Polynesian Cultural Center

The history of ancient Hawai’i is unique in that these islands were populated by multiple cultures from Polynesia and one of the last to be discovered by the western world. Scholars believe Hawaii was colonized in multiple waves of Polynesians from different south Pacific islands over a 700 year span between 450 AD to about 1200 AD when migrations halted for some unknown reason. Since the journey to Hawai’i was one of the longest in Polynesian history, only the best attempted the voyages. It’s just one of the reasons Hawai’i became a place like nowhere else in the world!

The Hawaiian village is a testament to the intelligence and ingenuity of ancient Hawaiians. Experience the culture first hand with hula lessons, tapa weaving, and poi pounding. Hawaiian villagers can be found in a traditional hale (houses) surrounded by ancient artifacts which they are happy to explain how they were made and their traditional uses to curious visitors. You will feel and learn about the real Aloha of Hawaii from the people who live it!

Aotearoa is the Polynesian name for the islands of New Zealand. Their songs and dances are as powerful as the towering lands they have inhabited for nearly 700 years. They were the last of the Pacific islands to be discovered by the Polynesians and they have built their culture around the strength of family.

From the Haka (a powerful Maori war dance) to the agility of their games to their striking facial tattoos, the Maori people are proud to share their culture with visitors. The spirit of Aotearoa (the name means Land of the Long White Cloud) is carried throughout this village and is happily shared by this strong yet humble people.

The Samoan sense of humor is well known but their wit is based on love, generosity and respect. The Islands of Samoa were settled some 3000 years ago and have genetic and traditional ties with Fiji, Tonga and Hawaii.

At the Polynesian Cultural Center the Samoan Village is one of the most entertaining stops in the Villages. The presentation here is hilarious and impressive with coconut cracking, fire making, fire knife performances and a 40 foot climb into a coconut tree! Come see why Samoans are known as “the happy people”!

Tahitians were the voyaging nomads of the Pacific. The first Polynesians to migrate to Hawaii are said to have come from the Marquesas Islands around 450 AD but they were eventually dominated by Tahitian voyagers starting in the 11th century and many of the Hawaiian Ali’i (ruling chiefs) family bloodlines are from Tahiti as listed in the ancient royal lineage chants. Kamehameha the Great was of Tahitian lineage. A well known Tahitian named Tupaia sailed with Captain Cook on the Endeavor in 1773, drawing him a map listing over 70 islands and their locations.

Tahitians are a warm hearted and colorful people who’s dances are known for their speed and agility. Visitors to the Tahitian Village will enjoy learning this fast paced style of dancing as well tasting delicious Tahitian coconut bread, fishing from a small village pier, spear throwing at coconuts and witnessing a traditional wedding ceremony – ah, love is in the air at the Tahitian Village! Learn about Tahitian Royalty, the Marae (Tahitian Temple), underwater pearl farms and body tattoos, all delivered with a wonderful French accent!

Scholars believe the Tongan islands have been inhabited since around 830 BC but the archipelago of 36 inhabited islands became known to the western world when Captain James Cook first visited in 1773 during the ‘Inasi Festival, a traditional donation of the first fruits of the year to the island’s chief. Cook felt welcomed and entertained by the people, deeming the island nation as the “Friendly Islands”.

The Tongan Village at the Polynesian Cultural Center reflects Tonga’s culture with laughter, hospitality and kindness. Visitors will learn how to paddle traditional canoes, play Tongan shuffleboard and test their skills at spear throwing. Other activities include learning a unique Tongan seated dance and lively music with a chance for audience volunteers to try some drumming during the cultural performances. It’s always a happy occasion in the everyday life of the Tongan Village!

In the center of the property is a large lagoon surrounded by outdoor seating. Canoe barges from each island navigate around the lagoon while live Polynesian drumming and music emanating from the bandstand at the far end.

Dancers perform on the circling barges in traditional costumes just a few yards from seated visitors. It’s a lively show in a completely unique setting!