Guide to Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa
Hawaiian Beaches, Luaus and….Disney? Most everyone has heard of Walt Disney World and Disneyland and may even be aware that there are Disney parks overseas, but I best most people have no idea that there is another Disney property located in the United States in Hawaii. That’s right! Along with all the beautiful beaches and mountains, surf and sand is Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa. Located on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, this magnificent resort is themed to honor the heritage and traditions of the Hawaiian islands and people.
The History of Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa
Aulani means “messenger of the chief” and a visit to Aulani will give you an insight to the rich culture of the Hawaii islands and people. Aulani opened in 2011 and completed a major expansion in 2013. This is not your typical Disney resort. When building Aulani, great care was given to pay homage to the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii. All throughout the resort, you will find theming and references to the Hawaiian culture. In one of the lounge areas, you can even learn some words from the Hawaiian language. Yes, you can see Mickey and some of his friends but it is the architecture and scenery that really steals the show!
Resort Accommodations
There are several different options for staying at Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa. They have standard rooms that have 2 beds and a bathroom. Then there are also 1 and 2 bedroom suites for those with larger families. Disney Vacation Villas are also available. Suites and Villas offer full kitchens, living areas and multiple bathrooms. There really is a place for every type of family.
Resort Amenities
Where do I start, there are so many incredible things to do here? Lets start with the water activities. The main pool area is called Waikolohe Valley. This area is situated in the middle of both buildings in the resort and includes a lazy river, a body slide (inside a volcano) and a zero entry pool area. Character pool parties are held several times a day. Also located in the Valley is the Menehune Bridge which is a interactive water play zone. For the real small ones, there is a splash zone for water play. For those a little more adventurous, there is Rainbow Reef, a enclosed snorkeling area. Need some adult peace and quiet, there’s a pool for that too! Oh, and don’t forget the many infinity pools and hot water spas!
Want to be on the beach? They’ve got you covered there too! There are lines of complimentary chairs and umbrellas that circle the private lagoon. At Makiki Joe’s you can rent boogie boards, paddle boards and rent cabanas. There is something for everyone!
Food
What would a trip to a Disney location be without some great food and snacks! There are several quick service locations where you can get sandwiches, burgers, snow cones and even that most wonderful of all snacks the Mickey Ice Cream Bar. And if sitting on the beach with a pineapple drink in your hand makes you happy, then you can get that too!
There are 2 table service restaurants at Aulani. The first is Makahiki Bounty of the Islands. This restaurant features traditional Hawaiian delights along with some All American favorites. One of the great things about this restaurant is that it is also a character dining opportunity for breakfast. Ama’Ama’ is a signature restaurant located right on the edge of the beach. The view from this open air restaurant can’t be beat!
Activities
So what about the “spa” in Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa? Laniwai Spa is a full spa offering massages, spa treatments and an outdoor shower garden. While Mom and Dad are relaxing at the spa, you can send your kids to the free kid’s club, Aunty’s Beachhouse. There are activities to keep them busy all day. Like to shop? There are several shops located at the resort. Family movie nights and a Luau provide the nighttime entertainment. You can also schedule island excursions through the concierge desk. Character greeting throughout the resort include Mickey and Minnie, Stitch an Chip and Dale.
There is so much to do and see at Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa. This is the Hawaiian vacation you must try!
About the author
Kim Hartley
Kim is a register pharmacist and lover of all things Disney. She particularly loves Disney history and would loved to have met Walt himself! Kim also loves to travel and would love to visit every Disney park in the World. So far, she has visited Disney World, Disneyland, Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa and Tokyo Disneyland so she’s off to a good start! Kim’s love of helping people and loving Disney make her a great fit to be a travel agent as she always wants to make sure that every vacation is as magical as it can be!
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