I’m sharing a summary of our stay at Aulani, Disney’s resort in Hawaii and whether I think it’s worth it!
Hey friends! Happy Monday! How was your weekend? I hope you all had a great weekend! Ours was pretty busy, but oh well. We are definitely still adjusting to going back to school and getting back into the swing of things after two epic trips this summer. We went to Spain and Hawaii, and we also spent some time at Aulani while we were there.
My history with Aulani is an interesting one, because years ago I was scheduled to visit the property for a press trip. Our plane had to make an emergency landing (it was pretty traumatic) and our niece was born the same day. I ended up missing the trip and have always wanted to go. The last time we were in Waikiki, we did a luau in the neighborhood (Paradise Cove Luau – food was mediocre, but entertainment was excellent) and we knew that when we came back we would have to stay at Aulani.
Before the trip, I was overwhelmed with work because I was trying to put together content, record podcast interviews, and make check-in calls with clients so I could disconnect most of the time. I contacted Laura to see if she could help us book our trip and she made it SO easy. She also took care of our reservations for the luau at Aulani. I highly recommend contacting her if you are looking for a travel agent as 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
Okay, let’s get to the Aulani review because it EXCEEDED my high expectations. We are definitely Disney fans as we go to Disneyland or Disney World at least once a year (we went 10 times in the two years we lived in Valdosta…), we have taken several Disney cruises (and have another one booked for this fall!), and we 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 beautiful views, ocean, scenery, and PEOPLE. The Aloha spirit combined with Disney customer service is an A+ all around.
From its private beach to its snorkeling reef, multiple pools, dining options, and luau, it was an incredible experience.
Let’s get into all the details:
Dining options
Aulani offers a variety of dining experiences to suit every taste and preference. From quick bites to full-service dining experiences, there is something for everyone.
Makahiki – The Bounty of the Islands: This is Aulani’s main restaurant and offers buffet-style meals that highlight 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 includes a mix of local and international dishes, with live entertainment adding a touch of Hawaiian culture to your meal.
‘Ama’Ama: If you’re looking for a more sophisticated dining experience, ‘Ama’Ama is the place to be. This open-air restaurant overlooking the ocean offers a refined 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 fast food locations throughout the resort. Ulu Café offers takeout, pizza, and breakfast options, while Mama’s Snack Stop is known for its hot dogs, fish and chips, and Hawaiian slush. The girls were excited that they could get Dole whipped cream and bubble tea at a beachside kiosk, and they went crazy for the Mickey-shaped musubi.
Pools and slides
One of Aulani’s main attractions is its spacious pool area, which caters to both thrill-seekers and those looking to relax.
Waikolohe Valley: This is the heart of Aulani’s pool area, which features a lazy river, water slides, and several pools for all ages. The Waikolohe Stream Lazy River is a family favorite, offering a relaxing ride through lush gardens. For those looking for more excitement, they have two water slides; the girls loved both.
Keiki Cove: Aulani is a family-friendly spot, and Keiki Cove is a prime example of this. This water play area is perfect for younger children, with water jets, small slides, and a fun interactive play area.
Infinity pool: For adults looking to relax, the resort’s infinity pool is an oasis of tranquility. Overlooking the ocean, it’s the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail and take in the stunning views.
Private reef for snorkeling
Aulani offers a unique snorkeling experience on property with its Rainbow Reef. This private snorkeling lagoon is teeming with colorful fish, providing a safe and controlled environment for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. It’s a great way to introduce kids to snorkeling without the worry of ocean currents, and staff are always available to provide assistance if needed.
This was a family favorite spot and we bought passes for the entire stay. There were so many fish that you almost had to dodge them while swimming. It was a fun experience.
Character Greetings
No Disney resort would be complete without character encounters, and Aulani is no exception. Characters like Mickey, Minnie, Moana and Stitch can be found throughout the resort, often dressed in their Hawaiian attire. Character encounters are well-organized and typically less crowded than at other Disney parks, allowing kids to spend more one-on-one time with their favorites. Characters also appear at special events and dining experiences, making every moment at Aulani magical.
Private bay (with paddle and kayak)
Aulani’s location on the beautiful Ko Olina Lagoons is one of its biggest advantages. The resort’s private bay offers calm, clear waters perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and just swimming in the ocean. Guests can rent equipment directly from the resort, and the staff is very helpful in helping everyone get geared up, regardless of experience level. The bay is also a great place to lounge on the beach, build sand castles, or enjoy a quiet sunset.
KA WA’A Luau Review
We have attended several luaus in the past and this was by far the best one we have ever experienced. The KA WA’A Luau at Aulani is an immersive experience that combines Hawaiian storytelling, music and dancing with a delicious buffet dinner.
Photos courtesy of Disney Aulani (They were included in our photography package)
The performers are incredibly talented and the production is top notch, making this one of the highlights of the stay. The luau is family friendly and has plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained before the show starts. We played the ukulele, Pilot and P got temporary tattoos, and we ground up taro root to make poi.
It’s worth noting that the luau does have an additional cost and reservations are recommended as tickets tend to sell out quickly. Tickets do sell out well in advance, so if you know you’re going to Aulani, book the luau as early as possible.
One of my favorite things about luaus is that they prioritize quality over quantity. The show was a little short, but it captivated you every second. The food was hot, fresh, and SO delicious. The chef kindly walked me through the buffet to show me the gluten-free options (there were plenty!) and also brought grilled fish with scallion ginger broth and a gluten-free brownie to the table. Above and beyond.
(I never eat pork here in the US, but I ate it almost every day in Spain, so I tried the pulled pork at the luau. It was amazing.)
Pros and cons of staying at Aulani
Advantages:
Activities and amenities:Aulani offers a wide range of activities for all ages, from poolside fun to cultural experiences like hula and lei-making classes. The resort is designed to keep everyone entertained, whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens.
Employee Hospitality: The Aulani staff is known for their warmth and attentiveness. From the moment you arrive, you are treated like an ohana (family) and the level of service is exceptional.
Cleaning: The resort is meticulously maintained, with clean rooms, well-kept gardens and impeccable facilities. You’ll always find a staff member tidying up or tending to guests’ needs, adding to the overall luxury experience.
Here is a photo of our room:
Cons:
Price: Aulani is certainly a luxury experience, and it’s priced accordingly. The cost of rooms, meals, 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 is a bit far from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu. If you plan to explore the city or other parts of the island, be prepared to do a bit of traveling.
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, spectacular location, and top-notch service, it’s easy to see why families fall in love with this Hawaiian paradise. While cost may be a factor, the experience of staying at Aulani is truly unforgettable. If you’re looking for a family getaway to Hawaii that’s off the beaten path, Aulani is worth considering. We’ll definitely be back!
What is your favorite family-friendly or all-inclusive vacation destination? Share it in the comments section!
Kisses and hugs
