Free Hula Shows in Kaua’i

When visiting Kaua’i, there’s no need to break the bank to experience the art of hula. Here are three options to enjoy Hawaii’s famous dance free of charge

QUICK FACTS ABOUT HAWAII’S FAMOUS DANCE

In its authentic form, hula is the most powerful expression of indigenous Hawaiian culture that exists. The chants that give reason to the dance and the music are the oral history of Hawaii’s native people. 

There are two kinds of hula - Kahiko (ancient) and ‘Auana (contemporary). Hula Kahiko is usually performed with percussion instruments, sticks, and some wind instruments, and Hula ‘Auana is typically performed with ukuleles, acoustic and steel guitars, and bass. 

COCONUT MARKETPLACE

Set in Kapa’a, this east Kaua’i open-air shopping village offers one-hour shows featuring students of Halau Hula O Lelani every Wednesday and Friday at 5 p.m. and Saturdays at 1 p.m. Kick off your flip flops, relax on the grass and enjoy traditional Hawaiian music, hula and fire dancing at the amphitheatre.

National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG)

The top hula ensemble of Halau Ka Lei Mokihana O Leinaala presents a 45-minute traditional hula show on Thursdays at 2 p.m. The performance takes place at the South Shore Visitors Centre, sharing tales of the sacred sites of Kauai and unique bonds between the Hawaiian people and Poipu-based garden.  

POIPU SHOPPING VILLAGE

Located in Poipu, this south shore shopping village offers another chance to enjoy the Halau Ka Lei Mokihana O Leinaala ensemble accompanied by renowned Hawaii musician, Keola Worthington. Pick up some gelato before catching the 30-minute show on the centre stage filled with stories of Polynesian history with Tahitian and Hawaiian-inspired footwork. Performances take place on Mondays and Thursdays at 5 p.m. 

ALOHA

Ready to take in the free hula shows and everything else the “Garden Isle” has to offer?