What to wear to Germaine’s Luau

Germaine’s is an outdoor luau on a sandy beach, so the dress code is simple: casual, comfortable and ready for sand. The luau itself encourages casual attire. Here is what works, what does not, and the two things people forget to pack.

What to wear

For men, an aloha shirt or a light short-sleeved shirt with shorts or chinos is exactly right. For women, a sundress, a skirt or shorts with a light top, or a muumuu if you want to lean in. Footwear matters more than anything else: the grounds are hard-packed sand, so sandals or slip-ons beat heels, and you will be walking between the bar, the buffet and your table all night. One reviewer summed it up: “sandals, shorts and a short sleeve was perfect.” Everyone gets a lei on arrival, so a plain top shows it off best.

What to bring

Bug spray is the item reviewers most wish they had brought: the luau is on the beach and mosquitoes come out after dark. A light layer (a thin cardigan or long sleeves) helps once the sun is down and the trade winds pick up. Add sunscreen if you arrive early, cash for $5 parking, tips and extra drinks, and a phone with space for the fire-knife finale. Leave outside food and drink at home; they are not allowed.

What not to wear

Skip anything that punishes sand: heels, wedges and long trailing hems. Formal wear is out of place and hot. Swimwear on its own is too little for a dinner. And avoid costume versions of Hawaiian dress such as plastic grass skirts or coconut bras: the show is a celebration of real Polynesian traditions, and locals notice. There is no rule about colours; red is fine to wear in Hawaii. Plan your transport with getting there from Waikiki, or go back to the planning tabs on our homepage.