Smith’s Tropical Paradise Garden Luau (www.smithskauai.com) in Wailua Marina State Park is a Kauai classic. Guests arrive at 5 p.m. to tour the 30-acre botanical garden. They then get an up-close look at Hawaiian cooking with an imu, or underground oven.
A cooked pig is uncovered at the imu ceremony at 6 o’clock. The pig had been covered with burlap and soil and left to steam in the imu after it was salted and placed inside, covered with banana leaves to preserve heat and flavor.
The luau features drinks and performance of Hawaiian and contemporary tunes by musicians before guests sit down to a buffet. After dinner, a Polynesian dance show at the lagoon theater begins with a volcano erupting. The luau is held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Call 808-821-6895.