One of the most unique Halloween events in the islands is the Haunted Lagoon at the Polynesian Cultural Center. As the story goes, the Laie lady haunts the waters of the lagoon after dark, in search of her lost son. If you enjoy a good scare, this night-time voyage by canoe through the haunted villages of the Polynesian Cultural Center will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat for 30 fright-filled minutes.
Try to book your tickets as far in advance as possible as they do sell out. Once you arrive, lines also get quite long, so you may want to consider the “fast pass” ticket option to cut down your wait time, especially if you are arriving early. When we went on opening weekend, we arrived at 5:30 to get an early spot in the regular line, and didn’t get to board a canoe until 7:45. (When we got out at 8:15, there wasn’t a line to get in, although it’s still early in the season.)
Drinks and snacks are sold in line while you are waiting. I’ve heard it’s new this year, but there was also a “haunted house” to walk through before you get to the lines for the canoes, which gets you in the mood for the main event. Make sure to keep the provided glasses on for an extra spooky haunted house experience.
If you’ve got young children, check in before 7pm to take advantage of the keiki rides. Keiki canoes leave from 6:30 to 7:30pm and feature a “lost warrior” to accompany you on your canoe to ward off the evil spirits, including the Laie Lady. Regular canoes are left to fend for themselves, but if you’re extra nervous, try to grab a seat in the middle. Wherever you sit, be prepared to get wet as you may get splashed occasionally. And if it’s a rainy night, be sure to purchase a poncho for $3 at customer service as the ride is not protected from the elements.
To get yourself acquainted with the Laie Lady before your visit, you can follow her on Twitter (@LaieLady) and even take a peek into her lost diary – if you dare!
Location, Pricing & Hours
Ticket prices are $25 for adults, $20 for children (Fast pass – $40/$35). Kama’aina pricing and various discounts are available as well. Details here. If you’re interested in coming early to visit the rest of the park, you’ll need to purchase park admission separately.
The Haunted Lagoon runs Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays from 9/30/11 – 10/23/11; Monday – Saturday from 10/24 through Halloween night. Canoes start at 6:30pm (Fast Pass times: 7:00, 7:30, 8:30 & Keiki Rides: 6:30, 7:00, 7:30)
Polynesian Cultural Center
55-370 Kamehameha Hwy.
Laie, Hawaii 96762
(808) 293-3333
Tours may be available with pickup in Waikiki, or if you prefer to drive yourself, here is a Google map. Parking is $5 per vehicle.
