Visiting Hawaii is always a special vacation, but taking it a step further and spending your Hawaiian time at Disney’s Aulani is a magical treat for the entire family. From the time you are greeted at the resort entrance with your lei your luxury vacation as begun. This is truly a vacation that can be as relaxing or as active as you like. With spa services to exciting excursions, there is something for everyone.

Activities/Pool

There are plenty of activities to keep every member of your family busy. Excursions include Pearl Harbor, horseback riding, surfing lessons and shopping.  The Daily ‘Iwa will list the daily activities, which is broken down by age group and family focused, including character appearances.

There are pools and whirlpools scattered throughout the pool deck catered to both children and adults. The highlight for many is the lazy river, which runs throughout the pool deck.  By spreading out the multiple pools into separate areas, you don’t get a sense for the number of people and makes it feel less crowded.

Another popular pool area is Rainbow Reef, a snorkeling pool. Watch your snorkeler and take advantage of a great photo opportunity at the underwater viewing window.

The lagoon is a wonderful alternative to the pool. Since it is an enclosed area, you do not need to be concerned with waves or large sea life. It is perfect for paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling and swimming.

Character Interactions

It wouldn’t be Disney without a character meeting. There are plenty of opportunities to visit with Mickey, Minnie, Lilo and Stitch and more.  You can have a photo opportunity with your favorite characters at the Aunty's Breakfast Celebration buffet.  You may even catch Goofy getting his paws wet in the zero entry pool.  But also check the Daily ‘Iwa for a listing of Disney Friends Meet and Greets.

Rooms

There is a room accommodation to fit almost any family size.

Rooms & Suites

Standard Room – Sleeps 4

1 Bedroom Suite – Sleeps 5

1 Bedroom Suite Deluxe - Sleeps 5

2 Bedroom Suite – Sleeps 6

 

Villas – 1, 2 and 3 Bedroom Suites include a full kitchen

Deluxe Studio – Sleeps 4

1 Bedroom Villa – Sleeps 5

2 Bedroom Villa – Sleeps 9

3 Bedroom Grand Villa – Sleeps 12

 

Dining Options

There are countless dining options onsite as well as nearby the resort.  Onsite there are quick service options by the pool and beach that are open from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Otherwise, sit down options include Makahiki Buffet for breakfast and dinner and ‘Ama’Ama for beachside dining. Reservations are recommended for both.

Off property options include Monkey Pod and Just Taco restaurants that are located across the street from the resort.  Monkey Pod has a Happy Hour from 3-5 with ½ off appetizers and $9.00 pizzas.

If you opt for a villa, the 1, 2 & 3 bedrooms also include a full kitchen. There is an ABC Store across the street as well as a Target and Costco a few miles away if you would like to grab groceries and have a few home cooked meals in your room.

Transportation

To get to and from the airport, you can rent a car, use a shuttle service or take a taxi.  If you plan on doing activities off the resort property during your stay, a rental car may be the most economical option. Using a www.DiscountHawaiiCarRental.com will help you find the lowest rates available.  Keep in mind, Aulani does charge $35/day to park, but is free for DVC members.

Rental cars are also available at the resort through Alamo if you would like to explore the island. Disney recommends www.speedishuttle.com and www.charleystaxi.com as other options to getting to/from the airport and getting around the island.

Weddings

I can’t think of a better setting for a wedding than Hawaii. For those looking for a destination wedding, there are 2 small wedding chapels located next to the property with the backdrop being the lagoon.

My family recently visited Aulani and I would be happy to help you plan your Aulani vacation as well as share some cost saving ideas.