Disney’s Aulani Resort and Spa by Small World Vacations’ Agents Beth and Shannon

Disney’s Aulani Resort and Spa by Small World Vacations’ Agents Beth and Shannon

We recently had the opportunity to participate in an Agent Education Program at Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa, in Hawaii.

Located in Ko Olina, Hawaii (Island of Oahu), is approximately a 30-minute drive (with no traffic) from the Honolulu airport.   The Resort itself is amazing! Once you arrive, you never have to leave…

The Resort amenities offer fun things to do for everyone. From amazing pools, two water slides, a lazy river, snorkeling, and beach to Ukulele lessons, t-shirt stamping, kids’ activities, pin trading, fitness center, onsite Luau, and an award-winning spa.

The luau is a little different than what many have experienced at Disney’s Polynesian Resort at Walt Disney World. Prior to the show they serve drinks and have several activities set up around the lawn to participate in.  You can stamp a postcard, get a temporary “tattoo” in Hawaiian fashion, make a lei or wrist corsage, and get your picture taken .

Disney markets Aulani as a Resort built with a big H and little d. So primary focus is on Hawaiian architecture, culture, language, history, art, with a little bit of that Disney magic we all know and love. They are committed to preserving the Hawaiian way and boast one of the largest native Hawaiian art collections in the world.

The pools on property have been rated best on the Island and you can see why.  There are many pools, hot tubs and an adult only pool as well.  There are 2 water park quality water slides and a one of a kind enclosed snorkel lagoon right on property called Rainbow Reef.

Aulani has an amazing child space called Aunty’s Beach House. It’s 5200 square feet of pure wonderland for the kids. There are several rooms designed to different types of play including a large outdoor space with play structures. The kids’ space has scheduled activities daily.

There is a daily ‘Iwa, which is similar to the Disney Cruise Line personal navigator. This gives guests all the information on what activities are available each day including character meet and greets, pool activities, and kids club activities.

     

We stayed in a Standard Hotel Room, Partial Ocean View, but also toured the 1-Bedroom Villa and 3-Bedroom Grand Villa.  The rooms are very spacious and setup well.  The 3-Bedroom Grand Villa has two separate entrances which would make it a great option for extended family or multiple families sharing the space.

The picture above is the view from the 3-bedroom villa that we toured.

Not only will you find many hidden Mickeys throughout the resort, you’ll also find hidden Menehunes, Hawaiian creatures of mischief.

When Shannon arrived at the resort on Halloween, they were having a free party (resort guests only) on the Halawai Lawn (same location as the luau and movie nights).  They offered crafts and activities, games and a character dance party. Everyone seemed to be having a great time.

For dining, there are two table service restaurants, one quick service restaurant, one pool bar with food service, one adult only pool bar, and a one of a kind native language lounge called the ‘Olelo Room which has nightly live entertainment.  Guests can also find a couple of snack spots (for that refreshing Mickey Hawaiian Ice) and beverage stations (for refillable mugs).  Right across the street is a plaza with multiple dining locations and a small market.

Right next to the beautiful Laniwai spa, they have their own version of the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique called Painted Sky.

On our last evening, we were able to catch an incredible sunset from the resort.

If you wish to venture out to see more of the island, you can easily rent a car on-site to visit other places like Pearl Harbor, Waikiki, The Dole Plantation, The North Shore and its famous “Big Waves”.

The area truly lives up to its name as the Rainbow state.  We saw rainbows every single day and caught this beauty as we were waiting for our flight home.

Contact shannon@smallworldvacations.com for assistance with your Disney Aulani Vacation.

Contact beth@smallworldvacations.com for assistance with your Disney Aulani Vacation