Stayed here for five days in November, over the long weekend. In all honesty, a Disney Resort wouldn't have been my first choice, but my son is an only child, and we thought that this would be a vacation that he could enjoy as well.
This property is definitely "Disney Lite" - which for us was terrific. If you're expecting "theme park", you are going to be disappointed. There are characters around the property from time to time, but it is low key, and there is little Disney style branding. Such a relief!!
If you have kids, this is a terrific place. The kids club (Aunty's Beach House) is great - open from 9-9ish, and my son had a great time every time he went. This allowed us to leave the resort, go for dinner, or just relax without having to entertain a child all day. There are plenty of staff all the time, and both structured and unstructured activities for the kids. Some have additional cost, but it isn't huge ($40-$70 or so). The pool and beach are wonderful, with slides etc. There are lifeguards about every 10 feet, so you have no worries about your kids and we even stopped keeping track as our son was off running around with his new found friends.
There are a number of dining options - quick serve, buffet and a restaurant that is quite good, though if you're a family on any sort of budget - pretty expensive.
We booked a suite in the time share part of the resort....and if you have a family - this is TOTALLY the way to go. You have a kitchen, dining area, and small living room with a neat patio. We went to Costco (5 minute drive or cab) and an organic market next door to the Costco and bought food and wine, and then cooked most days. WAY better than making kids sit in a restaurant for an hour or two. There are even BBQ's outside for use. Nice touch. If you want to walk, there is a little market right accross the street from the resort that will have most of what you need.
Do the reef snorkelling thing (though one day is probably enough - no need to pay for more). Get there about 15 minutes before they feed the fish - and hang out near the staff - they will let you feed the fish, which is pretty cool - there are literally TONS of fish in there.
There was some construction going on, which was a little annoying (and of course, ther resort didn't bother to warn us in advance). Meant that sitting by some areas of the pool gave you a splitting headache from the noise. We moved, and problem solved.
Last tip - book whatever meals and activities you think you might want before you get there...you can always cancel later. Some times/days are VERY busy.
Staff were excellent from housekeeping to door staff to beach staff. Really warm and friendly. Good work! All in all, a really enjoyable vacation - if you have kids. If you don't, can't imagine why you would go!
- Also Known As:
- Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa In Hawai`i Hotel
- Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa In Hawai`i Hotel Kapolei
- Aulani, a Disney Resort And Spa In Hawai`i
- Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa Hawaii/Oahu
Region:
United States >
Hawaii >
Oahu >
Kapolei
Amenities:
Bar/Lounge
Beach
Business Center
Fitness Center
Free High-Speed Internet
Kids Activities
Kitchenette
Restaurant
Room Service
Suites
Swimming Pool
Wheelchair access
#1 Luxury Hotels in Kapolei
#1 On the Beach Hotels in Kapolei
#2 Family Hotels in Kapolei
Price Range:
$$$$
Hotel Class:4.5 star (4.5*)
- Reservation Options:
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