Polynesian Cultural Center

Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center was opened in 1963 as a way to provide employment and scholarships for students at BYU-Hawaii and to preserve the cultures of Polynesia. The PCC is one of the most frequently visited tourist destinations in Hawaii.

Dedicated on October 12, 1963, the PCC occupies 42 acres (17 ha) which is owned by nearby Brigham Young University-Hawaii. Although it is largely a commercial venture, PCC profits fund various scholarship programs at BYU-Hawaii.

The center has its roots in 1940s and 1950s hukilau and luau beach gatherings held to earn money to rebuild a local chapel belonging to the LDS Church, which had been destroyed in a fire.

"The Hukilau Song," made famous by Alfred Apaka, was written following the composer and song's original singer, Jack Owens's visit to Lā'i.e.'s hukilau.

Location

55-370 Kamehameha Highway
Laie, Honolulu County
Hawaii, USA

Getting There

The Polynesian Cultural Center is located on the northern shore of Oahu, Hawaii. It is about a 42-mile (67.6 km) drive from Honolulu, which takes about an hour and 15 minutes. The center provides shuttle services from select locations in Waikiki, including major hotels and shopping centers. The shuttle service typically runs from mid-morning to mid-afternoon, and reservations are required. Visitors can also take public transportation, such as TheBus or a taxi, to the center.

Nearby Airports

This is a list of primary airports in Hawaii that have scheduled passenger service on commercial airlines.