By Zach Cooper
Earlier in July, I was able to spend 4 nights and 5 days at Aulani: A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii. Here are some multi-media highlights of what the resort includes:
The resort is located in the peaceful area of Ko Olina Hawaii. There are only a few hotels nearby, so it isn't very populated with tourists. Great location for sure.
Maka'ala LOBBY: Aulani has an amazing lobby, full of the Hawaiian culture. The resort claims they spent much time with the locals to get their input and vision.
On the sides are really cool murals that wrap around portions of the lobby. There is also native Hawaiian music played inside.
The check-in desk is really helpful and willing to assist your every need. Behind them is the Rainbow Wall.
Outside of the lobby is an amazing view of the Waikolohe Valley, an amazing place that Imagineers created inside the resort. This includes streams, pools and a lazy river.
KOI POND:
A little far outside of the lobby is a beautiful koi pond. That had lots of fun water features and special effects in the water.
MENEHUNE BRIDGE: Located just off the side of one of the two Aulani towers is a fun interactive water area for the keiki (kids).
The play structure includes 2 water slides
The bridge is based around the mysterious "Menehune", a legendary Hawaiian master-builder.
Every few minutes, a large bucket full of water splashes over anyone who dares to stand beneath.
RAINBOW REEF: For an extra cost, you can snorkel in the only private snorkeling lagoon on the island.
The lagoon is really good for any people experiencing snorkeling for their first time. There are no waves or strong currents that could ruin your experience of snorkeling.
On the side of Rainbow Reef is a cool viewing area for spectators.
Inside the lagoon are many vibrant fish from the Hawaiian islands.
WAIKOLOHE POOL: One of the most pleasing parts of Aulani was the 8,200 square-foot pool. You can enter the pool from 0 feet and walk you way up to a few feet. Really cool.
KA MAKA GROTTO INFINITY POOL: One of the newest additions to the resort is an amazing infinity pool
The pool includes an infinity edge that overlooks the lagoon and the Pacific Ocean. Once you dive under the water, you can hear audio of whales and many other creatures. Really cool detail.
KEIKI COVE: Intended for kids 5 and under is a small splash zone. Here, small fountains burst up from the ground. You can also spot murals of underwater animals on the ground.
WAIKOLOHE STREAM: One of my favorite parts of the trip was floating around on the lazy river.
The river includes many fun surprises.
The stream wraps around most of the Waikolohe Valley.
STANDARD ROOM: During our trip, I stayed in a standard room. It included a great view (with a balcony), a nice bathroom and very comfortable beds. Of course, you had all your great amenities like a refrigerator, a television and a closet.
A furnished bathroom. Really nice.
A Mickey Mouse lamp. Really fine touch of Disney magic!
STARLIT HUI: On select nights, guests of Aulani gather on the Halawai Lawn for one special evening. The Starlit Hui is Disney's version of a luau, with dancing, special effects, music and storytelling.
The night starts with some music from a local band.
It is all hosted by Uncle, a great narrator to the night.
Towards the end, two amazing ukulele players come and rock out the night. Truly my favorite moment.
The Starlit Hui is truly an amazing show. I really recommend seeing it. It is only held on select nights, so be sure to get a schedule.
FIRESIDE MO'OLELO STORYTELLING: Towards the afternoon, you can gather by an Aulani fire pit and hear some enchanting tales told by storyteller Uncle.
ALOHA FUN WITH DISNEY FRIENDS: A fun activity that takes place on certain days and times.
Towards the end, you get paid a visit from a surprise Disney character. Goofy knew how to show his dance moves.
DISNEY CHARACTER BREAKFAST: From 7am-11am, the Makahiki restaurant at Aulani hosts "Aunty's Breakfast Celebration".
It includes a full buffet, with pancakes, omelets, toast and all your other favorite morning items. In my opinion, the food was delicious.
Many Disney characters meet and greet with you through the morning. There are also some fun activities for the kids (and adults!). The morning host is Aunty, who celebrates through song and dance.
Mickey Mouse was also there, taking pictures with guests in front of the beautiful backdrop of the Waikolohe Valley.
The breakfast was another not-to-miss opportunity. I really recommend dining there one morning.
There is so much else to do at Aulani, it is nearly impossible to describe it all in a single post. If you have the opportunity, I really recommend staying at the resort. Even if you don't have children, don't worry, there are many things to do for the adults. Aulani is great for every member of your family.
Besides the price, I would easily rate the resort a 10/10. Well done Disney!
