When people think of Hawaiian culture, hula is often the first image that comes to mind. The Merrie Monarch Festival, held very spring in Hilo, celebrates this iconic tradition with world class performances and cultural events. But even if you’re not on the Big Island during the festival, there are still many ways to experience hula and Hawaiian culture year round especially right her on Oahu!
Below, we’ll explain the background of the Merrie Monarch Festival and how you can enjoy authentic hula and cultural storytelling through immersive tours in Oahu.
What is the Merrie Monarch Festival?
The Merrie Monarch Festival is the most prestigious hula competition in the world. Held annually in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii, it was established in 1963 to honor King David Kalākaua, who was known as the “Merrie Monarch” for his support of Hawaiian arts and culture.
The week-long festival takes place every April and features:
- Hula Kahikko (traditional hula) and Hula ‘auana (modern hula) competitions
- Hawaiian arts and craft fairs
- A lively parade and cultural exhibitions
For many, it’s more than just a show. It’s a preservation of history, language, and tradition.
Why Hula Matters: More than just a Dance
Hula is form of storytelling, passed down through generations. Through chants, music, and movement, hula communicates the history, myths, and values of the Hawaiian people. There are two main forms:
- Hula Kahiko: traditional hula with percussion and chanting
- Hula ‘Auana: modern hula with melodic instruments and Western influence
Whether it’s performed during the Merrie Monarch Festival or on a guided tour, hula remains a powerful expression or identity and community.
How to Experience Hula in Oahu
Can’t make it to the Merrie Monarch Festival on the Big Island? No problem, oahu offers several opportunities to experience hula and Hawaiian culture in an authentic and respectful way.
Here are the three tours that highlight the essence of aloha through performance, history, and cultural education.
1. Dolphins and You
Experience marine life and hula on a single tour. Dolphins and You offers more than just dolphin watching. After viewing dolphins in their natural habitat and snorkeling with sea turtles and tropical fish, guests enjoy a Hawaiian cultural performance on board the boat.
Tour Highlights:
- Dolphin watching & snorkeling with Turtles
- Hawaiian cultural performance at sea
- Kayaks, SUPs, lunch, and snorkel gear included
- Waikiki hotel pickup available
- Duration: 3 hours
2. Turtles and You
Snorkel with sea turtles, than relax with a hula performance. Turtles and You features a peaceful boat ride along Waikiki’s coastline where you’ll swim alongside green sea turtles and reef fish. Back on deck, a live hula performance brings the aloha spirit to life.
Tour Highlights:
- Guided snorkeling with turtles and reef fish
- Hula performance aboard a double decker boat
- Scenic views of Diamond Head
- Includes snorkel gear, snack, and Turtle Tattoo sticker
- Waikiki hotel pickup available
- Duration: 2 hours
3. Nature and You: Waimea
For those interested in the roots of Hawaiian traditions, this hiking tour through Waimea valley offers cultural depth and natural beauty. The guided hike to Waimea falls includes educational stops about Hawaiian plants, customs, and history, making it once of the most immersive ways to learn about the cultural that the Merrie Monarch Festival preserves. You’ll also enjoy a waterfall swim and healthy lunch sacred valley grounds.
Tour Highlights:
- Light breakfast from Greenworld coffee farm
- Guided hike and cultural interpretation
- Swim at Waimea Falls (weather permitting)
- Lunch at Waimea Valley and visit to Dole Plantation
- Learn about Hawaiian legends, plants, and traditions
- Pickup/drop off from Waikiki included
- Duration: 7.5 hours
When is the Best Time to Experience Hula in Oahu?
The Merrie Monarch Festival takes place in April, but cultural experience on Oahu are available year around. Whether you’re visiting in spring, summer, or winter, you can find daily performances, local events, and guided tours that celebrate Hawaiian heritage.
Through ocean adventures, cultural performances, and guided walks through sacred landscapes, Oahu offers visitors a deep connection to Hawaiian traditions.
If you’re looking to learn more about hula, Hawaiian legends, or cultural values, these tours offer a respectful and enjoyable path to that goal.
👉Explore culture-rich tours in Oahu:
- Dolphins and You – Tour Details
- Turtles and You – Tour Details
- Nature and You: Waimea – Tour Details
