Do you know about the Disney resort in Hawaii?
“Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa Ko Olina, Hawaii” (hereafter referred to as Aulani) is a hotel where you can enjoy a unique blend of Hawaiian culture and charming Disney magic.
I have visited Hawaii many times, but this was my first stay at Aulani. If you’re considering Aulani or are a Disney fan, be sure to check it out!
▪️What is Aulani?
Aulani is a Disney-owned family resort located in Ko Olina, about 40 minutes by car from Waikiki on the west coast of Oahu. Designed with the theme of Hawaii’s nature and culture, Aulani allows guests to experience Hawaiian culture throughout the resort. I was particularly impressed by the lobby as soon as I entered.
The sculptures, decorations, and murals displayed indoors are based on Hawaiian traditions and myths, and there are hidden Mickeys to discover throughout. Be sure to look for them with your family!
The resort features not only hotels but also pools, restaurants, shops, and a spa, providing plenty of activities to enjoy on-site. Our family stayed at Aulani for three nights, and we still felt like there was so much more to do.
There were staff members who spoke Japanese and even Japanese staff on-site, so if we had any questions or needed assistance during our stay, we could easily ask for help.
And most importantly for Disney fans, Aulani offers the chance to meet Disney characters that are unique to Hawaii. This is a major highlight of the resort!
Now, let me share some tips for making the most of your time at Aulani!
▪️Accommodation Reservations
For booking, I recommend using Rakuten Travel or Mickey Net, as they offer points for reservations. It’s said that the official site and Mickey Net have a higher availability of rooms, making it easier to book. However, if you check Rakuten Travel regularly, you can also find good availability.
▪️Download the App
Once you’ve secured your accommodation, the next step is to download the Aulani Resort app! The app allows you to make restaurant reservations and check the schedule for character greetings and events during your stay, making it very convenient.
▪️Make Restaurant Reservations
If you wish to dine at the restaurants, I highly recommend making reservations in advance through the official website or the app. While it’s sometimes possible to walk in and secure a table if there’s availability, it’s best to reserve to ensure you have a seat. You can make reservations from Japan as well.
Makahiki Restaurant, in particular, is very popular for breakfast due to its character greetings! Reservations open 30 days in advance at 7 PM Japan time, so be sure to check and book accordingly!