Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa: Your Complete Guide to Disney's Hawaiian Paradise

Imagine stepping into a tropical paradise where Hawaiian culture meets Disney magic. At Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, this dream becomes reality. As authorized Disney vacation planners, we'll guide you through everything you need to know about this spectacular resort, from its stunning accommodations to unforgettable experiences for the whole family.

About Aulani Resort

Located on the island of Oahu in Ko Olina, Aulani combines the wonder of Disney with the beauty of Hawaii. This oceanfront paradise spans 21 acres of pristine beachfront property, offering guests a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The resort seamlessly weaves Hawaiian culture, traditions, and stories throughout every aspect of your stay, creating an authentic yet magical experience.

Key Features

• 351 hotel rooms

• 481 Disney Vacation Club villas

• Private lagoon beach with crystal-clear waters

• 7 unique restaurants and bars

• Multiple pools and water play areas

• Award-winning spa

• Complementary kids' club

  
  
  

Room Categories & Views

Standard View

• Overlooks the conference center, parking lot, or mountains

• Most economical choice

• Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who plan to spend most time exploring

Island Garden View

• Views of the resort's beautiful tropical gardens

• Some rooms offer partial mountain views

• Peaceful, serene atmosphere

Poolside Gardens View

• Overlooks the pool area and gardens

• Great for families with children

• Easy access to pool activities

Ocean View

• Partial views of the Pacific Ocean

• Higher floor locations

• Beautiful sunset views

Ocean Front

• Direct ocean views

• Premium location

• Best choice for beach lovers

Dining Experiences

Aulani offers an impressive array of dining options that blend Hawaiian flavors with international cuisine:

'AMA'AMA - Contemporary Island Cooking

• Signature dining experience

• Oceanfront locations

• 
  Fresh local seafood and produce

• Perfect for romantic dinners

• Reservations are recommended

Makahiki - The Bounty of the Islands

• Casual dining with character breakfast

• Buffet-style dining

• Fresh local ingredients

• Character breakfast is available

• Dinner features local specialties

Off the Hook

• Poolside casual dining

• Fresh seafood and drinks

• Relaxed atmosphere

• No reservations required

Activities & Entertainment

Aulani offers countless activities for guests of all ages:

Rainbow Reef

• Private snorkeling lagoon

• Safe for beginners

• 
  Tropical fish viewing

• Equipment rental available

Aunty's Beach House (Kids Club)

• Complimentary kids' activities

• Hawaiian games and crafts

• Disney movies and characters

• Supervised environment

Ka Wa'a Luau

• Traditional Hawaiian luau

• Pre-show activities 

• Authentic cuisine

• Cultural performances

Pools & Water Activities

Waikolohe Valley, the resort's water recreation area, offers something for everyone:

Waikolohe Pool

• Main resort pool

• Zero-entry access

• 
  Infinity-edge design

• Perfect for families

Ka Maka Grotto

• Infinity-edge pool

• Adult-friendly atmosphere

• Stunning ocean views

• Hidden whirlpool spa

Keiki Cove Splash Zone

• Interactive water play area

• Perfect for toddlers

• Supervised activities

• Shade structures available

Waikolohe Stream

• Lazy river experience

• Two thrilling water slides

• Tubes are available

• Meandering path through the resort

Spa & Wellness

Laniwai Spa

• Full-service spa facility

• Traditional Hawaiian treatments

• Hydrotherapy gardens

• Teen and family services

  

Painted Sky - HI Style Studio

• Teen-exlusive spa

• Beauty treatments

• DIY mixology

• Special events and parties

Fitness Center

• State-of-the-art equipment

• Daily fitness classes

• Yoga sessions

• Personal training available

Planning Your Visit

The ideal time to experience Aulani is during the shoulder season of May through June, when crowds are manageable and weather is perfect. Another excellent option is September through November, which typically sees fewer visitors. If you're flexible with your dates, consider planning your stay during weekdays, as they tend to be less busy than weekends. Holiday seasons, while busier, offer special events and unique entertainment options that many guests find worthwhile.

Getting to and from Aulani is convenient with several transportation choices. The resort offers a shuttle service from the airport, though this comes with an additional fee. We recommend renting a car for the most flexibility in exploring Oahu and the surrounding areas. Public transportation is available for those who prefer not to drive, and the resort provides parking facilities for guests with vehicles.

Planning ahead is key to securing your perfect Aulani vacation. Room-only reservations can be made up to 499 days in advance, giving you plenty of time to plan. The same booking window applies to vacation packages. For dining reservations, you'll want to mark your calendar for 60 days before your arrival, as this is when restaurant bookings open. Similarly, spa treatments can be reserved 60 days prior to your visit, ensuring you don't miss out on these popular experiences.

Expert Tips

Make the most of your first day by booking a character breakfast, which sets the perfect tone for your vacation. Don't forget to take advantage of the Photopass service for professional family photos throughout your stay. Before arriving, download the resort app to easily navigate activities and make reservations. If you're interested, join DVC member activities, which offer unique experiences even if you're not a member.

There are several ways to make your Aulani vacation more affordable. Consider traveling during off-peak seasons when rates are more favorable. Booking your package well in advance often leads to better deals and more options. Keep an eye out for room-only discounts, which can offer significant savings. If you're flying, using airline miles for your flights can substantially reduce your overall vacation cost.

Don't leave Aulani without experiencing these memorable activities. Reserve an evening to watch the spectacular sunset from 'AMA'AMA restaurant - it's a truly magical experience. Make time to participate in the resort's cultural activities, which offer authentic insights into Hawaiian traditions. The Menehune Adventure Trail is a unique interactive experience that shouldn't be missed. Finally, attend at least one storytelling session, where Hawaiian legends come to life through master storytellers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best time to visit Aulani?

A: The best time to visit is during shoulder seasons (May-June or September-November) when crowds are lower and prices are more reasonable. Hawaii enjoys warm weather year-round, making any season a good choice for visitors.

Q: Is Aulani worth the cost?

A: Yes, Aulani offers unique value by combining luxury Hawaiian resort amenities with Disney's signature service and entertainment. The included activities, character experiences, and kids' club make it especially worthwhile for families.

Q: How many days should I stay at Aulani?

A: We recommend a minimum of 5-7 days to fully experience the resort's amenities and activities while also having time to explore Oahu.

Q: Do I need a rental car at Aulani?

A: While not required, a rental car is recommended if you plan to explore Oahu. The resort offers shuttle services and is within walking distance to some amenities.

Final Thoughts

Your stay at Aulani represents more than just a typical Hawaiian vacation - it's a unique blend of Disney magic and authentic Hawaiian culture that creates unforgettable memories. Whether you're seeking relaxation by the pools, adventure in the ocean, or magical moments with Disney characters, Aulani offers something special for every member of your family.

The resort's attention to detail, from the traditional Hawaiian architecture to the carefully curated activities, makes it stand out among other Hawaiian destinations. While the cost might be higher than some other resorts, the value lies in the exceptional service, included activities, and the seamless combination of luxury and family-friendly amenities.

Remember that each season at Aulani brings its own charm - from summer's vibrant energy to winter's whale-watching opportunities. No matter when you choose to visit, the spirit of aloha and Disney's legendary service ensure a remarkable stay.

Ready to Experience the Magic?

As your authorized Disney vacation planners, Adventure Pals is here to help you create the perfect Aulani experience. From selecting the ideal room category to planning daily activities, we'll ensure every aspect of your vacation is tailored to your family's preferences. 

Contact us today for a free quote and let us help you plan your dream vacation at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa!