disney cruise or aulani

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Hotels + Resorts
• Hotel Reviews

Disney Has a Resort in Hawaii — and It's Just As Magical As You'd Expect

This Disney resort offers a world of magic without the theme parks.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Food and Drink

Activities and experiences, family-friendly offerings, accessibility, how to get the most value out of your stay.

David Roark/Disney Destinations

In August 2011, Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa, opened in the resort community of Ko Olina on the southwestern shore of Oahu. As a longtime Disney fan and Travel & Leisure ’s resident theme park expert, I’ve been curious about this Hawaiian resort; after all, what would it be like to stay at a Disney resort without rushing off to theme parks each morning and seeing the fireworks every night? I found my answer during a family trip to Aulani this February. 

Upon arrival, I spoke to Kama Hopkins, Aulani’s Hawaiian cultural advisor, about the relationship between Disney and Hawaiian culture, and he pointed out one fundamental commonality: “Both are storytellers. Disney is one of the most well-known storytellers there is. But for us, in Polynesia and through the Pacific, we like to say that we were people who didn’t have any written language, so we had to tell stories. We come from storytellers.” 

At Aulani, storytelling is integrated into every design aspect, with thoughtfully created touchpoints for visitors to engage with Hawaiian history and culture. The resort has one of the world’s largest collections of contemporary Hawaiian art; a lounge celebrates ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi , or the Hawaiian language; and architectural details, big and small, highlight the history and modern culture.

Immediately upon entering the lobby, guests are greeted with a 360-degree mural that depicts Hawaiian history from ancient to modern times and soaring archways that mimic the design of traditional Hawaiian canoes. The layout of the entire resort is inspired by the ahupuaʻa division of land that typically stretches from the mountains to the ocean, illustrated in water features, landscaping, rock work, and design as you walk from the lobby to the beach. Programming for all ages provides more ways to engage with the local culture; I spoke to youth activities manager Kanoa Kawai, who described the host of Hawaiian language-focused crafts and activities they offered for Hawaiian Language Month (February). “At least if they learn anything, they learn about aloha. They know how to share aloha and love with their family and friends,” said Kawai.

Of course, you can find Mickey and pals (plus some rare characters typically only found at the Asian Disney parks) at character meals and meet-and-greets, Disney music, and Minnie Mouse ears throughout the property, too. Aulani is genuinely packed with fun things to do for all ages, though it’s particularly great for families with young children, and we felt that after three nights, we’d barely scratched the surface of all there is to do and see within the resort. 

Here’s our review of Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii.

Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa

• Spacious rooms and suites are perfect for families of all sizes, outfitted with all the comforts of home. 
• Character meals, meet-and-greets, pool parties, family activities, and a kids club offer Disney fun for all ages. 
• Laniwai, a Disney Spa, offers signature Hawaiian treatments and a supremely relaxing hydrotherapy garden. 
• Fan-favorite Aulani snacks, including Mickey-shaped spam musubi, shave ice, and Dole Whips, are available at dining locations throughout the resort. 
• The KA WA‘A lū‘au celebrates Hawaiian history and culture with singing, dancing, and storytelling in a lush setting. 

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

At Aulani, accommodations are split into two general categories: traditional hotel-style rooms and suites and Disney Vacation Club villas. Hotel-style accommodations include standard two-queen or king rooms and one- and two-bedroom suites. Most of the resort’s accommodations are Disney Vacation Club villas, but don’t worry — you don’t have to be a member to book these rooms (more on that membership program below). One-, two-, and three-bedroom villas include separate bedrooms, full kitchens and dining areas, and a washer and dryer for home-like conveniences, while deluxe studios offer a more traditional hotel feel. We stayed in a one-bedroom villa, and we loved having more than 750 square feet to spread out, a full-size fridge to keep leftovers and snacks in, and a washer and dryer to do some laundry. 

No matter what type of room you stay in, you can expect thoughtful, island-inspired designs with natural materials and Hawaiian art and decor. Like the rest of the property, you can find adorable Disney touches throughout the rooms — like a wooden ukelele-playing Mickey lamp — but the design focuses primarily on Hawaiian influences and the natural beauty of the area rather than the cartoon characters you’d find at many Disney theme park hotels. I highly recommend booking an oceanview room with a balcony (request a high floor if you can!) to enjoy the gorgeous nightly sunsets from your room. 

Related: 13 Best Family Resorts in Hawaii, According to Parents and Travel Experts

Aulani’s dining experiences range from multi-course dinners with sunset ocean views to quick-service Hawaiian poke. And Disney parks fans, take note: you can get the ever-popular Mickey waffles for breakfast at multiple locations, too. AMA‘AMA is an upscale open-air restaurant with a thatched roof and stunning sunset views, offering a four-course prix-fixe dinner featuring Hawaiian flavors and local ingredients. An optional wine pairing is also available. Makahiki is a lively restaurant themed to the Hawaiian celebration of the harvest, and it serves daily character breakfast with a prix-fixe menu featuring tasty dishes, including malasadas (Portuguese sugar donuts), kālua pig omelets, and pancakes with macadamia nut-vanilla sauce.

For dinner (sans characters), guests can pick from fresh salads, steaks, pasta, seafood, and more during a prix-fixe three-course meal. For a more casual dining experience, guests can stop by Off the Hook for breakfast, lunch, or dinner; I loved the ahi poke and crab cake BLT for a tasty poolside bite. The ‘Ōlelo Room serves up coffee and malasadas in the morning and transitions to a cocktail and sushi bar by night in a space that celebrates the Hawaiian language. 

Ulu Cafe is a fast-casual spot for all-day dining and snacks; it’s the perfect spot to grab an acai bowl for breakfast, a poke bowl for lunch (I had both the classic and spicy tuna bowls multiple times, and they were delicious), and other grab-and-go items throughout the day. Ulu Cafe is also where you’ll find one of Aulani’s most sought-after snacks: the Mickey-shaped spam musubi. These sell out quickly, so grab one when you see it if you want to try one of the resort’s most popular snacks. (They even make Mickey musubi merch, available at the hotel’s gift shop.) Mama’s Snack Stop is another quick service stand serving classic poolside eats like chicken tenders and coconut shrimp. 

And you can’t visit Aulani without getting the iconic Mickey-shaped shave ice from Pāpālua Shave Ice or a fresh fruit Dole Whip sundae with watermelon or pineapple from Little ‘Opihi's by the beach. 

All these delicious things considered, the resort’s best dining experience isn’t found at a restaurant. The KA WA‘A lū‘au is a must-do when you visit Aulani. The three-hour experience includes pre-show demonstrations, where you can learn about taro pounding, ukulele playing, traditional tattoos, and more, followed by a buffet dinner featuring tasty seafood, prime rib, and plenty of macaroni salad. The lū‘au performance is truly incredible, with singing, dancing, and storytelling all about Hawaiian culture and history. While Mickey and Minnie make an appearance, the lū‘au is centered around the incredible beauty of the culture and the people.

As a Disney resort, Aulani offers a slate of character-centric activities for all ages. Character meet-and-greets allow guests to snap photos with favorites like Mickey, Minnie, Moana, Stitch, and the much rarer Duffy and friends, typically only found at the Disney theme parks in Asia.

Guests can make their own floral ears (for a fee), shop for Aulani-exclusive Disney merchandise, and splash around during pool parties with characters like Goofy and Max. The resort has several pools, ranging from infinity-edge grotto pools overlooking the ocean to zero-entry family-friendly pools and a water play structure that little ones will love. The massive pool complex also has two larger waterslides, a lazy river, and adults-only hot tubs. Of course, there’s also the beautiful, protected beach and lagoon with complimentary loungers; guests can also paddleboard out on the water for an additional fee.

The Rainbow Reef is another must-do when you visit; the human-made saltwater lagoon is home to around 1,000 vibrant fish, so it’s the perfect spot for even first-time snorkelers to check out the colorful marine life below the surface. You can purchase single-day or entire vacation passes or even book a scuba diving or fish-feeding experience in the reef. 

You can also book excursions that depart from the resort; we booked the sailing canoe experience with Hawaiian Ocean Adventures. It leaves right from the Aulani beach, and it was a beautiful way to explore part of the coastline while learning more about Hawaiian culture and nature from the fantastic guides. End the day with storytelling around the fire pit or stargazing to learn how Hawaiians used the night sky for navigation. 

Throughout your stay, check out the Aulani app to see what free activities are available each day; you’ll also see which require a fee and how much they cost. 

I’ve visited some exceptional spas throughout my travels, but I didn’t expect to find one of the best at a Disney resort.

The Laniwai ritual begins the moment you enter the spa; before you’re shown to the relaxation areas, you select a stone at random from a bucket, and on it, you’ll find a word (mine was “balance”) in both English and Hawaiian that can inspire your time at the spa. After dropping your stone into an indoor reflection pond, you continue into the relaxation areas (dressing rooms and some amenities are separated by gender, but the hydrotherapy garden is co-ed).

Even though you’re just steps from the waterslides and lazy river, Laniwai feels worlds apart, offering a range of body and facial treatments — including signature Hawaiian massages — in a serene setting. Apart from my fantastic lomilomi massage, the outdoor hydrotherapy garden was my favorite part of the experience, and I could have spent hours hopping between the cold plunge and hot tub, walking along the reflexology path, relaxing in the soaking pools, and testing each of the six rain-style showers. And the relaxation doesn’t have to end when your treatment is over; at checkout, I received a sachet of balance-inspired bath salts so I could take my experience with me (back to my room, where I used them to soak in the giant bathtub later in the trip). 

Aulani is packed with family-friendly activities and that inimitable Disney magic that all ages love, making it an excellent destination for small and large families. Several pools, an interactive water play area, two giant water slides, a lazy river, and a private saltwater snorkeling lagoon provide plenty of fun spots to splash around before even reaching the protected beach with crystal-clear water and minimal waves. Where else can kids (and kids-at-heart) grab a Stitch or Moana Dole Whip and dip their toes in the pristine ocean before hanging out with Goofy during a pool party? And, of course, character meals, meet-and-greets, storytelling, and other daily activities provide plenty of fun for the whole crew. 

Little ones ages four to 12 can also hang out at Aunty’s Beach House, a supervised kids club with engaging activities. While many activities are free, premium experiences (including some that include beloved characters like Moana) require an extra charge. Pre-registration and reservations for Aunty’s Beach House can be found on the  Aulani website .  

Disney’s theme parks and resorts are accessible to guests with various abilities, and Aulani is no exception. The property is ADA-compliant with accessible rooms and features, including complimentary beach wheelchairs (available on a first-come, first-served basis) and pool access via pool lifts and zero-entry pool areas. Rainbow Reef has a pool lift, so guests who need it can also enjoy this serene snorkeling experience and spot the colorful marine life up close. Sign language interpretation is available by request for the lū‘au. 

Aulani is located in Ko Olina , a resort community on the southwestern shore of Oahu. The resort shares a lagoon and beach area with the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, and it’s close to the Ko Olina Golf Club’s 18-hole course. Aulani is about 30 minutes away from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) by car; rideshare services like Lyft and shuttle and taxi services are available. If you plan to explore the surrounding area, you could rent a car or plan excursions including transportation to and from the hotel. Parking is available for $40 per day, though Disney Vacation Club members receive complimentary self-parking for up to two vehicles. 

Related: 20 Best Things to Do on Oahu

As mentioned above, Aulani is a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) property. Rather than a traditional timeshare model, DVC allows members to book vacations at any of the 16 DVC properties (including Disney World and Disneyland hotels ), sail with Disney Cruise Line, or travel with Adventures by Disney using a points-based system. Members can check the points calendars to determine the best time to visit and maximize their points. Of course, you don’t have to be a member to book a room (traditional guest room or villa) at any DVC resort, including Aulani. DVC members can enjoy exclusive perks during their Aulani stay, including free parking, discounts, and activities. 

Be sure to check out the offers available on the Aulani website to find limited-time deals before you book. Recent offerings have included up 30 percent off extended stays in the spring and fall, up to 30 off select stays for eligible members of the U.S. military, and up to 35 off for Disney Visa cardholders.

Disney's Aulani: What it's like to stay at Mickey's Hawaiian getaway

It surprises many people that there is a Disney resort in Hawaii, but it's true. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa is on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, and it serves as a beacon for many looking for the ultimate escape from reality.

There aren't any rides at this Disney resort (unless you count waterslides), but you will find Mickey in his vacation outfit, as well as a long list of included activities, like animation classes and evening outdoor movie nights, that are common at some Disney resorts. In addition to those offerings, there are also plenty of things to do and enjoy that you will find only at Aulani.

If you are like me and adore not only most things Disney but also Hawaii , then here's what you need to know about Disney's Aulani resort.

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

What is Disney's Aulani?

Aulani (pronounced ow-LAH-nee) opened in the summer of 2011, and it's a 21-acre Disney-owned oceanfront resort that is a part of the Disney Vacation Club . However, you don't have to book via the Disney Vacation Club to stay there (more on that shortly).

Disney's Aulani isn't just a Disney-ized version of Hawaii; instead, the architecture and decor lean intentionally into Hawaiian patterns, culture and tradition. For example, the lobby has a compass rose embedded in the floor, but instead of the North, South, East and West directions you may expect to find, the directions correspond to what was traditional to the Hawaiians: toward the sea, to the mountains, etc. Additionally, keep your eyes on the carpet for the outlines of the leaves of the native taro plant.

Aulani is also home to one of the world's largest collections of contemporary Hawaiian art, not to mention that some parts of the resort look like an architectural work of art themselves.

But it's not a museum — it's a fun place to play. There's a 321,000-gallon lazy river, a 3,800-square-foot snorkeling lagoon, two waterslides, a plethora of daily activities, evening storytelling, Mickey-shaped shave ice and so much more.

Related: Are the Disney Visa credit cards worth it?

How much is Aulani, and what are the best ways to book?

Standard rooms at Aulani can easily cost $600 and up per night before taxes, but thankfully there are a few ways to save money on your trip.

The most effective way to save money when visiting Aulani is by renting Disney Vacation Club points . You can do this via an owner (there are Facebook groups for this if you don't know anyone) or David's Vacation Club Rentals .

You can save 40% to 50% on the cost of your stay by renting DVC points to stay at Aulani, so this can be a tremendous savings. The "trick" is that the lower-priced DVC rooms sell out well in advance, so you are best served by renting points 11 months out if you are traveling on peak dates or want to ensure you get the lowest-priced DVC rooms.

Rent Disney Vacation Club points from David's Vacation Club Rentals to save up to 50% on Aulani.

But, if you aren't renting points and you just pay directly with cash, expect to often pay $700-plus per night for standard rooms, more during peak times. There is no resort fee on top of that, but if you are booking with cash (instead of DVC points), then parking is $40 per day for either valet parking or self-parking. Self-parking is included when using DVC points.

Where is Aulani?

Aulani is on the island of Oahu, about 17 miles from Honolulu's Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). It's on the western side of the island in Ko Olina, which can be a 30-to-40-minute drive from the Honolulu airport, depending on traffic.

If you decide to take a taxi from the Honolulu airport to Aulani, Charley's Taxi offers a flat rate of $70 each way. There's generally no need to set this up in advance when leaving Aulani, as it has a stand in front of the hotel, but you can make advance reservations for pickups from HNL online . Uber prices will vary, but can be cheaper at some times of the day, so you can price that option out, too.

Since, for most of us, a trip to Aulani requires flights, here are tips for the best ways to use points and miles to get to Hawaii .

There are many room choices at Aulani

Aulani has 351 hotel rooms, including 16 suites, as well as 481 two-bedroom Disney Vacation Club villas and 21 Grand Villas spread out over a couple of towers. We have done both of our stays in one of the standard hotel rooms with two queen beds.

A general rule of thumb at Disney: Even if the rooms are expensive, don't expect them to be the star of your vacation.

The room at Aulani was completely adequate, but it was — as the name described — standard. Your $600-plus per night isn't going to over-the-top room accommodations with butlers and soaking tubs; it's going to the on-site activities, so adjust your room expectations accordingly.

The two queen beds were comfortable, and housekeeping was prompt each day. I would have appreciated additional outlets by the bed, but I'll take that trade-off for the very cool air conditioning that worked better than at many of the hotels we have visited in Hawaii.

Next to the TV area was a small table with two chairs, which was functional and greatly appreciated when ordering room service or bringing a pizza up — which is, without question, the best value dinner on the property.

My favorite part of the decor in the room was likely the Hawaiian-themed Mickey lamp on the table. Generally speaking, Mickey was an understated element at Aulani, though he is certainly there if you look for him.

Our rooms on both visits had a minifridge and a balcony. On our second visit, we were even upgraded to a partial ocean view.

The bathroom has a single vanity, which probably would have been better as a double, given this was a room for families.

Having a shower-tub combo, though, was the right call for a room with two queen beds. Disney's H2O line is no longer at Aulani, which is a bummer if you've come to associate that smell with all things vacation, but instead, it currently has Malie.

Aulani's pools and beach are the stars of the show

There is a lot to do at Aulani. And this is where the resort really gets both great and overwhelming at the same time. Given the prices and the plethora of amenities, when you stay at Aulani, you are probably staying put at Aulani. Unless you're working with a larger budget, this probably isn't a hotel you stay at to use as a home base to plan trips from while you enjoy all that Oahu has to offer.

Aulani pools

With that in mind, let's start with a dive into Aulani's pools, beach and waterslides.

Aulani has a massive 7-acre pool complex that goes way beyond traditional, basic pools.

The Waikolohe Stream is 900 feet long and includes a traditional lazy river as well as two tubing slides. On one, you could go in single or double tubes, and the other was a body slide. And, yes, there were lifeguards everywhere.

Pro tip: The line for the slide with the tubes is usually much longer than the line for the body slide.

There is also the Menehune Bridge, with waterslides, splash features and more.

Next up are three pools and a 3,800 square-foot snorkeling lagoon, Rainbow Reef, which is stocked with beautiful fish and some other underwater surprises to find. If you are an experienced snorkeler, this probably won't be very impressive, but it is a great way for kids to get their flippers wet snorkeling in a very controlled environment.

It costs $20-$25 for one-day snorkel access (that includes gear), or you can buy a length-of-stay pass if you think you'll go multiple times. Or, just enjoy the view for free from these cool peekaboo windows.

During our March visit, the Rainbow Reef was a bit too cold for our tastes since it isn't heated, which made our sessions extra brief, so consider that if your crew doesn't like chilly water.

Aulani also has an adults-only pool, a zero-entry pool, infinity pools, hot tubs and plenty of water activities to keep your group busy. These pools were all a comfortable, regulated temperature.

We vastly prefer heading to the pools either first thing in the morning or around 5 p.m., when most people are leaving for the day. The slides and lazy river were open until 8 p.m. during our stay, and the main pool stayed open until 10 p.m.

Pool chairs are hot commodities during the middle of the day, and you need to pick up a colored wristband at the towel hut daily. Unfortunately, if you want a "good" chair spot, this is one of those places where you probably need to either start your pool day early or wait for the first round of people to start to leave. Cabanas and covered chairs are available but pricey, so expect to spend a few hundred dollars per day if you want to go that route.

Aulani beach

Aulani is on the shore of Ko Olina beach, with soft sand and water that is generally calm enough for swimming and ideal for photos.

Life jackets, boogie boards, chairs and umbrellas are complimentary, but you can also rent snorkel sets ($25) and stand-up paddleboards ($45) or live out your "Moana" adventures and book a sailing canoe experience for $119.

But whatever you do, don't miss the epic sunsets at Aulani, which are just about reason enough to come all on their own.

The sunsets are truly epic here and I highly recommend you make it a point to be outside and try and catch a good one at least once or twice on your trip.

There are Disney characters, Aunty's Beach House and more

Now, let's talk about all the non-swimming things there are to do at Aulani, of which there are many.

Aunty's Beach House

Kids ages 4 to 12 can make a reservation to play at Aunty's Beach House, which is essentially a kids club similar to what you find on a Disney cruise, just on land and with a Hawaiian flair.

During our 2019 visit, my kids absolutely loved Aunty's Beach House, which was a serious draw to the property for us. However, we couldn't visit Aunty's Beach House this time for two reasons. First, my oldest kid has aged out. But my younger kiddo couldn't go either, as the process to book a slot there has changed during the pandemic, and you now have to really plan ahead.

You book 90-minute slots to play starting three months out, and they absolutely sell out. Do not wait until you get to Aulani to figure out the Aunty's Beach House situation — book this part of your trip months in advance or risk being disappointed and frustrated with this feature of the resort when you arrive.

Also of note is that there seem to now be more premium (i.e., costly) offerings at Aunty's Beach House than there used to be, which also limits the "free" times to go. But even those fill up, so make those bookings for things like games with Moana or a dance party with Disney pals.

Meet Disney characters

Aulani is great for meeting Disney characters with lines that are much shorter than what you'd often find at Disney theme parks. And they have not only some of the usual suspects, such as Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Chip, Dale and Goofy, but some harder-to-find friends, such as ShellieMay, Duffy, Stitch and Max.

The Aulani app is great for telling you who will be out at different times during the day, so be sure to set it up before you start your trip. We like to line up about 15-20 minutes before the start time for the popular characters.

Classes and activities

At Aulani, there are many different activities and classes you can take part in. A few, like evening storytelling by the fire pit, are open to all who show up, but many, such as making your own Mickey ears, koi fish feeding, T-shirt stamping and animation classes, have limited capacity and require you to sign up in advance.

Some of these activities are included, while some (such as making ears or T-shirts) require an extra fee. You can book in the activity room on-site, but I recommend booking activities in the Aulani app at least a few days before your trip.

Laniwai Spa

I haven't had the time or the budget to splurge on treatments at the Laniwai Spa, but from a walk-by, it looks (and smells!) fantastic.

There are 15 treatment rooms, including a family treatment room that sounded really cool for those looking to relax together. There's even a teen portion of the spa for those 14 to 17 years old and a hydrotherapy garden.

If you want to be sure you get the treatment you want at the time you want, you need to — you guessed it — book it well in advance. You can book spa appointments up to 90 days in advance online.

What to eat at Aulani

There are multiple dining options at Disney's Aulani, ranging from the you-gotta-get-it Mickey-shaped shave ice to almost fine dining at Ama Ama.

I recommend doing one breakfast while you are at Aulani at Makahiki, which offers a traditional Disney character breakfast. You'll likely start by meeting Mickey in his Hawaiian vacation attire, then get to say hi to Minnie, and then a few other characters will come by as you enjoy your meal.

This is a three-course breakfast that starts off with a tropical yogurt parfait with fruit such as coconut and pineapple, along with sugary and absolutely delicious malasadas.

You then have your pick of entrees, such as various omelets, French toast, pancakes and a Hawaiian-style loco moco, to name a few.

This meal costs $50 per adult and $29 for children ages 3 to 9, which you'll soon realize is a relative bargain for a sit-down meal at Aulani. This restaurant is also open for dinner with the same three-course concept and priced at $75 for adults and $30 for kids, but without the characters, as they are only there in the morning.

Reservations open up 30 days in advance — and you need to book exactly on that day to have the best chance of getting a breakfast spot as it is very popular.

The nicest restaurant at Aulani is the beachside, open-air Ama Ama. We ate there on a trip a few years ago and certainly enjoyed the food. We had reservations to return on this trip, but once we learned that it is now a four-course meal that costs $125 per person ($55 for kids 3 to 9 years old), we opted to skip a return visit.

I can't say that I'm thrilled with this move to the pricey set-course meals at so many of Aulani's restaurants, as it makes it tough for families and kids who want a nicer meal but aren't going to get anywhere near their money's worth out of a costly multicourse dinner. Paying $125 for a 10-year-old to have dinner is just a whole lot, even for Hawaii.

For a meal that doesn't top $100 for two people, head to Ulu Cafe, which is where we've enjoyed most of our Aulani meals over the years. This quick-service and grab-and-go venue had an assortment of pastries, muffins, drinks and packaged goods in addition to a few hot items at breakfast, lunch and dinner.

At lunch, you can get Mickey-shaped Spam musubi, which I think is pretty fantastic. It does sell out, so don't wait until too late in the day if you want one.

There are also build-your-own poke bowl and acai bowl stations, which are very solid.

From 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., you can order a pizza for $24, which is the cheapest family dinner on the property. You can purchase a refillable mug to load up with soft drinks and such for the duration of your trip.

Off the Hook

Next to the pool and beach is an assortment of kiosks, snack shops and a poolside cafe with table service for lunch and dinner called Off the Hook.

Kids meals here are $15, a poke bowl was $25 and my teen's burger was $23. Thankfully, this restaurant is still a la carte, so you can order as much or as little as you want. Also, reservations are not required, so just head over there when you're getting hungry.

One spot we haven't tried yet but that was always intriguing with some evening music was Olelo Room. Here there was a sunset happy hour menu with appetizers, sushi and sashimi, along with drinks.

You could also walk to nearby off-site dining options such as Monkeypod. Monkeypod has fantastic happy hours with discounts on drinks, $12 pizzas and 50% off most appetizers from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Luau at Disney's Aulani

Aulani is home to a luau that I've heard very good things about, but I haven't tried it yet, as prices start at $109 for kids ages 3 to 9 and $180 per person for those ages 10 and up. The better seats cost even more.

However, if you want to do it, you need to book at least a couple of months in advance and know it only operates a few days a week.

Snacks and Mickey shave ice

You can't go to Aulani and miss getting the shave ice from the poolside Papalua Shave Ice stand — just be sure and add the Mickey ears for an extra dollar.

At Aulani, you can also get a Dole Whip from the Ulu Cafe, which was just as good as the one at Disney World ... or maybe better.

Accessibility

Disney's Aulani has wheelchair- and hearing-accessible rooms that you can reserve by checking the accessible rooms box when making your booking. The large outside pool area is paved for wheelchair access, and there are ramps to access most of the areas. Additionally, the pools do have lifts available.

Reasons Aulani might not be for you

• Aulani is an expensive vacation destination, and I'm not just talking about the rooms (again, I highly recommend renting DVC points to help there). But your on-property meals, drinks and snacks and any activities you book will add up in a hurry, which makes this not the right match for every budget.
• Getting slots for some activities, Aunty's Beach House and even breakfast is competitive and requires advance planning or extreme luck, which isn't everyone's cup of tea.
• Aulani can be very busy and, with multiple towers of rooms, can host many people, so if you are looking to "get away from it all" and have some peace and quiet, this isn't necessarily the right vacation choice.
• Aulani does have some Disney-themed activities and characters, but it isn't a replacement for, say Disneyland or Disney World, so if you want an all-in Disney trip, you may not find that at Aulani. On the flip side, if you want a Disney-free part of Hawaii, this isn't that.

Checking out

Aulani is a Disney resort in Hawaii, but it isn't really like most other resorts in Hawaii, nor is it exactly like most other Disney destinations. I've found that liking one or both of those things doesn't necessarily guarantee that Aulani will be a slam-dunk for your vacation.

Truthfully, on my first trip to Aulani, I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped at first. I found it too frenetic and it required more planning and advance booking than I wanted out of a Hawaii vacation.

But, by the end of that trip, I had adjusted my expectations and really started to enjoy it. And now, with the benefit of knowing what to expect from past experiences (and having kids that are older), I very much enjoyed Aulani the second time, and I'm even plotting a third visit.

That said, if you really want to maximize Aunty's Beach House, your meals, etc., then there's just no way around planning and booking at least parts of your stay starting 90 days in advance online.

But I also found that with my kids now older, some of that mattered a bit less; we could go to the later-timed activities that the younger families often don't do, and it was easier to have a more laid-back Aulani trip that was quite enjoyable.

Aulani was a great lesson that sometimes, when two of your favorites mix, what you end up with isn't quite what you were expecting, but that doesn't mean it can't still be very good.

Related reading:

• How to rent Disney Vacation Club points
• These are the best Disney World hotels
• The best credit cards for a Disney vacation
• Best hotels on Oahu

Aulani Resort & Spa Trip Planning Guide

Aulani is Disney’s resort & spa hotel (that’s an understatement!) in Oahu, Hawaii. This trip planning guide offers tips for planning a vacation at Disney’s Aulani, from when to visit to how long to stay at the resort to what to do while you’re there. It also discusses whether Aulani might be right for you in the first place, and how you can make a visit more economical. We’ve now visited Aulani several times, and have updated this guide based upon each of our experiences at Aulani.

Unlike most other Disney destinations, Aulani is a bit of an odd duck. It’s not attached to a theme park or part of a more comprehensive trip or experience put on by Disney, but it’s not “just” a hotel, either. The most apt comparison we can think of is to other resort complexes on Oahu, or in other tropical settings that offer a multitude of things to do on the premises, but really are best enjoyed alongside other experiences in that locale. It’s also somewhat like a cruise ship on land.

Aulani is a great place for guests to stay who independently want to travel to Hawaii, but it’s difficult to recommend to Disney fans as a “Disney Destination” if those fans aren’t also interested in visiting Hawaii. The good news is that Hawaii is an amazing place in its own right, so most people contemplating a stay at Aulani are probably not solely interested in Aulani. The bad news is that a trip to Hawaii is very expensive, so even being a Disney fan plus being curious about Hawaii may not be sufficient for justifying the trip.

We’ll explore that all below, for now let’s dig into the Aulani – A Disney Resort & Spa planning guide…

Is Aulani Worth It?

We’ve already started to explore this question above, and there’s really no direct answer we can provide to you. In terms of the hotel/resort itself, Aulani is incredibly nice. I want to keep this trip planning guide manageable in length, so you can read our separate Aulani 1-Bedroom Villa Room Review to get an idea of the quality of the rooms, themselves. Suffice to say, Aulani is our new favorite Disney hotel.

That Aulani is incredibly nice should come as no surprise. It’s virtually brand new, has staunch competition from real-world luxury hotel brands on Oahu, and does not benefit from its proximity to a Disney theme park as a convenience-advantage. To the contrary, it’s a bit removed from Honolulu and Waikiki Beach where most of the major players are (having stayed in Waikiki and the upstart Ko Olina where Aulani is located, I’ll take Ko Olina any day of the week). Plus, in the more adult market of Hawaiian vacations, the Disney brand doesn’t have quite the same pull as the name does for families traveling to theme parks.

In other words, Disney had to come out swinging for the fences with Aulani in order for the resort to be a success. Fortunately, Disney did exactly that, and while the resort does command the typical Disney premium, arguably for what you are getting, it offers a significantly better value than any of the theme park-adjacent hotels in the United States.

To be abundantly clear, it ranks right up there with hotels like the Grand Floridian and Grand Californian in terms of cost (or exceeds them), but it also offers a lot more. The rooms are incredibly nice, and successfully blend luxury with themed accommodations. This is something with which we find Disney constantly struggles, and the balance is not an easy proposition. Aulani just works in both regards.

The rooms are artfully and tastefully decorated, feeling culturally appropriate, but also with the type of high quality furnishings, fixtures, and design that you’d expect of a luxury hotel. It’s exceedingly rare for us to say this about Disney hotels, but Aulani’s rooms nail both luxury and theme. You can see just how gorgeous the resort is in our “The Beauty of Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa” post , which features a lot of photos.

Of course, room quality is not the only consideration in terms of whether a resort is worth it. Most people aren’t going to visit Hawaii and spend a ton of time in their room, honeymooners excluded. Again, Aulani excels in terms of both the overall resort quality and the available amenities.

From the resort’s impressive Hawaiian art collection to the amazing Waikolohe Valley pool area (including my favorite thing about Aulani, the lazy river) to the daily events and activities, there is plenty to do, see, and enjoy at Aulani. If you’ve ever done Disney Cruise Line (or another ship, for that matter), it’s sort of like that in terms of activities. We did a ton of these activities at Aulani, and had a blast just enjoying the resort.

The other part of the equation is whether Hawaii, and the island of Oahu in particular, is worth visiting for you. We cannot answer that (although we offer some insight in the “Things to Do Beyond Aulani” section of this post). If things like Pearl Harbor, hiking, beaches, or island culture (among many other things) interest you, chances are a visit to Aulani and Oahu will be worth it for you.

While we think Hawaii is a better couples’ destination than it is a family vacation spot, Aulani is a great place to get a mix of both. The kids can have fun with the activities geared towards them, and the adults in the family can enjoy a romantic experience.

If the resort experience or Hawaii don’t really interest you, and you’re primarily a passionate Disney fan who is thinking about visiting Disney’s newest destination, it’s tough to say Aulani will be worth it for you. Aulani is not a theme park experience, and really is only “Disney” in terms of some character motifs and the overall quality and attention to detail. Unless money and vacation time are no object, we do not recommend Aulani to Disney fans who otherwise aren’t interested in visiting a luxury resort in Hawaii.

Another category for whom Aulani may not be worth it is those passionate Disney fans on tight budgets who are interested in the Aulani experience and visiting Hawaii, but would have to forgo an annual visit to the theme parks in order to afford Aulani. Unlike Tokyo Disney Resort, which we strongly advocate skipping the US parks for a year (or two) to experience , Aulani is unlikely to satisfy those looking for a Disney theme park “fix.”

We absolutely love Aulani, but we want to try to be objective in analyzing who will enjoy the experience the most. Aulani will be an amazing destination for a lot of people, but it also won’t appeal to a lot of people–just like virtually any vacation destination out there. Of course, without knowing you and your interests specifically, we can’t say definitively how you’ll feel about it, but hopefully this section gave you an idea of how it might appeal to you.

When to Visit?

Hawaii essentially has high seasons dictated by two things: winter and school breaks. The latter is especially true at Aulani, which is a mixed family and couples’ destination, rather than primarily a couples’ destination like the rest of Oahu. The former is generally true at Aulani and throughout Hawaii, as many guests flee cold weather for a dose of paradise.

There’s also weather to consider. Hawaii is pretty warm year-round, but it gets even hotter in the summer. No matter when you visit, you can except highs in the 80s and lows in the 60s or 70s. Still, the better times for weather in Hawaii are generally the spring and fall .

Based upon all of these factors, the “sweet spots” for trips to Aulani are late-April through mid-May and September through October. You avoid all significant school breaks with these dates, and you’re also outside of the range of snowbird season. Plus, these are good seasons as far as weather goes. These are educated guesses on our part based upon things we read and travel intuition, and are not at all observation based. Frommer’s seems to agree with us , but note that they’re working off of Hawaii travel trends in general.

Our educated guesses paid off with our early-May visit (just after Japan’s Golden Week–we’d probably go a week later next time to avoid this popular travel week for Japanese visitors , but crowds were still light), as the we were told that Aulani was less than half-full, Pearl Harbor had no significant crowds, and the weather was excellent. Your mileage may vary–do your own research into dates to confirm our speculation isn’t just crazy.

Things to Do at Aulani

Let’s break this down into two separate questions. First, what to do at Aulani. Second, what to do beyond Aulani. If you’ve ever done a Disney Cruise before, you know that it’s kind of a go at your own pace, do as much or as little as you want type of thing. Aulani is the exact same way. Like the Disney Cruise Line, there are daily newsletters printed out with schedules of daily events, and there’s pretty much a scheduled event every hour of the day.

The schedule is definitely lighter than Disney Cruise Line’s personal navigator, but considering that everyday you have numerous pools and other on-site options, plus the whole of Oahu to explore, it’s pretty full of activities.

Some of these activities are repeated every day, every other day, or at some random interval, but some may happen only once per week. We definitely recommend reviewing the sample schedule online so you can plan meals and other day trips around the schedule events at Aulani that are must-dos for you.

Listed below are a few things you can do at Aulani:

• Ka Wa’a Luau
• Laniwai – A Disney Spa
• Fireside Mo’Olelo
• Ho’ Okani Pila (Learn the ‘Ukulele)
• Menehune Adventure Trail
• Morning Beach Yoga
• Rainbow Reef Snorkeling
• Aunty’s Breakfast Celebration at the Makahiki
• Character Meet & Greets

This is just a partial list of things that we did do at Aulani, and doesn’t include ordinary stuff like lounging around the pool, taking dozens of laps around the lazy river, wandering the grounds, or hanging out at the bars. It also doesn’t cover activities specifically for kids and teens. It’s also worth pointing out that there were about 5-10 other daily activities we would have liked to do, but simply didn’t have the time. We’ll cover some of these activities in future posts if you’re interested in learning about them in more detail.

The only thing you definitely need to know about at this point is the Starlit Hui is no more. Part of me wants to preface that with “sadly” since I really loved this show–and because the replacement for this free show costs over $100 per person, but the new Ka Wa’a Luau is a full scale luau.

Previously, many Aulani guests who wanted the full luau experience had walked 5 minutes down the road to Paradise Cove, where a similarly-expensive full luau is held. We attended that on our most recent trip and enjoyed it (see our full Paradise Cove Review & Oahu Luau Tips post); it’s cheaper than Ka Wa’a and is a fun show. There is potential for Ka Wa’a Luau to be a nice addition; it just stinks to lose a free experience for something that costs extra–and a lot extra at that.

One thing to note is that Ka Wa’a Luau is held on Aulani’s Halawai Lawn, so if you request a room overlooking that lawn, you will be able to see the luau from your balcony for free. Obviously, not the same as attending it…but much cheaper!

Things to Do Beyond Aulani

You’re hopefully not going all the way to Hawaii and staying at a Disney resort the entire time. Listed below are just a few of the things you can do on Oahu alone:

• World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument (Pearl Harbor)
• Diamond Head Hike
• Paradise Cove or Polynesian Cultural Center Luau
• Visit Kualoa Ranch
• Koko Head Crater Hike
• Visit ‘Iolani Palace
• Manoa Falls Hike
• Visit the North Shore

This is just a partial list of things that actually interest us. It doesn’t even include the beaches, spas, shopping, dining, entertainment, and nightlife for which Hawaii is known. You’ll want a guidebook to help plan what else you should do on Oahu. We like Oahu Revealed , which is written by a local and is not superficial fluff you could find on TripAdvisor (I’m looking at you, other Hawaii guides…).

You should definitely consider island-hopping while in Hawaii. Round-trip flights between the islands are about $150-200/person, or you can do one-way flights for half that, and head back to the US out of a different airport in Hawaii than the one into which you flew. This is what I’ve done, and recommend doing both in terms of cost-savings and time-savings.

On the Big Island, my strong recommendation is a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is one of my favorite National Parks anywhere. Read our Things to do in Volcanoes National Park post for more on this. (Notwithstanding Aulani, we both actually prefer the Big Island to Oahu.)

If you want more insight into what we’ve done in Hawaii, things we enjoyed (and did not our Hawaii category of posts enjoy–which includes a really popular tourist spot), check out on TravelCaffeine.

How Long to Visit?

We recommend no fewer than 7 days in Hawaii, with time on Oahu plus one other island. I’ve done the Big Island twice, so that’s my default recommendation, but Maui also looks intriguing to me. Hawaii is an incredible state, with a wide array of offerings. The islands are small, but there’s truly something for everyone.

On my first visit to Hawaii, I spent 14 days there and didn’t run out of things to do. Sarah and I have been to Hawaii 3 times together, and only stayed at Aulani one of those times. On our more recent visit, we were in Hawaii for 7 days split between Oahu and the Big Island, and it was not nearly enough time.

Dedicate at least 2 full days to enjoying and exploring Aulani. The resort offers a lot of entertainment, activities, etc., and it’s difficult to do these all in a couple of days, plus enjoy their excellent pools, hot tubs, spas, etc. Also, you’re spending a lot of money to stay at Aulani, so you should make it a priority to enjoy the resort.

If the entertainment really interests you, or you love lounging by pools or in lazy rivers, you could spend even longer at Aulani. If neither of those things interest you, maybe 2 nights will suffice. Basically, what we’re saying is that only you know what you enjoy doing, so we can’t make a definitive recommendation because we don’t know you.

Whether you should spend the duration of your stay on Oahu at Aulani largely depends upon your budget and priorities in Hawaii. Even by Hawaii standards, Aulani is pricey. While you will find high prices at just about any resort in Hawaii, many are much less expensive than Aulani, and offer a high caliber resort experience. Cheaper still are basic hotels and motels that you won’t want to spend time “enjoying,” but instead might function as good shower/sleeping bases for the days you explore the rest of Hawaii.

Still, there is something to be said for the convenience of just staying at one hotel in Oahu, and having that hotel be a resort to which you can come back in relax in a nice hot tub or enjoy other entertainment at the end of the day in Hawaii. In our view, if money is not a significant concern, stay at Aulani for the duration of your visit to Oahu.

If money is a concern, spend 2-3 nights at Aulani and stay elsewhere the rest of the trip. If money is somewhat of a concern, let convenience (or lack thereof) of Aulani as a home base when looking at your general Oahu itinerary be the deciding factor that pushes you off the fence one way or the other.

Getting There

Unless you’re an incredibly strong swimmer or an Olympic canoeing champion, you’re going to be flying to Hawaii. Honolulu International Airport is nearly halfway between Los Angeles and Tokyo, so you’re in for a long flight (approximately 9 hours from Chicago). Flight prices vary widely depending upon your city of origin and season, but expect to pay over $600 per person, and in some rare cases over $1,000.

Redeeming frequent flyer points for tickets to Hawaii requires more miles than an average domestic flight on most major airlines, but can be worth it. If you’re considering visiting Tokyo Disney Resort and/or Hong Kong Disneyland, Hawaii can be a free stopover. We have a post that explains how to visit multiple Disney destinations (including Aulani) on a single airfare .

Once you’re on the ground in Honolulu, you can either take public transportation, a shuttle service, or rent a car to get to Aulani. Be aware that Aulani is farther from Honolulu International Airport than traditional tourist spots on Oahu, like Waikiki Beach hotels. It takes about 25 minutes to get from the airport to the Ko Olina area where Aulani is located in no traffic.

Parking at Aulani is free for Disney Vacation Club members (or rather, your annual dues pay for it), so if you’re a DVC member, we highly recommend a rental car. If you’re not a Disney Vacation Club member, parking costs $37/night. If we were not Disney Vacation Club members, we would probably take a shuttle/Uber to Aulani.

Don’t worry, you can still explore Oahu if you do this, as there is an Alamo Rent-A-Car location at Aulani, and it’s cheaper to rent a car for a day or two and establish those days as our days for exploring Hawaii outside of Aulani. $37/night for the duration of a stay is just unreasonable for parking and really adds up over the course of the trip. If you elect not to rent a car, the best option for getting to Aulani is Uber. There’s also the Ko Olina Transportation Shuttle , which will drop you off directly at Aulani. Public “TheBus” transportation is a cheaper option, but it requires a long walk (nearly 2 miles) and a transfer. Not advisable with luggage. Go to Page 2 for Saving Money at Aulani, What to Pack, Where to Dine, and More…

Written by Tom Bricker

have you tried the spa there? we are going this summer and I can’t decide if we should get a massage there.

Hi Tom I am coming from the UK and to save costs I am looking at which cities in the US I could have one or two days in before a direct flight to honolulu which isn’t too expensive. I also want to do the Same on the way home but out of Kona. Any suggestions for city breaks each way that won’t break the bank. Seattle or Chicago? would love some ideas. thanks

Hi, Tom! We just made the decision to cancel our WDW plans for October, and we’re heading to Aulani instead! Our oldest is 12, and many of the activities Aulani offers to kids stops after age 12, so we decided this was the best time to go (and, when we canceled our tickets & resort reservations at WDW, Aulani ended up being about the same price).

Did you go on any of the Aulani excursions? We’re considering not renting a car and simply staying at the resort and using the Disney excursions for any off-site activities. It looks like they offer excursions like going to Pearl Harbor, swimming with dolphins, and zip lining. I was wondering if you did any of these, if you recommend them, or if you recommend venturing out on our own and paying for an Uber or something to take us to Pearl Harbor.

Hello! Is anyone traveling during the just announced pool renovation? The big WAIKOLOHE pool and surrounding area, including the reef, will be closed October-December 2019. The tube slide will still be open, as will the lazy river and kids play area. I have not been… Will this be terrible? We’re booked for Thanksgiving and are trying to decide if we should cancel.

I am going during the renovation, but we live on Oahu and go all the time. I think it will be fine without the pool as the other poo will be open and the beach is there. It will just change what you do during the day, but you won’t “know” what its like to spread all the people to these areas. The reef generally has 0-8 people in it at a time, so not a big deal, but cool to catch a glimpse of the reef when passing or snorkel for a little bit. Most people tend to use the lazy river and the kiddie area if your kids area anyway. They use the big pool for the pool party on Saturdays, otherwise, nothing “special” usually there. The $50 a day credit for the inconvenience is nice too! 🙂 Lindsey

Hi Tom, does Aulani offer a dinning plan? We are planning a trip for May 2019. Thanks for all the helpful information

Free travel planning guide

The best thing about Aulani for locals is they offer various Kamaaina rates throughout the year. Definitely helps to bring down costs of a staycation.

Do guests renting DVC get free parking?

Tom – One of my friends just came back from Aulani nd mentioned the pools closed very early, like 6pm so if you did any type of excursion and dinner they were closed by the time you got back. Is this year round or just at certain times, do you know? We are thinking of going nect year for a family vacation, but a little bit of evening pool time is certainly a must with the Grandkids.

We just got back from aulani. The pools were open 8am to 8pm. They have lifeguards everywhere which is why I believe the operating times are as such. It is dark by 8pm in Hawaii year round so I suspect that does not change based on the season. We loved our stay and will be back!

Love all your posts! So very helpful. My husband and I just booked our trip to Aulani this Oct/Nov. We will be staying there a week, but will also be going to the big island for a week as well. We have family that just moved there. So very excited about this trip! There is a current special going on now with Aulani for a fall stay. If you book before June 19, you get 30% off and $150 resort credit.

Did she get her flower crown through Aulani?? We are going for our honeymoon soon and I need one like hers!

Hi Tom! Did you book the trips to Kualoa and Pearl Harbor through Aulani and independently? Trying to outweigh the pros and costs of booking through Aulani vs renting a car and booking through the place themselves. Also, have you visited the Dole Plantation? Is it worth the trip? I’ve seen many mixed reviews. Love all your pictures! Thanks

Check out my Hawaii posts on TravelCaffeine. Two of the most recent ones pertain to Pearl Harbor and Dole Plantation: http://www.travelcaffeine.com/location/hawaii/ 🙂

I haven’t read the post that Tom linked yet, but having been to Aulani several times, I would strongly suggest you consider renting a car when you arrive in Honolulu. While the Aulani is awesome with a lot of great features, if you are spending a week or so there you will want to get off the resort and see the island, and you will need a car to really get around and see the North Shore, Wikiki area, and of course Pearl Harbor. Also, eating at the Aulani is very expensive, and there are plenty of wonderful local restaurants for you to check out that are much more affordable. Again, you can’t get to them if you don’t have a car.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Disney Cruise Line Information

DCL Fan is your source for Disney Cruise Line Information, News, and Discounts

3 Ways that Aulani is Similar to Disney Cruise Line

UPDATE 3/4/21: Disney has announced that the KA WA’A Luau will be making its return beginning March 27, 2021! Read more details about the luau HERE .

While we’re all waiting and dreaming of being able to board a Disney ship and sail again, let’s take a quick look at some elements of visiting Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa , and compare its similarities to a Disney Cruise Line vacation. If you’ve watched any of our shows where we’ve discussed a Hawaiian vacation at Aulani , you’ve likely heard Pete Werner say that it is essentially DCL on land.

While we’re at it, a quick reminder that some of you may remember hearing about; Hawaiian Air’s nonstop service from MCO (Orlando International Airport) to HNL (Honolulu) begins in mid-March , making now a great time to add Aulani to your Walt Disney World trip. We should point out that this flight is 10 hours and 50 minutes long, but it sure beats stopping in Los Angeles for a multiple-hour layover. The pricing on this direct flight varies quite a bit depending on the dates and days of your flight(s) but ranges from around $624 to $878 for the main cabin seats (these rates vary and could change at any given moment).

If you’re the type of person who likes to see a daily list of what’s going on, you’ll be glad to know that similar to the Personal Navigator that is delivered to your stateroom each day, Aulani has the Daily ‘Iwa available for pickup at the front desk anytime after 7:30 p.m.

You can also download the new Aulani app on your mobile device with everything from daily activities to character experiences and everything in between. You can also find the operating hours, menus, and pricing for the Resort restaurants , too.

Like being aboard one of the Disney Cruise ships , many activities are going on right at Aulani, even now during the pandemic. You can not only meet Disney Characters – in a socially distanced environment – but you can participate in other activities as well, such as making your own Mickey Ears. You can also swim in one of the many pools on the property or enjoy a ride ( or many rides, ahem ) in the lazy river. Spending time on the beach is an incredible and relaxing way to spend your day, too, and it’s just a few steps away from your room. You can enjoy boogie-boarding or even rent snorkels, paddleboards, and other equipment there.

If excursions are more your style, there are plenty of those available too. Tours to Diamond Head, Kualoa Ranch, or the Dole Plantation are just a few of the options. You can also rent a car and head out to Waikiki Beach or the Aquarium. Having a rental car gives you the freedom to enjoy some of the local restaurants and explore the rest of the island or to stop by a grocery store if you’d like to do your own cooking. Be aware that there is a nightly parking fee at Aulani if you are not a Disney Vacation Club member.

Lastly, the fact that you can enjoy a most beautiful sunset from just about anywhere at Aulani is at the top of the list for me. One of my very favorite parts of cruising is the ability to see the sunset from just about anywhere on the ship. You know, the line where the sky meets the sea and all that – add the setting sun to it, and it is sheer perfection in my book.

One of the questions that we get asked a lot is if you have to be a Disney Vacation Member to stay at Aulani, and the answer is no. You can look at the current discounts offered to all guests or take a look at the confirmed DVC reservations that are available through Dreams Unlimited Travel in partnership with DVC Rental Store.

If you’d like help planning the Aulani vacation of your dreams, let the experts at Dreams Unlimited Travel help you at no extra charge.

Click here to request a no-obligation Aulani quote!

About Post Author

Jackie Gailey

Senior Editor at The DIS and DCL Fan | Disney Vacation Club Member | Thrilled to have been a ’13/’14 Disney Parks Moms Panelist (now planDisney) | Lover of all things Disney; the Magic of Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and Disney Cruise Line | ºoº

See author's posts

Share this:

• ← Sailings on Disney Dream & Fantasy Cancelled Through May; Disney Magic Through mid-August
• Disney Cruise Line Temporary Final Payment Extension Added for Sailings through 9/30 →

You May Also Like

Visiting Skagway During Our Disney Cruise to Alaska

South Stewart Glacier Excursion in the Inside Passage of Alaska

The Next Port Calling for Disney Cruise Line to Visit

Discover more from disney cruise line information.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Please wait while we process your request...

Please do not refresh this page or use the back button during this operation.

Included With Your Stay

Discover a wide range of complimentary experiences available to Guests of Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa.

Save Up to 30% on Select Stays This Fall

This offer is valid for stays of 5 or more nights—with other savings available for 4-night stays.

Enjoy Comforts of Home in Your Villa – And a Resort in Your Backyard!

Make your family vacation even more delightful in a comfy Disney Vacation Club Villa with just-like-home amenities, including a full kitchen, private bedrooms, spacious interiors and a washer/dryer—plus all the amazing Aulani Resort activities just outside your door!

Delight in Your Own Piece of Tropical Paradise

Become a Disney Vacation Club Member to enhance your vacation at Aulani Resort—with spectacular amenities in your comfortable home away from home, plus the value and savings that come with Membership.

Free Vacation Planning Brochure

Explore the enchantment that awaits you at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai‘i. You are invited to order our free ebrochure—a helpful resource for planning an unforgettable Hawaiian vacation.

There’s Something for Everyone

Begin the day with ‘ohana

Disney Character Breakfast

Pools at Aulani Resort

Dip into an oasis filled with aquatic fun

KA WA‘A – A Lū‘au at Aulani Resort

An exhilarating and enchanting journey

Know Before You Go

Learn what you can expect during your next visit

Celebrate the spirit of aloha

アウラニの新着情報は こちら

Disney Vacation Club Membership

アウラニ・バケーションの スペシャル特典と パッケージ

Explore Aulani Resort in Ko Olina, Hawai‘i

Daily 'Iwa: Aulani Resort Activities Calendar

• Activities for all ages —with many included with your stay
• Laniwai – A Disney Spa , offering soothing therapies and amenities
• Sparkling swimming pools
• Breathtaking beaches
• Excursions that showcase the splendor of O'ahu

13 Aulani Tips: A Guide to Disney’s Aulani Resort

IF A TRIP TO DISNEY’S AULANI RESORT IS IN YOUR FUTURE, USE MY GUIDE TO HELP YOU MAXIMIZE YOUR STAY IN PARADISE!

Are you planning a trip to the magical paradise of Aulani , a Disney Resort & Spa? Nestled on the stunning shores of Ko Olina, Oahu, Aulani promises an enchanting experience. It is the perfect combination of the captivating charm of Disney with the breathtaking beauty of Hawaii. To ensure you make the most of your trip, I’ve curated a collection of invaluable Aulani tips and tricks.

I will guide you through several categories of tips for planning your stay including:

• Tips for Aulani Resort
• Tips for Other Things to Do on Oahu
• Tips for What to Pack for Your Trip

Let’s dive in!

13 Aulani Tips for Your Disney Vacation

To help you make the most of your Aulani vacation, I have compiled 13 Aulani Tips . By utilizing these tips, you will be sure to have the most magical Hawaiian Disney vacation!

1. Book a Lei Greeting

Before your arrival in Hawaii, book a Lei greeting! There is no better way to start your Aulani vacation than to be greeted with a warm Hawaiian welcome. These welcomes come in the form of a beautiful lei.

A lei is a traditional Hawaiian garland made of flowers or other materials and is given as a symbol of affection, greeting, or celebration . Take a moment to embrace the aloha spirit and wear your lei proudly throughout your stay. It will truly help you immerse yourself in the island’s welcoming atmosphere.

TIP: I recommend finding a company that will greet you right at the airport!

2. Know What Things Are Complimentary and What Are Extra

My next Aulani tip is to know what’s included in your vacation stay. Aulani is not considered an all-inclusive resort . However, there are many things that are included with the cost of your stay. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with what things are included in your vacation package and what things you can add at an extra cost.

As a part of your Aulani vacation, you have access to Disney’s world-renowned service , character experiences, 5 pool areas, a private beach , and more than 30 complimentary activities.

3. Check the Daily ‘Iwa

It’s essential to stay informed about the daily activities, events, and offerings. Aulani provides a daily newsletter called the ‘Iwa, which contains valuable information about the resort’s schedule, dining options, entertainment, and special promotions. Furthermore, checking the ‘Iwa each day will ensure you don’t miss out on any exciting experiences or updates.

TIP: You can also download the Aulani app ! With the app you can use a navigational map of the resort, check the daily ‘iwa, and search for daily activities!

4. Meet the Characters

Another Aulani tip on my list is to meet the characters at the resort. One of the most enchanting aspects of a visit to Aulani is the opportunity to meet beloved Disney characters in a unique and tropical setting . Interacting with your favorite characters can be a truly magical experience for guests of all ages.

Aulani offers various character greeting opportunities throughout the resort. Check the daily ‘Iwa or inquire at the front desk to find out the schedule and locations where you can meet and take photos with Disney characters. In addition, be prepared to bring your autograph book and camera to capture those memorable moments.

TIP: A perfect way to interact with your favorite characters and enjoy a fabulous 3-course breakfast is to snag a reservation at the Makahiki Restaurant. They host a daily character breakfast which is a great way to start the day!

5. Attend a Luau

No visit to Aulani is complete without experiencing the vibrant and entertaining luau. The resort offers a traditional Hawaiian luau experience where you can indulge in a delicious feast while being captivated by live music, hula dancing, and a mesmerizing fire-knife performance.

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Hawaii as you savor the flavors of the islands and enjoy a truly unforgettable evening of entertainment. Make sure to reserve your spot in advance, as this popular event tends to fill up quickly. Attending the luau is a fantastic way to embrace the spirit of Hawaii and create lasting memories during your stay at Aulani.

Follow Us on Social Media to Keep Up with the Latest Disney Travel News!

6. Get to the Pools Early

With its stunning pools and exhilarating water slides, Aulani is a paradise for water enthusiasts. My next tip is to make the most of your time at the pool by arriving early. Getting to the pool area before the crowds can provide you with the opportunity to secure preferred spots, such as lounge chairs or shaded areas, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Arriving early also allows you to maximize your time on the water slides and indulge in various water activities without long wait times. So, grab your swimsuits, sunscreen, and towels, and be one of the first to dive into the refreshing oasis of Waikolohe Valley. Getting to the pool early ensures that you have ample time to splash, slide, and relax in the water wonderland of Aulani.

Why not top off your Disney Hawaiian vacation with a couple of days at Disneyland?! Check out the two California theme parks that make up Disneyland before your next trip!

7. Float on the Lazy River

The next great Aulani tip is to take the time to enjoy Waikolohe Stream. Waikolohe Stream is a serene and relaxing experience where you can leisurely float along the gentle currents , taking in the beautiful surroundings and soaking up the Hawaiian sun.

You’ll have the opportunity to fully appreciate the serenity of the lazy river before it gets busier later in the day. So, grab a tube, sit back, and let the gentle flow of the lazy river carry you away into a state of relaxation .

8. Check Out Aunty’s Beach House

Aulani’s Aunty’s Beach House is a kids’ club offering a plethora of exciting activities for children aged 3 to 12. From arts and crafts to interactive storytelling, children can enjoy supervised playtime while parents indulge in some well-deserved relaxation or exploration of their own.

TIP: You should definitely register for Aunty’s Beach House before you travel! Your pre-registration can be done 90 days in advance online!

9. Take Your Kids on the Menehune Adventure Trail

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Menehune, mischievous little beings from Hawaiian folklore, by exploring the Menehune Adventure Trail. This interactive scavenger hunt takes you on a journey through the resort, allowing you to discover hidden surprises and uncover the secrets of the Menehune. Grab a handheld device from the Pau Hana Room or the Community Hall, and follow the clues to solve puzzles and uncover the magical wonders hidden throughout Aulani.

This self-guided adventure is perfect for families and offers a delightful way to explore the resort while engaging in a fun and interactive activity. Whether you’re hunting for Menehune statues or unraveling riddles, the Menehune Adventure Trail adds an extra layer of excitement and discovery to your Aulani experience. Don’t forget to collect your special surprise at the end of the adventure as a memento of your magical journey.

10. Indulge in All the Snacks

Aulani is not only a haven for relaxation and adventure but also a paradise for food enthusiasts . From delectable desserts to mouthwatering savory treats, the resort offers a variety of snacks that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Make it a point to explore the different dining options and snack venues throughout the resort. Whether it’s the Ulu Cafe, Papalua Shave Ice, or the Lava Shack, each location presents a unique array of snacks and treats that showcase the flavors of Hawaii . Indulge in iconic Hawaiian delights like malasadas, shave ice, Dole Whip, or the refreshing flavors of tropical fruits.

So, don’t hold back and let your taste buds embark on a journey of culinary exploration at Aulani. Indulge in the delightful snacks and experience the true flavors of the Hawaiian islands during your stay.

Want to try another unique Disney destination? Consider Tokyo Disneyland for your next adventure! And we already have you covered with the Best Time to Visit Tokyo Disneyland!

11. Book a Family Photo Session

Preserve the memories of your Aulani vacation with a professional photo session. Aulani offers photography services that allow you to capture the magic of your time at the resort in stunning and professional-quality images. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to document your family’s journey, a photo session can be a wonderful way to create lasting keepsakes.

Book a session with Aulani’s photography team, who are experienced in capturing the beauty of the resort and the joy of your experience. Choose from various settings, such as the beach, pool area, or lush gardens, to create the perfect backdrop for your photos . The photographers will guide you through the process, ensuring you feel comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera. Remember to schedule your session in advance to secure your preferred date and time.

TIP: If you don’t want to spend the extra cash on a private photo session, make sure to grab a PhotoPass card from one of the many PhotoPass photographers at the resort. Anytime you see one of these photographers on the property let them snap your pictures. You can then purchase in a bundle or by the print!

12. Pamper Yourself With a Spa Day

Another great Aulani Tip is to indulge in ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation by spending a day at the spa. Laniwai – A Disney Spa is a haven of tranquility where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in a world of serenity .

Treat yourself to a variety of luxurious spa treatments , such as massages, facials, body wraps, and more. The spa offers a range of services designed to soothe your body and uplift your spirits, leaving you feeling refreshed and renewed. Take advantage of the spa’s hydrotherapy garden, which features a vitality pool, whirlpool, and six unique rain showers for an immersive and invigorating experience.

With its serene atmosphere, professional therapists, and exquisite treatments, spending a day at Laniwai is a true indulgence for the senses. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, or a little bit of both, spending a day at the spa is an excellent way to enhance your Aulani experience.

TIP: Be sure to book your spa appointments in advance to secure your desired treatments and preferred time slots.

13. Discover the Rest of the Island

While Aulani offers a paradise within itself, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the rest of the captivating island of Oahu. Venture beyond the resort’s boundaries to discover the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse attractions that await you.

Rent a car or join organized tours to visit iconic landmarks like Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head State Monument, or the historic town of Haleiwa. Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring local markets, trying traditional Hawaiian dishes, or attending cultural events.

Oahu boasts stunning beaches, lush hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints, so be sure to experience the natural beauty that surrounds you. Whether it’s catching a famous North Shore wave, snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, or enjoying a scenic drive along the east coast, Oahu offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences. Take the time to plan day trips or extend your stay to truly immerse yourself in all that this beautiful island has to offer.

Aulani Tips: Find Other Things to Do on Oahu

This may be one of my more unexpected Aulani tips. But while Aulani provides an idyllic setting, exploring the rest of Oahu allows you to delve deeper into the island’s history, landscapes, and local communities. So, grab a map, embrace the spirit of adventure, and embark on a journey of discovery beyond the confines of the resort .

Here is a look at some of my other Oahu favorites that you should definitely consider during your visit!

Visit Pearl Harbor

Visiting Pearl Harbor is a poignant and educational experience that offers a profound understanding of World War II and its impact. While at Pearl Harbor, you can also tour the USS Missouri Battleship, known as the “Mighty Mo,” and step aboard this iconic vessel where the Japanese surrender was signed, marking the end of the war. Plan your visit in advance and allocate enough time to fully immerse yourself in the history and significance of this historic site.

>>>Visit the USS Arizona Memorial and Tour the USS Missouri Battleship Here!<<<

Surf on the North Shore

For those seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure, a trip to Oahu’s North Shore is a must. Renowned for its world-class surf breaks , this stretch of coastline is a surfing paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, the North Shore offers waves for every skill level. Visit iconic surf spots like Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay, where you can witness the incredible power and beauty of the ocean firsthand .

TIP: If you’re new to surfing, consider taking a lesson from one of the local surf schools. They cater to all experience levels. Find my recommendation HERE!

Tour the Dole Plantation

No visit to Oahu would be complete without a trip to the famous Dole Plantation. Located in the heart of the island, the Dole Plantation offers a delightful and immersive experience for pineapple enthusiasts of all ages.

Take a tour of the plantation and learn about the history of pineapple cultivation in Hawaii , from its humble beginnings to becoming a worldwide symbol of the island. Discover the various stages of pineapple growth and cultivation, and gain insight into the plantation’s farming practices.

Don’t miss the chance to ride the Pineapple Express . This narrated train journey takes you through the plantation’s scenic fields, providing fascinating facts and trivia along the way. You can also immerse yourself in the lush Pineapple Garden Maze . It’s the world’s largest maze of its kind. See if you can navigate your way through its twists and turns.

Book Your Dole Plantation Excursion Here! >>>Dole Plantation Tickets<<<

TIP: After your tour, have fresh pineapples shipped home. That way you will have a sweet treat waiting for you when you return from your trip!

Breakfast at Duke’s

The best breakfast on the island! Named after legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku, this iconic beachfront restaurant offers a fantastic dining experience with breathtaking ocean views.

Begin your day by indulging in a hearty breakfast at Duke’s. You will savor a delectable array of Hawaiian-inspired dishes. From fluffy pancakes topped with fresh tropical fruit to savory omelets filled with local ingredients, the breakfast menu at Duke’s is sure to satisfy every palate.

Hike Diamond Head Crater

For outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, hiking Diamond Head Crater is an absolute must-do activity during your time on Oahu. Located just a short drive from Aulani , Diamond Head is an iconic volcanic crater that offers breathtaking views and a memorable hiking experience. Lace up your hiking shoes, grab some water, and embark on the trail. You’ll find yourself heading to the summit of Diamond Head.

The moderate hike takes you through a series of switchbacks, tunnels, and stairs. It provides a glimpse into the geological history of the island. As you ascend to the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Waikiki Beach, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding landscapes.

Aulani Tips: What to Pack For Your Aulani Trip

Packing for your Aulani trip requires a careful balance of essentials for a tropical getaway. Here’s a list of items to consider including in your suitcase:

Beachwear: Don’t forget to pack your swimsuits, cover-ups, and flip-flops. You’ll spend plenty of time by the pool or at the beach. Make sure you have enough options for your entire stay.

Sun Protection: The Hawaiian sun can be strong, so pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the sun’s rays. Consider bringing rash guards or UV-protective clothing for extra protection.

Comfortable Clothing: Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and skirts. Pack a light sweater or cardigan for cooler evenings. You will also want a pair of comfortable walking shoes for exploring the resort and nearby attractions.

Camera and Electronics: Capture the magical moments of your Aulani vacation by bringing a camera or smartphone with a good camera. Don’t forget to pack the necessary chargers and adapters for your electronic devices.

Medications and First Aid: If you take any prescription medications, ensure you have an adequate supply for the duration of your trip. Additionally, consider packing a small first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids and pain relievers.

Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in a tropical climate. Bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day and minimize plastic waste.

Beach Accessories: Pack a beach towel and beach bag. You also may want to pack a dry bag to keep your belongings protected from water and sand. Beach toys for the kids are also a must!

Entertainment and Comfort: Don’t forget to bring books, magazines, or any other forms of entertainment for relaxation. You can enjoy these things by the pool or during downtime. Additionally, a travel pillow, eye mask, and earplugs can enhance your comfort during the journey.

By packing wisely, you’ll ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay at Aulani. You will be fully equipped to make the most of your tropical paradise vacation.

Aulani Tips: Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Aulani Located?

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is located on the western coast of the island of Oahu in Ko Olina, Hawaii. It sits approximately 17 miles (27 kilometers) west of Honolulu International Airport and about a 30-minute drive from Waikiki.

Should You Rent a Car When Visiting Aulani?

Aulani provides transportation options for getting around the resort. However, renting a car can offer more flexibility for exploring the island of Oahu . It allows you to visit nearby attractions, venture to different beaches, and experience the island at your own pace. However, if you prefer not to drive, there are also shuttle services and organized tours available.

How Many Days Should I Stay at Aulani?

The ideal length of stay at Aulani depends on your personal preferences and the activities you wish to experience. Many guests find that a 4- to 7-day stay allows for a good balance of relaxation and exploration . This timeframe provides ample time to enjoy the resort’s amenities. It also gives you time to venture out and explore the island of Oahu. However, you can adjust the duration based on your schedule and desired level of relaxation or adventure.

Is Aulani an All-Inclusive Resort?

No, Aulani is not an all-inclusive resort. The resort offers a wide range of amenities and activities. However, not all services and experiences are included in the base price. Some activities, dining options, and additional services may require an additional fee. As stated earlier in our Aulani tips, use a Disney Vacation Planner to help navigate what is included in your vacation!

Aulani Tips: Now Book Your Aulani Vacation

Now that you have a perfect list of Aulani tips, let’s get your Hawaiian Disney vacation booked!

As an Authorized Disney Travel Planner, I would love to put all of my experience and expertise to work for you! And when booking your Disney Aulani trip with me,  my services are always free!   Click the button below and let’s get started planning your Disney vacation!

Final Thoughts: 13 Aulani Tips for Your Disney Vacation

Disney’s Aulani is a remarkable destination that seamlessly blends the enchantment of Disney with the natural beauty of Hawaii . By following these Aulani tips, you can enhance your vacation experience. Thus ensuring that every moment is filled with joy and unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, prepare for an adventure like no other, and get ready to create lifelong memories at Aulani, where Disney magic meets Hawaiian paradise!

Pin It For Later

Recommended

101+ Best Disney Captions for Instagram

Is a Disney Cruise Worth It? Why You Should Choose Disney for Your Next Cruise

What to Do at Disney Springs: 33 Fun Experiences in 2024

Hey Friends! My name is Tina and I am a self-proclaimed Disney Adult! From the movies to the parks to the music and the food… I love it all!

I created Hey Mickey Travel as a way to share my passion for all things Disney and provide resources for Disney vacationers just like you!

Save money, experience more.

Disney Aulani Luau Review 2024 – Menu, Pricing, Tips, Worth It?

Disney's Aulani Luaua is a multi-part cultural celebration of Hawaiian culture and heritage located at Aulani – A Disney Resort in Hawaii. The offering is available to guests of Aulani and non-hotel guests and includes time for traditional Hawaiian hands-on crafts, a great meal, and Hawaiian performance.

The luau, like the rest of Aulani, is focused in on telling a real Hawaiian story and is set up to tell the story of the particular local region of Oahu where the resort is located.

We recently attended the Aulani luau after all of the covid precautions were fully removed in late 2023 and sat in the preferred seating section. I have seen other luaus in Hawaii before, but a long time ago. I am a frequent Disney traveler so have the theme park show quality for comparison.

Below I'll share tips for enjoying the luau, answer common questions, and describe what's included with the Disney Hawaiian luau before going into whether the luau is worth it. Plus, the Disney characters and surprising lack there of that are featured in this luau.

Get exclusive access to prices on hotel & tickets just for Mickey Visit subscribers. Don't miss our travel hacks newsletter!

In this planning guide:

How Much is the Disney Aulani Luau?

The Disney KA WA‘A Aulani luau is currently priced at the below rates:

Preferred Seating:

Adults (ages 10 and up) – $204 plus tax – Price beginning May 2024 – $209 plus tax

Kids or Keiki as they say in Hawaiian (ages 3 to 9) – $124 plus tax – Price beginning May 2024 – $129 plus tax

General Seating:

Adults (ages 10 and up) – $175 plus tax – Price beginning May 2024 – $180 plus tax

Kids or Keiki as they say in Hawaiian (ages 3 to 9) – $104 plus tax – Price beginning May 2024 – $109 plus tax

What is Included With the Disney Aulani Luau?

The below is what is included with the standard Disney Aulani luau pricing:

• Buffet Dinner
• Welcome Alcoholic or Non-Alcoholic Drinks
• All drinks included
• Kokoi Nuts necklace or Maui fishhook necklace for kids – described as lei on Disney website, but in our case was plastic kokoi nut necklace
• Complimentary Valet Parking if you are driving to the luau – get validated during the show

The Disney Aulani luau VIP preferred seating additional charge includes everything above and a free digital photo download , early check-in , and upfront seating . The key difference between the VIP preferred and general seating is the view to the stage. The preferred seating means that you are closer to the stage with a much better view of the action and you end up with much more time for the pre-show activities because you end up checked in much sooner. So the luau VIP seating maybe be worth it. You could also settle on the general seating. Above see our view from our chair without anyone else in front of us and another view of the entire set of tables to the stage from the back of the general seating area. Note that there are also smaller stages down the middle of the aisle where dancers perform and still interact with those sitting near the back so you can likely go either way with the option that you choose. See photos further down the page for another photo from the back of the section.

Where is the Disney Aulani Luau Located?

Aulani – A Disney Resort and Spa is located a 40 minute drive from Waikiki Beach or an hour plus on traffic days. We were not staying at Aulani this trip and were driving from our hotel on Waikiki and the drive took us over an hour to get to the hotel when we left at 2:45 pm. Be warned that there can be traffic getting to Aulani and you should make sure to factor this in if driving to the luau from other resorts.

The luau itself is located in a garden section of the Aulani resort. The area is set back from the beach and ocean inlet that the Aulani resort sits on. You will not be able to see the sunset from the Aulani luau location.

Disney KA WA‘A Aulani Luau Arrival Experience

Let's dive into a general overview of the KA WA‘A Aulani luau experience. To line up for the luau you'll walk down the stairs from the main lobby and follow signs for either the VIP preferred section or the standard seating section. Your reservation will state the line up time. These vary based on time of year and sunset time. With our preferred seating we could enter at 5 pm. General seating could arrive at 5:10 pm. Dinner was then served at 6 pm.

We then checked in before getting put in a line for a photo and to be escorted to our table. In this line we were then also given our kokoi nut necklaces and kids were offered maui fishhook necklaces.

Digital downloads of the photo are included with the ticket to the luau and can be accessed via the card that is given to you.

Seating for the luau happens front to back. Tables are pre-assigned for preferred seating and filled front to back for general seating. See more in our Aulani luau tips section below.

You'll also be greeted with welcome alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink.

Luau Activities Before Dinner

During this time the activities were also getting started throughout the lawn area. There are a couple of different activities available before the luau. The activities were:

Painted tattoo stamping – I got one of the tattoos and though it was very dark on my skin initially it wore off very quickly the next day swimming in the ocean. They warn it could be there for a couple of days, but with our active Hawaii trip it was gone pretty quickly.

Taro pounding – There was also a demonstration of a group of men smashing taro into the poi paste and there were samples of that paste for guests to enjoy. You can take my word that there is no reason to try the bland poi paste.

There was also a ukulele strumming class going on with a couple of pros teaching kids how to play favorite songs.

Finally there was a station to make flower lei bracelets. For those who don't want to make their own bracelet you could also ask for a completed one.

As these activities were going on and we were getting into our seats there was also a live band strumming away on the stage. A couple of dancers also came out during this period to entertainment the crowd and get everyone excited to be there. One of the hosts for the evening also came out during this period to get everyone excited.

Dinner at Luau

The Aulani team was proud to say that the food at the Disney luau is the best at any luau on the island. Based on my limited other luau experiences and general banquet eating experiences I could definitely believe this. The food at the Aulani luau was delicious and delivered packing punches of flavor. The food did not taste like it was mass produced and was really good.

Here's how the dinner setup worked!

Once everyone was seated for the luau, the host of the show came out to greet everyone and let us know that our table hosts would dismiss us by table to head to the buffet. Our preferred seating table was among the first to be released to get food. There was never any shortage of food on the buffet and after everyone had gotten their food there was no line for food, so this wasn't a huge preferred perk but it was nice.

Before I dive into the describing the buffet I will note that there was a specific kids meal that comes with that pricing tier. That meal was a bento box that was delivered before the adults were released to the buffet so there were not squirming kids waiting to get food. That kids meal bento box includes a fruit cup, macaroni and cheese, seasonal stir-fry vegetables, tiki chicken tenders with pineapple bbq sauce, braised pork, and a dessert of a Moana chocolate mini cupcake and guava cake. Kids are also more than welcome to grab additional food from the buffet.

We also saw other guests receive special food because of allergies. All of this happens before all guests are allowed to head to the buffet.

During COVID the show had bento boxes for guests, but now the show is back to a full buffet offering. There are four tables that are part of the buffet.

The first table includes includes salad greens, tomatoes, dressing, croutons, macaroni salad, ahi poke, and lomi lomi salmon salad.

The second table is the majority of the hot food which includes white rice, purple sweet potato mash, steamed vegetables, braised pork, teriyaki chicken, a local catch fish, and Hawaiian rolls.

The third table is the cutting station where there was a massive piece of prime rib and sauces as seen above.

The final table is filled with desserts and fresh fruit. The desserts included a macadamia nut brownie, passion fruit cake, guava cake, and coconut pudding. The macadamia nut brownie was delicious and I really enjoyed diving into the fresh fruit from the islands.

Generally all of the food at the Aulani luau was really good and didn't at all taste like the high-quantity buffet food that it is. Really impressed with the food offering here!

Disney Aulani Luau Show Acts

Go to any Disney park around the world and you'll find world class talent performing in the shows and entertainment put on for guests. The KA WA'A luau is the same story. We were super impressed by the theatrical nature and high quality of the luau performances. The show tells the story of the physical location of the Aulani resort, historically called Ewa, by looking back at the ancestors of the performers and the resort to tell a very grounded story that is truly all about Hawaii. The luau is part history lesson as it entertains with a wide range of energetic and intense dance numbers.

Dance numbers ranged from including the full cast of men and women while others focused on specific singular performers. The show is hosted by a brother and sister that trace their lineage in the spot of Ko Olina generations to their seafaring ancestors. There's a big bowl (see image below for bowl in net) that the hosts pull objects out of to advance the story and lead into the next musical number. The show is also led by a group of musicians that are on stage throughout the show.

The musical numbers range from upbeat and celebratory to reflective and intense. I was super impressed by what was clearly traditional dance techniques from all of the performers. The lightest moments of the show were when Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse appeared in the show (see video of their dance below) and when the band riffed on some more familiar songs for a brief moment. Apparently Moana used to appear during the show before the pandemic but we didn't see her in our performance.

The fire dancers that appeared on stage near the end of the show were super impressive. Always amazes me the agility and danger related to an act like that.

The luau show portion lasts 60 minutes and in the winter season when we visited ran from 7 pm  to 8 pm. After the show was over, the performers also met with guests in the back of the theater which allows for some cute photos.

There are no volunteers selected during the luau which helps to keep the high end nature of the show throughout. Everything feels very theatrical and appears to be a very historically correct luau.

Are there Disney Characters in Aulani Luau?

Note – meeting these characters isn't explicitly part of the luau experience, but they are nearby and you can meet them as you arrive.

The Disney Aulani Luaua is surprisingly light on Disney characters within the show. Or I should say it is surprisingly light on characters if you were to drop into the Aulani Luau without learning anything else about this Disney resort in Hawaii and only know that this is a Disney luau. Generally Aulani is not Disney character centric as it focused on using the Disney brand and creative capabilities to tell the story of Hawaii through the hotel space. When Aulani opened initially, characters were extremely limited in the hotel and even now characters are largely separated from the storytelling of Hawaii at the hotel. The characters are present in a couple of rotating meet and greet spots at the resort and at an Aulani Disney character breakfast. The name of the hotel is “Aulani – A Disney Resort in Hawaii” and not “Disney's Aulani”. Disney is really deprioritized to get out of the way of the Hawaiian storytelling that was created by Walt Disney Imagineering.

The only Disney characters included in the Aulani luau are Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in a song moment where they help the whole audience to learn a hula. The characters don't even have speaking parts in the show and just do a quick pop on to the show. See the cute song moment in the video below.

Disney clearly was working not to include characters because there was a segment that discussed the god Maui in the traditional Hawaiian story that inspired the Disney movie Moana but no Moana character came out. In the Disney Parks that section is where Moana would pop out and talk to her storytellers and saying that's not quite right. Of course this would be more along the lines of the shows at the Royal Theater in Disneyland not the grand traditional luau setting at Aulani. I was really fine with this goofy aspect being out, but it is something I wanted to make sure to discuss because I know some could be surprised when hearing about a Disney luau.

The point is that this is not a show to come to looking for blasts of Disney songs or music. The show is actually quite theatrical and super high quality, but it doesn't have any real zaniness that one part of me was expecting from a show at a Disney theme park resort. At no point does Goofy pop out and say – “hey what's going on over here” before falling down something and letting our his signature yell and Mickey isn't hosting the show with a lead into the Hawaiian rollercoaster ride song from Lilo and Stitch. We'll have to sit and miss the now closed Mickey's Magical Map at Disneyland for that. Another interesting choice. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are not available for the photo headed into the luau and instead it is a man and woman in traditional outfits. Again, not surprising but not DISNEY.

All of this is to say that the show is fantastic, but if you come in looking for a DISNEY luau you will be disappointed. Instead you should come in looking for a Disney production quality level luau and be thrilled with the incredible work of the artists and storytellers at Disney that helped to bring this culturally authentic show to life.

If you are looking for Disney characters as part of you luau experience, read one of our tips below.

Tips for Disney Aulani Luau

Arriving early means that you will have a better selection of your seat once you are taken to your table. You'll be assigned to a table based on if you have a preferred ticket or general ticket and then your actual seat at the table will be first come first served. When we arrived we were the last three to arrive at our table so we actually all sat next to each other facing another family that had selected the side of the table facing at the main aisle way and stage. The seats were still great because we were able to turn our chairs around for the show, but be aware that you will end up sitting family style. Arriving early also means that you'll have longer to explore the Hawaiian activities scattered throughout the lawn area.

If you are staying Aulani you can nicely see the luau from garden view floors at the hotel from your room balcony. Of course it is not garauntee that you get the perfect room with this view, so if you want to see the luau you'll want to book that in advance or have it be a nice surprise that you when you didn't book you could see it from the room. During the show that I saw there were at least five rooms with groups out on their patios watching.

The nearest restroom is located a little bit of a walk from the luau area. Use it right before head into the event. If you really have to go, don't worry about it but in general good not to go and miss any of the entertainment. The best time to go is during the end of dinner but definitely hurry back so you don't miss any of the show.

If you want to see Disney characters during your visit to the Aulani luau and aren't staying, call the Aulani hotel phone number at 808-674-6200 and ask for the character hotline to get the character times to see if there are any right before your luau. Those staying at the hotel have ample time to meet one of the dozen characters that appear at the resort for a photo throughout the day. We caught Chip and Dale right before heading into the show as seen in the section above.

My dad who also attended the show and has been to more luaus than I have suggested that I include there is no unearthing of the imu ceremony which typically includes taking a cooked pig out of a pit where it has been cooked to be eaten.

Is the Disney Aulani Luau Worth It?

Generally the Disney Aulani KA WA'A luau is a high quality theatrical experience that anyone staying at the Aulani should definitely add onto their trip. The food was super high quality, the entertainment value was great, and the crafts were great for kids. The luau really delivered on all fronts. I struggle gauge worth because I don't have the direct luau experience for discussion of a comparison. Hopefully the photos and information above will help with you trip planning.

If you are considering this luau for your family trip to Oahu , be sure to book whenever you know your dates. The luaus do sell out. You can book your luau directly on the Disney website here . Try calling the resort number listed above if there are no reservations available for the date you are interested in.

We were hosted by Aulani for this review of the luau. We have previously stayed at the Aulani on our own budget and plan to return again in the near future.

Planning a Trip to Aulani?

Read our full review of the Aulani here, our Disneyland trip planning guide here, and be sure to join our FREE Mickey Visit newsletter for more tips and discounts on Disney.

Frequently Asked Question

The KA WA'A Disney Aulani luau can be booked up to four months in advance. The website doesn't have a clear time that it updates. If you are looking for a specific date that is still beyond the calendar listed, call the Aulani number listed here to learn when tickets are available.

You can book the Disney Aulani luau through their website booking page that is linked in our article here or via the phone number for the resort also listed in our blog post here.

Yes, non-hotel guests can attend the Disney Aulani luau. Though Aulani does not offer day passes, this is a good way to visit the hotel and see the offerings if you are not staying but are an interested Disney fan.

Valet parking is included with the Disney Aulani luau.

Disclosure: We have used all the products recommended on Mickey Visit. We may receive compensation when you click on links to some products featured.

About Gavin Doyle

Gavin Doyle is a best-selling author and founder of Mickey Visit. He is an expert on helping families save money and experience more at Disney, Universal, and beyond. He has been featured in Forbes, ABC7, Travel+Leisure, the OC Register, Orange County Register, LA Times, Yahoo! News, and more.

Read more about Gavin.

Planning a Disney Vacation? Get Exclusive Discounts + Free Bonuses

In addition to exclusive discounts for Mickey Visit subscribers, get our free planning printable and guide to make your life SO much easier.

Previous Post: World of Color Dessert Party 2024 Review: Is the Experience Worth the Cost?

Next Post: Disneyland JW Marriott Anaheim Hotel Review 2024

Exclusive Discounts + BREAKING NEWS

Join our newsletter of 100,000+ readers for discounts, planning tips, and breaking news about Walt Disney World and Disneyland. "Essential for planning your trip!" -Helen from Portland, Oregon

Sign up for the FREE MouseSavers Newsletter and get a monthly email with exclusive discounts!

Facebook Twitter

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii

LAST UPDATE: 4/10/24

Aulani, located on the island’s western (leeward) side in the Ko Olina Resort & Marina, is Disney’s first mixed-use family resort outside of its theme park developments. The resort overlooks breathtaking crystal blue lagoons and sandy beaches, with a total of 481 two-bedroom-equivalent Disney Vacation Club villas and 351 hotel rooms including 16 suites.

Aulani Resort Overview

Booking a vacation at aulani.

• New! Discounts on Aulani Vacations

FREE Activities at Aulani Resort

Daytrips and excursions on oahu, dining, drinking and luaus at or near aulani resort, saving money on groceries & beach items, transportation to hawaii and aulani resort.

• Childcare and Babysitting

Spas at or Near Aulani Resort

Prices in hawaii, taxes on oahu.

Aulani Resort & Spa, on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, is an oceanfront resort offering activities and amenities that aim to engage every member of the family. Aulani is also designed to respect and connect with the local culture of the Hawaiian islands. The Walt Disney Imagineering team researched Hawaii and worked with local architects and cultural experts as part of the resort’s creative design process. The resulting design is a village celebrating the Hawaiian customs and traditions that lead to a life filled with joy and in harmony with the natural world.

At the heart of the resort, an open-air lobby building — Hale Aloha — draws its design inspiration from a traditional Hawaiian canoe house, visually connecting families to the sea and beyond. Window designs, wall graphics and other details welcome families with tales of adventure, myth, legend and more, while twin streams flow through the building before uniting as a single cascade into the center garden below. Wood, thatch, lava stone and coral are among the materials represented in the resort’s two 15-story guestroom towers, each oriented perpendicular to the ocean to maximize ocean views. Façade murals add to the distinctive look of each tower and portray some of the stories and legends of the islands.

To further incorporate Hawaiian traditions, cultural programming including music, dance, history, and arts and crafts; a story-driven, technology-enabled adventure game; a lu’au and other surprises come together to create a Hawaiian destination that’s uniquely Disney.

The Aulani Resort offers an extensive and elaborate pool and water play area, an 18,000-square-foot spa, a children’s club ( Aunty’s Beach House ) and dining at two full-service restaurants and several convenient quick-service dining options. To learn more about this resort, you can read Kris Borchardt’s November 2016 review of her stay at Aulani .

The pool area, known as the Waikolohe Valley, includes:

• A large 8,200 sq ft pool (Waikolohe Pool) with a zero entry area, and tunnel body slide
• A lazy river (Waikolohe Stream) pool that twists through caverns and glides through tropical landscape
• A themed family pool (Ka Maka Grotto), featuring an infinity edge, a misty grotto with beautiful sunset views and an after-dark experience with glittering lights
• A kids’ splash zone (Keiki Cove) that’s designed to resemble a tidal pool, with images of tidal pool creatures on the pool floor, rainbow water jets and hidden menehune – the legendary “little people” of the islands
• Rainbow Reef, a private saltwater snorkeling pool stocked with tropical Hawaiian fish, is located in the resort and is good for beginner snorkeling
• Wailana Pool, another family pool, is separated from the main pool
• Four whirlpool spas, two with beautiful sunset views (one is reserved for those 18 and older)
• Ulu Cafe, a poolside dining venue serving breakfast, lunch and dinner – and featuring an outdoor patio with resort and ocean views
• A shave ice stand (Papalua Shave Ice), grab’n’go shop and a hot and cold item snack stand (Mama’s Snack Stop)
• Deck space, chairs, chaises and cabanas surround all of the resort’s water features, and numerous chaises are available at the resort’s sandy cove beach.

Rates vary by season of the year. Generally speaking the rates are lowest when kids are in school, and highest in summer, at Christmas and during other holiday periods.

Parking is an additional $37 per day for either valet or self-parking.

Vacations at Aulani can be booked in various ways:

• For a full-service travel agency that specializes in Disney and can help you plan your stay at Aulani, fill out a quote form with Small World Vacations . They give you full service, including a personal travel agent you can contact by email or direct phone number, and we recommend them wholeheartedly !
• If you prefer to self-book your vacation, Travelocity and Expedia  offer online booking for Aulani.
• If you want a hotel + airfare package , Alaska Airlines Vacations and Funjet Vacations offer air-inclusive vacations to Aulani.
• It is sometimes possible to book an Aulani stay by renting Disney Vacation Club points from an owner. This is the only way for non-owners to book one of the fabulous DVC studios or villas at Aulani more than 60 days in advance. The best way to do this is through David’s Vacation Club Rentals .

Discounts on Aulani Vacations

Fall aulani offer.

Get up to 25% off select rooms or villas when you book a 4-night stay or up to 30% off select rooms or villas when you book a 5-night stay or longer at Aulani. Offer available for stays most nights August 21 – November 23, 2024 and November 30 – December 20, 2024. Travel must be complete by December 21, 2024.

Get up to 10% off when you book a 4-night or longer stay in select Villas at Aulani. Offer available for stays most nights July 29 – August 20, 2024. 

Offer subject to end at any time.

The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited and room availability may vary by dates of stay. Standard change/cancel policies apply. Limit 2 rooms per reservation. Does not apply to Suites or 3-bedroom Grand Villas. Offer excludes Resort fees and taxes. Not valid in combination with any other discounts or offers.

• To book this offer, we recommend filling out a quote form with Small World Vacations . They give you full service, including a personal travel agent you can contact by email or direct phone number, and we recommend them wholeheartedly !

Spring Aulani Offer

Get up to 30% off villas or up to 25% off rooms when you book a 5-night or longer stay in select rooms and villas at Aulani. Get up to 25% off villas or up to 20% off rooms when you book a 4-night stay in select rooms and villas at Aulani. Offer available for stays most nights April 12 – June 12, 2024. Travel must be complete by June 13, 2024.

Get up to 10% off when you book a 4-night or longer stay in select villas at Aulani. Offer available for stays most nights June 13 – July 31, 2024. Travel must be complete by August 1, 2024.

Renting Disney Vacation Club Points

When available, renting Disney Vacation Club points from an owner is a great way to save money on an Aulani stay. (It is also the only way for non-owners to book the studio or villa accommodations more than 60 days in advance.)

• The best way to rent Disney Vacation Club points is through David’s Vacation Club Rentals .

Annual Passholder Discount

Aulani offers an ongoing discount for ALL Disney theme park Annual Passholders , no matter which Disney theme park. Discount is typically 10% but sometimes up to 30% with special offers, which will be noted below when available. This includes Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Disneyland Resort Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland and Tokyo Disney Resort.

• To book with the Annual Passholder discount , you can log into the Passholder site or fill out a quote form with Small World Vacations and request Annual Passholder rates. Small World Vacations gives you full service, including a personal travel agent you can contact by email or direct phone number, and we recommend them wholeheartedly !

Disney Visa Cardholder Offers

Fall aulani disney visa cardholder offer.

Get up to 30% off select rooms or villas when you book a 4-night stay or up to 35% off select rooms or villas when you book a 5-night stay or longer at Aulani. Offer available for stays most nights August 21 – November 23, 2024 and November 30 – December 20, 2024. Travel must be complete by December 21, 2024.

Get up to 10% off when you book a 4-night or longer stay in select villas at Aulani. Offer available for stays most nights July 29 – August 20, 2024. 

The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited and room availability may vary by dates of stay. Standard change/cancel policies apply. Limit 2 rooms per reservation. Payment must be made with a Disney Visa card, and cardholder must be a registered guest in the room. Offer excludes Resort fees and taxes. Not valid in combination with any other discounts or offers.

• To book the Disney Visa Cardholder Aulani Offer we recommend   filling out a quote form with Small World Vacations and request the Disney Visa Cardholder Aulani Offer. They give you full service, including a personal travel agent you can contact by email or direct phone number, and we recommend them wholeheartedly !

Spring Aulani Disney Visa Cardholder Offer

Get up to 30% off select villas or rooms when you book a 5-night or longer stay at Aulani. Get up to 25% off select villas or rooms when you book a 4-night stay at Aulani. Offer available for stays most nights April 12 – June 12, 2024. Travel must be complete by June 13, 2024.

Military Discount

Aulani has an ongoing discount for active duty military : 25% off, subject to availability.

New! Fall Aulani US Military Offer

Eligible members of the US Military get up to 30% off when you book a 2-night or longer stay in select rooms and villas at Aulani. Offer available for stays most nights August 21 – November 23 and November 30 – December 20, 2024. Travel must be complete by December 21, 2024. 

Or, save 10% when you book a 4-night or longer stay in select villas August 1 – 20, 2024. 

Book by 9/26/24.

Offer excludes suites and 3-bedroom Grand Villas. The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited and room availability may vary by dates of stay. Standard change/cancel policies apply. Limit 2 rooms per reservation. Eligible military service member/spouse must present a valid military ID upon check-in and must stay in a room on the reservation. Offer excludes Resort fees and taxes. Not valid in combination with any other discounts or offers.

• To book with the Military discount , we recommend filling out a quote form with Small World Vacations and requesting Military rates. Small World Vacations gives you full service, including a personal travel agent you can contact by email or direct phone number, and we recommend them wholeheartedly !

Spring Aulani US Military Offer

Eligible members of the US Military get up to 30% off when you book a 5-night or longer stay in select rooms and villas at Aulani. Get up to 25% off when you book a 4-night stay in select rooms and villas at Aulani. Offer available for stays most nights April 12 – July 31, 2024. Travel must be complete by August 1, 2024. 

• Save 30% when you book a 5-night or longer stay in select rooms or villas April 12 – June 12, 2024. Travel must be complete by June 13, 2024. 
• Save 25% when you book a 4-night stay in select rooms or villas April 12 – June 12, 2024. Travel must be complete by June 13, 2024. 
• Save 10% when you book a 5-night or longer stay select villas June 13 – July 31, 2024. Travel must be complete by August 1, 2024. 
• Save 10% when you book a 4-night stay in select villas June 13 – July 31, 2024. Travel must be complete by August 1, 2024. 

Book by 6/5/24.

Kama’aina Rates

Kama’aina (locals/Hawaiian resident) rates may be offered seasonally. You will have to show a Hawaiian resident ID (drivers license) at check-in.

• When available, Kama’aina discounts are listed here . 
• To book Kama’aina discounts , you can go directly through Disney or fill out a quote form with Small World Vacations and ask for Kama’aina discounts. Small World Vacations gives you full service, including a personal travel agent you can contact by email or direct phone number, and we recommend them wholeheartedly !

When booking a stay at Aulani, you can enjoy a wide range of activities at no additional cost!

In addition to the beach and the resort’s themed pools, Aulani offers many complimentary experiences:

• Mo‘olele Fire Pit Storytelling: Guests of all ages gather round a fire pit as “Uncle” brings legends of the island to life.
• ‘Ohana Disney Movie Nights: Watch family-friendly Disney movies under the stars, as well as enjoy pre-movie games, activities and trivia competitions.
• Aunty’s Beach House : Kids are invited to explore this special area designed just for them as they engage in Hawaiian activities, games and crafts. There are also premium activities available for a fee. Pre-registration and activity reservations are required for Aunty’s Beach House .
• Menehune Adventure Trail: On this high-tech scavenger hunt, guests explore Aulani to solve riddles, search for statues and discover surprises.
• M‘ka‘ika‘i, the Art of Aulani Resort: This guided walking tour showcases the art of Aulani.
• M‘ka‘ika‘i Nature Tour: On this guided walking tour, learn about the native plants, birds and geology of Aulani.
• Pau Hana Room – Community Hall: Art, crafts and other activities are available for the whole family. 

Aulani Resort offers a variety of excursions including snorkeling, hiking, and visits to Hawaii tourist spots like Pearl Harbor. However, exploring the island on your own is usually much less expensive than Aulani’s standard excursions, as well as more flexible. We highly recommend it, and have some suggested activities and daytrips below .

For self-guided exploration, a rental car is a must. The resort’s location is remote and there is very limited public transportation. The nearest bus stop is 1 mile from Aulani and major attractions are located 30 minutes to 1 hour away by car. Read our information on rental car discounts.

If you prefer to rent a car only for only part of your stay, Alamo has a rental car desk at Aulani (location code is HNLR72).

If you plan to drive around Oahu, be aware that traffic is often very bad, particularly along the south shore/Waikiki/Honolulu. Avoid driving into the Honolulu area on weekdays between 5:00-8:00 am and out of Honolulu between 3:00-6:30 pm.

Daytrips and Activities on Oahu

Go city oahu pass, dvc member discounts outside aulani, standard excursions offered by aulani resort.

Snorkel at Hanauma Bay

For a more authentic alternative to Aulani’s artificial lagoon (Rainbow Reef), drive about 1 hour to Hanauma Bay , which is open Wednesdays through Sundays. Hanauma Bay is a protected marine life conservation area and one of the world’s best places for novice snorkelers. Within the bay’s pristine and clear waters, visitors can swim through a stunning coral reef with more than 450 species of vibrant tropical fish. You can drive down on your own and snorkel all day for $25.00 per adult, and kids 12 and under are FREE. There is also a $3.00 parking lot fee, cash only. You will need snorkel equipment of your own, or you can rent some on the beach for $20 per person. An advance reservation is required to view the mandatory 9-minute safety video. This must be paid for in advance and once the reservation has been made, you cannot change it. (There are a limited number of tickets available for walk-in each day, but they must be purchased and used that day and they sell out quickly.) 

Hanauma Bay is very popular, and you’ll do best to get an early reservation. Only 1,400 visitors per day are allowed in, and there is limited space for parking even if you have a reservation. You’ll want to add extra driving time for traffic if you are coming from Aulani (or need to drive through Honolulu), but if you have 2 or more people in your car you can use the HOV carpool lane and bypass the worst of the traffic.

In our opinion, snorkeling at Hanauma Bay was a highlight of our trip. We’ve snorkeled at several coves on the Hawaiian Islands, and Hanauma beats them all, hands down. You’ll see many types of fishes, urchins and varieties of living coral in a short span of time. Much of the bay is fairly shallow, which gives you an “up close and personal” view of all that you see. For more information, read Kris Borchardt’s November 2016 review of Hanauma Bay snorkeling .

Experience Kualoa Ranch

Consider a visit to Kualoa Ranch , located on the opposite coast of Oahu, about 45 minutes’ drive from Aulani. Many movies and popular television shows were filmed at the Kualoa Ranch complex, and the area is a popular tourist destination that offers a wide array of reasonably-priced recreational activities, including catamaran sailing, ATV tours, horseback riding, a “secret island” beach and film set tours. Kualoa Ranch is on land once inhabited by the Kahuna members of Hawaiian society, who served as advisors to Kualoa’s resident royalty. The ranch acreage includes a lush valley, natural streams and mountains with beautiful ocean views, and an 800 year old Hawaiian fishpond.

• The Go City Oahu Pass includes multiple activities at Kualoa Ranch, plus over 30 other Oahu activities and excursions. If you buy a 3-, 5- or 7-day card, you get a FREE bonus attraction.
• Kualoa Ranch offers military and kama’aina (local resident) discounts .

Explore the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC)

You can easily spend a full day at the Polynesian Cultural Center , located on the northeast coast of the island, about an hour from Aulani, and open daily except Sundays and Wednesdays. The PCC is focused the cultures of the 1,000+ Pacific islands that make up Polynesia. The park is divided into six different villages representing islands of Polynesia and their customs: Aotearoa (New Zealand) Village, Hawaiian Village, Tahitian Village, Fijian Village, Samoan Village and Tongan Village. Each of the villages allows visitors to experience cultural practices of that particular island. Some of the activities include fire pit cooking, coconut husking, hula lessons, fire-starting, paddling a canoe and fire knife dancing.

General admission includes the villages and the Huki: A Canoe Celebration canoe pageant, Hawaii’s only water-borne show. For an additional fee, one of the best luaus on the island, featuring a buffet and spectacular show (HA – Breath of Life) with over 100 performers, can be added to your admission ticket.

• The Go City Oahu Pass includes general admission to the Polynesian Cultural Center, plus over 30 other Oahu activities and excursions. If you buy a 3-, 5- or 7-day card, you get a FREE bonus attraction, and one of the choices is the Alii Luau and Dinner show at the Polynesian Cultural Center.

Visit Pearl Harbor

The most popular thing to do at Pearl Harbor is to visit the Visitor Center and USS Arizona Memorial . Other options are the Battleship Missouri Memorial , Pacific Aviation Museum and USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park .

The Visitor Center and USS Arizona Memorial are operated by the National Park Service. They are FREE to visit and parking is free, but you must get a ticket for the boat over to the Memorial. Tickets can be reserved in advance online (there is a $1 program reservation fee per ticket); see the USS Arizona Memorial Program website for complete details about ticket reservations. There may be some standby space at less busy times, but reservations are highly recommended. Paying your respects at the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor — the final resting place of many of the 1,177 American sailors who were lost in the Pearl Harbor attack on the ship — is intensely moving for most adults, but can be boring for young children. It may be worth taking children 10 and older, especially those interested in history.

There are fees to enter the Battleship Missouri Memorial, Pacific Aviation Museum and USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park. The Battleship Missouri and the USS Bowfin are interesting for some younger children because they can tour through the massive ships, but children under 4 are not permitted on the Bowfin. Children who are very interested in planes and/or history will enjoy the Pacific Aviation Museum.

Be aware that you cannot carry ANY bags (fanny packs, wrist purses, handbags, diaper bags, backpacks, camera bags, etc.) into the Pearl Harbor sites. You can carry a camera in your hand or around your neck. Put your personal items in your pockets or car trunk before departing for Pearl Harbor (don’t put things in the trunk when you get there, as theft from car trunks is a big problem in Hawaii and thieves could be watching). Alternatively, you can store things for $6 per bag at the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park.

Strollers can be taken into the Visitor Center (except the theater), but all pockets and compartments must be empty. Strollers CANNOT be taken on the boat over to the USS Arizona. You are allowed to leave a stroller outside the theater in the Visitor Center while you take the boat to the Memorial, but no one will be watching it. No strollers can be taken onto the Battleship Missouri or USS Bowfin.

• If you plan to visit the Battleship Missouri , there are militar y and kama’aina (local resident) rates – ask at the box office and show ID.
• If you plan to visit the USS Bowfin , there are senior, military and kama’aina (local resident) rates – ask at the box office and show ID.
• If you plan to visit the Pacific Aviation Museum , there are military and kama’aina (local resident) rates – ask at the box office and show ID.
• If you plan to visit everything at Pearl Harbor and do other activities on Oahu , the Go City Oahu Pass includes the Battleship Missouri, USS Bowfin and Pacific Aviation Museum, plus over 30 other activities and excursions.

Hawaii is a great place to do this! There is so much to see (amazing fish, rays, eels, turtles), and the water is wonderful and clear on the west side of the island, where Aulani is located. There are also interesting wrecks and caves in the area. Unfortunately the lagoons at Aulani (and throughout Ko Olina) are not good for off-the-beach scuba diving as they are too shallow, but open water dives are amazing. Hawaii Nautical is the local scuba diving company in the Ko Olina area. If you are not already a diver, there is a 3-hour “Scuba Diving for Beginners” excursion from Ko Olina Marina (very close to Aulani) where you can learn to scuba dive.

If you plan to do much self-guided sightseeing on the island, be sure to check out the Go City Oahu Pass , which includes admission to over 34 attractions, including a Grand Circle Island Tour, Hanauma Bay snorkel excursion from Waikiki with equipment included, multiple activities at Kualoa Ranch, general admission to the Polynesian Cultural Center, and lots more. It allows you to skip the line at top sights and saves you up to 55% on regular admission rates.

Go City Oahu Passes are available in 1- and 2-day increments, but only 3-, 5- and 7-day passes give you access to bonus attractions such as a Dolphin Encounter at Sea Life Park, Alii Luau and Dinner show at the Polynesian Cultural Center, or a semi-private surfing lesson. 1- and 2-day cards include the Polynesian Cultural Center; just not the Luau and Dinner show.

Instant delivery! You can now get your pass instantly when you download it as a mobile pass after checkout. You will also receive a link to the pass in your order confirmation email. Along with your pass, you will receive printable and mobile versions of your guidebook containing information about each attraction including location, getting-in instructions, phone number, and hours of operation. Simply choose the “Instant Delivery” option at checkout.

• Get 5% off your Go City Oahu Pass order  with MouseSavers special deal! You must use Promo Code GO5MOUSESAVER   at checkout to get this offer. No expiration date. This offer may end at any time. This offer may be combined with special sales!
• Costco.com sometimes offers a very good discount on the Go City Oahu Pass. You don’t have to be a Costco member to buy through their site. (Non-members pay a 5% surcharge, however.) There is a shipping charge when ordering from Costco.com. Thanks to Peter L for info.

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) members may qualify for some discounts on Oahu, away from Aulani. We don’t list them here because they are subject to frequent changes: the best way to see the current offerings is to check the DVC member website . To get the discounts you’ll need to show your blue DVC membership card.

A variety of standard excursions including snorkeling, hiking, and visits to Hawaii tourist spots like Pearl Harbor are offered by Aulani’s Tour Desk. The primary advantage of doing these excursions is that most of them depart from Aulani, so you don’t need to drive. However, you will generally pay a considerable amount more than if you did them on your own. You can certainly book Oahu excursions directly with various tour operators ( Viator’s Oahu Page  or HawaiiActivities.com’s Oahu Page are both good place for learning about and booking dozens of different Oahu tours), but very few of them depart from Ko Olina; they usually have pick up available, but sometimes only from Waikiki hotels or the cruise ship terminal. There are some exceptions; there are several snorkel and dolphin-watching tours now that are run from Ko Olina Marina, which is an easy walk from Aulani, and there are a few helicopter and jeep tours that leave from Ko Olina. Many Ko Olina excursions can be booked directly through HawaiiActivities.com’s Ko Olina Page  (some are also available on Viator’s Ko Olina Page ). Tours that happen in and around Honolulu are probably better booked directly through Aulani in order to get the transportation.

These excursions are operated by third parties (not Disney) and are booked independently from any room or package reservations. They are payable in full at the time they are reserved. Most have a 2 or 3 day cancellation policy. Excursion reservations can be booked online, added to your reservation by your travel agent , or you can book in person in the main lobby at Aulani.

Excursions from Aulani change frequently, check the current list of excursions to see what is available. Prices are typically $70-$500 per person; call or ask your travel agent for pricing on specific excursions).

Food and Restaurants

Bars and lounges.

Makahiki offers a casual 3-course breakfast (with Disney characters daily) and a casual 3-course dinner. See below for sample prices for Makahiki . We strongly recommend making advance reservations for Makahiki, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. If you can’t get reservations online for your desired time, check when you get to the resort. We found that there was some table space reserved for walk-ins.

‘Ama ‘Ama offers a 4-course, fixed price dinner menu featuring contemporary island cuisine. There is a plant-based option available for every course. Reservations are recommended and can be make online.

In addition, there are two beachside/poolside bars and an indoor/outdoor lounge , all of which serve limited bar food.

There are also several  quick service locations: The poolside Ulu Cafe serves breakfast, lunch and dinner – and features an outdoor patio with ocean view; the others, including the beachside Little ‘Opihi’s, and Mama’s Snack Shop offer snacks like gourmet hot dogs, chicken fingers, wraps and ice cream sandwiches or frozen yogurt. Papalua’s Shave Ice offers only that, in a variety of tropical flavors. You can get a few pricey “grab and go” wraps and salads in the two resort stores , and there is room service .

Across the street from Aulani is Island Country Market (an upscale version of ABC Store), which has a deli area with very reasonably priced take-out food. There is also a selection of health-conscious fare, also reasonably priced. Its grocery prices are high — about the same as Disney’s Aulani gift shop prices — though it has a lot more selection.

Next door to Aulani, the Four Seasons Resort at Ko ‘Olina has several restaurants, including the casual outdoor poolside Waterman Bar , which offers shared bites, Hawaiian and Asian inspired salad and rice bowls, along with burgers, sandwiches and tacos. They also have a very decent kid’s menu with chicken nuggets, teriyaki, peanut butter & jelly sandwiches and more. For a fine dining experience there is Mina’s Fish House , a “line-to-table” restaurant featuring local fresh caught seafood in a casual open-air environment overlooking the ocean beach, or Noe , which offers updated takes on traditional Southern Italian dishes. Reservations are recommended for both Mina’s Fish House and Noe.

If you’re looking for more dining options, Roy’s Ko ‘Olina is located at the Ko ‘Olina Golf Club, close to Aulani. Roy’s is a well-regarded chain of high-end “Hawaiian fusion” restaurants.

If you are on a tight budget, skip the Four Seasons Resort and head across the street to the Ko ‘Olina Center & Station , a 5 minute walk. There are several dining options including MonkeyPod Kitchen Restaurant , a popular evening spot with live music, creative cocktails and cuisine crafted from local ingredients sourced from Hawaii’s farms. Appetizers range from garlic oil truffle fries to poke tacos, and entrees include pizza, salads, burgers and fresh caught fish dishes. MonkeyPod Kitchen is known for it’s cream pies, and if you have room after dinner you’ll want to try a slice. You’ll also find a Black Sheep Cream Company ice cream shop, Tropic Poke and Mekiko Cantina in the shopping center. While you can spend significantly less at these restaurants than you might at Aulani’s full-service choices, you can still expect to pay $18-$35 and upwards per adult, excluding drinks.

Aulani has three bars: two outdoor pool/beach bars (Off the Hook and Wailana Pool Bar) and one indoor/outdoor lounge in the lower level, below the lobby (Olelo Room). Most of the featured cocktails are around $16, and in our experience they are terrible. Their recipes all seem to be cloyingly sweet, yet flavorless.

You will do slightly better (lower price and it’s harder for them to screw the drink up) if you order a very simple liquor-on-the-rocks or liquor-plus-mixer type drink (Baileys on the rocks, gin and tonic, etc.). Avoid complex mixed drinks like Mojitos. Beer is at least a safe bet. Wine is high-priced (5 times retail, so a glass will cost you about the retail price of a bottle of the same wine), but at least the selection is good.

Across the street from Aulani is Island Country Market (an upscale version of ABC Store), which has an excellent wine selection. Prices are a little high, but compared with buying wine at Aulani, it’s a bargain.

Aulani has its own luau, KA WA’A – A Lū’au at Aulani . The luau is about 3 hours long and currently only for guests staying at Aulani. Performances are held on select nights, weather permitting. Seating will be assigned upon arrival. The price for general seating is $175 per adult and $104 per child (age 3-9), plus tax. The price for Preferred seating is $204 per adult and $124 per child (age 3-9), plus tax. The prices include gratuity. Check out Kris Borchardt’s November 2016 review of Aulani’s KA WA’A Lū’au .

• Find out more information or book KA WA’A – A Lū’au at Aulani. 

Paradise Cove Luau is also a good choice , located immediately on the other side of the next resort over from Aulani (the Four Seasons at Ko Olina), so it’s very close to Aulani and requires no transportation. We like this luau about as well as the Aulani one, and it’s only slightly further away.

• You can book the luau in advance at   HawaiiActivities.com , directly with Paradise Cove , or through the tour desk at Aulani. The price is the same either way, but HawaiiActivities has a loyalty program that gets you points that can be applied toward other bookings, so if you have other Ko Olina activities you want to book through them, that’s a little extra savings.

If you are a Costco member, you will definitely want to stop at the Costco in Kapolei, about 4 miles from Aulani. It is by far the best place to stock up on essentials, and it offers a nice variety of Hawaiian specialties like kalua pig, pork lau lau, ahi poke , Portuguese sausage, Hawaiian sweet bread, lomi lomi salmon, Kona coffee, POG (passion fruit/orange/guava) juice, pineapples and more. You can even buy leis and exotic floral arrangements. Costco also usually has the best gas prices on the island.

Another good option is the Target in Kapolei, also about 4 miles from Aulani. You can pick up basic foods and beach items like snorkel gear, sand chairs, beach umbrellas, etc. Having your own gear can save you a fortune compared to the cost of renting beach equipment from Aulani .

Even if you don’t plan to have a rental car, you can walk over to Island Country Market , across the street from Aulani. The food prices are about the same as what you’ll pay at Aulani, but there is a lot more selection. We don’t recommend doing a lot of grocery shopping here: it would be like buying all your groceries at 7-11, price-wise. However, the market has a very nice selection of wines and offers things like inexpensive, basic snorkel sets.

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) members get 10% off Aulani beach rentals, Rainbow Reef snorkeling and full-day cabana rentals. To get the discounts you’ll need to show your DVC membership card.

Getting to Hawaii

Transfers to/from honolulu airport, parking fees, checking in and out.

Links to major airlines that fly to/from Honolulu from North American mainland cities:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• United Airlines

Read our information and advice about how to save on airfare.

There are no Disney-provided transfers between the Honolulu Airport and the resort. We strongly encourage you to rent a car ( check our rental car discount information ). Otherwise you’ll have to take a taxi, which will be costly because the resort is 17 miles from the airport.

If you prefer to rent a car only for the drive to/from the airport, or for only part of your stay, Alamo has a rental car desk at Aulani (location code is HNLR72).

Parking at Aulani is $37 per night for either self-parking or valet parking.

• Disney Vacation Club (DVC) members get FREE self-parking for up to 2 cars per room.
• If you spend $50 on spa services at Laniwai Spa, you can show your receipt(s) to the valet and parking is complimentary for up to 4 hours . You may be able to get your parking validated if you dine or shop at Aulani Resort and spent a minimum amount. This is great for locals who want to visit the resort.

You can check in at any time, but standard rooms and suites will not be ready until 3:00 pm; studios and villas will be ready at 4:00 pm. Check-out time is 11:00 am.

Bell Services can store your luggage if you arrive early or depart late.

Aulani guests can make a reservation to use the Ko Olina Club Lounge at the Honolulu Airport . It is available exclusively to confirmed guests and owners staying at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa; Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club; Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu and the Beach Villas at Ko Olina. There is no charge. They have Wi-Fi, charging stations as well as snacks and soft drinks available for purchase. The lounge is located on the 1st Floor Garden Court area of Terminal 2. This can be handy if your flight time does not sync up well with Aulani’s check-in and check-out times. 

Childcare and Babysitting at Aulani Resort

Childcare for kids ages 4-12 at Aunty’s Beach House is available between 8:00 am and 2:00 pm. Parents can reserve 1.5 hours of FREE themed activities, or pay for premium activities. Complimentary activities include interactive games and arts and crafts based on the theme of the day. Premium activities, such as Surf’s Up, A Surfin’, Fishin’ and Dancin’ Party with Disney friends, are offered for a fee.

Online pre-registration is required for Aunty’s Beach House . Online pre-registration must be done at least 2 days before your arrival date, and can be done up to 90 days in advance. When you arrive at Aulani, stop by Aunty’s to complete the registration. Please note: registration does NOT guarantee participation in specific activities. You will also need to make a reservation for all the activities you want your child to participate in , whether there is a fee or not. This can be done online and you do NOT pay in advance. 

Every child will receive a keiki band at a charge of $18 plus tax; you can keep the keiki band, or return it for a full refund before you check-out from Aulani. If you think you are going to return it, hold on to your receipt.

Babysitting services are available for ages 6 weeks to 14 years in your villa or room from Kama’aina Kids Sitters.

Access to the Laniwai Spa complex, including the outdoor Kula Wai hydrotherapy garden with private vitality pools, co-ed mineral baths, a reflexology path, six different “rain” showers, whirlpool jet spas and more, is complimentary with any 50-minute spa treatment. You must be 18 or older (14 and older with an accompanying adult) to use the Kula Wai facility. Read more about the spa in Kris Borchardt’s 2016 review  or read  MouseSavers.com founder Mary Waring’s spa experience .

For younger guests, there is the Painted Sky: HI Style Studio (ages 3-12). Kids can get styled for a luau or like Moana, a mermaid and more.

Spa treatments at Aulani’s Laniwai Spa can be booked online .

• Disney Vacation Club (DVC) members may qualify for discounts or free upgrades to Laniwai Spa treatments. Be sure to ask when booking — they do not volunteer this information! You’ll need to show your DVC membership card when you arrive at the spa.

The Four Seasons at Ko Olina across the street has a spa.

Get ready for some sticker shock: Hawaii is expensive, and Aulani is no exception. Here are a few of the resort’s prices from late-2023 to give you an idea:

• Lunch from Wailana Pool Bar – Burger $23, Fish Taco $23, Caesar Salad $17, Chicken Tenders $18, Onion Rings $18, Kid’s Meals $14, plus tax/tip
• 3-course Character Breakfast at Makahiki – $49 for adults (ages 10+) and $29 for kids (ages 9 and under), plus tax/tip
• 3-course dinner at Makahiki – $74 for adults (ages 10+) and $30 for kids (ages 9 and under), plus tax/tip
• Beach rentals – Snorkel Set: Full Day $25; Stand-up paddleboard: $45/hour; Double Chaise Lounge Chair: Full Day $80, plus tax
• Pool Cabana – Full Day (9:00 am – 6:00 pm) $550, plus tax and optional gratuity for attendant; furnished and includes 32″ TV, refrigerator, Wi-Fi access, fruit bowl, bottled water, ceiling fan, for up to 7 registered guests 

General Excise Tax (similar to sales tax) of 4.712% applies to almost all transactions on Oahu, including food, gas and medicine.

If you are using DVC points for your stay at Aulani, be aware that a Transient Accommodations Tax of 9.25%, times 1/2 of the per-point Aulani maintenance fees, times the number of points used, must be paid at the resort. This applies to those renting points as well. In short, you’ll be paying tax of roughly 26.5 cents per point used. For example, if you stayed for a week in Adventure Season in 2011, in an Oceanview 1-Bedroom Villa, the total points required would be 322, times ~26.5 cents, for a total tax of ~$85.33 due at checkout.

If you are paying cash for your stay, the tax on your room rate is just a hair under 14%.

• Help Center
• 1-866-921-7925

Start Searching

• Packages  
• Hotels  
• Cruises  
• Rental Cars  

* Indicates required fields

Rental Period:

pickUpDate - dropOffDate

Pick-Up: pickUpTime - Drop-Off: dropOffTime

Pick-Up Location:

pickUpAddress

pickUpAgencyName

pickUpAgencyAddress

Drop-Off Location:

Same as Pick-Up Location

dropOffAddress

dropOffAgencyName

dropOffAgencyAddress

Coupon Override

Please call.

For drivers under the age of 25, additional fees and/or restrictions may apply.

For information and assistance in completing your reservation, please call:

We're unable to find your location.

Alaska Cruise Tours:

A cruise tour is a voyage and land tour combination, with the land tour occurring before or after the voyage. Unless otherwise noted, optional services such as airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, land tour excursions, etc. are not included and are available for an additional cost.

AULANI, A Disney Resort & Spa

Digital Costco Shop Card with Every Package

An island oasis for all ages.

Experience Aulani Resort, combining the wonder of Disney with the beauty of Hawai'i in one memorable vacation destination. Located in Ko Olina, Aulani Resort spans 21 acres along the island's leeward coast. At Aulani Resort, adults, teens and kids each have special places to call their own. While adults reconnect, children love the complimentary kids' club that taps into cool island culture and stories. Teens quickly discover the water sports, spa, salon, teen-only activities—and beachy snacks at the Lava Shack. Choose the right accommodations for your family, and enjoy amazing adventures with a touch of magic.

Featured Deals

Oahu: aulani, disney vacation club villas.

Digital Costco Shop Card No Daily Resort Fee Family Friendly

Oahu: AULANI, A Disney Resort & Spa Package

Digital Costco Shop Card No Daily Resort Fee Pools, Lazy River and Lagoon

Think Costco Travel First

• Exclusively for Costco members
• We are Costco and we know travel
• The value you want with the quality you expect
• No surprises when you're ready to pay
• Additional advantages of membership

Learn more about the Costco Travel difference.

• Executive Members earn an annual 2% reward
• 3% cash back rewards on Costco Travel with the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

Click here to maximize your rewards.

Explore More Travel

Kenya luxury safaris.

Discover Magnificent Wildlife in Breathtaking Kenya on a Small Group Safari

Discover Maui and Hawaii Island

Family-Friendly Condominiums

Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

Use Your Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi to Earn 3% Cash Back on Eligible Travel Purchases

Travel Items on Costco.com

Shop featured deals, ipad & tablets.

We are processing your payment.

Do not refresh your browser or exit this page.

Tips for Disney’s Aulani with Babies, Toddlers, & Preschoolers

By: Author Leslie Harvey & Joseph Cheung

Posted on Published: February 3, 2020

Share this!:

Walt Disney World and Disneyland are filled to the brim with guests from nine weeks to nine decades old every year. But not as many consider a Disney vacation in Hawaii at Aulani: a Disney Resort & Spa. After all, it is a longer trip for many traveling families. It can also be a bit pricier than the theme parks, especially after adding airfare to the equation. But if you can make the trip out, Disney’s Aulani is truly made for young kids.

For some background, Leslie has been to Aulani three times with her kids – in March 2013, November 2017, and April 2019. Joe visited Aulani with his three children (ages 1.5, 4, and 6) in July of 2019. We co-authored this article in order to give Trips With Tykes readers a wide variety of reports and experiences from our young kids of various ages, stages, and personalities. Both of us firmly believe Disney’s Aulani is great for kids of all ages. In this article we’ll look at why that is and how to make the most out of your Disney Aulani vacation with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Disclosure: Trips With Tykes uses affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you click on links featured in this post. See our full disclosure policy linked in the menu at the top of this site.

What Makes Aulani Work So Well With Young Children?

Kid-friendly activities, included childcare, everyone’s favorite characters, amazing beaches, and a bunch of pretty cool pools and water play areas, to name a few. Because the resort has a smaller footprint than a large theme park, it is all the Disney fun without the walking or even the need for a stroller. This makes Aulani much more manageable with babies and young kids.

Above all else Aulani: a Disney Resort & Spa is a place where you can relax. And that’s part of why in many respects Aulani works better for babies and young kids than the theme parks. In the theme parks, you’re walking miles a day, running from attraction to attraction, and trekking all the way back to your hotels for naps. At Aulani you can get busy relaxing. Everything is all in your hotel, which really eases the stress of travel and lets you just settle in and enjoy your vacation.

Baby needs a nap? No problem, one parent can go upstairs while the other stays with older kids at the pool. Need something to eat? Mickey shave ice is steps away.

But most importantly, Aulani: a Disney Resort & Spa is a resort you won’t want to leave. Disney took painstaking care to make a resort that is truly authentic to Hawaii yet that also contains Disney touches and the trademark quality Disney service. It’s those little touches that make Aulani stand out when it comes to young children.

Aulani with Young Kids: Trip Planning and Preparation

A successful family vacation anywhere requires planning and preparation, especially with baby or toddler travel companions. Before taking a trip to Aulani with young kids, here are the top things to keep in mind.

Flying to Aulani with Babies, Toddlers, & Preschoolers

Hawaii is a long trip for many American families, so a big part of the trip preparation for an Aulani vacation is simply planning for the “getting there.” For West Coasters like Leslie, the flight is under five hours long and not too challenging, especially in winter months when the time difference is only two hours. (Remember that Southwest Airlines now flies to Hawaii from a wide variety of California airports – that means more potential for discounts!)

If you are planning a trip with little ones from a longer distance like Joe does from the East Coast, the flight and the resulting jet lag is a bigger deal.

For the flight, pack plenty of snacks as well as entertainment and toys to keep your child busy and happy. Even if your child is still under age 2 and can fly as a lap child, consider buying a seat instead for such a long distance. ( Related : Tips for flying with a lap toddler ). Try also to book flights that depart and arrive at times when your child is likely to be at his or her best. Attempt 6:00 a.m. departures and redeye flights at your own risk.

Be prepared for having early bedtimes the first few nights as your kids adjust to the time change. Aulani is a place that goes to bed early and wakes up early, in part because of the time difference from the mainland.

Choosing a Hotel Room or Villa at Aulani with Young Kids

Another trip planning decision is choosing the right room. Aulani has a wide variety of room types to meet the particular needs of families with kids of all ages as well as a variety of budgets. These include regular hotel rooms as well as studios, one- and two-bedroom villas. Some of these room options are Disney Vacation Club units, but you can often rent them even if you aren’t a DVC member. Trips With Tykes recommends renting DVC points through David’s Vacation Club Rentals which can save you a bundle – often up to 50%! ( Related : Find out how Leslie’s family rented DVC points at Aulani. )

Master bedroom and spacious bath in Aulani’s 1 bedroom villa.

Between Leslie and Joe, we have stayed at a studio, a one bedroom villa, and a two bedroom villa – almost all of the villa room types available. They all work very well with younger kids because the addition of a kitchenette or kitchen makes it easy to prepare snacks and even light meals for kids on the go. The studio is probably best suited for families of three since it is a tad tight on space and only has a kitchenette. But Leslie made it work with her family of four on her last vacation.

The one bedroom villa has a full kitchen and in-unit washer and dryer and is very spacious (but obviously more expensive). We found it ideal for families of four or five people. The one bedroom villa features a single Murphy bed perfect for a toddler sleeping place in addition to the master bedroom king bed and the pull out queen bed sofa. There is also a Pack N Play in every room for younger toddlers not yet ready for a bed.

Joe found the two bedroom villa perfect for his family of five traveling with two grandparents. There was plenty of space even with seven people. With two and a half bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a dining table, two families could probably even share a two bedroom villa without feeling too cramped.

Best Activities at Aulani with Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers

Once the planning is done and the vacation begins, families with young kids will find that age-appropriate activities abound at Aulani. Take advantage of the pools, beaches, and the many free activities at Aulani. Naturally, a few Aulani splurges may make sense as well, as some are ideal fits for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Best Aulani Activities with Babies

Admittedly, all babies are different, but if you’re at least a little bit adventurous there’s plenty to try with your baby. Here are some of the things Joe’s 18 month old enjoyed the most at Aulani.

Waikolohe Pool (zero entry)

Joe’s daughter’s favorite activity was probably wading in the zero entry portion of the Waikolohe Pool, Aulani’s main pool and the center of its extensive pool areas. If you don’t know what zero entry means, it’s essentially a gradual incline to enter the water – no steps to worry about. That meant that his daughter could wade in up to her waist without having to worry too much (although she kept trying to go deeper!).

Joe’s youngest loved the main pool.

Like all Disney resorts, children’s life jackets are included with the price of your stay. Joe actually chose not to use it for his baby, as she’s already a daredevil and they didn’t want her to have a false sense of security.

Waikolohe Stream

Leslie’s son was so relaxed in the lazy river, he fell asleep. Not kidding!

If you’re feeling adventurous, take a float along Waikolohe Stream, Aulani’s lazy river. You can get one or two person tubes. Parents can stay on the outside or inside of the tube and wade in the water while supporting a baby sitting on the tube, or you could even wade through the stream without a tube if you wanted. This was a huge hit with the whole family and a great way to get a baby on the water.

Best Aulani Activities with Toddlers and Preschoolers

As kids get older, they can branch out to more of the activities at Aulani: a Disney Resort & Spa. A few top can’t miss activities at Aulani for the toddler and preschooler set include:

Joe’s and Leslie’s youngest kiddos both loved Keiki Cove!

Aulani’s splash pad area is the place to be with toddlers and preschoolers. Jets and spouts of various shapes and sizes squirt water, providing plenty of chances for kids to get wet without parents having to stress as much about safety and life jackets. Babies who can walk might also enjoy the fun features of Keiki Cove.

Trips With Tykes Tip : Grab a tablet from the Pau Hana room and play the free Menehune Adventure Trail scavenger hunt game. It features lots of surprises as you explore the resort including a great one at Keiki Cove!

Menehune Bridge

A view of the water play area, Menehune Bridge.

Have more adventurous tykes? They may want to graduate to the larger, but relatively still tame, thrills of Menehune Bridge. Menehune Bridge is a water playground with bigger jets and even a few small water slides. Leslie’s daughter adored it when she first visited Aulani as a 3.5-year-old. Her son wasn’t quite ready at age 4, but couldn’t get enough on a trip when he was 5.5. Joe’s 6 and 4 year olds both loved the whole area.

Menehune Bridge is restricted to kids under 48 inches tall, so there is no worry about tweens and teens knocking over little ones as they play.

Character Meet and Greets

Most young kids want nothing more than the chance to meet Mickey, Stitch, Moana, and Duffy on their Aulani vacation. Aulani has plenty of character meet and greet opportunities. Check the Daily I’wa, Aulani’s daily activity guide, for times and characters. Often, Photopass photographers are present at these meet and greets to capture the whole family together.

Trips With Tykes Tip : At sunset, Photopass photographers set up at the beach on the cove. It’s a great time to get family photos.

KA WA’A Luau

Family fun at the KA W’AA Luau at Aulani.

While undoubtedly a major Aulani splurge , the new KA W’AA luau is pretty much a can’t-miss with young children. With a dedicated kids buffet line and a captivating show featuring hula, fire dancers, and amazing music, it is an activity the entire family will enjoy. Best of all – kids under 3 are free! Just be aware that the show may run a bit past many toddler bedtimes. Plan to get in an afternoon nap so your little one can go the distance.

All of our kids were captivated with the story. Although Joe’s baby fell asleep in the stroller on his visit, we’re happy to report that even from the back, the luau is spectacular to watch.

Where to Eat at Aulani with Young Kids

All of the restaurants at Aulani are kid-friendly, so you can take your toddler or preschooler to any of them without fear. Some undoubtedly will interest the younger kid set a bit more and be a better fit for your vacation. Ones especially to add to your dining plans include:

Stitch meets and greets at both the Makahiki character breakfast and dinner.

One that is a can’t-miss with young kids is a character meal at Makahiki. At breakfast (offered daily), kids can meet with Mickey and then dine on a buffet of Disney breakfast classics like Mickey waffles. Aulani also offers a dinner character meal (Menehune Mischief) approximately three nights a week with an extensive seafood buffet. The breakfast is probably the better fit for younger kids, but the dinner is a bit more mellow, so consider your child’s preference for action and crowds when making your choice.

Outdoor seating at Aulani’s Ulu Cafe.

For busy toddlers who can’t sit still for a lengthier meal, Aulani’s quick service restaurant, Ulu Cafe is a smart choice. The restaurant has kid favorites like chicken strips and pizza as well as more exotic choices for parents like the very popular poke bowl for lunch. There isn’t a ton of seating, but you can always eat the meal poolside.

Another thing we actually recommend doing, especially if you have a dining room like in the larger villas, is getting food to go from Ulu Cafe and eating in your room. Joe’s family did this multiple times and it worked out great for his young kids.

Pāpālua Shave Ice

If your kids get hungry mid-day, Pāpālua Shave Ice is the best place to grab a snack with little ones. Aulani cast members make shave ice into the shape of Mickey ears there! And at just $4-5, it’s a cheap treat that you can share with your kids.

Off-Property Dining

Finally, don’t overlook the off-property dining options within walking distance of Aulani. Just across the street is a shopping center with several restaurant choices. Pizza Corner and Just Tacos serve kid-friendly options you can grab quickly. Leslie’s family’s favorite Monkeypod offers local favorites in a seated dining atmosphere that is casual and family-friendly. You can even grab musubi to go at the ABC Store if you’re only looking for a snack!

Childcare at Aulani

Fun with Stitch during morning open house at Aunty’s Beach House at Aulani.

While Aulani is all about family togetherness, sometimes it is nice for parents to get a break from the kids. Aulani has included childcare for potty-trained children ages 3-12 at Aunty’s Beach House.

Aunty’s is truly a kids dream come true, with separate rooms and play spaces for dress up, art projects, Disney movie watching, and more. There are even special programs (some free and some for an additional fee) where kids can make unique crafts, learn about ocean life, or try to hula for the first time. See the complete guide to Aunty’s Beach House for all the details.

For guests with kids not old enough for Aunty’s, Aulani does not have group childcare for children under the age of 3 like Disney Cruise Line does for babies and younger toddlers ( Related : Disney Aulani vs. Disney Cruise Line: Which is Best for Your Family? ). Luckily, Aulani’s concierge works closely with a local recommended childcare service to provide in-room babysitting at an additional fee. Or just bring grandparents to help out like Joe smartly does!

Note also that younger kids can still experience some time at Aunty’s too. Every morning for about an hour, Aunty’s opens early for an open house where kids of any age can visit with parents accompanying them.

If Aunty’s Beach House is a make-or-break feature you plan to use often, then it might make sense to wait to visit Aulani until your kids turn 3. But if you have kids of a wide variety of ages, waiting until they are all at the right age often isn’t practical or even possible.

Final Secrets & Tips for Aulani with Babies, Toddlers, and Preschoolers

Ready to pack your bags for Aulani with your kids? Here are a few final parting tips for travelers with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers:

• Leave the lifejackets at home. Aulani has free life vests of all sizes to borrow, so no need to pack your child’s water wings unless you really think they rely on a familiar device.
• No need to pack or buy sand toys . Similarly, there’s no need to waste luggage space on sand toys. The beach rentals hut, Makiki Joe’s, loans them for free to Aulani guests.
• Make dining reservations. The nicer restaurants at Aulani, particularly the character meals as well as the luau, are very popular. Make reservations well in advance of your trip to get a day and time that works for your family’s plans.
• Pre-register kids for Aunty’s. If you have kids of the right age for Aunty’s Beach House, you must pre-register them before your trip. Do this early as you can also make a reservation for the paid programs at the same time, securing your child a spot on the off-chance the facility reaches capacity.
• Strollers optional. If you have a baby, Aulani is very stroller friendly (although it does not rent them). You may find you don’t even need it. But there is always a path to where you want to go that is stroller or wheelchair friendly, so you won’t have to deal with any stroller related stress!
• Baby supplies are available. You can always buy disposable diapers at Aulani’s store, though you may want to go across the street and save a little money at the ABC Store. Aulani will also provide a diaper pail on request.
• Consider housekeeping needs. If you rented or redeemed DVC points for your stay, don’t forget that your room will only receive housekeeping once every four days. You can pay an extra charge for housekeeping if you need it. Plan accordingly!

Best Ways to Book an Aulani Vacation & Save

Aulani vacations can be expensive, but there are definitely ways to stretch your budget much farther if you plan well. There are a ton of different ways to book an Aulani vacation. Be sure to price compare because the best site for deals for some dates won’t necessarily be the best site for deals another date. Trips With Tykes recommends checking the following:

• David’s Vacation Club Rentals : Save up to 50% on DVC villas – plus get more space to spread out with family.
• Get Away Today : Get Away Today knows Disney travel and sometimes has special travel agent deals you can’t find anywhere else. Mention Trips With Tykes if you give them a call for additional discounts.
• Direct from Disney : During certain seasons, Disney has room rate discounts, occasionally as high as 30% off.
• Hotels.com : While ordinarily I don’t love using middle man online travel agencies, I have not infrequently seen rates lower than the published Disney seasonal discounts on this site, potentially saving families a couple hundred dollars on stays of several days.

About the co-author : Contributing writer Joe Cheung loves traveling with his wife and three children. He has been writing about using miles and points to reduce the cost of family travel on his blog  asthejoeflies  since his wife was pregnant with their first child. He loves traveling all around the world with a special place in his heart for travel to Asia and all things Disney. When he’s not writing, you can find Joe chatting about Disney World on the Disney planning podcast  Disney Deciphered  that he and Leslie co-host or chatting about miles and points on his other podcast the  Saverocity Observation Deck .

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Aulani Disney Resort: Spring and Summer Savings

Spring into magic save up to 20% on select rooms for stays of 5 or more nights.

Plan a spectacular springtime escape with this special offer at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaiʻi—where there’s something magical for everyone! Save on select rooms for stays April 16, 2022 through June 5, 2022.

With this great offer, the longer you stay, the more they save:

• Save up to 20% on select rooms for stays of 5 or more nights
• Save up to 15% on select rooms for stays of 4 nights

This offer is valid for stays most nights April 16, 2022 through June 5, 2022.

IMPORTANT DETAILS

• Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room for stays from April 16, 2022 through June 5, 2022. Travel must be completed by June 6, 2022.
• Length of stay requirements apply and cancellation of any nights of a stay will affect discount validity.
• Not valid on Suites and 3-Bedroom Grand Villas, or on previously booked rooms.
• Advance reservations are required and must be consecutive night stays.
• Subject to availability as the number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited.
• Excludes applicable fees and taxes.
• Limit two (2) rooms per reservation and occupancy restrictions apply per room.
• Additional charges apply if more than two (2) adults per hotel room; not applicable for Suites or Villas.
• Offer applied once per reservation and is not valid in combination with any other hotel discounts or offers.
• Offer subject to restrictions and change or cancellation without notice.
• Select activities require additional fees.

Disney® Visa® Cardmembers: Save 25% on Select Rooms for Stays of 5 or More Nights This Spring

Plan a spectacular springtime escape with this special offer at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaiʻi—where there’s something magical for everyone! Save on select rooms for stays May 10, 2022 through June 5, 2022 when your Clients book using their Disney® Visa® Card.

With this great offer for Disney Visa Cardmembers, the longer you stay, the more they save:

• Save 25% on select rooms for stays of 5 or more nights
• Save 20% on select rooms for stays of 4 nights

No matter how long you stay, they’ll enjoy an unforgettable vacation brimming with fun for the entire family.

This offer is valid for stays most nights May 10, 2022 through June 5, 2022.

Important Details

• Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room for stays from May 10, 2022 through June 5, 2022. Travel must be completed by June 6, 2022.
• Disney® Visa® Cardmember must stay in the room.
• Must mention the offer when booking and use a valid Disney® Visa® Card or Disney Rewards Redemption Card to pay the deposit. If a valid Disney® Visa® Card is not used, the non-discounted room price will be charged for the duration of the stay.
• Offer is nontransferable and subject to restrictions and change or cancellation without notice.

Comments are closed.

Get in touch with an Agent

General Email [email protected]

Phone 888-898-3079

JOIN US Contact us to join the Kingdom and Cruise Travel Team.

REQUEST A FREE VACATION QUOTE We look forward working with you on your next vacation. Request a free vacation quote today!

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Pearl Harbor and City Ending at Aulani (HO47)

Port of Call

Activity Level & Duration

Select your country/region to personalize your site experience

• Argentina (English)
• Argentina (Español)
• Australia (English)
• Austria (English)
• Österreich (Deutsch)
• Bahamas (English)
• Belgium (English)
• Brazil (English)
• Brazil (Portuguese)
• Canada (English)
• Chile (English)
• Chile (Español)
• Colombia (English)
• Colombia (Español)
• Czech Republic (English)
• Denmark (English)
• Ecuador (English)
• Ecuador (Spanish)
• Finland (English)
• France (English)
• France (Français)
• Germany (English)
• Greece (English)
• Guatemala (English)
• Guatemala (Español)
• Deutschland (Deutsch)
• Hong Kong (English)
• Hungary (English)
• India (English)
• Indonesia (English)
• Ireland (English)
• Israel (English)
• Italy (English)
• Japan (English)
• Korea (English)
• Luxemburg (English)
• Mainland China (English)
• 中国内地 (简体中文)
• Malaysia (English)
• Mexico (English)
• Mexico (Español)
• Netherlands (English)
• New Zealand (English)
• Norway (English)
• Peru (English)
• Peru (Español)
• Philippines (English)
• Poland (English)
• Portugal (English)
• Puerto Rico (English)
• Serbia (English)
• Singapore (English)
• Slovenia (English)
• South Africa (English)
• Spain (English)
• Sweden (English)
• Switzerland (English)
• Schweiz (Deutsch)
• Taiwan (English)
• Thailand (English)
• Turkey (English)
• United Arab Emirates (English)
• United Kingdom (English)
• United States (English)
• Venezuela (English)
• Venezuela (Español)
• Vietnam (English)

Search Jobs

What would you like to do?

• Administration
• Animation and Visual Effects
• Architecture and Design
• Asset Management
• Building, Construction and Facilities
• Business Strategy and Development
• Call Center
• Communications
• Data Science and Analytics
• Engineering
• Finance and Accounting
• Food and Beverage
• Gaming and Interactive
• Graphic Design
• Health Services
• Horticulture and Landscaping
• Hotel and Resorts
• Human Resources
• Legal and Business Affairs
• Maritime and Cruise Operations
• Marketing and Digital Media
• Merchandising
• Project Management
• Quality Assurance
• Research and Development
• Retail Operations
• Sciences and Animal Programs
• Social Responsibility
• Sports and Recreation
• Stage Productions
• Supply Chain Management
• Theme Park Operations

Brand Select ABC News Adventures by Disney Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa Consumer Products Games & Publishing Disney Advertising Disney Branded Television Disney Cruise Line Disney Direct to Consumer Disney Entertainment Disney Entertainment & ESPN Technology Disney Entertainment Television Disney Experiences Disney Music Group Disney Platform Distribution Disney Star Disney Store Disney Theatrical Group Disney Vacation Club Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort Disney's Vero Beach Resort Disney+ Hotstar Disneyland Paris Disneyland Resort ESPN Freeform Hong Kong Disneyland Resort Industrial Light & Magic Lucasfilm Marvel Studios Partners Federal Credit Union Pixar Animation Studios The Walt Disney Company (APAC) The Walt Disney Company (Corporate) The Walt Disney Company (EMEA) The Walt Disney Company (India) The Walt Disney Company (LATAM) The Walt Disney Studios Walt Disney Animation Studios Walt Disney Imagineering Walt Disney World Resort

Job Level Select Business Support / Administrative Executive Internships / Programs Management Operations / Production Professional Talent

Where would you like to work?

Country/Region Select Argentina Australia Bahamas Brazil Bulgaria Canada Denmark Finland France Germany Hong Kong India Indonesia Italy Japan Mexico Netherlands Norway Philippines Poland Portugal Shipboard Singapore South Korea Sweden Switzerland Taiwan Thailand Turkey United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Vietnam

State/Province Select Bangkok Bavaria British Columbia Buenos Aires F.D. California Canton of Zurich Capital Region Connecticut DC Dubai Eastern England Florida Haryana Hawaii Ho Chi Minh Île-de-France Region Illinois Islands District Istanbul Jakarta Special Capital Region Karnataka Lisbon District Lombardy Lower Saxony Maharashtra Mazovia Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Metro Manila Mexico City Missouri Nevada New South Wales New York North Carolina North Holland Ontario Oslo County Pennsylvania São Paulo Seoul Sofia-grad South Carolina Stockholm County Taipei Taiwan Tamil Nadu Telangana Tennessee Texas Tokyo Uusimaa Washington West Bengal

City Select Amsterdam Anaheim Austin Bangkok Bay Lake Bengaluru Branson Bristol Buenos Aires Burbank Celebration Charlotte Chennai Chessy Chicago City of Taguig Copenhagen Coupvray Destin Dubai Durham Emeryville Fort Worth Fresno Glendale Greater Manchester Gurgaon Helsinki Hilton Head Island Ho Chi Minh City Hyderabad Istanbul Iver Heath Jakarta Kapolei Kings Mountain Kissimmee Kolkata Lake Buena Vista Lancaster Lantau Island Las Vegas Lisbon Livermore London Los Angeles Makati City Manhattan Beach Marne-la-Vallée Milan Minato-ku Montévrain Moore Park Morrisville Mumbai Munich Myrtle Beach New Taipei City New York Newhall Orlando Oslo Papenburg Paris Quarry Bay Raleigh San Carlos San Francisco Santa Monica São Paulo Seattle Seoul Serris Sevierville Singapore Sofia Stockholm Sydney Taipei Taipei City Tampa The Woodlands Tlalpan Toronto Tulalip Vancouver Vero Beach Warsaw Washington West Hollywood Wismar Zurich

Already applied?

Imagine working side-by-side with industry leaders in your field of study. Imagine building upon the skills you've learned in the classroom within a family of legendary brands passionate about creating world-class experiences on a global scale. Now, imagine yourself in a paid Disney Internship.

ABC11 Troubleshooter & Consumer Intern, Fall 2024

Job summary:, about the role & program.

Our ABC11 Internship Program with the ABC11 Troubleshooter is designed to provide a student with in-depth and hands-on experience trying to resolve viewers’ issues with business and consumer-related problems! The intern will also work very closely with ABC11 Troubleshooter Diane Wilson.

What You Will Do

From rip-offs to consumer investigations, our intern will develop their editorial judgement and research skills by reviewing consumer problems. A typical day includes writing emails to the business or company involved in the story, plus confirming the required information and data to move forward to investigate the claim. The intern partners with our ABC11 Troubleshooter in writing and crafting the story for multiple platforms.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Current class standing of sophomore, junior or senior.
• Strong academic record.
• Committed and available to work for the entire length of the internship.
• Must demonstrate knowledge or current events and/or consumer news.
• Able to work in a fast paced, multi-platform and deadline driven environment.
• The ability to work well on teams and collaborative efforts.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Effective communication skills are essential, along with strong writing and video editing skills.
• Familiarity with long form TV and video production.
• Proficiency with MS Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Preferred Qualifications

• Major or previous coursework in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Advertising, Business Administration, Media Law or related major
• Proficient in Zoom meeting coordination

Requested Documents

• Candidate to provide a link to a portfolio of work samples (if applicable, please include a password in the section indicated in the application)

Eligibility Requirements & Program Information

Candidates for this opportunity MUST meet all of the below requirements:

• Be enrolled in an accredited college/university taking at least one class in the semester/quarter (spring/fall) prior to participation in the internship program OR must have graduated from a college/university within 6 months at time of application posting OR currently participating in a Disney College Program or Disney Internship
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Have not completed one year of continual employment on a Disney internship or program.
• Possess unrestricted work authorization

Additional Information

• Be able to have a consistent, reliable work schedule throughout the internship
• The approximate dates of this internship are August 2024 through January 2025
• All candidates must be willing to work 20 hours/week (hours and days to be determined by your supervisor)
• Able to provide own housing for the duration internship program in the Durham, North Carolina area
• Able to provide reliable transportation to/from work in the North Carolina area

Print This Role Description: Strong candidates may be invited to complete a phone interview. We strongly encourage applicants to print a copy of this role description, so they can refer to it in the event they are selected for a phone interview. Note that this role description will not be accessible once the posting is closed.

About Disney Entertainment Television:

Disney Entertainment Television is a collection of renowned content brands at The Walt Disney Company creating original entertainment and news programming for the company’s streaming platforms Disney+, Hulu and Star, and its broadcast and cable networks. Its extensive portfolio is comprised of ABC Entertainment, ABC News, ABC Owned Television Stations, Disney Branded Television, Freeform, FX, Hulu Originals, National Geographic Content and Onyx Collective, in addition to Disney Television Studios, which include 20th Television, 20th Television Animation, ABC Signature and Walt Disney Television Alternative. Responsible for over 4,500 hours of programming a year across more than 300 programs of all genres, Disney Entertainment Television’s creative brands are at the forefront of groundbreaking storytelling, captivating audiences and generating critical acclaim. In 2023, Disney Entertainment Television’s programming excellence earned 163 Emmy® nominations across daytime, primetime, news & documentary, and children’s & family categories.

About The Walt Disney Company:

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.

This position is with WTVD Television, LLC , which is part of a business we call Disney Entertainment Television .

WTVD Television, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney fosters a business culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a rapidly changing world.

Watch Our Jobs

Sign up to receive new job alerts and company information based on your preferences.

Job Category Select a Job Category Administration Animation and Visual Effects Architecture and Design Asset Management Banking Building, Construction and Facilities Business Strategy and Development Call Center Communications Creative Culinary Data Science and Analytics Engineering Finance and Accounting Food and Beverage Gaming and Interactive Graphic Design Health Services Horticulture and Landscaping Hotel and Resorts Human Resources Legal and Business Affairs Licensing Maritime and Cruise Operations Marketing and Digital Media Merchandising Operations Production Project Management Publishing Quality Assurance Research and Development Retail Operations Sales Sciences and Animal Programs Security Social Responsibility Sports and Recreation Stage Productions Supply Chain Management Talent Technology Theme Park Operations

Location Select Location Amsterdam, Netherlands Anaheim, California, United States Austin, Texas, United States Bangkok, Thailand Bay Lake, Florida, United States Bengaluru, India Branson, Missouri, United States Bristol, Connecticut, United States Buenos Aires, Argentina Burbank, California, United States Celebration, Florida, United States Charlotte, North Carolina, United States Chennai, India Chessy, France Chicago, Illinois, United States City of Taguig, Philippines Copenhagen, Denmark Coupvray, France Destin, Florida, United States Dubai, United Arab Emirates Durham, North Carolina, United States Emeryville, California, United States Fort Worth, Texas, United States Fresno, California, United States Glendale, California, United States Greater Manchester, United Kingdom Gurgaon, India Helsinki, Finland Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, United States Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Hyderabad, India Istanbul, Turkey Iver Heath, United Kingdom Jakarta, Indonesia Kapolei, Hawaii, United States Kings Mountain, North Carolina, United States Kissimmee, Florida, United States Kolkata, India Lake Buena Vista, Florida, United States Lancaster, Pennsylvania, United States Lantau Island, Hong Kong Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Lisbon, Portugal Livermore, California, United States London, United Kingdom Los Angeles, California, United States Makati City, Philippines Manhattan Beach, California, United States Marne-la-Vallée, France Milan, Italy Minato-ku, Japan Montévrain, France Moore Park, Australia Morrisville, North Carolina, United States Mumbai, India Munich, Germany Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, United States New Taipei City, Taiwan New York, New York, United States Newhall, California, United States Orlando, Florida, United States Oslo, Norway Papenburg, Germany Paris, France Quarry Bay, Hong Kong Raleigh, North Carolina, United States San Carlos, California, United States San Francisco, California, United States Santa Monica, California, United States São Paulo, Brazil Seattle, Washington, United States Seoul, South Korea Serris, France Sevierville, Tennessee, United States Singapore, Singapore Sofia, Bulgaria Stockholm, Sweden Sydney, Australia Taipei, Taiwan Taipei City, Taiwan Tampa, Florida, United States The Woodlands, Texas, United States Tlalpan, Mexico Toronto, Canada Tulalip, Washington, United States Vancouver, Canada Vero Beach, Florida, United States Warsaw, Poland Washington, DC, United States West Hollywood, California, United States Wismar, Germany Zurich, Switzerland

Job Level Select Professional Operations / Production Management Internships / Programs Business Support / Administrative Executive Talent

Email Address

Country/Region of Residence Select Afghanistan Aland Islands Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia, Plurinational State Of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, the Democratic Republic of The Cook Islands Costa Rica Cote D'ivoire Croatia Cuba Curacao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Great Britain Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran, Islamic Republic Of Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea, Democratic People's Republic Of Korea, Republic Of Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macau Macedonia, the Former Yugoslav Republic Of Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia, Federated States Of Moldova, Republic Of Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands Antilles Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reunion Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Saint Barthelemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan Da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin (French Part) Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Eustatius Sint Maarten (Dutch Part) Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syrian Arab Republic Tahiti Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic Of Thailand Timor-leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States United States Minor Outlying Islands Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic Of Viet Nam Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

Confirm Email

Get Updates!

To receive email updates about Disney Internships, please complete the request form.