How to Plan an Aulani Vacation
Where can you enjoy amazing beaches, spectacular encounters with nature, incredible hiking, and historical landmarks, all while relaxing at a Disney resort? Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa, brings the magic to the Hawaiian island of Oahu. Located on twenty-one acres of oceanfront property, Aulani is far enough away from Honolulu to be an enchanting escape, but close enough to be able to enjoy all the favorite Hawaiian tourist spots.
Aulani is one of Disney’s only resorts that isn’t connected to a theme park – unless you consider Hawaiian beaches a theme park! At Aulani, Disney has created a tribute to Hawaiian customs and traditions through their architecture and design. Whether you’re enjoying the beach, pools, food, entertainment, or activities, guests will experience the culture of Hawaii in a very unique way.
Waikolohe Valley is an area consisting of an 8,200 square foot pool, a lazy river that winds through caverns and tropical plants, an infinity-edge family pool, and an adult pool and infinity-edge spa.
The pools are pristine, with amazing views. In the family pool, the kids will enjoy occasional visits from Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy!
One very unique feature is Rainbow Reef, a 3,800 square foot private snorkeling pool stocked with Hawaiian fish. Guests can rent snorkeling equipment and take the plunge or view the fish and snorkelers from a window in an underground cavern.
Aulani is positioned on the beautiful shores of Ko Olina lagoon. Guests can relax on the beautiful Hawaiian beach or try out a paddleboard or kayak. The beach is busy with activities for guests throughout the day, from yoga to games to ping pong.
And there’s even more to do on dry land! The Menehune Adventure Trail utilizes modern technology to complete a scavenger hunt around the resort as participants solve riddles, search for statues, and find other surprises. Several walking tours are also available and highlight different aspects of the resort. And of course, hula and ukulele lessons are always on the schedule!
In the evening, sit beneath the stars to enjoy a classic Disney movie or gather around the campfire for Mo’olelo storytelling to learn Hawaiian legends and lore, complete with magical effects.
Children ages 3-12 will enjoy spending time at Aunty’s Beach House, where parents can drop them off to enjoy Hawaiian games, activities, and crafts. Childcare is free for Aulani guests.
Aulani has its own luau, which is performed on certain nights and takes guests on a journey through Hawaiian history. Ka Wa’a is consistent with Disney’s first-rate entertainment, and can be enjoyed by all ages. Before the show begins, enjoy traditional Hawaiian crafts like orchid bracelet making and kapa printing. And look out for a surprise visit by Mickey Mouse himself!
What’s a vacation without time to relax and renew? Aulani guests have access to the Laniwai Spa, a full-service spa, salon, and fitness center. Enjoy mineral baths, a reflexology path, “rain” showers, and the outdoor Kula Wai hydrotherapy garden with private vitality pools. Guests 13 – 17 can enjoy Painted Sky Spa.
Aulani has two full-service restaurants. ‘Ama ‘Ama offers three meals a day with a view of the beach. Guests enjoy classic Hawaiian dishes with a modern twist in an open-air setting. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset! At Makahiki, the offerings include a buffet breakfast with Disney characters and a la carte options for lunch and dinner. There are also a number of quick-service options, some of which offer grab-and-go. Papalua’s Shaved Ice is always popular!
Accommodations at Aulani range from standard hotel rooms to suites to 3-bedroom villas complete with full kitchens and washer/dryer. All rooms are beautifully decorated with Hawaiian touches. There is such a variety of options - something for every guest and every budget.
Whether your idea of a vacation is to relax or to fill every minute with fun, Aulani is the place for you. Contact Vacations by Shannon for personalized travel planning!