Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

Description

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa is a slice of paradise that seamlessly blends Hawaiian culture with Disney magic. Located on the stunning shores of Ko Olina, Oahu, this resort offers a unique escape for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. As soon as you step foot on the property, you’re greeted by the warm Hawaiian sun and the even warmer smiles of the staff.

The resort’s architecture is a testament to Hawaiian heritage, with intricate wooden carvings and native art adorning the walls. But don’t be fooled – this isn’t just another pretty face. Aulani packs a punch when it comes to entertainment and relaxation options. From the moment you wake up to the gentle sound of waves, to the time you hit the hay after a fun-filled day, there’s never a dull moment.

Let’s talk about the rooms. They’re spacious, comfortable, and have that touch of Disney whimsy without being over-the-top. You might spot a hidden Mickey or two, but the overall vibe is more “tropical getaway” than “theme park.” And the views? Oh boy, whether you’re facing the mountains or the ocean, you’re in for a treat.

Now, I’ve stayed at my fair share of resorts, but Aulani’s pools take the cake. The Waikolohe Valley is like a water park on steroids. You’ve got your lazy river, your thrilling water slides, and even a reef where you can snorkel with tropical fish. It’s like having your own private aquarium!

Food-wise, Aulani doesn’t disappoint. From casual beachside bites to upscale dining experiences, there’s something to satisfy every palate. And yes, you can still get your Mickey-shaped waffles for breakfast. But don’t miss out on trying some local Hawaiian dishes – the resort does an excellent job of showcasing island flavors.

One thing that really sets Aulani apart is its commitment to Hawaiian culture. It’s not just lip service – they’ve woven it into every aspect of the resort experience. From lei-making classes to stargazing sessions where you learn about Polynesian navigation, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in local traditions.

The Laniwai Spa deserves a special mention. It’s a haven of tranquility where you can indulge in treatments inspired by Hawaiian healing practices. Trust me, after a lomilomi massage, you’ll feel like you’re floating on a cloud.

For the keiki (that’s Hawaiian for “kids”), Aunty’s Beach House is a dream come true. It’s a complimentary kids’ club where little ones can engage in supervised activities while parents enjoy some alone time. And let’s not forget the Disney character meet-and-greets – because what’s a Disney resort without a hug from Mickey?

While Aulani is undoubtedly family-friendly, it also caters well to adults. The adults-only pool area is a serene escape, and the sunset-facing ‘Ōlelo Room bar is the perfect spot for a romantic evening.

Is it perfect? Well, no place is. Some folks might find it a bit pricey, and during peak seasons, it can get crowded. But in my opinion, the unique blend of Disney magic and Hawaiian hospitality makes it worth every penny.

All in all, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa offers a vacation experience that’s hard to match. It’s a place where you can relax on the beach, have adventures in the water, learn about Hawaiian culture, and still get your Disney fix. Whether you’re a Disney fan or just looking for a luxurious Hawaiian getaway, Aulani has something special to offer.

Key Features

• Waikolohe Valley: A sprawling water play area featuring pools, lazy river, and water slides
• Laniwai Spa: A full-service spa offering Hawaiian-inspired treatments
• Aunty’s Beach House: Complimentary kids’ club with supervised activities
• Character meet-and-greets: Opportunities to interact with beloved Disney characters
• Cultural programs: Lei-making, hula lessons, and other Hawaiian cultural activities
• Rainbow Reef: A private snorkeling lagoon teeming with tropical fish
• Diverse dining options: From casual beachside eateries to upscale restaurants
• ‘Ōlelo Room: An adults-only bar featuring Hawaiian language elements
• Ka Wa’a Luau: An immersive evening show celebrating Hawaiian culture and history
• Luxurious accommodations: Range from standard rooms to multi-bedroom villas
• Stunning location: Situated on the beautiful Ko Olina coastline
• Fitness center: State-of-the-art equipment and classes for staying active
• Starlit Hui: A nighttime show featuring Hawaiian music and Disney characters
• Pau Hana Room: Community hall for family activities and games
• Keiki Cove Splash Zone: A water play area designed for toddlers
• Menehune Adventure Trail: An interactive scavenger hunt around the resort
• Makahiki: A character breakfast experience with Mickey and friends
• Adult-exclusive areas: Including a secluded pool and hot tub
• Beach access: Direct access to a beautiful, calm lagoon
• Photogenic spots: Plenty of picture-perfect locations for memorable vacation photos

Best Time to Visit

Choosing the best time to visit Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa largely depends on what you’re looking for in your Hawaiian vacation. But let me break it down for you based on my experiences and what I’ve heard from other travelers.

If you’re after the best weather, aim for April to June or September to early November. These shoulder seasons offer a sweet spot of sunny days, fewer crowds, and more reasonable prices. The temperatures hover around a comfortable 75-85°F (24-29°C), perfect for lounging by the pool or exploring the island.

However, if you’re a sun worshipper like me and don’t mind the heat, July and August can be great. Yes, it’s peak season with higher prices and more people, but the weather is consistently warm and dry. Plus, the resort’s numerous pools and water activities are extra refreshing in the summer heat.

Winter (December to March) is a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, you might catch some rain showers, and the ocean can be a bit choppier. On the other hand, this is prime whale-watching season! There’s something magical about spotting humpback whales from the resort’s beach. Just keep in mind that the Christmas and New Year period is the busiest and most expensive time at Aulani.

For budget-conscious travelers, consider visiting in May or September. These months often see lower rates and fewer crowds as they fall just outside the peak seasons. You’ll still get great weather without breaking the bank.

If you’re traveling with kids and need to plan around school schedules, spring break (usually in March or April) can be a good option. The weather is generally pleasant, and the resort offers plenty of special activities for families during this time.

One insider tip: keep an eye out for special events at the resort. Aulani often hosts unique experiences throughout the year, like their Halloween celebration or holiday-themed activities. These can add an extra layer of fun to your vacation if they align with your travel dates.

Remember, Hawaii’s climate is pretty stable year-round, so there’s really no bad time to visit. Each season has its own charm. Whether you’re seeking sunshine, whale watching, or the best deals, Aulani has something to offer every month of the year.

How to Get There

Getting to Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa is part of the adventure, and I’m here to guide you through it. Trust me, the journey is worth it when you see that first glimpse of the resort!

The first step is flying into Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on the island of Oahu. It’s the main gateway to Hawaii and is served by numerous airlines from around the world. If you’re coming from the continental U.S., you’re looking at about a 5-6 hour flight from the West Coast or 10-11 hours from the East Coast. Pro tip: book a flight that arrives in the afternoon or evening. There’s nothing worse than battling jet lag and Hawaii’s morning rush hour traffic!

Once you land in Honolulu, you’ve got a few options to get to Aulani. The resort is located in Ko Olina, about 20 miles west of the airport. Here’s the lowdown on your choices:

1. Rental Car: This is my personal favorite. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Oahu at your own pace. The drive from the airport to Aulani takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Just follow the signs for H-1 West, then take the exit for Ko Olina. The resort offers on-site parking, but keep in mind there’s a daily fee.

2. Shuttle Service: Aulani partners with a third-party shuttle service. It’s convenient and stress-free, especially if you’re traveling with kids or a lot of luggage. You’ll need to book this in advance, either through the resort or directly with the shuttle company.

3. Taxi or Ride-Share: Taxis are readily available at the airport, and ride-share services like Uber and Lyft operate on Oahu. This can be a good option if you’re not planning to explore much beyond the resort. Just be prepared for a potentially hefty fare – it can run you $50-$80 one way.

4. Private Car Service: If you’re feeling fancy, you can book a private car or limo. It’s pricier, but hey, you’re on vacation, right? Plus, nothing says “aloha” quite like stepping out of a luxury vehicle at the resort entrance.

5. Public Transportation: For the budget-conscious traveler, there is a public bus route that can get you to Ko Olina. It’s the cheapest option but also the longest, potentially taking up to 2 hours. You’ll need to take the 20 or 42 bus from the airport to Ala Moana Center, then transfer to the 40 or 42 bus to Ko Olina.

Whichever method you choose, remember that Aulani is your final destination, so sit back and enjoy the ride. As you make your way along the coast, you’ll start to get a taste of Hawaii’s beauty. The lush mountains on one side and the sparkling ocean on the other are just a preview of what awaits you at the resort.

One last piece of advice: if you’re renting a car or taking a taxi, consider stopping at a grocery store on the way. There’s an ABC Store and a Target not far from the resort where you can stock up on snacks and essentials. It can save you a bundle compared to buying everything at the resort.

Remember, your Hawaiian adventure begins the moment you step off the plane. So take a deep breath, feel the warm island air, and get ready for an unforgettable stay at Aulani!

Tips for Visiting

Alright, future Aulani visitors, gather ’round! I’ve got some insider tips that’ll help you make the most of your stay at this slice of Disney paradise. These nuggets of wisdom come from my own experiences and those of fellow travelers who’ve fallen in love with this resort.

First things first: download the Aulani app before you arrive. It’s a lifesaver! You can check wait times for popular activities, make dining reservations, and even unlock your room door. Plus, it’s got a handy map of the resort – trust me, you’ll need it. This place is huge!

Now, let’s talk dining. While Aulani has some fantastic restaurants, they can be pricey. Here’s a money-saving hack: stock up on breakfast and snack items at the nearby Target or ABC Store. Your room comes with a mini-fridge, so you can easily keep milk for cereal or ingredients for sandwiches. This way, you can splurge on those amazing dinners without breaking the bank.

Speaking of food, don’t miss the Dole Whip at the Ulu Cafe. It’s a refreshing pineapple soft-serve that’s a Disney parks staple, and it tastes even better in Hawaii!

If you’re a coffee addict like me, bring a travel mug. You can fill it up for free at the Ulu Cafe in the morning, saving you both money and time.

Now, about those pools. They’re amazing, but they can get crowded. My advice? Wake up early one morning and stake out a spot. It’s worth it, I promise. Plus, you might catch a beautiful sunrise over the ocean.

For the best photos, head to the Pu’u Kilo lawn just before sunset. The golden light hitting the resort is absolutely magical. It’s also a great spot to watch the nightly torch-lighting ceremony.

If you’re traveling with kids, take advantage of Aunty’s Beach House. It’s included in your stay and gives parents some much-needed alone time. Just remember to make reservations in advance for the premium activities.

Don’t forget to pack reef-safe sunscreen! Hawaii has banned sunscreens containing chemicals harmful to coral reefs

Location

Places to Stay Near Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

Find Tours in Kapolei

Explore More Travel Guides