The Authentic Hawaiian Dinner Paina in Hana, Maui, offers a unique cultural experience for visitors seeking to enjoy the flavors and hospitality of traditional Hawaiian cuisine. With a small group setting and personalized attention, this culinary adventure promises an evening of authentic dishes and warm island hospitality. However, some guests have noted issues with meeting instructions, which could impact the overall experience. Explore deeper to uncover the highlights and potential drawbacks of this distinctive dining opportunity.
Experience Overview

The Hawaiian Dinner Paina offers travelers an authentic cultural experience in the remote town of Hana, Maui. Priced from $185 per person, the dinner allows a maximum of 30 guests to dine with native Hawaiians and enjoy the island’s traditions.
The experience includes a homemade dinner, bottled water, and the option to bring alcoholic beverages. While not wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly.
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the event. Reviews are mixed, with one praising the warm hospitality and another reporting issues with the meeting point.
Inclusions

According to the knowledge provided, the Hawaiian Dinner Paina includes a dinner, bottled water, and the option for guests to bring their own alcoholic beverages.
The dinner is a central part of the experience, allowing travelers to savor authentic Hawaiian cuisine. The inclusion of bottled water guarantees guests stay hydrated throughout the event.
Plus, the experience allows guests to bring their own alcoholic beverages, providing flexibility and the opportunity to enhance the dining experience to their preference.
These inclusions create a well-rounded offering, catering to the needs and preferences of the travelers.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Maui
Meeting and Pickup

Travelers meet at the Hana Airport (HNM), located at 700 Alalele Pl, Hana, HI 96713, USA.
Look for the Coconut Grove Hana sign near the entrance. The experience begins and ends at this meeting point.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the activity is stroller friendly. Most travelers can participate, and confirmation is received upon booking.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the event. The Reserve Now and Pay Later option is also available for added convenience.
Accessibility and Policies

Though not wheelchair accessible, the activity is stroller friendly.
Most travelers can participate in the Hawaiian Dinner Paina experience. Guests receive confirmation immediately upon booking. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the event.
The "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option is also available, providing flexibility for travelers.
The experience aims to accommodate a wide range of visitors, making it accessible to the majority, though those with mobility challenges may face some limitations.
Positive Review
Michelle_E’s review praised the Hawaiian Dinner Paina as an authentic and intimate cultural experience.
She highlighted the warm hospitality of the native hosts, who shared valuable insights into Hawaiian traditions and cuisine.
The reviewer appreciated the small group size, which allowed for personalized attention and opportunities to engage with the local community.
According to Michelle_E, the dinner menu featured traditional Hawaiian dishes that were both delicious and educational, providing a genuine taste of the islands’ culinary heritage.
Negative Review

Unfortunately, Richard_B’s review painted a different picture of the Hawaiian Dinner Paina experience. He reported issues with the meeting point, stating no one showed up, leading to wasted time and loss of money.
This experience seems to have fallen short of expectations:
- Unclear meeting instructions
- Lack of on-site staff or coordination
- Resulting in time and money wasted
- Potentially ruining the overall experience
While the positive review highlighted the authenticity and hospitality, this negative account raises concerns about the reliability and organization of this offering.
Customers should consider these potential challenges when booking this activity.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Maui
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- South Maui: Gilligans Island Luau With Dinner and Drinks
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Experience Highlights
What stands out most about the Hawaiian Dinner Paina experience is its authenticity and culture.
Guests are invited to dine with native Hawaiians in the remote town of Hana, offering a rare opportunity to learn about traditional Hawaiian customs and cuisine.
The intimate setting, with a maximum of 30 travelers, fosters an engaging and interactive experience.
Attendees can look forward to a delicious dinner made with locally-sourced ingredients, along with the chance to try alcoholic beverages brought from their own collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Time Does the Dinner Experience Start?
The dinner experience doesn’t specify a start time. The information provided indicates the experience returns to the meeting point at the Hana Airport, but doesn’t mention the start time for the dinner itself.
Is Transportation Provided to and From the Event?
No, transportation is not provided. Travelers are responsible for getting to and from the meeting point at the Hana Airport. The experience starts at the meeting point and returns back to the same location.
Can Vegetarian or Dietary-Restricted Meals Be Accommodated?
Yes, the experience can accommodate vegetarian and other dietary restrictions. Guests should provide any dietary needs when booking, and the hosts will work to cater to those requirements during the authentic Hawaiian dinner paina.
What Type of Traditional Hawaiian Cuisine Is Served?
The authentic Hawaiian dinner paina features traditional island cuisine, including fresh seafood, local produce, and cultural specialties like poi, laulau, and haupia. Vegetarian and dietary-restricted options can typically be accommodated upon request.
Are There Any Cultural Performances or Activities During the Dinner?
The experience includes cultural performances and activities during the authentic Hawaiian dinner. Guests can expect to witness traditional Hawaiian music, hula dancing, and other cultural demonstrations that provide an immersive and educational experience.
The Sum Up

The Authentic Hawaiian Dinner Paina offers a unique cultural experience in Hana, Maui. While the homemade dinner and hospitality receive high praise, some guests have noted issues with unclear meeting instructions. The authentic dishes and warm atmosphere create a memorable evening for those seeking to enjoy Hawaiian culture, despite a few logistical hiccups.
More Dinner Experiences in Maui
- Migrations Cultural Dinner Show at Seascape Restaurant on Maui
- South Maui: Sunset Prime Rib or Island Fish Dinner Cruise
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- Luxury Catamaran Royal Sunset Dinner Sail (Adults-Only)
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- From Maalaea Harbor: Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise Aboard Calypso
More Dining Experiences in Maui
- Migrations Cultural Dinner Show at Seascape Restaurant on Maui
- South Maui: Sunset Prime Rib or Island Fish Dinner Cruise
- Maalaea Premium Dinner Cruise: Four Course Dining Experience
- Luxury Catamaran Royal Sunset Dinner Sail (Adults-Only)
- Wailele Luau Including Fire and Knife Performance Plus Dinner
- From Maalaea Harbor: Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise Aboard Calypso
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