A luau party is more than just a tropical menu—it’s about the atmosphere, the outfits, the music, and the experience. Whether you’re planning a backyard bash or decorating for a school event, the goal is to make guests feel like they’ve stepped onto an island—without the flight delay.

This Luau Party idea came to life after two moms threw the most incredible senior party—every detail was covered, from the décor to the entertainment. It was such a hit that I had to break it down and share it here. I’ve included pictures so you can see how they pulled it off and how you can do the same.

Here’s how to bring the ultimate Hawaiian vibes to your party, from decor and dress code to food and entertainment.

1. Set the Scene: Luau Party Decor & Dress Code

The right decor and dress-up elements make the difference between a casual backyard BBQ and a true luau experience. Here’s how to do it:

Tropical Attire: Make It a Dress-Up Party

• Greet guests with flower leis as they arrive
• Encourage Hawaiian shirts, grass skirts, or tropical-print dresses
• Fun sunglasses with palm trees and flamingos as party favors
• Flower crowns or shell necklaces for extra flair

Transforming Your Space into a Tropical Getaway

This is where you bring the island energy to life:

• Beach backdrop to set the scene for photos
• Baby swimming pools filled with beach balls for a playful touch
• Sand buckets and shovels scattered around for decor
• Inflatable sharks and fish floating in the pool or around tables
• Palm trees and flamingos stuck in planters for an easy tropical aesthetic
• Tiki torches or string lights for nighttime ambiance
• Grass skirts for tables and trash can covers to keep everything festive
• Snow cone machine for an interactive, fun treat

Want an easy shopping guide for all the best luau party supplies? Grab my Luau Party Shopping List.

2. Entertainment: Keep the Island Vibes Going

A luau isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience.

• Hawaiian dancers to bring authentic energy to the party
• Limbo contest—because it’s not a luau without one
• Hula dance challenge—pull up a quick tutorial and make it a competition
• DIY tiki cocktail station—let guests mix their own tropical drinks

3. The Luau Menu: Tropical & Crowd-Pleasing

Once the decor and entertainment set the scene, it’s time for the food. A true luau menu is all about bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and food that’s made for sharing.

Appetizers

• Coconut shrimp with a sweet chili dipping sauce
• Hawaiian-style poke bowls or a build-your-own poke bar

Main Course

• Kalua pork sliders with Hawaiian rolls
• Huli huli chicken (grilled, marinated Hawaiian BBQ-style)
• Teriyaki chicken skewers

Sides

• Coconut rice or Hawaiian fried rice
• Macaroni salad (a Hawaiian plate lunch staple)
• Mango or pineapple

Desserts

• Pineapple upside-down cake
• Mango sorbet or coconut gelato

Drinks

• Cocktail: Mai Tai, Blue Hawaiian, or a Rum Punch
• Mocktail: Pineapple coconut spritzer
• Fresh coconut water (bonus points if served in an actual coconut)

Want the full party menu and grocery list? Grab my free Luau Party Guide.

Shop the Look:

Want to grab everything in one place? Shop my Luau Party Essentials HERE.

Tag & Share:

Throwing a Luau? Tag me in your party pics – I’d love to see how you bring the tropics to your backyard! Instagram: @langston_living.

More Hosting Guides:

Planning more parties? Check out my Staycation Guide for more entertaining inspiration!