Hands-On Hawaiian Imu Cooking and Cultural Dining Experience

131 Reviews 4.98 out of 5 stars Based on 131 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Big Island of Hawaii, USA

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On average, this is booked 27 (11) days in advance.

4 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation
Offered in: English

Overview

Join a truly immersive Hawaiian experience unlike any other lūʻau or tour. Our guests become active participants, helping to build an imu—the traditional Hawaiian underground oven—and preparing traditional dishes as part of a hands-on journey through Hawaii's cultural heritage. This is regenerative tourism in action: we share Hawaiian values of stewardship and respect for the land, inviting you to forge a reciprocal relationship with nature. Imu Mea 'Ai is owned and operated by Men of PA'A, a nonprofit that empowers Native Hawaiian men through meaningful community work. Your participation supports local development and cultural preservation, offering a unique, authentic experience led by native Hawaiians who are committed to keeping their traditions alive for future generations.

What's Included

  • Lunch
  • Bottled water
  • Activity Guide
  • Gratuities
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

15-1380 Auina Street
Pāhoa, HI 96778, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Learn the art and tradition of indigenous Hawaiian food preparation! An imu is an underground oven that uses materials from the Earth to slow cook food to perfection. In this hands-on experience, you’ll get to participate in building an imu from scratch, guided by native Hawaiians whose families have been cooking this way for generations. After the imu is uncovered, you’ll gather for a backyard-style feast, where you’ll savor the slow-cooked kalua pig and other island favorites. This is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural feast that will nourish both body and soul.

Sample Menu

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 50 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Hands-On Hawaiian Imu Cooking and Cultural Dining Experience?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the activity start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the activity start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the activity local time (HST).This activity requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-5488284P1

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.98
131 reviews

Average 4.98 out of 5 stars based on 131 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
129
4 stars
2
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2 stars
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1 star
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On average, this is booked 27 (11) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Lunch
  • Bottled water
  • Activity Guide
  • Gratuities

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 50 travelers

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Free Cancellation

100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the activity start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the activity start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the activity local time (HST).
  • This activity requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This activity requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

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