Staying at the Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina is a once in a lifetime experience for most. I’ve stayed in multiple hotels across Hawaii and can tell you that my stay in Aulani was like no other. Here I will break down why you should consider Aulani when planning your Hawaiian vacation!
Activities
With so much to do at Aulani, you won’t need to leave the hotel during your stay. Families will love Aunty’s beach house, the Pau Hana Room, fire pit storytelling, and character experiences. Adults will enjoy spa treatments, golf, yoga, and photography sessions to remember your trip. Everyone will enjoy the sunset mele, explore the stars experience, ukulele lessons, and additional excursions.
Snorkeling/ Water Sports
If you like swimming, you will love Aulani. With a lazy river, slides, hot tubs, and pools looking towards the ocean, as well as snorkeling opportunities right on the property, this is a dream hotel for water enthusiasts.
While they have a snorkel experience next to the pool which is great for small children especially, if you want to snorkel in the open water consider bringing an inexpensive snorkel set from home, or rent one from the hotel, and head out to the Kohola Lagoon. The right side along the rocks had lots of urchins and tropical fish swimming about. Be careful though, the current can be strong the further out you go.
Cuisine
The food at Aulani was fresh, filling but light, and creative, mixing local cuisine with familiar favorites.
During the day while enjoying the pool we stopped in at Papalua Shave Ice and Mama’s Snack Stop for chicken tenders, ono sandwiches, and coconut-breaded shrimp. Ulu Cafe had grab-and-go items including Acai Bowls that we brought down to the lounge chairs on the beach!
For adults, Off the Hook is a poolside bar that is casual but upscale at the same time.
The Olelo Room was our favorite restaurant. We really enjoyed sitting on the outside patio at sunset among the palm trees, listening to the ocean, and eating sushi, tacos, and other fresh food options!
The Luau at Aulani, Ka Wa’a Lu’au, is quite expensive. Currently, adults (ages 10 and up) are $180 per person, and children are $109 per person. Included in the experience is a Hawaiian lei, buffet, and entertainment. Considering that this price includes both dinner and a cultural experience, the price is justified. However, if you find yourself like my family in a bit of a budget crunch consider going to Germaine’s Luau, a short drive away. We found a Groupon deal and used a coupon to bring the total price down drastically for our party of 6. Others recommend Paradise Cove as an alternative.
At Makahiki enjoy a 3-course breakfast or Dinner. Mickey and Friends will make their way around the restaurant during breakfast only!
The Disney Magic and Hawaiian Culture
Aulani is the perfect mix for those who have die-hard Disney fans in their group, and those who aren’t huge fans. The theming throughout the property is rather subtle, with Hidden Mickeys, Hawaiian Disney music, and character meet and greets at specific locations. Because of this, you can decide your level of participation.
Whether you want it or not though, you will experience the Disney level of service. The cleanliness, easy payment system, use of Magic Bands, security, and friendliness of the staff made this hotel stand out from the rest and give it the Disney Magic.
How Long Should You Stay at Aulani?
Aulani is quite expensive. My group was able to afford the cost of our stay through DVC points. I would stay at Aulani for 3-4 nights. This gives you at least two full days to explore the property without breaking the bank. This amount of time allows you to fully enjoy the resort, and then move on to a less expensive hotel to hop around the island and see sights off of the property.
My time at Aulani was truly a magical experience. I did not have a single complaint regarding the hotel, staff, food, or availability of activities. Snorkeling among the fish, listening to live music while watching the stars, and eating delicious food are memories I will always carry with me. Although the hotel stay was pricey, it was leaps and bounds above my stays at competing hotels in Hawaii. Because of this, I would fully recommend spending your vacation at Aulani!