Aulani, A Disney Resort in Hawaii: A Complete Guide for Families

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, is a beachfront resort located in Ko Olina on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. It combines Disney storytelling, family-friendly activities, and Hawaiian culture—without theme parks or long lines. Aulani is especially popular with families who want a relaxing Hawaii vacation with built-in entertainment, character experiences, and thoughtful touches for kids.

At Magic Expeditions, we are an Earmarked by Disney agency with first-hand experience staying at Aulani.  We make planning your Aulani vacation simple, strategic, and stress-free.

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What Is Aulani Like?

Aulani is not a theme park resort - and that’s the point!  It is a family-oriented Hawaiian resort first.  

Instead of rides, you’ll find:

• A calm, swimmable lagoon ideal for young kids
• Multiple pools and waterslides
• Included daily activities like crafts, games, and storytelling
• Disney characters roaming the resort
• A strong focus on Hawaiian culture and history

The overall pace is slower and more relaxed than Walt Disney World, making Aulani a great choice for families who want a vacation, not nonstop stimulation.

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Why Families Love Aulani, A Disney Resort

Families consistently choose Aulani because it offers a rare mix of fun and downtime.

Resort Highlights Include:

• Disney character interactions throughout the resort
• A protected lagoon with gentle water for kids
• Rainbow Reef, an on-site snorkeling experience
• Aunty’s Beach House, a Disney kids’ club with care included
• Daily activities like lei-making and Hawaiian crafts
• KA WA‘A Lu‘au with music, dance, and storytelling
• A variety of pools, splash areas, and waterslides
• Excellent on-site dining options
• Disney details everywhere—without theme park crowds

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Is Aulani Worth It?

This is the question families ask the most!  This will depend on your family and vacation goals.  

Aulani is worth it if:

• You want a Hawaii vacation that works well for kids
• You value included activities and entertainment
• You like Disney’s attention to detail and service
• You love interacting with Disney characters
• You want to relax without planning every hour
  
  

Aulani may not be the best fit if:

• You want a budget Hawaii trip
• You prefer adults-only resorts
• You dislike resorts with lots of families and children
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We’re honest about fit because we want to help you find the right vacation for your family.  

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Dining at Aulani

Aulani offers a range of dining options, from upscale to casual.  Aulani is not an all-inclusive resort.

• ‘AMA‘AMA – Upscale oceanfront dining at sunset
• Makahiki – Character breakfast with Disney friends in Hawaiian attire & delicious (non-character) dining at night
• Ulu Café – Casual grab-and-go with island flavors
• Poolside lounges for tropical cocktails and snacks

Plus, there are many nearby restaurants off the resort.  Some are close enough that you can walk, and others you will need a car.  We can give you our top suggestions when you book with us!  

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How Aulani Blends Disney Storytelling with Hawaiian Culture

One of the most unique aspects of Aulani is its blend of Disney fun and authentic Hawaiian culture.

Storytelling, artwork, and activities are all designed with guidance from local Hawaiian experts. It’s not just a vacation — it’s an immersive island experience.


Read more about what is included at Aulani - and what costs extra at Aulani.

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What's Included Aulani (and What Costs Extra)

Aulani includes far more than many families expect.

Included:

• Pools, lagoon, and waterslides
• Character experiences
• Daily activities and entertainment
• Aunty’s Beach House kids’ club
  
  

Extra cost:

• The Lu‘au 
• Snorkeling at Rainbow Reef
• Spa services
• Restaurants/Dining
• Upgraded activities (such as building custom Mickey ears)
• Parking
  
  

We walk our clients through exactly what to budget for so there are no surprises.

KA WA‘A Lu‘au

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FAQ: Aulani, A Disney Resort in Hawaii

Is Aulani a theme park?

No. Aulani is a Disney resort, not a theme park. There are no rides or attractions like you’ll find at Walt Disney World or Disneyland. The experience focuses on pools, beach time, included activities, character interactions, and Hawaiian culture.

Is Aulani an all-inclusive resort?

No. Aulani is not an all-inclusive resort. In fact, there are no true all-inclusive resorts in Hawaii. Your stay at Aulani includes accommodations, pools, the lagoon, character experiences, and many daily activities. Dining, the lu‘au, spa services, and some experiences cost extra.

What is included at Aulani?

Your Aulani stay includes access to pools and waterslides, the beach and lagoon, daily resort activities, Disney character experiences, and Aunty’s Beach House kids’ club. Some premium experiences and dining options have an additional cost.

Do you need a car at Aulani?

A car is not required if you plan to stay primarily on the resort. However, renting a car is recommended if you want to explore Oahu, visit Pearl Harbor, see the North Shore, or dine off-site.  We can help you with additional arrangements like a rental car. 

How far is Aulani from the airport?

Aulani is located about 20–30 minutes from Honolulu International Airport (HNL), depending on traffic.  If you don't have a rental car, ask us about setting up airport transportation.  Rideshare options can be more limited in Hawaii.

What is the best time of year to visit Aulani?

The best time to visit Aulani depends on your family’s schedule and priorities. Spring and fall—outside of Spring Break and Fall Break—often offer lower crowds and better pricing. Summer and school holidays are busier and more expensive, but still very popular. The weather in Hawaii is beautiful year-round, so timing is more about crowds and cost than climate.

How far in advance should I book Aulani?

We recommend booking Aulani 6–12 months in advance, especially for school breaks, summer travel, and holidays when availability is limited.

Still unsure if Aulani is the right fit? That’s where expert planning makes the difference.

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Why Book Aulani with Magic Expeditions?

We can guide you through planning a unforgettable vacation at Aulani!  We have stayed at this beautiful resort and help families plan trips there every year.  We will work for you on everything from...

• Helping you select the perfect room or villa
• Finding the best pricing
• Mapping out daily plans and activities
• Booking dining reservations
• Offering suggestions for things to do on resort and around Oahu
• And much more!

We will tailor your trip to your family's needs - whether that is kid-focused, couple-focused, or multigenerational.  Our complimentary planning is available at no cost to you when you book your trip with us as your travel agent.   

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