Is Aulani Worth it?: Things to Consider
This Hawaiian resort is beautiful, packed with culture and Disney touches, and has an amazing location. It is also extremely expensive. Is Aulani worth it? Short answer: Not if you pay full price.
Is Aulani Worth it?: Things to Consider
1. What is Aulani?
2. It Has a Great Location
3. Parking Costs a Small Fortune But There Are Ways to Avoid the Charge
4. The Beach is Amazing
5. The Pools Are Awesome (and Super Crowded)
6. The Studio Rooms Are Small
7. There Are Characters
8. There is a 24-Hour Gym
9. Don’t Miss the Free Menehune Adventure Trail
10. Most of the Organized Activities Come with an Extra Charge
11. You Can Book Excursions Through Aulani (But Don’t)
12. You Can Snorkel in a Lagoon for an Extra Charge
13. There is a Spa Where Kids Can Get Makeovers
14. The Free Kids’ Club is Not What it Used to Be
15. The Luau is Stupid Expensive
16. There Are Hidden Menehune Throughout the Resort
17. The Dining Options Are Decent
18. There is a Lounge to Use After Checkout
19. There Are Ways to Save
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Is Aulani Worth it?
1. What is Aulani?
Aulani is Disney’s only resort in Hawaii. What is so special about Aulani? It is an immaculate, oceanfront property, with a lot for kids to do (a lot of which comes at an extra charge).
It has Disney touches throughout, but the majority of the theming is Hawaiian. There is a ton of artwork, none of which features Mickey Mouse. There are also activities like lei-making and hula classes.
The resort is relatively new, opened in 2011, so everything is still clean and shiny.
2. The Aulani Resort Location Cannot Be Beat
Where is Aulani? The resort is located in Ko Olina on the Island of Oahu. Compared to Waikiki, which is packed so full of tourists that one can barely walk, Ko Olina is a small slice of heaven. You can easily walk to several restaurants and stores and there is a small grocery store across the street. Two big thumbs up for this location.
You can reach the Honolulu airport from the resort in about 30 minutes on an average day.
3. Parking Costs a Small Fortune But There Are Ways to Avoid the Charge
If you want to see Oahu, you’re going to want to have access to a car. Driving around exploring is part of the fun of Hawaii. If you plan to just utilize the resort, you don’t need a car at all.
As of the time of this writing, both self-parking and valet cost $40 per day.
Pro tip: Aulani has a car rental counter on site. If you just want to go somewhere for the afternoon, consider this option.
Bonus pro tip: Is there free parking at Aulani? Yes, for some. Disney Vacation Club members and those staying on rented points get free self-parking (but not valet) for two vehicles.
4. The Beach is Amazing
Is staying at Aulani worth it? When it comes to the beach, it is.
The resort is located on a beachfront property. The sand and water are beautiful. There are no rocks to be found.
There is equipment to rent on the beach, including snorkels and paddleboards, for a fee. Boogie boards and umbrellas are included.
Pro tip: The sand is hot like the sun. Really. The sun. Be sure to bring water shoes. Your kids will not be able to handle it.
Bonus pro tip: You need reef-safe sunscreen in Hawaii.
Extra bonus pro tip: The beach is open to the public per Hawaiian law. If you want a chair, get to the beach early.
5. The Pools Are Awesome But Super Crowded
The pool area is awesome. It is also crowded. Really, really crowded. Unlike the beach, it isn’t open to the public, but there are enough guests to fill that space up fast. The vast majority of guests are staying at the resort during the day. No one is heading to EPCOT. There is no break from the crowd.
It has multiple pools, four hot tubs, two waterslides, a lazy river, and the Menehune Bridge play structure. Young kids can play in Keiki Cove, a small area dedicated to only children ages 5 and under, so they don’t get trampled.
Chairs are also hard to come by shortly after the pools open. People leave towels on more chairs than they need for hours on end to hold them. Employees walk around clearing the towels periodically, but these periodic sweeps do not solve the problem. You can rent a cabana if you don’t want to fight for a chair. For $550. Really.
As with all Disney properties, there are a ton of lifeguards. The pools feel very safe.
Pro tip: Tubes for the lazy river and waterslides are a hot commodity. If you don’t get there early, be prepared to throw elbows.
Bonus pro tip: The waterslides close before the rest of the pool. Don’t save them for the end of the day.
Note: The Menehune Bridge play structure is only for kids under 48″.
6. Most of the Rooms Are Small
Is Aulani worth the price? When it comes to the standard rooms, it is not. The resort offers some big rooms, but you will need to sell a kidney on the black market to afford them.
You can book a standard hotel room or a villa that is more like an apartment. Every room comes with either a patio or a balcony.
Pro tip: You can often get the villas at a substantial discount by renting Disney Vacation Club points.
Bonus pro tip: You can request almost anything you need for a baby from the hotel, including a Pack and Play, bottle warmers, outlet covers, and high chairs.
Extra bonus pro tip: Check out our free Aulani packing list.
Hotel Rooms
Studio Rooms
The studios have one bathroom and either one king and one queen sleeper sofa or two queens. They have a mini-fridge and coffee maker, but not much else.
Size: 382 square feet
Max guests: 4
One-Bedroom Suites
The one-bedroom suites have a door you can close on your children, which is priceless really. They have one and a half bathrooms, a master bedroom with a king-sized bed, and a common area with a queen sleeper sofa and a twin-sized pulldown bed. These rooms also only offer a coffee maker and mini-fridge.
Size: 764 square feet
Max guests: 5
Signature One-Bedroom Suites
The signature one-bedroom suites are double the size of the regular one-bedroom. They have two bathrooms, a master bedroom with a king-sized bed, and a common area with one queen bed and a sleeper chair. These rooms offer a full-sized refrigerator, dishwasher, toaster, microwave, and coffee maker.
Size: 1,528 square feet
Max guests: 5
Signature Two-Bedroom Suites
The signature two-bedroom suites have a master bedroom with a king-sized bed, a second bedroom with a queen-sized bed and a queen sleeper sofa, and three full bathrooms. They also have a full kitchen, complete with a butler pantry.
Size: 1,910 square feet
Max guests: 6
Villas
Villas are designed for families who want more of a home-like experience. The studios don’t have much, but the larger villas are like apartments.
The larger villas are steep. You may think packing a bunch of people into one of them will make them cost-effective. It will not.
Studio Rooms
The studio villas come with one bathroom, one queen bed, and one queen sleeper sofa. They have a microwave, mini-fridge, toaster, and coffee maker.
Four people in this room are tight. There is no way to sugarcoat this.
Size: 356 square feet
Max guests: 4
One-Bedroom Villa
The one-bedroom villas have one bathroom, a master bedroom with a king-sized bed, and a common area with one queen sleeper sofa and a twin pulldown bed. They also have a full kitchen including a large refrigerator, a dishwasher, a stove, and a washer and dryer.
Size: 756 square feet
Max guests: 5
Two-Bedroom Villa
The two-bedroom villas have multiple doors for privacy. There is a master bedroom with a king-sized bed, a second bedroom with two queens, and a common area with a queen sleeper sofa and a sleeper chair. These villas also offer two and a half bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a washer and dryer.
Size: 1,125 square feet
Max guests: 9
Three-Bedroom Grand Villas
The three-bedroom grand villas offer a master bedroom with a king-sized bed, two additional bedrooms with two queens each, and a common area with a queen sleeper sofa and a sleeper chair. There are three full bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a washer and dryer.
Size: 2,174 square feet
Max guests: 12
7. There Are Characters
The resort has a lot of free character meet and greets, all of which come with lines. If you can handle the crowds, you can get some cute pictures. The usuals like Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, and Pluto, are there. You will also find Chip and Dale, Moana, Stitch, and Duffy the Disney Bear.
This resort also features Uncle, an upper middle-aged man who walks around the resort interacting with guests. He provides scheduled tours of the resorts and tells stories around a campfire at night.
8. There is a 24-Hour Gym
The resort has a gym that is open 24 hours per day. Kids need to be at least 14 years old to enter with a parent, and everyone under age 18 needs to be with an adult.
9. Don’t Miss the Free Menehune Adventure Trail
The Menehune Adventure Trail is a scavenger hunt. You pick up a tablet from Pau Hana Community Hall and then walk through the resort. Interactive things happen, like drums banging, as you complete it.
10. Most of the Organized Activities Come with an Extra Charge
Is the Aulani Resort worth it? Not when it comes to activities.
Disney fans will pay for almost anything Disney-related, even when the upcharge is not remotely worth it. I don’t know how Disney has generated this culture, but it is certainly winning at every turn.
This resort offers some organized activities, but almost all of them cost extra. Fitness classes, arts and crafts, stargazing, and character experiences in the kids’ club all cost more. For the price of your stay, these things should be included.
Unless you really want to do one of these activities, do not fall for Disney’s trap. Entertain yourself with the pools, and beach, and explore the island. Skip the extra junk.
If you want to do one of these activities, be sure to make reservations as soon as your booking window opens. Everything will sell out.
There are a couple of free activities, the most popular of which is ukelele lessons. Be sure to book as soon as you can. The classes fill up quickly.
Pro tip: Download the Aulani app to view the activities schedule.
11. You Can Book Excursions Through Aulani (But Don’t)
You can book off site excursions through Aulani. Don’t. Book on your own. It will be cheaper. Some highlights include:
Kualoa Ranch – A ranch that offers tours in various capacities, including Jurassic Park-themed off-roading, ziplining, and horseback riding.
Pearl Harbor – Be sure to reserve your tickets for the boat ride to the Memorial as soon as your booking window opens.
Dole Plantation – A pineapple plantation that is geared mainly toward little kids.
Atlantis submarine – A submarine that dives deep to view wreckage that the company placed there (which makes that plane you’re seeing slightly less exciting). If nothing else, the Waikiki crowd you will encounter to get to the submarine will make you appreciate Aulani’s serene location.
Diamond Head – A steep hike with amazing views. Don’t forget to make reservations and bring water. The employee we encountered at the top said people have medical emergencies that require a helicopter almost every weekend.
12. You Can Snorkel in a Lagoon for an Extra Charge
Rainbow Reef is a manmade lagoon in the pool area that has tropical fish. You can look at the fish for free. If you want to snorkel or dive in the lagoon, it costs extra.
13. There is a Spa Where Kids Can Get Makeovers
The Laniwai Spa offers typical spa treatments for adults. It also offers Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique-like makeovers for kids but with Hawaiian themes.
14. The Free Kids’ Club is Not What it Used to Be
Aunty’s Beach House is a smaller version of the kids’ clubs you find on Disney Cruise Line. There, kids between the ages of four and 12 can do crafts, watch movies, or play in an enclosed backyard. There are premium experiences offered at an extra charge, or you can book a free 90-minute session.
Aunty’s Beach House is a drop-off experience. There are no adults allowed. If your kids fall within the age range, you can get 90 kid-free minutes per day at the resort.
This sounds nice. However, pre-COVID, your kid could drop in and out all day like they can on the cruises. Now, you have to make reservations for a maximum of 90 minutes per day. I seriously doubt that in 2024 COVID is the reason for this cut.
Pro tip: Kids are given bands to scan in and out of the club. Those are not souvenirs. Return them or you will be charged.
15. The Luau is Stupid Expensive
There is a luau at the resort that includes a buffet dinner and a performance. In true Disney fashion, you can book either general or premium seating.
This experience does not come cheap. Expect to spend well over $500 for a family of four.
16. There Are Hidden Menehune Throughout the Resort
If you enjoy looking for hidden Mickeys at the Disney theme parks, you will have fun hunting for Menehune. Menehune are mythological dwarfs in Hawaiian culture. We were told by Uncle that there are approximately 300 hidden throughout the resort.
Pro tip: Look through the keyhole near the gift shop. There is a Menehune inside.
17. The Dining Options Are Decent
The dining options at Aulani are hit or miss if you don’t want to spend a million dollars. Try some of the on-property restaurants, but definitely venture off-site.
AMA’AMA
AMA’AMA is over $100 per adult as of the time of this writing, and it does not come with characters. Kids are allowed, but I can’t imagine why you would ever take them.
Pro tip: Make a reservation.
Little Opihi’s
Little Opihi’s is a must-stop quick service on the beach that serves Dole Whips and other frozen treats.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the white chocolate-dipped pineapple.
Makahiki
Makahiki offers a character breakfast that isn’t cheap ($50 per adult as of the time of this writing). It also serves an even more expensive dinner (sans characters).
Pro tip: Make a reservation.
Mama’s Snack Stop
Mama’s Snack Stop is a quick service near the pool that serves a few things, like chicken tenders and fish and chips.
Off the Hook
Off the Hook is a casual table service restaurant that is open all day. It serves things like sandwiches, salads, pasta, and sugary coffee drinks.
Pro tip: Gluten-free bread is available.
The Olelo Room
The Olelo Room is a bar that serves lots of fun cocktails with appetizers only. In the morning, you can also purchase malasadas to go.
Papalua Shave Ice
Papalua Shave Ice serves shaved ice only. You can order it in the shape of Mickey Ears for an extra charge (because Disney knows how to make a profit).
Ulu Cafe
Ulu Cafe is a quick service near the pool that is a good option for a break from swimming. It serves breakfast and lunch with prices that are reasonable given that you are at a Disney resort in Hawaii. The poke bowls were a favorite for our family.
Wailana Pool Bar
Strolling servers take orders from the Wailana Pool Bar menu from your pool chair. The menu isn’t huge, but you can order things like sandwiches and salads.
Off Property Options
Some good restaurants near Aulani include:
Island Country Markets – A grocery store across the street that has half-priced sushi at night.
Eggs ‘N Things – A restaurant across the street from the resort with a lot of unique options for breakfast and lunch.
Monkeypod – A restaurant across the street from the resort open for lunch and dinner. Check for happy hour specials.
Tropic Poke – A quick-service restaurant with poke bowls.
Mekiko Cantina – A Mexican restaurant with happy hour specials.
18. There is a Lounge to Use After Checkout
The Luana Lounge has showers, lockers, and a seating area. If you have a late flight, you can continue to enjoy the resort after you get kicked out of your room.
Pro tip: You need a reservation.
19. There Are Ways to Save
Direct Purchase
The hotel occasionally offers deals. Check the offerings at the time of your booking, then check back periodically. You can amend your reservations later.
Pro tip: If you want to book directly, a free travel agent can check discounts and update your reservation for you.
Bonus pro tip: The offers often include discounts for military personnel.
Third-Party Bookings
You may be able to find deals on sites like Expedia, Travelocity, or Tripadvisor.
Travel at Off-Peak Times
If school is in session, the hotel will be cheaper. If you have flexibility in your travel dates, try to avoid the masses.
Pay with Discounted Disney Gift Cards
You can buy discounted Disney gift cards at stores like Target (with a Red Card), Meijer, Costco, BJ’s (with a membership), Raise, and Giftcarddeal.com (careful with this one).
Pay for your hotel package, as well as dining and shopping, with these cards for substantial savings.
Note: This is not a good option if you might need to cancel. Your refund will be in the form of Disney dollars.
Pro tip: You can combine gift cards up to $1,000 per card on Disney’s website so you don’t have to carry dozens of cards with you.
AAA Discount
You may be able to find AAA discounts.
Groupon
You may be able to find deals on Groupon. Don’t assume it has the best price. Shop around.
Use Miles and Points
Miles and points are a great way to save on all travel. Aulani is no exception.
Capital One
The Capital One Venture credit cards allow you to erase travel expenses from your statement. You could book your trip with your card, then erase it.
Disney Visa
The Disney Visa from Chase earns Disney dollars. It isn’t the best credit card for everyday spending, but you could use your rewards to cover your trip.
Pro tip: The hotel sometimes offers discounted rooms to Disney Visa cardholders.
Rent Disney Vacation Club Points
You can book the villas at this hotel with Disney’s timeshare program, the Disney Vacation Club. If you don’t want to commit to decades of visits, you can rent them from a third-party broker like DVC Rental Store or David’s Vacation Club Rentals. These rates will typically be cheaper than booking directly.
Renting points has its downsides, with the major ones being as follows:
1. You need to book far in advance (starting as early as 11 months out)
2. You cannot get a refund (buy trip insurance if this is a concern)
3. You do not get regular housekeeping
4. The rooms have slightly different configurations
5. Availability is limited
Final Thoughts – Is Aulani Worth it?
Aulani is a beautiful resort with a lot to offer, but I cannot justify the cost of a full-price stay. The water area is fun and the beach is beautiful, but it is crazy packed. The majority of the activities have an extra charge, and the kids’ club benefits have been cut. If you aren’t traveling with kids and aren’t obsessed with Disney, this resort is not for you.
With all of that said, if you find a deal, give it a try.
Visit Hawaii with your family. You will not regret it.
