Lāʻie, Census-designated place in Honolulu County, United States
Lāʻie is a community on the northeastern coast of Oahu island that spans an area with beaches, mountainous terrain, and wooded valleys. The place is home to Brigham Young University Hawaii's campus and the Polynesian Cultural Center.
The area was originally an ancient Hawaiian settlement before Mormon missionaries arrived in the 19th century and transformed it into a religious center. This change shaped the community's development and remains central to its character.
The Polynesian Cultural Center showcases traditional arts and ways of life from six Pacific Island cultures through live performances and craft demonstrations. Visitors experience dances, music, and daily practices that remain part of the region's identity.
The area is easily reached by car and offers plenty of opportunities to explore beaches and hiking trails. Visitors should check ahead, as some facilities have limited hours of operation.
The Polynesian Cultural Center is largely staffed by local students who work there during their studies and share their own cultures. This creates a more genuine experience since the stories come from people living these traditions.
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