Honolulu Star-Advertiser readers select PCC as “Hawaii’s Best” in People’s Choice Awards
The Polynesian Cultural Center has once again been voted “Best Tourist Attraction,” a distinguished honor, by readers of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser‘s annual “Hawaii’s Best” edition. This is the third time PCC has been honored with the first place title for “Best Tourist Attraction.”
“PCC is extremely honored to be recognized as the Honolulu Star-Advertiser‘s ‘Best Tourist Attraction,’ especially since winners are chosen based on kamaaina readers’ picks,” said Raymond Magalei, PCC’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “It’s very important to us that ohana (families) who come to PCC, whether they are visitors or kamaaina, repeat or first-time visitors, have a fun and fulfilling cultural experience. It is our hope that PCC continues to be Hawaii’s top attraction for many years to come.”
Each year, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser compiles a comprehensive list of the best that Oahu has to offer and readers vote to determine the winners in a variety of categories, including food, shopping, entertainment, services, fitness, and celebrations.
PCC has previously been recognized with several “Hawaii’s Best” awards. In 2009, PCC was selected as the “Best Tourist Attraction” by the Honolulu Star-Bulletin and again in 2011 by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. Earlier this year, PCC’s critically acclaimed evening show, Hā: Breath of Life, was named “Best Live Show” in Hawaii Magazine‘s 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards. In addition, Hawaii’s No. 1 entertainment critic, Wayne Harada of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, awarded Hā: Breath of Life the “Best show, public” in his annual Waynie Awards for 2009.
As the PCC celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year, many new additions and improvements have been made to reinvigorate the Center’s cultural offerings. The all-new Hawaiian Journey presentation is a 14-minute cinematic extravaganza that brings to life the story of Native Hawaiians and the deep connection they have to the land and their ancestors. Housed in a volcano and projected on one of the largest screens in the state, Hawaiian Journey transports guests into gorgeous imagery of Hawaii, made real with special effect movements, sounds and scents.
The recently renovated Hawaii Village redesign is reflective of an ahupua’a – a land division used by ancient Hawaiians, usually extending from the uplands to the sea – and includes a Hale Ali’i (chief’s house), new activities, architecture and exhibits.
The PCC also recently introduced a brand new luau experience centered around the Samoan culture located in the native outdoor setting of the Samoan Village. The Island Luau is an interactive “family-style” experience that will have guests participating in fun activities like basket and coconut plate weaving and coconut shell dancing. Entertainment will also feature keiki fireknife dancers and songs and dances dedicated to the coconut tree, an important icon in Samoan culture.