Gluten free luau

Question

We are traveling to Oahu and staying at Marriott Ko Olina, on the west side of the island, in February. Some of the members in our party are celiac and get sick if they eat gluten. I know many people choose to eat gluten free, but celiacs can not eat gluten without getting sick. We would like to experience a Hawaiian luau with traditional food and entertainment. Any suggestions? We have heard about the Polynesian Cultural Center and Toa Luau but don’t really know specifics about either.

We plan on visiting Pearl Harbor and maybe do a whale watching tour, but we would appreciate other suggestions on scenic drives and must do and see attractions. We will be there for a week, and we are a group of 5…grandparents, parents, and one 12 year old who is very easy to please.

Thank you in advance for any suggestions!

Answer

It’s great to hear that you're planning to visit Oahu! When it comes to celiac and gluten-free dietary needs, it's important to find luaus that can accommodate specific restrictions. Fortunately, there are a few options on Oahu where you can experience a traditional Hawaiian luau without worrying about gluten.

Gluten-Free Luau Options:

1. Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC): The Polynesian Cultural Center is a popular destination on Oahu, known for its cultural performances and traditional food. They offer a variety of dining options, and you can make special requests for gluten-free meals. While the PCC’s traditional buffet style may have limited options for celiac guests, they are usually accommodating for dietary restrictions. It’s best to call ahead and make a reservation to ensure your meal is properly prepared for gluten-free needs.

2. Toa Luau: Toa Luau is a more intimate luau experience located at the Waimea Valley. They are known to accommodate gluten-free requests and focus on traditional Hawaiian foods. This might be a great option for your group since it’s smaller and more personal. It's highly recommended to notify them about the gluten-free requirement when booking so they can properly prepare your meals.

Other Luau Options:

Many other luaus, including the Germaine’s Luau and the Royal Hawaiian Luau, are known to offer gluten-free meals upon request. However, it’s essential to communicate your specific dietary needs beforehand to ensure that the food is safe for someone with celiac disease.

Scenic Drives and Must-See Attractions:

Since you’ll be in Oahu for a week, there are plenty of beautiful places to explore beyond the luau. Here are a few suggestions for scenic drives and attractions:

North Shore: Known for its beautiful beaches, including Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, and the famous Pipeline, the North Shore is a great place for a scenic drive and to experience Oahu’s laid-back vibe. You might also want to check out the Dole Plantation for some fun and educational activities.
Diamond Head: Take a hike up to the top of Diamond Head for panoramic views of Honolulu and the surrounding coastline. It’s a short but somewhat steep hike, and your 12-year-old should enjoy it.
Waimea Bay and Waimea Valley: These two spots on the North Shore are perfect for scenic drives. Waimea Valley also offers a beautiful botanical garden and a waterfall swim (weather permitting).
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail: Another beautiful, easy hike with stunning views of the southeastern coastline of Oahu. You can also see the Makapu’u lighthouse at the top.
Hanauma Bay: If you enjoy snorkeling, Hanauma Bay is one of the top spots for marine life. It’s a bit of a drive, but it’s worth it for the crystal-clear waters and beautiful coral reefs.

Other Suggestions:

Whale Watching Tour: You’re visiting in December, which is peak whale-watching season in Hawaii. There are several companies offering boat tours where you can see humpback whales migrating to the waters off Oahu.
Pearl Harbor: Pearl Harbor is a must-visit historical site. Be sure to visit the USS Arizona Memorial and the Pacific Aviation Museum to learn more about Hawaii’s history during World War II.
Polynesian Cultural Center: If you want to explore Hawaiian and Polynesian culture, the PCC is an excellent option. It’s educational, entertaining, and a great way to learn about the traditions of the islands.

With a week on the island, you should have plenty of time to explore both the popular attractions and some off-the-beaten-path spots. Enjoy your time on Oahu, and I hope you have a fantastic vacation!

Gluten free luau

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