Cirque du Soleil Auana in Waikiki 2026: Everything You Need to Know

For the first time ever, Cirque du Soleil has created a show inspired entirely by Hawaii — and it’s performing right in the heart of Waikiki. ʻAuana (which means “to wander” or “to drift” in Hawaiian) is a resident production at the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel, and it has quickly become one of the most talked-about things to do in Honolulu.

Whether you’re visiting Oahu on vacation or you live here and haven’t gone yet, here’s everything you need to know before you book your tickets.

What Is Auana About?

ʻAuana tells the story of a young woman who arrives in Hawaii and is drawn into the islands’ spirit — the ocean, the mountains, the music, and the deep cultural traditions that make this place unlike anywhere else on earth. Think of it as a love letter to Hawaii told through Cirque du Soleil’s signature acrobatics, dance, and live music.

Unlike touring Cirque shows that feel arena-sized, ʻAuana was built for an intimate 800-seat theater. You’re close to the performers. You can hear the live ukulele. You can feel the energy in a way that bigger productions just can’t match. The show blends traditional Hawaiian elements — hula, slack-key guitar, chanting — with world-class aerial acts, contortion, and stage design that will genuinely take your breath away.

The Venue: Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel

The show takes place in a purpose-built theater inside the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel on Kalakaua Avenue, right in the center of Waikiki. If you’ve walked the main strip, you’ve walked past it.

Address: 2300 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815

The location is incredibly convenient. It’s steps from the International Market Place, DFS, and dozens of restaurants. If you’re staying anywhere in Waikiki, you can probably walk there. If you’re coming from elsewhere on Oahu, the Ala Moana Center parking garage is a short walk away, or grab a rideshare — parking in Waikiki itself is expensive and limited.

Show Schedule & Dates

ʻAuana runs multiple shows per week throughout 2026, with performances typically at 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM. The schedule shifts slightly by season, so always check the specific dates when booking. The show runs through at least the end of 2026, with 376 scheduled performances — so you have plenty of opportunities to catch it.

View all upcoming Auana show dates on AlohaCalendar

Ticket Prices & Where to Buy

Tickets range from approximately $99 to $249 depending on seating category:

• Category 3 (rear/sides): Starting around $99 — still a great view given the intimate theater size
• Category 2 (mid-house): Around $149-$179 — the sweet spot for most people
• Category 1 (premium front-center): $199-$249 — immersive, close-up experience
• VIP packages: Available with pre-show drinks and premium seating

Book directly through cirquedusoleil.com or through the Outrigger concierge for the best availability. Third-party sites often mark up prices significantly. Weeknight shows (Tuesday-Thursday) tend to have better availability than weekend performances.

Best Seats in the House

Here’s the insider tip: because the theater was built specifically for this show, there really aren’t bad seats. That said, center sections in rows 5-12 give you the best overall perspective — close enough to see facial expressions but far enough to take in the full stage picture and aerial work.

If you’re on a budget, the rear sections are still excellent. The theater is compact enough that even the last row feels connected to the performance.

What to Wear

This is Hawaii, so keep it relaxed. Resort casual is the vibe — aloha shirts, sundresses, nice shorts, sandals. You don’t need to dress up, but most people step it up slightly from beach clothes since it’s an evening out in Waikiki. The theater is air-conditioned, so bring a light layer if you run cold.

Dinner Before or After the Show

Waikiki is packed with great dining options within walking distance. Here are some favorites:

• Before the 5 PM show: Grab a late lunch at Marukame Udon (lines move fast) or Musubi Cafe Iyasume for something quick
• Between shows or after the 8 PM: Duke’s Waikiki for ocean-view drinks, Hy’s Steak House for a splurge, or the International Market Place food court for casual options
• For a full dinner experience: Eating House 1849 by Roy Yamaguchi or Doraku Sushi are both within a 5-minute walk

Pro tip: If you’re catching the 5 PM show, eat early and light. If you’re doing the 8 PM, have dinner first and make a whole evening of it.

Getting There

• Walking: If you’re staying in Waikiki, just walk. It’s on the main strip.
• Rideshare: Uber/Lyft drop-off on Kalakaua Ave works well. Expect surge pricing on weekend evenings.
• TheBus: Routes 8, 19, 20, 23, and 42 all stop near the Beachcomber.
• Driving: The Outrigger has valet parking, or try the garage at International Market Place ($6/hr, $40 max). Street parking in Waikiki at night is a headache — don’t bother.

Tips for the Best Experience

• Arrive 30 minutes early — the lobby area has a pre-show atmosphere worth soaking in
• No photography or video during the performance (they’re strict about this)
• The show runs about 75 minutes with no intermission — use the restroom beforehand
• Book the 5 PM show if you want to catch sunset on Waikiki Beach afterward
• Going with kids? The show is family-friendly and children tend to be mesmerized by the acrobatics. Kids under 2 are not admitted.

Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. ʻAuana isn’t just another tourist show — it’s a genuine artistic achievement that respects Hawaiian culture while delivering the jaw-dropping spectacle Cirque is known for. Local residents, visitors, and even culture-conscious critics have praised the show for getting the Hawaiian elements right, which is no small thing.

If you’re on Oahu anytime in 2026, put this on your list. It’s one of those experiences you’ll genuinely remember.

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