Is it really a big surprise that Disney also owns a big, glorious beach resort? They already have theme parks, cruises, toothbrushes and (maybe) space stations with Mickey ears, so it only makes sense that they also decided to invite guests to enjoy a nice beach and have the vacation of a lifetime.
Disney Aulani is located in the beautiful state of Hawaii, and it has most of the things you not only expect from a beach resort, but from Disney as well. Mickey, Donald & Friends walking around in floral outfits? Check. Outdoor movie nights? Check. A full waterpark with a huge lazy river, waterslides and cute Disney songs? Check. A beautiful well kept property where everyone is polite and smiling all the time? Check. Low prices? Errr… let’s move on.
Okay, let’s just say that Disney Aulani isn’t cheap. At all. It’s pretty common for an entry-level room to cost $600 per night, and we aren’t even talking about the luxurious villas and studios that can easily increase that price to $1500. Aulani also isn’t all-inclusive like Sandals Resorts, which means that restaurants aren’t free. In fact, you even have to pay for daily parking if you aren’t part of the Disney Vacation Club program, and a single night's parking can cost you $40. Yeah, a lot of planning is required before deciding to visit Mickey in Hawaii.
Since we are talking about Sandals, let’s also mention that Disney Aulani isn’t huge. In fact, it’s pretty compact but offers a lot of activities. This can be a good thing since you aren’t far from all the stuff the resort has to offer. To put things in perspective, Aulani is 21 acres, while Sandals Ochi is 100 acres and Beaches Ocho Rios - which is also very compact - is 22 acres. Sure, Sandals Ochi is huge, but it’s also basically two resorts in one, linked by a public road.
One thing we can definitely say about Aulani is that the resort is absolutely gorgeous. It may be one of the most beautiful beach resorts out there, following the Disney tradition of offering you the Happiest (and prettiest) Place on Earth. Hawaiian architecture is everywhere, from the stunning buildings to the main lobby. In fact, Aulani is home to the largest collection of contemporary Hawaiian art in the world.
The beach at Aulani is... okay. While it may not be as stunning as those in places like Turks & Caicos, it gets the job done. I wish it was larger, but the water is beautiful and calm. It resembles more of a swimming pool than anything else! While there are no private beaches in Hawaii, this one can be considered semi-private. Nearby resorts have their own beaches, so outsiders rarely visit Aulani solely for the beach experience.
Always remember, this resort is designed for families with children, so expect kids everywhere. The swimming pools are usually bustling with activity. It's not a place for those seeking peace and quiet, but if you're looking for a lively and festive atmosphere during your visit to Hawaii, this might be exactly what you're looking for.
Reviews of Disney Aulani
The Good Stuff
The Disney touch: You know what we are talking about, right? The Disney touch, that secret sauce that is hard to find anywhere else and can only be experienced on cruises like the Disney Wish and in theme parks like Magic Kingdom. The Disney touch is about keeping everything clean, keeping every garden pretty, and making you feel all cozy inside. Maybe it’s the meet & greets, maybe it’s the Mickey-shaped pretzels, or maybe it’s just Sebastian singing Under the Sea as you enjoy the swimming pool and laugh with your family. Being surrounded by Disney is special in a way that other companies can’t seem to figure out.
It's Disney-licious: wait, another positive that is all about Disney? Okay, I swear I’m not cheating. This one is here to tell you that Disney Aulani is absolutely stunning. Some people like to compare it to the Animal Kingdom Lodge at Walt Disney World mixed with Hawaiian architecture. It might just be one of the most beautiful beach resorts in the world, feeling like stepping into the world of Moana or Lilo & Stitch. Hawaiian culture seamlessly blends with Disney magic everywhere! Every pool looks stunning, every restaurant, and every little spot is a great opportunity for photos. Even the main lobby!
Pools: if you love pools, then you will love what Disney Aulani has in store for you. There are eight main pools, a super long, beautiful lazy river, infinity pools and even a snorkeling lagoon that kids can visit and swim with the fishes (it still costs $25 for the snorkeling gear). Of course, they also have several slides and everything you expect from a cool water park, including splash zones, rope bridges and more.
Great for Kids: C'mon, guys. We are talking about Disney here! Of course this will be a great place for the little ones. You can have character breakfast with Mickey, say hi to Stitch as he walks around the resort and even watch a luau with Moana dancing right in front of your eyes. There is a lot for families - and especially children - to enjoy here.
The Bad Stuff
Expensive: is it really a surprise that a Disney resort in Hawaii is very expensive? The low-cost rooms can easily set you back $650 per night in 2025, restaurants aren’t included in your stay, and there isn’t a free shuttle from the airport to the resort. Oh, and parking is around $40 per night if you decide to rent a car and drive there. Let’s just say that Aulani can be really expensive - much more so than something like Sandals and Beaches Resorts. This is certainly a resort for those who love Disney and want top quality above everything else, with price being the least of their worries.
Hawaii is pretty far: Hawaii isn’t very close to the mainland, and I didn’t pay attention to this fact until recently. Fun fact: Hawaii is located 2,400 miles away from the closest landmass. This means that a flight from California or Alaska, two of the closest states, will still take you 5-6 hours. If you are flying from Florida, your flight will take 11 hours and 30 minutes. Fun fact #2: a flight from Tokyo, Japan, will “only” take you 7 hours and 30 minutes to get there!
It’s not only the flight distance that can be a bummer. There also isn’t a free shuttle that brings you from the airport to the hotel, so you still have to get on a bus or drive there, which can easily take you 30-60 minutes until you finally arrive at your destination.
How to get to Disney Aulani?
Flying to Disney Aulani
Disney Aulani is located about 17 miles from Honolulu's Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) on the island of Oahu in the Ko Olina area.
Hawaii is located 2.400 miles away from the mainland. Yes, it’s not close at all. A flight from California will take you 5-6 hours to get there.
A flight from Florida will take you 11h30min to get there.
Transportation Options to Disney Aulani
Unlike Sandals Resorts, there isn’t a free shuttle that will take you from the airport to the resort. If you decide to rent a car and drive to Aulani, expect the trip to take 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Renting a car might be a good option if you decide to explore the rest of Hawaii, and not only Disney Aulani.
You can also call an Uber or get a taxi. There are specific taxi services that offer a trip to the resort for a flat rate of $70. You don’t need to make reservations in advance.
Disney also says that “you can arrange transportation between Aulani Resort and the airport or other points of interest around O‘ahu by calling Charley's Taxi service at (877) 531-1333”. Charley’s has an official website where you can make reservations in advance if you wish.
Where is Disney Aulani?
Disney Aulani is located in beautiful Hawaii, the home of Lilo & Stitch, the TV series Lost, and stunning beaches and vistas. You can find the resort on the western side of the island in Ko Olina. Honolulu is located only 30-40 minutes away from Ko Olina.
If you need a specific address, Disney Aulani is located at 92-1185 Aliinui Dr, Kapolei, HI 96707, USA.
Staying at Disney Aulani
For more information about room options, be sure to visit our guide titled “Room Options at Disney Aulani”.
There are four room options when you decide to book at Disney Aulani:
- Standard Resort Rooms (starting at $600)
- Deluxe Studios (starting at $700)
- Villas (starting at $1000)
- Suites ($1400)
Most rooms are located on huge towers that embrace the whole resort, so they are always near everything that Aulani has to offer.
Both Standard Rooms and Deluxe Studios are designed for 4 guests. The main difference is that the Deluxe Studios are a little bit bigger. Don’t expect anything luxurious in either option. The Deluxe Studios also include a kitchenette area with a microwave that can be handy for families with little ones.
Villas are bigger than most rooms in the resort, perfect for families and parties of 5-9 guests. Suites, as you might have expected, are the most luxurious options at the resort and come with a kitchen area, jacuzzis and more.
Disney Aulani & Disney Vacation Club
You can also use Disney Vacation Club points to pay for your stay at Disney Aulani. However, securing a room this way can be challenging, as they tend to sell out quickly. The Disney Vacation Club Villas offer the following accommodations that you can book by using your precious points:
- Deluxe Studios
- 1-Bedroom Villas
- 2-Bedroom Villas
- 3-Bedroom Grand Villas
You can rent nearly any type of room with points, except for the standard room. You can also pay for part of your stay in cash and part of it using points.
Now, how do you secure a Disney Vacation Club room? Well, you need to become a member, which can be quite costly. Initially, there's an upfront fee of about $30,000 to join the program, followed by monthly payments over the next several decades.
But don’t let that scare you! Many people opt not to become members themselves but instead rent points from existing members. Prices for points vary, but typically range from $15 to $20 per point. The cost can vary based on the season and how much you are willing to spend.
If you think this is too complicated... that's because it is. You know what the easiest choice may be? Just aim for a standard room if you have a party of four. They aren't much different from the Deluxe Studios, and you'll likely spend most of your time at the waterpark or chatting with Mickey. If you really need a microwave, you can use the one at Ulu Cafe for free.
If you want more information about Disney Vacation Club, how to rent Club points and even if you want to rent points from a credible source, you can always send a message to Famvia’s Carlos Hernandez. He can provide comprehensive details about DVC and offer additional tips.
Dining at Disney Aulani
For more information about dining options, be sure to visit our guide titled “Dining Options at Disney Aulani”.
Aulani has 10 main restaurants and shacks for a quick bite, offering you everything from comfort food all the way to fancy Hawaiian food. Keep in mind that Disney Aulani isn’t an all-inclusive resort, which means that you need to pay for restaurants and drinks.
There are the restaurants you can find at Disney Aulani, and the type of food they offer:
- Ama Ama (hawaiian)
- Ka Wa’A (hawaiian)
- Makahiki (international)
- Ulu Cafe (snacks & sandwiches)
- Off the Hook (beers & fast food)
- The Olelo Room (cocktails, sushi & more)
- Wailana Pool bar (beers & fast food)
- Mama’s Snack Stop (comfort food)
- Papalua Shave Ice (desserts)
- Little Opihi’s (snacks)
Let’s talk about prices for a bit. A full four course meal at Ama Ama costs $125 per guest.
A character breakfast at Makahiki, which includes a three-course meal, costs $50 per adult and $29 for children.
A traditional Açai Bowl costs $17.
A Cappuccino costs $7.
A beer costs from $8 to $10.
It’s highly recommended that you make a reservation for some restaurants at least 30 days in advance (and it’s required for Ka Waa). The main sit-down restaurants are Ama Ama, Ka Waa, and Makahiki. Makahiki offers character dining during breakfast, providing a great opportunity to meet Mickey & Minnie in their Hawaiian outfits.
The sit-down restaurants require Resort Casual attire, which includes shirts, shoes, or sandals. If you're wearing a swimsuit, a cover-up is also necessary. Currently, there's no need for formal attire like dress shirts or elegant dresses to enjoy dining at these restaurants.
Activities at Disney Aulani
For more information about activities, be sure to visit our guide titled “Activities at Disney Aulani”.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Disney Aulani. Let’s see some of the stuff you can try without paying a dime:
- Character Meet & Greets
- Fitness Center
- Aunty's Beach House
- Pool parties
- Disney Movie Night
- Nature Tour
Here's a quick tip: be sure to download the official Aulani Resort App first thing. You can use it to check daily activities, find meet & greet locations, and book optional activities and tours days in advance.
Aunty’s Beach House is essentially a Kid’s Club for children aged 4-12, offering daily activities ranging from crafting to storytelling and more. It typically receives excellent reviews online, but guests advise that you need to plan ahead and book a spot in advance. Don’t wait until you're at the resort to secure a spot for your children, as they tend to sell out quickly. There are also optional activities available inside Aunty’s Beach House that you may need to pay for in advance, but the standard services are free.
Golf
If you love golf, there's a golf course within walking distance across the street called the Ko Olina Golf Club. I know next to nothing about golf, so let’s see what Disney has to say about it.
“Ko Olina Golf Club features a championship 18-hole course created by renowned architect Ted Robinson—and is recognized by Golf Digest as one of the Top 75 Resort Courses in the US. It features multi-tiered greens, dramatic water hazards and unparalleled views.”
Aulani resort guests have a special discount when playing there. Prices are about $225. Prices include a golf cart, but you still need to rent golf clubs.
Disney Aulani Weather Guide
Good news! The weather in Hawaii is generally tropical and humid throughout the year. Temperatures reach around 80°F during the summer in July, with lows in December dropping to the low 60s. The best weather in Hawaii is typically in spring and early fall, from late April to mid-May, and September through October. During these times, it's comfortably warm without feeling too hot or chilly at night.
Hurricane season in Hawaii spans from June to November, with the highest likelihood of hurricanes occurring in July, August, and September. However, hurricanes are not very common. If a hurricane warning is issued seven days before your planned visit, you can reschedule your trip to Aulani or cancel it altogether.
The wettest months in Hawaii are from November to March, with December typically experiencing the highest amount of rainfall. Drier conditions generally prevail from May to September, with June being the month with the least amount of rain.
Best Times to visit Disney Aulani
When booking at Aulani, consider two factors: weather and peak seasons. Peak seasons occur typically from December to mid-April. These periods coincide with school breaks and higher prices, which may not be the ideal combination for booking an affordable and enjoyable vacation.
If we had to pick exact months as the best ones to visit Aulani, we’d have to go with May, September and October, in that order.
May is basically Summer, and you can enjoy the awesome festivals, great weather and lower prices than in June and July. Just watch out for Golden Week, a traditional Japanese holiday that takes place each year at the end of April or at the start of May. Hawaii is an excellent tourist spot for Japanese guests, and they tend to visit the island during this 4-day break.
September and October are also great options, by the way! The low seasons mean that rooms will be more affordable and (hopefully) the resort won’t be as packed.
Packing list for Disney Aulani
Packing for a beach resort isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. While you’ll need several swimsuits, don’t forget to pack at least a few nice outfits for romantic evenings, formal events, or special dinners with the love of your life.
Also, bring essentials like sunscreen and bug repellent from home, as these items are usually much more expensive on-site. It’s always wise to come prepared and bring all the essentials with you instead of waiting to buy them at the resort. Your wallet will thank you later.
We will separate this list into essentials to bring on your beach resort trip and a few nice-to-haves.
Essentials
At least 3-4 swimsuits: Since you're going to a beach resort, swimsuits are essential. Think of it like going to Alaska without a warm coat. For a week-long trip, bring at least three swimsuits so you can change styles daily and have an extra in case one gets lost. They also will not dry hung up overnight, so make sure to bring more than two.
3-4 swim cover-ups: For the ladies, swim cover-ups are incredibly useful at a beach resort. They are great for transitioning from the beach to a nearby restaurant and provide warmth against the chilly wind after a swim.
Rash guard: It protects from the sun. It doesn’t let you burn. You do the simple math and quickly realize it’s a very good item to bring to a beach vacation.
Shorts & t-shirts/skirts & casual dresses: Especially for the guys, shorts and t-shirts are essential. You'll wear them frequently, even pairing khaki shorts with a cozy shirt for dinner. This combo ensures comfort and relaxation during your beach stay.
Flip flops/comfortable sandals: Since you'll be walking a lot on sand and exploring the beach, sandals or flip flops are a must. Let your feet breathe and enjoy the feel of the beautiful, warm sands.
Nice outfits: Bring at least two to three elegant outfits, such as trousers paired with a dress shirt and dress shoes, or an elegant dress. This will also give you a great reason to dress up and enjoy the night parties.
Sun hat: you know those big hats that almost make you look like a Samurai? Yeah, you are probably going to need one of those in a beach resort. They look stylish and they really protect from the sun. Remember, at a beach resort, the sun will be like a new member of your party for the duration of your vacation.
Beach bag: remember to pack a beach bag to take to the… uh… beach. They’re simple, lightweight and perfect for you to throw it on the sand without feeling bad for it. Put all you need inside and you are good to go.
Sunglasses: they protect your eyes from the sun. You only have two eyes, and you should love them, so keep them safe since you will be under the sun for a long time.
Sunscreen: Don't forget to pack your sunscreen! Bring your favorite one, and consider bringing more than one since you'll be using it a lot. While sunscreen is available on-site, it's much more expensive than what you're used to.
Lip balm: sunscreen and lip balm are a perfect pair. Unfortunately you can’t slather sunscreen on your mouth (or maybe you can, I don't know) so it’s a good idea to pack a Lip balm to protect against cracked lips. They’re not expensive, they are very small and won’t occupy a lot of space, so let’s put them into the essential list.
After-sun lotion: Since you'll be spending days under the sun, it's important to take care of your skin. These lotions are perfect for moisturizing your skin after sun exposure and soothing any redness or inflammation.
Some cash: remember, Disney Aulani isn’t an all-inclusive resort. This means you'll need to pay for meals, including those Mickey-shaped ice creams, with cash. Cash will also be necessary for tipping waitstaff and if you decide to visit the spa.
Nice-to-haves
Bug Spray: this can be a lifesaver against those pesky mosquitoes, though in some beach resorts, it may feel like insects don't exist. Mosquitoes can be particularly bothersome during rainy seasons when humidity rises. It's usually a good idea to bring one along if you have space in your luggage.
Water shoes: If you plan to walk near the water, especially around rocks and corals, water shoes are essential. They protect your feet and provide added stability while exploring.
Waterproof portable speaker: Planning to enjoy Taylor Swift by the beach? Portable speakers can add to the fun. Just remember to keep the volume at a considerate level, as not everyone may share your love for “Shake it Off” at full blast.
Portable charger: we just know that some of us will spend 25h a day on our cellphones, taking pictures for Instagram in front of the most beautiful vistas in the world. It might be a good idea to pack a portable charger if you plan on using your cellphone a lot while you are out at the beach or just exploring.
Should I go to Disney Aulani?
You should already have an idea if this beach resort is for you. You will have a great time in Disney Aulani if:
- You love everything about Disney
- You want a place that is all about quality and don’t care about spending a lot
- You like playing golf
- You’d love to explore Hawaii
Is Disney Aulani good? Absolutely. It’s actually great, boasting a 4.6/5 rating on TripAdvisor. The resort offers excellent food, amazing pools, a beautiful beach, a golf course, and the opportunity to explore the stunning state of Hawaii. Of course, all of this comes at a price. Rooms are expensive, dining is pricey, and drinks can add up. However, if you're looking to celebrate a special occasion with your loved one or create lasting memories with your family, Aulani is the perfect choice.
Book your dream vacation at Disney Aulani!
Now that you know a lot about Disney Aulani… why not learn even more!? Yeah, our guides do not end here. We have guides about almost anything you can think of. How about the room options at Disney Aulani? Or the list of restaurants you can find there? We have those too. You want to know more about the activities offered? We got you covered. Wait, now you want to know about the specific pH levels of the water during June on a rainy night? We don't have that guide yet, but don't tempt us!
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