Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, offers a unique blend of Hawaiian culture and subtle Disney magic on the island of O’ahu. It’s a resort experience that emphasizes Hawaiian storytelling, art, and language. For many, a trip to Aulani is a long-awaited vacation, and proper planning can significantly enhance the experience.
This guide provides practical information about the resort, from its layout and amenities to dining options and tips for making the most of your stay. Whether you are traveling as a couple or with family, this article will help you navigate your Hawaiian getaway.
Understanding the Resort and Accommodations
Located in Ko Olina, about 20 miles from Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Aulani is situated on the leeward side of O’ahu. The resort consists of two main towers, the Ewa Tower and the Wai’anae Tower, which house 351 hotel rooms and 481 Disney Vacation Club villas. The design focuses on Hawaiian culture, featuring the world’s largest collection of contemporary Hawaiian art.
Accommodations range from standard hotel rooms to multi-bedroom villas with full kitchens. When booking, it is important to select the room view you desire, as categories like Standard, Island Garden, Poolside Garden, Partial Ocean View, and Ocean View directly correspond to your room’s scenery.
Exploring the Waikolohe Valley
The heart of Aulani is the Waikolohe Valley, a sprawling water-play area. “Waikolohe” means “mischievous water” in Hawaiian, and the area lives up to its name with a variety of pools and activities. The main features include:
- Waikolohe Pool: A large, family-friendly pool.
- Waikolohe Stream: A lazy river that winds through the valley.
- Pu‘u Kilo: A volcano structure with two water slides, Volcanic Vertical and Tubestone Curl.
- Ka Maka Grotto: An infinity-edge pool with sunset views.
- Rainbow Reef: A private snorkeling lagoon where guests can swim with tropical fish for an additional fee.
- Menehune Bridge and Keiki Cove: Splash zones designed for younger children.
To access the Waikolohe Valley, guests must obtain a daily wristband from Kawele Korner, which ensures that only registered resort guests can use the facilities. Lounge chairs are available starting at 8:00 a.m., and staff may monitor and remove items from chairs that have been unoccupied for an extended period to ensure availability for all guests.
Dining Options at Aulani
Aulani offers a range of dining experiences, from quick-service meals to signature dining.
Table Service
- Makahiki: This restaurant offers a character breakfast and a casual dinner buffet. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 30 days in advance.
- ‘Ama ‘Ama: A signature dining restaurant with oceanfront views, perfect for watching the sunset. It offers a sophisticated, multi-course menu.
- The ‘Ōlelo Room: A unique lounge where the bartenders speak Hawaiian and everything is labeled in the native language. It serves cocktails and appetizers, with live music in the evenings.
Quick Service & Lounges
- Ulu Cafe: A grab-and-go and quick-service location offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can find poke bowls, pizzas, and other casual fare here.
- Off the Hook: A poolside lounge serving drinks and food throughout the day.
- Mama’s Snack Stop: Located in the Waikolohe Valley, this spot is ideal for a quick poolside lunch.
- Pāpālua Shave Ice: The place to get classic Mickey-shaped shave ice with a variety of local flavors.
Across the street at the Ko Olina Center, you will find additional dining options like Monkeypod Kitchen, Eggs ‘n Things, and Island Vintage Coffee.
Activities and Entertainment
While relaxation is a key part of the Aulani experience, there are many activities available.
- Character Experiences: You can meet Mickey, Minnie, Moana, Stitch, and other characters, including the Aulani-exclusive ‘Olu Mel. Character appearance times and locations are listed daily on the Aulani app and can also be found by calling the character hotline from your room phone.
- Menehune Adventure Trail: Hidden throughout the resort are over 300 statues of the Menehune, the mythical “little people” of Hawaiian legend. You can participate in a complimentary, interactive scavenger hunt by checking out a tablet from the Pau Hana Room. The trail guides you through the resort as you solve clues and bring magical elements to life.
- KA WA‘A Lū‘au: Aulani hosts its own lū‘au on select nights, featuring traditional food, music, and storytelling. This is a popular event, so booking tickets in advance is recommended.
Tips for Your Visit
- Consider DVC Shop for Resales or Rentals: DVC Shop is a licensed resale broker and rental service that offers travelers the opportunity to purchase a Disney Vacation Club contract at Aulani for a lifetime of memorable stays. If you’re looking for a one-time visit, you can also book a stay at this resort through DVC Shop’s rental service, often at a significant savings compared to booking directly with Disney.
- Book in Advance: Aulani is a popular destination and often sells out. It is best to book your stay as far in advance as possible, especially if traveling during peak seasons like holidays or school breaks.
- Rent a Car: To explore O’ahu beyond the resort, renting a car is the most convenient option. Keep in mind that Aulani charges a nightly parking fee (currently $37), though this is waived for DVC members staying on points.
- Use the Aulani App: Download the resort’s official app before your trip to check in online, view daily schedules, and access resort maps.
- Manage Costs: Consider purchasing a refillable mug for unlimited soft drinks, coffee, and tea at self-service stations. You can also buy snacks and drinks at nearby stores like Island Country Market, Safeway, or Target to keep in your room’s refrigerator.
- Explore O’ahu: Take advantage of your location to see more of the island. Day trips to Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Kualoa Ranch, or the North Shore can add another dimension to your Hawaiian vacation.
Conclusion
Aulani offers a carefully crafted experience that balances the magic of Disney with a deep respect for Hawaiian culture. It provides a setting for both relaxation and adventure, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of O’ahu while enjoying the quality and service associated with a Disney destination. By planning ahead and taking advantage of all the resort has to offer, you can create a memorable and fulfilling Hawaiian vacation.
Stay tuned to the DVC Shop blog and subscribe to our newsletter to get all the latest developments from inside the Disney parks and around the Disney Vacation Club resorts!
Save On Deluxe Disney Accommodations
Whether you’re looking for a short weekend getaway for two or a week-long vacation for the whole family, you can save up to 50% off Disney’s prices by planning your next Disney vacation with DVC Shop!
If you’re interested in becoming a member, and joining the DVC family, you can save thousands by shopping from our current resale listings for Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa.
Aulani Resort & Spa
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
