If you’ve ever dreamed of a tropical Hawaiian vacation with a touch of Disney magic, then Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, is a must! Located on the island of Oahu, Aulani is not your typical Disney resort—it’s a blend of Hawaiian culture, relaxation, and a lot of family fun. I’m blessed to be a Disney Vacation Club member and get to call Aulani home. I just returned from my third visit and it keeps getting better. So, what’s it like to stay at Disney’s Aulani and what does the resort have to offer? Follow along to learn more.
1. A Hawaiian Paradise with a Touch of Disney
As soon as you step foot onto the resort, you’re greeted with “Aloha!” and the warm hospitality of the Hawaiian islands. Aulani was designed with a deep connection and tribute to the local culture. While you’ll spot familiar Disney characters like Mickey Mouse and Moana, the focus here is on celebrating the traditions and natural beauty of Hawaii. The architecture, art, and design of the resort are inspired by Hawaiian heritage, making it a beautiful tribute to the local culture.
What makes it unique: Disney worked closely with Hawaiian cultural experts to ensure the resort respects and showcases authentic Hawaiian traditions, from the storytelling to the decor.
2. Tropical Grounds, Stunning Views and a Water Oasis
Aulani’s location on the Ko Olina coast offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool, strolling through the gardens, or lounging on the resort’s beach, the scenery is amazing! The lush greenery, tropical flowers, and shallow and calm lagoons make every corner of the resort feel like paradise. And my favorite thing to do…enjoy the beautiful sunset as it sets beyond the cove.
Highlights:
- Waikolohe Valley: The resort’s main water area is a family-friendly oasis with the following;
- Waikolohe Pool – 8,200-square-foot, zero-entry pool offers something enticing for every member of your ‘ohana.
- Waikolohe Stream which includes a lazy river, and two waterslides; the Volcanic Vertical and Tubestone Curl.
- Menehune Bridge offers plenty of play space and magical features including 2 water slides, interactive water elements, spinning gourds, and a climbing play structure just to name a few. This area is reserved for your kiddos 48” and shorter.
- Keiki Cove Splash Zone is a whimsical water playground for those 5 years and under.
- Rainbow Reef allows you to get up close and personal with tropical fish native to the area. This man-made saltwater lagoon is the perfect place to try out snorkeling, especially for tose who are beginners.
- Ka Maka Grotto: This infinity-edge pool overlooks the ocean and is especially magical at sunset.
Ko Olina Beach: The resort’s crescent-shaped lagoon offers calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, and snorkeling or just basking in the sun.
3. Family Fun and Disney Magic
Aulani is designed with families in mind, and there’s no shortage of activities to keep both kids and adults entertained. From interactive experiences to cultural storytelling, there’s something for everyone.
For Kids:
- Aunty’s Beach House: A kids’ club where children, ages 4-12, can enjoy supervised activities like Hawaiian crafts, games, and even character meet-and-greets.
- Character Experiences: You’ll find Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and other beloved Disney characters around the resort, often dressed in tropical attire for signatures and photo ops.
- Menehune Adventure Trail: A fun scavenger hunt throughout the resort where families can search for hidden Menehune (mischievous Hawaiian spirits) using interactive devices.
For Adults:
- Laniwai Spa: One of Aulani’s crown jewels, this luxurious spa offers traditional Hawaiian treatments, massages, and access to a hydrotherapy garden.
- Wailana Pool: If you’re seeking a more peaceful environment, the adult-only pool is a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the other resort areas.
- Sunset Dinner at ‘AMA‘AMA: Enjoy a romantic dinner at this beachfront restaurant, offering contemporary, locally sourced seafood and Hawaiian-inspired dishes with an ocean view.
4. Embracing Hawaiian Culture
One of the most special aspects of Aulani is how it immerses guests in Hawaiian culture. Throughout the resort, cultural programming brings Hawaii’s rich traditions to life.
Cultural Activities:
- The KA WAA Luau: Experience a journey through Hawaiian history—and discover its deep cultural roots in canoe (waʻa) exploration, which brought the first ancient explorers to the shores of Ko Olina.
- Storytelling and Hula: Learn the art of hula or join Uncle, a master storyteller, around the firepit as he shares fascinating Hawaiian legends beneath the nighttime sky.
- Ukulele Lessons: Learn to play the ukulele, a beloved Hawaiian instrument, in one of the resort’s complimentary classes.
- Hawaiian Crafts: Create your own lei, make traditional Hawaiian crafts, or learn about the history and culture of the islands through hands-on activities.
5. Rooms with a View
Whether you’re staying in a standard room, villa, or suite, Aulani’s accommodations are designed for comfort and relaxation. Rooms are spacious, with Hawaiian-inspired décor, and many offer stunning views of the ocean, gardens, or mountains.
Room Highlights:
- Ocean View Rooms: Wake up to the sight of the Pacific Ocean each morning—a perfect way to start your day in paradise.
- Villas: Ideal for larger families or groups, these come equipped with kitchens, living spaces, and multiple bedrooms.
- Disney-Inspired Details: Disney adds small magical touches like the notable surfboard Micky lamp (which can also be purchased to add to your home) bath and hidden Disney details throughout.
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6. Dining Options and Sweet Treats
Aulani offers a wide variety of dining options for both children and adults alike, from casual bites to upscale cuisine. The resort prides itself on incorporating local ingredients and flavors into its dishes, giving you an authentic taste of Hawaii.
Dining Experiences:
- Makahiki: A character breakfast buffet, which I highly recommend, offers delicious Hawaiian and American dishes. It’s a great way to start the day with visits from Mickey and friends and some yummy food too!
- ‘AMA‘AMA: The resort’s signature restaurant, serving upscale Hawaiian cuisine with an ocean view.
- Off the Hook: A poolside bar offering tropical drinks and casual food options, perfect for a casual sit-down meal.
- Ulu Café: For quick bites, this spot offers grab-and-go meals and snacks, including local treats like poke and acai bowls.
- Mama’s Snack Stop: Refresh and refuel after some fun in the pool! Dig into full meals featuring island fare and family favorites at this poolside eatery.
Sweet Treats:
- Pāpālua Shave Ice: Cool off poolside with fruity, refreshing shaved ice shaped just like Micket ears!
- Little ‘Opihi’s: no Disney vacation would be complete without a Dole Whip! This beachside snack shake offers this iconic treat along with Mickey Ice Cream bars and adult beverages.
7. Relaxation and Adventure
For those looking to explore beyond the resort, Aulani’s location on Oahu means there’s plenty to see and do. You can venture out on a hike, visit historic sites like Pearl Harbor, or explore Honolulu and the famous Waikiki Beach. But if you’d rather stay close to the resort, there are endless opportunities for relaxation and fun, from lounging on the beach to kayaking or paddleboarding in the lagoon.
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa is more than just a hotel—it’s an immersive experience that combines the best of Hawaiian culture with the magic of Disney. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation, a romantic escape, or a blend of both, Aulani offers something for everyone. The combination of stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and Disney charm makes it a destination you’ll remember for a lifetime.
If you’re looking for a tropical paradise where relaxation and adventure meet, Aulani is the perfect place to create unforgettable memories. Mahalo!
