Did you know that Aulani in Hawaii isn’t just for Mickey Mouse, children, or Lilo and Stitch? Yes, adults can also have a great time at this luxurious resort, all while getting a nice tan with a margarita in hand.
In fact, a trip to Disney Aulani is much more adult-friendly than planning a vacation for two to a place like Walt Disney World or Disneyland. That’s not only because Aulani is the perfect romantic destination, but also because the Aloha State is a gorgeous place to explore on your own.
Here is what we will explore in this guide:
- Is Disney Aulani Good for Adults?
- Prices & Where to Stay at Disney Aulani
- The Best Restaurants at Disney Aulani
- Things for Adults to do in Disney Aulani
- Things for Adults to do OUTSIDE Disney Aulani
We also have a full Disney Aulani guide that's perfect for everyone and a great starting point before diving into this one. Feel free to check it out first. Okay, ready? Let’s go!
Is Disney Aulani Good for Adults?
Here’s the short answer: yes, it definitely is.
The long answer is… yes, it 100%, definitely, for sure is.
At the resort alone, you can experience some of the best pools on the island, all while dining at top-tier restaurants. As we mentioned in our dedicated Disney Aulani guide, the beach is mostly okay, but the swimming pools are the real stars of the show. There’s nothing like going to Hawaii, relaxing by a pool with the love of your life, and sipping a cold beer.
Are there kids at Aulani? Oh, definitely. I mean, we’re talking about a Disney Resort, so expect to see plenty of families with children. You’ll also spot Disney characters roaming around, from Mickey and Pluto to Donald and Minnie. That said, the characters aren’t everywhere and tend to stay more in the background. It’s a big contrast to somewhere like Magic Kingdom, where you’re basically surrounded by Disney magic all day long.
You know what? It’s not just Aulani that’s great for adults, Hawaii itself is, too. How about renting a car, exploring the island, and driving all the way to Honolulu, which is just 40 minutes away? Or taking a cruise with Disney Cruise Line or Norwegian Cruise Line to see the island from a completely new perspective?
A trip to Hawaii isn’t cheap and can really drain your energy, especially since it's a six-hour plane ride from California, so make sure to enjoy your time there as best as you can.
Prices & Where to Stay at Disney Aulani
Disney isn’t cheap. Disney Aulani also isn’t cheap. The most affordable room at Disney Aulani starts at $650 per night, which is a steep price, especially considering that restaurants aren’t included in your stay, and you’ll also need to cover flight costs. If you want a comprehensive look at room options at Disney Aulani, we have this guide ready for you.
Here are the room categories at Disney Aulani and their starting prices:
- Standard View Resort Room: Sleeps up to 4 guests and starts at $650 per night.
- Deluxe Studios: Sleeps up to 4 guests and starts at $700. Slightly larger than the Standard Rooms, and includes a few kitchen items like disposable flatware, glasses, a toaster, microwave, and coffee maker.
- Villas: Sleep between 9 and 12 guests and start at $990. Includes a kitchenette, microwave, washer, and dryer. A great option for larger groups looking to split the cost.
- Suites: The most luxurious option. Accommodates up to 5 guests and starts at $1,420. Features include a whirlpool tub, steam shower with body jets, and some of the best views at the resort.
As you can see, where you choose to stay will depend on your budget and personal preferences. Want to simply enjoy the resort and explore Hawaii? Then a Standard Room will do. Celebrating an anniversary with the love of your life and craving top-tier luxury? Go for one of the stunning Suites.
The Best Restaurants at Disney Aulani
Disney Aulani isn’t an all-inclusive resort like Sandals, so meals at the restaurants aren’t included in your stay. Are the restaurants at Aulani good? Absolutely, but they can also be pricey. For a complete overview of dining at Disney Aulani, be sure to check out our in-depth and comprehensive guide.
Here are some of the best restaurants to check out at - or near - Aulani:
- Ka Wa‘a: A unique dining experience that combines a buffet dinner with a luau, even featuring Moana. It starts at $180 per person and lasts around three hours. Adults should love this one too since it’s a very different atmosphere and the performers are actually quite good.
- ‘AMA‘AMA: The fanciest restaurant at the resort and a great option for couples looking for a romantic night out. The 4-course dinner costs $130 (with wine pairing available for an additional $75). Make sure to arrive around 5pm to catch the sunset and create a really special memory.
- The ‘Ōlelo Room: a lively bar and lounge with live music and a great place to enjoy a drink in the evening.
- Eggs ‘n Things: Located across the street from Disney Aulani, this isn’t part of the resort, but it's a great breakfast option, especially for guests who don’t want to spend too much on on-site dining.
- Monkeypod Kitchen: Also near Disney Aulani, across Olani Street. The menu features a wide variety of options, including pizza, burgers, steaks, and fish, all at reasonable prices. This one is a fan favorite amongst guests that often visit Aulani.
- Mina’s Fish House: Located at the Four Seasons Resort next to Aulani, this romantic restaurant offers incredible ocean views and excellent food. A 3-course meal costs $125.
Things for Adults to do in Disney Aulani
There’s a lot to do at Disney Aulani and in Hawaii, especially for adults. Here, we’re sharing our top tips and things to see and try at Aulani, all to help you make the most of your Hawaiian trip.
For a complete overview of things to do at Disney Aulani, be sure to check out our full guide. We cover everything from shows and paid activities to how you can even get married at Disney Aulani.
Here are some of our top tips:
Stay in Shape!
Disney Aulani is also well regarded as a great place for guests who enjoy the gym, yoga, and staying active… which comes in handy, especially with all the delicious food around. The Mikimiki Fitness Center is a 24-hour, 2,000 square foot health club equipped with modern, top tier equipment. Aulani also offers daily fitness classes, including both complimentary and premium options.
Try the Aulani Nature Tour and the Māka‘ika‘i Art And Culture tour
These two are pretty cool, and it’s free for guests! The Nature Tour is a 45-minute guided walk that talks about the rock formations around the resort, highlights the design decisions behind the buildings, and shares insights into Hawaiian traditions.
The Art and Culture tour focuses on Aulani’s Hawaiian art collection, considered one of the largest in the world. Both are great activities for anyone who enjoys a bit of history and wants to explore a different culture.
Enjoy the Pools
While the beach at Aulani is just okay, the pools are the real stars of the show. There are more than eight different pools at Aulani, and each one offers something special. The Wailana Pool is an adults-only area with a peaceful atmosphere and a bar, perfect for guests aged 18 and up to relax and unwind. Alohi Point is another great place for adults with lots of infinity pools in a quiet area.
Stargazing
Is there anything more romantic and unique than stargazing with the love of your life? You’ll spend about 45 minutes learning about the moon and stars with the help of a guide and a giant telescope. The best part is that you can book timeslots reserved just for adults.
Aulani's Laniwai Spa
Disney Aulani has an on-site spa that is actually considered one of the best in all of Hawaii. They offer everything from massages to facial treatments, and even some services you may have never heard of. Prices are steep; a full massage can easily cost over $250. Still, guests online agree that it’s a little slice of paradise. Make sure to go at least once!
Things for Adults to do OUTSIDE Disney Aulani
Rent a Car
Hawaii is beautiful, and you don’t always get the chance to explore the Aloha State, so why stick only to Disney Aulani? Rent a car, check out other beaches, visit Honolulu, and dine at restaurants all over the island. Exploring Hawaii is a top tier experience, especially for an adults only group looking for a little break from Mickey and friends.
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is one of the most iconic and beautiful beaches in all of Hawaii, located just 20 minutes from Honolulu. If you’re planning a day trip to the city, it’s the perfect spot to stop for a tan and a swim in the ocean.
Go on a Cruise
How about going on a cruise before or after your stay at Disney Aulani? You’re already in Hawaii, so make it worth it. Disney Cruise Line offers sailings from Honolulu aboard the Disney Wonder, while Norwegian Cruise Line operates the Pride of America, a cruise ship that focuses exclusively on Hawaii year-round.
Golf at Disney Aulani
The Ko Olina Golf Club is located just across the street and is perfect for anyone who loves birdies, eagles, and all sorts of avians. Yeaaah, I don’t know much about golf, sorry. Prices vary depending on the date, but expect to pay around $200. That price includes a golf cart, though you’ll still need to rent clubs. The fairways are wide and lined with tropical trees, giving the course a distinctly Hawaiian vibe.
Check out Four Seasons Resort
The Four Seasons is located right next to Disney Aulani and offers some great dining and breakfast options. Head over to enjoy what they have to offer and expand your choices for restaurants and paid activities.
