Sharing a recap of our stay at Aulani, the Disney resort in Hawaii and if I think it’s worth it!
Hi friends! Happy Monday! How was the weekend? I hope you had a great one! Ours was pretty busy but good. We’re definitely still adjusting to being back in school and back in the routine after two epic trips this summer. We went to Spain, and to Hawaii, and also spent some time at Aulani while we were there.
My story with Aulani is an interesting one, because I was supposed to visit the property for a press trip years ago. Our plane had to make an emergency landing – it was pretty traumatizing – and our neice was born the same day! I ended up missing the trip, and have wanted to go this entire time. Last time we were in Waikiki, we did a luau in the neighborhood (Paradise Cove Luau – the food was meh but the entertainment was excellent) and knew when we returned, we’d have to stay at Aulani.
Leading up to the trip, I was slammed with work stuff because I was trying to batch content, record podcast interviews, and do client call check-ins so I could mostly unplug. I reached out to Laura to see if she’d help booking our trip, and she made it SO easy. She also took care of our Aulani luau reservations. I highly recommend reaching out to her if you’re looking for a travel agent, and she specializes in family and international travel.
(my dress is sold out at Anthro here // P’s is here // Liv is wearing an older Madewell dress)
Aulani Disney Resort review
Ok, let’s head into the review of Aulani because it FAR exceeded my high expectations. We’re definitely Disney people, as we go to Disneyland or Disney World at least once a year (we went 10 times within the two years we lived in Valdosta…), we’ve taken multiple Disney cruises (and have another one booked for this fall!), and enjoy Disney vacations as a family. Aulani offered the best of DIsney, which was the food, cleanliness, and service, and the best of Hawaii, which was the gorgeous views, ocean, landscape, and PEOPLE. The Aloha spirit mixed with Disney customer service is an A+ all around.
From their private beach, to their snorkeling reef, multiple pools, dining options, and luau, it was an incredible experience.
Let’s head into all of the details:
Dining Options
Aulani offers a variety of dining experiences, catering to all tastes and preferences. From quick bites to full dining experiences, there’s something for everyone.
Makahiki – The Bounty of the Islands: This is Aulani’s primary dining venue, offering buffet-style meals that showcase Hawaiian flavors. The character breakfast here is a hit with families, where kids can meet their favorite Disney characters while enjoying a hearty breakfast. Dinner at Makahiki also features a mix of local and international dishes, with live entertainment that brings a touch of Hawaiian culture to your meal.
‘Ama‘Ama: If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, ‘Ama‘Ama is the place to be. Overlooking the ocean, this open-air restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a special family meal.
Quick Service Options: For those days when you just want a quick bite, there are several quick service spots around the resort. Ulu Café offers grab-and-go options, pizzas, and breakfast items, while Mama’s Snack Stop is known for its hot dogs, fish and chips, and Hawaiian shave ice. The girls were pumped that they could get Dole whip and boba tea at a beachside kiosk, and went crazy for the Mickey-shaped musubi.
Pools and Slides
One of the main attractions at Aulani is its expansive pool area, which caters to both thrill-seekers and those looking to relax.
Waikolohe Valley: This is the heart of Aulani’s pool area, featuring a lazy river, water slides, and multiple pools for all ages. The Waikolohe Stream lazy river is a family favorite, offering a relaxing float through lush gardens. For those seeking more excitement, they have two water slides; the girls loved both of them.
Keiki Cove: Aulani is incredibly family-friendly, and Keiki Cove is a testament to that. This splash zone is perfect for younger kids, with water jets, small slides, and a fun interactive play area.
Infinity Pool: For adults looking to unwind, the resort’s infinity pool is a tranquil oasis. Overlooking the ocean, it’s the perfect spot to relax with a cocktail and take in the stunning views.
Private Snorkeling Reef
Aulani offers a unique snorkeling experience right on the property with its Rainbow Reef. This private snorkeling lagoon is stocked with colorful fish, providing a safe and controlled environment for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. It’s a great way to introduce kids to snorkeling without the worry of ocean currents, and the staff is always on hand to provide assistance if needed.
This was a family favorite and we bought passes for the length of our stay. There were SO many fish; you almost had to dodge the fish while you were swimming. It was a fun experience.
Character Greetings
No Disney resort would be complete without character greetings, and Aulani is no exception. Characters like Mickey, Minnie, Moana, and Stitch can be found throughout the resort, often dressed in their Hawaiian attire. The character meet-and-greets are well-organized and tend to be less crowded than at other Disney parks, giving kids more one-on-one time with their favorites. The characters also appear at special events and dining experiences, making every moment at Aulani feel magical.
Private Bay (with Paddleboarding and Kayaking)
Aulani’s location on Ko Olina’s beautiful lagoons is one of its biggest advantages. The resort’s private bay offers calm, clear waters perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and simply swimming in the ocean. Guests can rent equipment directly from the resort, and the staff is very helpful in getting everyone set up, regardless of experience level. The bay is also a great spot for lounging on the beach, building sandcastles, or enjoying a peaceful sunset.
A Review of the KA WA’A Luau
We’ve done a few luaus in the past, and this was by far the best one we’ve experienced. The KA WA‘A Luau at Aulani is an immersive experience that combines Hawaiian storytelling, music, and dance with a delicious buffet dinner.
photos courtesy of Disney Aulani (they were included with our photo package)
The performers are incredibly talented, and the production values are top-notch, making this a highlight of the stay. The luau is family-friendly, with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained before the show starts. We played the ukulele, the Pilot and P got temporary tattoos, and we ground taro root into poi.
It’s worth noting that the luau is an additional cost, and reservations are highly recommended as it tends to sell out quickly. They sell out pretty far in advance, so if you know you’re headed to Aulani, book the luau ASAP.
One of my favorite things about the luau is that it was quality over quantity. The show was on the shorter side, but you were captivated for every.single.second. The food was hot, fresh, and SO delicioius. The chef kindly took me around the buffet to showcase the gluten-free options (there were many!) and he also had grilled fish with ginger scallion broth and a gluten-free brownie delivered to our table. Above and beyond.
(I never eat pork here in the states, but I had it almost every day in Spain, so I tried the shredded pork at the luau. It was amazing)
Pros and Cons of Staying at Aulani
Pros:
Activities and Amenities: Aulani offers a wide range of activities that cater to all ages, from poolside fun to cultural experiences like lei-making and hula lessons. The resort is designed to keep everyone entertained, whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teenagers.
Employee Hospitality: The staff at Aulani are known for their warmth and attentiveness. From the moment you arrive, you’re treated like ohana (family), and the level of service is exceptional.
Cleanliness: The resort is meticulously maintained, with clean rooms, well-kept grounds, and spotless facilities. You’ll always find a staff member tidying up or attending to guest needs, which adds to the overall luxury experience.
Here’s a pic of our room:
Cons:
Price: Aulani is undoubtedly a luxury experience, and it comes with a price tag to match. The cost of rooms, dining, and activities can add up quickly, making it a significant investment for a family vacation.
Distance from the City: While Aulani’s location on the Ko Olina coast is beautiful and serene, it’s a bit of a drive from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu. If you’re planning on exploring the city or other parts of the island, be prepared for some travel time.
Final Thoughts
Disney’s Aulani Resort & Spa is a magical destination that offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and Disney charm. With its incredible amenities, stunning location, and top-notch service, it’s easy to see why families fall in love with this Hawaiian paradise. While the cost may be a consideration, the experience of staying at Aulani is truly unforgettable. If you’re looking for a family-friendly Hawaiian getaway that goes beyond the ordinary, Aulani is well worth considering. We will definitely be back!
What’s your favorite family-friendly or all-includsive vacation spot? Please share the goods in the comments section!
xoxo