Typical of Cirque shows, the main highlights are provided by the uniquely talented performers. ¡°Auana¡¯s¡± acts include roller skaters, jugglers, gymnasts and more. A couple of the standout performances include a woman who performs an entire water acrobatic routine inside a giant cocktail glass; a surfer defying gravity by balancing on impossibly long cylinders; and a grand finale that featured two men running, jumping, and flying through the air on something that resembled a giant hamster wheel. All of the acts fall into the ¡°you have to see it to believe it¡± category.

Of course, like most Cirque shows, humor plays a significant role in the production as well. In this case, it mostly comes from a ¡°visitor¡± to the islands who has some ¡°misadventures.¡± Several of the acts also involve audience participation and surprises. There¡¯s a homage to the television show ¡°Hawaii 5-0¡± that drew big laughs from the crowd.

¡°Auana¡± is presented twice nightly, from Wednesday through Sunday. Outrigger deserves credit for investing in a custom-built venue right in the vibrant center of Waikiki. The comfortable theater is small enough to feel intimate, yet large enough to accommodate truly amazing acts and sets.?

Holo Moana Hula at Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel. (Photo Credit: Cirque du Soleil)

Outrigger also offers travel advisors commission on tickets. Several online vendors are available to agents, including Pleasant Holidays, Expedia, Viator and more. Outrigger also provides group packages in conjunction with Maui Brewing Co., ideal for special celebrations, corporate events, and family reunions. All ticketed guests can buy drinks and refreshments at any of the three bars operated by Maui Brewing Company.

The Hotel

Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel is located in the heart of the action in Waikiki, on Kalakaua Avenue. The main lobby is on the second floor, above the street, so outdoor seating avoids the rowdier activity on Kalakaua.?

The hotel features a Maui Brewing Company restaurant, offering live music and outdoor seating, as well as Aroma Cafe for breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Order ahead to avoid the morning coffee rush.

Also on the lobby level is a compact pool and hot tub, an activities desk and the entrance to the ¡°Auana¡± theater.

Hina Lyra at Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel. (Photo Credit: Cirque du Soleil)

The hotel¡¯s 496 guestrooms feel modern, spacious and comfortable. Fittingly, the rooms take advantage of ocean-themed colors. My standard room had a photographic wave mural on the wall behind the bed. Many rooms feature a walk-out lanai with chairs and a table, offering views of the ocean.?

While the hotel is on the non-beach side of Kalakaua, it¡¯s a short walk from the hotel to the sand.?

For an unforgettable dose of Hawaiian culture and Cirque-style magic, ¡°Auana¡± at the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber is a can¡¯t-miss experience and a winning combination for advisors.

For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore