the spirit of ohana (family). End your evening with the spectacular HĀ: Breath of Life show, a breathtaking performance by over 100 talented Pacific Island performers in our open-air theater.
Join us today for an unforgettable experience!
At a glance
- Duration: 5 hr–9 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 5 hr–9 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
Polynesian Cultural Center Gateway Buffet Package: Booking Guide and Value
Just how much value does the Polynesian Cultural Center Gateway Buffet Package really offer before upgrades start to matter?
What Is the Gateway Buffet at the Polynesian Cultural Center?
Find out what the Gateway Buffet at the Polynesian Cultural Center really offers before the show, and why its value might surprise you.
Polynesian Cultural Center Package Upgrades Compared: Buffet, Luau, and Seating
How do Polynesian Cultural Center package upgrades compare, and which buffet, lūʻau, or seating choice changes your night more than you expect?
What is included
- Premiere dining experience with live music and an expansive buffet of island inspired dishes.
- Self-guided experience through 6 island villages
- Polynesian Cultural Center
- "HĀ: Breath of Life" evening show
Not included
- Transportation to/from Polynesian Cultural Center
- Tour Guide
Itinerary and highlights
Islands of Polynesia villages admission is open from 12:15pm-5:30 pm. Each of the 6 island villages provides hands-on activities, demonstrations, and performances which bring these unique cultures to life. All-day admission to explore the authentic cultures of the islands staffed by friendly villagers ready to share information. Take a leisurely canoe tour across our magnificent lagoon.
The Gateway Buffet is our most popular dinner package and is offered as an alternative to our lūʻau. It includes live music in a relaxed atmosphere with an expansive buffet of island inspired dishes in our dining hall that features a 360° mural. Doors open at 4:30pm - 7pm at our Gateway Restaurant.
From 7:30pm-8:45pm, the stunning “HĀ: Breath of Life” evening show features over 100 Pacific Islander performers, special effects, animation, fire knives and surround sound. It is a saga of birth and death, love and family, tragedy and triumph.
Meeting and pickup information
- Guests can meet us at the Welcome Center of the Polynesian Cultural Center, located at the right-hand side behind the Hamana Kalili Statue. This building houses the ticketing booths, where visitors can check in or inquire further about their visit.
Languages and tickets
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Polynesian Cultural Center
Accessibility and practical details
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Strollers are convenient for exploring the area, but please note that during certain shows, strollers will need to be left outside, and parents may need to hold their babies on their laps.
- A tour guide is not included in the Gateway Buffet package, but group or private tours can be arranged for an additional fee. You can pay for a guide at the center on the day of your visit.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What accessibility information is provided?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
What is the cancellation policy?
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