Polynesian Cultural Center

One of the top Hawai'i attractions includes the Polynesian Cultural Center, which features a 42-acre facility on the North Shore of Oahu. Founded in 1963, the nonprofit Center was created so that the students of nearby Brigham Young University Hawai'i could work their way through college by sharing their island heritage with visitors. The students come from an area that covers approximately 12 million square miles of the Pacific Ocean.

Many South Pacific nations are represented at the Polynesian Cultural Center, where recreated villages, exhibits and hands-on activities highlight eight of them: Samoa, Aotearoa (Maori New Zealand), Fiji, Hawai'i, Tahiti, Tonga and Rapa Nui (Easter Island). At the heart of the PCC experience are the island villages, which offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about — and participate in — the customs of each island. Visitors are encouraged to take part in a number of authentic activities, representing everything from island games and crafts to food preparation and war training skills. Visitors will enjoy the Ali'i Luau, all-you-can-eat buffets, a canoe pageant, shops, and the world's largest evening show are all part of this Oahu attraction's event filled experience.

With its large lagoon, waterfalls, lush tropical flora, and an "erupting" volcano, the Polynesian Cultural Center captures all the romance and excitement of the South Pacific islands. A visit to this famous Hawai'i attraction represents a chance to travel through Polynesia in a single day, and participate in the celebration of centuries of Polynesian culture — no passport required.