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Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
Categories: Event Planning & Services Hotels Hotels & Travel Hotels Beauty and Spas Day Spas Hotels, Day Spas [Edit]
92-1185 Ali'inui DrKapolei, HI 96707
(808) 674-6200
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Valet
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
126 reviews for Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
Review Highlights
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"It depicts what the true Hawaiian culture is about." In 4 reviews -
"We had lunch at One Paddle, Two Paddle." In 4 reviews -
"...resort favors the Disney Vacation Club members, but it is a..." In 6 reviews
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126 reviews in English
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Review from Cheryl N.
Colton, CA
5/5/2012
We are locals too.....
Stayed for 3 days and 2 nights in the hotel side with the island view (aka the parking structure). Husband had a conference at Ihilani and so we managed to get a really good nightly rate, a 1/3 of what we would have paid!!
Upon arrival we (my husband, me and two children) were sweetly greeted each with a lei or menehune necklace/choker and pineapple/lemon infused water.
We checked in with the front desk and that only took a couple minutes and the from the moment we arrived to the moment we got into the room.
This is where I docked the star.....
The room smelled like smoke. I didn't think anything of it when we got into the room, but showering in there and I guess my body (as well my children's) had enough. Our allergies started going....
So on the way to dinner we stopped off at the front desk and asked them about their smoking policy, and it was there we learned that the hotel likes to pride itself on being completely smoke-free with only a few locations outside of the hotel for guests to smoke. Due to the circumstances, we got our room changed and it was without a problem.
They allowed us to go up to our room and they would bring us our new keys, and they did and it was FAST! Then came dinner!
We have been to Aulani's Makahiki for the character breakfast before and we were pleased, though it's not the best food, it was good for the kids to meet and greet with Mickey and Minnie. The same goes for dinner, though they don't have the characters at dinner, I was happy to be loading up on the sashimi and poke! It is a bit pricey, but our motto is, "We are on vacation, so live it up!" The kids ordered off the menu, they were happy with the dessert!
Aside from food and such, I must say, I was impressed with the pools! I didn't get the chance to check out the slide, but the kids just loved the water playground and the family pool. I, on the other hand loved the jacuzzi and especially the one that overlooks the lagoon!
The biggest perk of Aulani, especially with children is Aunty's Beach House! Free childcare!!! I can't say how happy my children were being there! My daughter who never wants to leave my side, left and played the whole afternoon!!! She made many new friends and wants to go back soon. My son was so happy to be there, it broke his heart that we were checking him out of there....
While the kids were soaking in the fun at Aunty's Beach House, I got to soak in some spa time. I will just say, it was lovely. I will write a review on the Laniwai spa on it's own....
After all was said and done, we were so happy with the location and how our kids loved it, we made Aulani our "new home". So with that, we can be there at least once a year!!
P.S. for those that wanted more Disney, I was told (actually hubby was told by people he knows that works there) that Aulani was made to be more Hawaii with a "touch" of Disney. So, if you are looking for characters galore, this place was not to be that way.... But if you love the touches of Disney this is the place for you. -
Review from Norm B.
Kapolei, HI
5/5/2012
2 Star
Disney has some work to do. The prices are high - even by Hawaii standards. Although the staff is trying very hard at their various tasks, the facility, restaurants, gift shop and bar all lack the panache one has come to expect from Disney. If Disney management focuses the same attention at Aulani as they have on their other attractions around the world they will truly have another jewel in their crown.
Suggestion 1 - Have a Disney cruise line route from the mainland to Aulani, mooring at Barbers Point, thereby avoiding the whole downtown morass and keeping the tourists on site.
Suggestion 2 - Get on with using the Black Pearl (Captain Jack Sparrow's ship is currently moored at Barber's Point) for cruises along the west coast of Oahu. A boarding by some pirates looking for plunder and scaring the kids could be a real draw. Better yet, get a Captain Jack Sparrow look-alike to stumble around the deck.
Suggestion 3 - Offer discounts to kama'aina, Disney annual pass holders or at least to veterans. -
Review from John N.
5/2/2012 1 Check-in Here
Just six months after my pleasant experience at Aulani's restaurants, I decided to have a staycation at Disney's Aulani resorts. The resort offers a kamaaina rate of 25% off which is among the highest kamaaina discounts out there for large resorts. My stay was basically two nights on the standard room.
Phone reservation system was top notch in service and mainland Disney representatives were well versed in Hawaiian pronunciation. They even sent out a nice brochure about Aulani and Oahu and what to bring and expect a week before.
Front desk staff were friendly but we had issues from the start getting our keys. After 20 minute wait at the front desk, we were given our keys but were not assigned a room. It was not til an hour later that we got our rooms. Front desk said something about upgrade for the wait involved but we were still given the standard room.
Rooms were immaculate. For the lowest option room, you get what you expect from a top notch resort. The bathrooms were large and featured both rain baths and deep soaking tubs. The bed was a bit firm, which wasn't too my liking as I'm used to a high end plush euro top mattress at home.
We were looking forward to Disney's movie night(think Sunset on the Beach) but we were disappointed the first night that there was no movies. We have heard they used to do it on Fridays until recently. No big deal, as the surprise of the next day was that they had one. Finding Nemo, one of my favorites, too!
On the first night, our dinner was at Makahiki, their buffet restaurant. I loved the first time I went there in October but this time, the food was completely different. None of the seafood looked nor smelled fresh, and many items I loved the first time around we're no longer on the menu. Totally not worth the $43 unless they change the menu back to the original.
The second night, I wasn't going to take any chances. I broke my room service virginity. The room service menu wasn't large, so I settled with a Caesar salad, a nice steak and mushrooms, side spinach, and Hawaiian chocolate cake. The concierge were extremely helpful with the room service and room came in a timely manner. The room service food was quite amazing. I liken the quality of the food to 95% like a high end bistro(think BLT, Ruth Chris). Bill was $95, but still less expensive than our buffet the night prior.
The pool play area at Aulani is massive, but only less than half a year from opening, one of the two slides were down and the infinity pool wasn't either. I would imagine if you had children, they would have a blast.
All in all, my experience was mixed. My total damage was right at $1000 for two nights. I hope Disney would look at the downfalls and return them back to what it was before. -
Review from Melissa R.
Aiea, HI
5/24/2012 1 Check-in Here
I really enjoyed my stay at this resort. Stayed with a very good friend. Our room was so beautiful. The spa was amazing tons of fun. One of my best memories in Hawaii
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Review from M S.
Waimanalo, HI
4/29/2012
We spent the weekend there, this was our visit to decide if we would become Disney vacation owners or not. We decided not. There was nothing Disney about this place. We expected to see Mickey, Minnie and others walking around, but instead there is a schedule to follow. No Donald Duck, No Daisy. The most disappointing for our 4-year old, is not a single princess on schedule or anywhere. We could not get into the character breakfast without reservations months in advance, even as guests.
Everything is expensive, The dinner buffet was overpriced, Family of 5= $200! Was not that tasty and not vegetarian friendly. The Kalepa store was ok, NO Mickey ears to buy for my kids, except for the wedding ones.
We also celebrated my sons birthday and all he got was a round pin that said happy birthday in Hawaiian.
I asked my kids about how they liked it- this is their comments...
-My 11 year old said...they went overboard with the Hawaiian theme (mind you we are a Hawaiian Immersion ohana).
-My 7 year old.... There was not a big pool for me, they were too deep.I liked the scavenger hunt... Finding the menehune. I like the lazy river.
-my 4 year old... I like the big lollipops. I like the movie night. The kiddy pool had too much sprays.
What we loved? All the customer service was awesome and we were pleased to see locals employed.
But the customer service is not enough for us to give up our Hilton Grand Vacation club membership for Disney. SORRY -
Review from George N.
Ewa Beach, HI
5/13/2012
I was excited to visit Aulani Hotel....Boy its kinda dark there....The walk ways are small...I past by about a dozen workers and wanted to see how the Aloha Spirit is presented...WRONG..not one had smiled and greeted me...Even the two managers that walk past me...The walls are fake and the grass is fake....Parking, good luck...10.00 and hour.....I don't even want to know the Kaimaaina Rates......The Marriott Hotel is way better.....
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Review from Kalena P.
Kaneohe, HI
4/17/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Aulani: expectations were beyond exceeded!!! From the moment I arrived and constantly throughout my stay, I was met with outstanding customer service. The resort itself was like stepping into another world. We took this stay-cation to celebrate my son's 4th birthday. 3 days was NOT enough!! He (and I) were completely enchanted. Disney knows how to do it big! We literally spent our entire day basking in the sun, playing in the pools, lazy river, and lagoon. Our favorite part was the pool party with Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy. This is absolutely the most magical experience you can give to your child on Oahu.
When I say my expectations were exceeded, it's because I thought it was going to be a very corny, cheesy version of a "Hawaiian" experience. I thought it was going to be a sell-out tourist trap like Duke's Lane or most of Waikiki. As a native Hawaiian, I was happily surprised how much effort Disney put into the creation and authentication of Aulani. Sure, they're profiting off the culture, but they also teach you about that culture so I respect them for that. They share art work, history, language, music, dance, folk lore, and of course, food. Also, they have many local and Hawaiian workers which is also great to see.
Anyways, the few recommendations I have are:
1. PLAN in advance. Do your research and if ANY of the activities you want to participate in recommend or require reservations , reserve ASAP!!!! We weren't able to participate in a lot of activities because everything was booked. Luckily there are so many activities going on around the hotel that I didn't feel like we missed out on much.
2. They are very strict about who they provide their service to. You will be banded, carded, etc. to ensure you are a paying guest, especially at the pool. Your name is even printed on your room key as an ID/ "credit card." Be prepared for interrogation if you have guests that aren't registered. Save yourself the trouble and register everyone.
It's definitely pricey but you are buying an experience, not just a hotel room. Worth every dollar!!! Will be back, repeatedly!
Highlights: Character meet and greets. Snorkeling on the reef IN the resort. Nightly Hawaiian music. Luxurious jetted bathtub in the 1 bedroom villa. Delicious dinner buffet. Beautiful artwork. Exercise, hula, arts and crafts etc. classes. Activities for families, keiki, and teens. Water slide. Water playground. The list goes on. Thank you Aulani!! -
Review from Faye M.
4/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
I SAW A MOUSE!!
Mickey Mouse, that is! I stayed here this past weekend with my family for a little staycation/birthday celebration for my aunty and nephew.
Half of my family was off the day of check-in; so they tried to do early check-in, but were unsuccessful. So unsuccessful that they checked in about an hour and a half AFTER the regular check-in time! Poor them - they had to wait around for about 3 hours in the hot sun! But the rest of us (me, included) came after work and went straight to our 2 bedroom suite!
Pulling up to the valet ($35/night), we were greeted by friendly staff and given lei and directions to our room. Our room was at lobby level, in the Waianae wing of the resort. The suite was huge ~ 2 bedrooms with 2 full baths in each room, a half bathroom, living room with pull out couch and love seat, full kitchen with microwave, stove top, and oven (with a small bottle of dish washing liquid & new sponge), and 2 separate lanai.
The decor in the rooms were very nice: Hawaiian quilt with hidden Mickeys on the beds, surfer Mickey lamp with ukulele, etc. It wasn't too over the top (think the Polynesian Resort in WDW, but less kitschy) the bathrooms were modern and beautiful too! H20+ bath products made with Hawaiian Salt were provided also.
The room I stayed in had 2 queen size beds; that were very comfortable, but very high off the ground! Mostly, I believe to accommodate the under the bed area to store your suitcases to free up floor and closet space. Those Disney people - they're so ingenious, I tell you!!
The property itself is beautiful - very Disney! Menehune hiding all over the place, and lots to keep children and adults busy throughout their stay. There's a lazy river that you can cruise in on rubber tubes (it could go a tad faster, IMO), a pool to play in, 2 slides to scream your head off on (it's not scary, but I like to scream for no reason!), jacuzzi(s?), and a children's pool area with a big water feature! Of course there is a beach area - more like a lagoon; that is shared with the Ihilani Resort, but it's big enough to share! You can rent a covered chaise lounge chair ($40/day), or lie out on the lounge chairs for free (we did both). There are also kayak rentals and SUP rentals ($30/hour). My BF and I rented the SUP for 2 hours and had a blast! It was really fun, and the first time for both of us.
The gift shops have a lot of nice Aulani/Disney/Hawaii themed items, but kinda pricy. They also sell food and drinks, but just a short walk across the street is an ABC store disguised as an "Island Country Market" which sells more food and snacks for waaaay cheaper! They also sell groceries for cooking during an extended stay (making use of that kitchen!).
Service was up to Disney standards - we were greeted by all cast members, even when my sister and I walked past the same gentleman in less than 3 minutes, he said "Good morning, again!" And everyone seemed happy to be there.
This was a special treat for our family, who are all big Disney fans! I probably won't stay here again, but I'm glad that I got to stay here at least once. It's hard to make a Hawaii themed resort; when you're already in Hawaii, but Disney managed to do it with some pixie dust and sand! -
Review from Aiko A.
Honolulu, HI
4/6/2012
When Disney decided to create a resort in Hawaii, they took on a huge, maybe impossible, challenge: Create a Hawaii experience when you are already in the real Hawaii.
My family and I spent the weekend at Aulani to celebrate two birthdays. We did online early check in. Quick tip: It doesn't seem to help as we waited for at least an hour and a half for our room to be ready. At first we were told it would be 30 minutes, but those 30 minutes stretched into 90 minutes. I guess that's the Hawaii part of the check in experience...Hawaiian time. Honestly, tell us how long it's really going to be or if you misjudged the timing, you asked for our contact info...call us and at least acknowledge it. It is clear that the customer service of the resort staff is a work in progress. Hopefully that is not on Hawaiian time. The valet guys were impressive. Very attentive and a couple times I saw them running to retrieve cars.
The rooms are beautiful. It is evident that a lot of thought went into blending Hawaii with Disney. This is very well done in the rooms. We had a two bedroom villa with two and a half baths. The master bedroom bath had a jacuzzi tub with separate shower. The second bedroom had a tub shower combo. Both full baths had a rain shower. There was also a kitchen, eating area, and living room.
Our one full day at the resort was spent at the beach and pools. My husband and I enjoyed a covered double chaise lounge while the rest of my family did the same or explored the pools.
Three nights at Aulani will be enough for you and your wallet. By the end of that time, you will have experienced what you've needed to at this Disney resort and started to relax so that you can then go out and explore Oahu and/or the rest of Hawaii for itself: hike the real Diamond Head, surf on the North Shore or even Waikiki, enjoy red velvet pancakes at Cinnamon's in Kailua, jump off the rock at Waimea Bay...Go Really experience Hawaii. -
Review from Emi H.
Updated - 3/8/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Spent the weekend enjoying a wonderful 3 day/2 night staycation at Disney's Aulani Resort and it was 5-stars all the way! I'm not sure what Kool-Aid they have their employees drink but everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, was so nice during our stay at the resort.
When we arrived at the Aulani the friendly valet unloaded our bags, a cast member placed fresh tuberose and kukui nut leis around our necks, and our kiddies were given brown wooden necklaces upon which hung a tiny menehune statue. Then the greeter escorted us into the hotel to the front desk for our check-in. Oh, did I mention every single person greets you in Hawaiian?! Word.
Our room was a gorgeous two bedroom suite with full kitchen, whirlpool tub and a huge lanai. The room overlooked the pool and had a beautiful view of the ocean. We happily cooked up a bunch of meals and the kitchen was well stocked with dishes and utensils. My favorite amenity in the room however were the bath robes. I've stayed at quite a few hotels but have never enjoyed wearing a robe like at the Aulani. It's lined with an ultra soft fabric which literally caresses your body. Each night the adults had a "robe party" and we drank wine while cuddling our robes. I think I may have to go back and buy one because writing this review is making me miss it!
Last but not least, the water area outside is phenomenal! If you've got kids and want to turn yourself into "The Best Parent Ever" then take them to the Aulani!!! They splashed their hearts out at the giant water jungle gym, relaxed in the not-too-hot jacuzzis, slid down the giant slides via intertube and floated around on the lazy river. We enjoyed poolside cocktails from the bar, which brought the whole weekend from a 10 to an 11! At about 1:30 pm they even have a Disney character show where kids get to play some quick and easy water games, and Mickey, Minnie and Goofy all make an appearance. We even had a staff member collect our damp towels and bring us fresh warm towels. Now that is what I call a 5-star experience!
My daughter summed up our spectacular Aulani weekend in a few words: "This is the best day of my whole life!" Yup, worth every penny.
Yelp 365 Challenge: #177/365 (The Best Day Ever)Listed in: Me + My BF = Bliss, Yelp 365 Challenge 2011, You've Got Kids In Honolulu…, Kids Birthday Party Planning, Date Night, No Longer Optional
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/7/2011
Went to a business event at the Aulani today and I have to say that I am surprisingly impressed!… Read more »
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Review from Ronin E.
4/25/2012 12 photos
One word - amazing.
First of all, I have to address a couple other reviews that, honestly, are just annoying. If you just walked through, what in the world are you doing reviewing an hotel's entire experience? It's not fair to the hotel or other potential guests. It's like walking by a restaurant and then saying the food was terrible (or great). Also, I see it on here as well as when the Aulani was being built... the constant scrutiny that it had and has to continue to endure about appeasing the Hawaiian cultural experience. Wtf...? You don't see the neighboring Marriott or ANY hotel in the area being criticized at all and they couldn't give a damn less about the culture or educating its guests - nor should a hotel have to if they don't want to. But,since this is Disney, it's any easy target. They go soooooo far above and beyond to give as much of the Hawaiian culture as they can (as much, if not more, than the Polynesian Cultural Center) and then they're 'posers' or whatever? Anyway...
SERVICE
From the second you pull up, you're treated like a king, almost to the point of it being a little too much. They greet you, offering you leis. The lobby is open and definitely rustic, reminds me of a ski lodge.. They have amazing koa woodwork everywhere, very open and airy. We were early so they held our bags, no problem. They also have a free showers and locker area near the pool if you check out and still want pool time before your flight or beheading out. They really have thought of things that I never would have, but again, they're all about service and that's a big part of what you're paying for.
CHARACTERS
Also, let's be honest, you bring the kids here for the "Disney" experience and a big part of that is the characters... and they're not stingy here as they are at Disneyland (big lines to see Mickey, random schedules for other characters). My daughters were charged up to see some characters and, right away, there was Goofy greeting people. My daughter then met Minnie while walking by the pool and, although she was clearly being ushered out, they had her stop for my daughter (who LOVES Minnie)... it was like meeting a celebrity for her. Later in our stay, we met the other characters multiple times, everything from standing in areas to walking around, playing games, etc. I guess there are other characters in Aunty's Beach House, like Stitch and the chipmunks, and they'll do activities with your kids.
++Tip, Aunty's Beach house is free 8a-10a, but no characters.
ROOMS
We checked in for two nights into a suite. The attention to the room detail was astonishing. Hawaiian decor without being tacky, flat screen TVs with Blu Ray players (would have brought some had I'd known), pull out bed in the TV room as well as a fold down bed, extra bedding, full balcony, amazingly soft beds and a ridiculously nice bathroom with brass fixtures. There's even a mosaic in the shower. We had an infant and a toddler, both literally slept longer here than they ever had at home. Oh, also, they provide a pack n' play for each room.
POOLS
Fun for everyone. Great lazy river, a two water slides (not for young kids), regular pool, PLENTY of chairs. The beach area is also great... what I don't like, though, is how they have this gate awkward gate that you have to activate with your key to get in again. The place where you activate is too way away from the door and it's so heavy and magnetic that we were having trouble getting it open... as were others. Also, the neighboring hotels welcome others in to dine there... here? Not so much. But I guess it's better for the guests since there are kids here vs. at the other luxury hotels, you don't want "randoms" walking around.
FOOD
Well, honestly, the restaurants here are really, REALLY expensive, like Beverly Hills expensive. We had transportation... there's a Target at the exit before you get in here, which you definitely want to hit up.
NEED TO IMPROVE
They have this great "idea" for this treasure hunt type of game where kids get these Android devices and find things that are hidden in the resort. Sounds fun huh? Not so much. The map is too wide to figure out sometimes and it's not sequential in spots, going in circles. Sometimes the things didn't respond and half the time, it can't connect its network, so you're standing there in the hot sun with your kids trying to explain what's going on, wasting time.
PRICE
My overall star ratings come from how much did the value match the price... and there's a LOT of price here. I mean, honestly, it's geared toward people with a lot of money. I don't complain, I'm super fortunate in life to be able to afford this (I just can't justify the food prices which are about 25% too much across the board). If I'm paying that much for a suite, I have high expectations... and they met every single one of them. It was the highlight of our week-long trip to trip. -
Review from Don D.
3/22/2012 16 Check-ins Here
I cant really write a review on the place because it would be biased. But all Im going to do is comment on the decor.
Nothing was spared in building this place! It looks expensive because they took the time to build it properly!
Its not so much a "Disney" hotel as it is a "Hawaiian" resort. There are a lot of things Hawaiian about the resort and they tried not to emphasize the Disney aspect.
As you enter the Maka'ala (lobby) you'll notice the artistry of the resort. You wont even see anything with Mickey Mouse ears, or a Goofy face. Its all about Hawaii. You walk across to the balcony and you can see the middle of the resort with the water features, pool, fountains, the lagoon, etc.
The restaurant is toward the back of the resort because it faces the ocean. Awesome views!
There is an area where kids can stay (like a babysitting center) with kids activities. There's an awesome spa, and a spa for teens too!
All I can say is go check out the resort yourself. If you have a meal at the restaurant or at the buffet, they will validate your parking! I believe you have to spend about $30 for the validation....but it truly is an awesome resort!
If youre lucky enough to stay there, you probably wouldnt want to leave! -
Review from Berry S.
Ewa Beach, HI
4/29/2012
We stayed here for the weekend and I admit it was a nice "stay cation" and break from the norm...however; it is WAY too expensive and crowded around the pools and restaurants. It seems they did not plan well for the volume of guests vs. the size and volume of seating/lounge chairs etc. can a guest (paying 500.00 + /night) have dinner at the buffet? Nope! "we are booked and you should've made your dinner reservations months in advance!"...REALLY? Never imagined I'd have to plan every meal months in advance!! Parking is outrageous too! One of the two slides were closed for repairs during our stay. Overall, a nicely Hawaiian detailed hotel (no Disney theme at all),few Disney characters, outrageous food prices, Just OK food, nice river pool/kiddie water play ground.
Tip: you better have LOTS of money to throw away if you want to stay at this "resort".
Have a burger combo from the poolside bar instead of the buffet or restaurant... You will save about 30.00 each meal per person!!
It's basically a hotel with a mini water park and outrageously overpriced food!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Go to the water park down the highway and SAVE YOUR $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$. -
Review from Margaret w.
Ewa Beach, HI
3/28/2012
Spa review:
First and foremost, I would like to thank the staff member Sharon who helped my friend and I enjoy our spa day. She was so helpful and polite and really made the day enjoyable. Sharon, you rock!
The spa is incredible. Though the set up is different then any I have seen, you will not be disappointed. From the super plush robe to the ultra luxurious relaxation room, every aspect was beautiful.
My only complaint is the outdoor rain showers. While they did feel amazing and perfectly heated, the sensors seems to have issues and it took a lot of trail and error to get them going. Never the less, those showers were still one on my favorite parts of the outside hydrotherapy garden. I also loved the hot tub and plunge pool combo.
Overall, very memorable day and hope to return soon. I do wish they offered local or military discount. -
Review from Lynn T.
Honolulu, HI
3/31/2012
Makahiki breakfast brunch review:
Attended a child's birthday brunch and the staff was very friendly, personable, and accommodating. The Disney characters came to greet us and stopped by our table several times for photo ops. The kids had a lot of fun with the characters and activities. On the other hand, it was hot as hell sitting on the lanai with no shade! I think our party was too big (?) to accommodate inside. Also, the buffet was average and lacked the resort feel. Presentation was mediocre as was the quality and variety of food. The best thing on the buffet was the mini loco moco and the Mickey Mouse waffles were a hit with the kids. -
Review from Heather S.
Santa Ana, CA
3/31/2012 1 Check-in Here
If I could give this place an additional star- I would. My only regret is that I didn't spend more time here! My history enthusiastic parents wanted to see the island more than lounge at the hotel so that's what we did. However, I took some time to explore, get a tour and find all the wonderful things Disney did with this amazing resort. From the hidden menehune around the hotel and grounds to the lazy river pool- everything is excellent. The staff were easily the best part of the stay. They are only too happy to help you and see that you have everything you want out of your stay.
I feel so lucky to have come when I did because I know that when the rest of the wings of the hotel open it is going to be so busy! It was a relaxing time to sit by the bar drinking my Ginger Pineapple Splash and listening to soft ambient music. The grounds are beautiful kept and the whole hotel reflects the essence of Hawaiian culture. Not just in the way tourists imagine Hawaii to be, but in a historical "through the ages" way that makes you interested and want to ask questions and get answers.
One of my favorite parts was "Stories by the Fire with Uncle." The night I attended, I got a Hawaiian history lesson, beautifully told and serenaded by his ukelele playing as well as a Hawaiian language lesson taught in song. I couldn't recommend doing this enough! The staff is so knowledgable. They have a lovely lagoon, complete with beach chairs and cabanas for rent. If I go back I would definitely take advantage of all the lagoon activities and benefits.
The rooms are heaven. Storage under the bed for your suitcase/shoes/bags- raised beds to accommodate the storage area, but not so high as to make using the bed difficult. The beds are SO comfortable and the lighting is fantastic. A table and 2 chairs if you care to dine in room or write a letter, or sit and do some email. There is also EXCELLENT wifi (free) throughout the resort for registered guests, including at the beach! I love places that offer great free wifi. It's the way things should be nowadays. The room service was incredible, though the portion sizes were enormous! I recommend sharing an entree with 2 or 3 people. No exaggeration here!
The bathroom was a divine experience. sunken, extra wide tub with rainfall shower directly overhead as well as a normal shower head that could be adjusted and removed to use as an extension. The loo area was separated by a door and the vanity had 2 ledges above for maximum capacity storage for multiple family members toiletries as well as open cubbies under the sink for addition storage. There was perfect light for make up application as well as a magnified mirror for close facial examination. The 2 in-room robes provided are soft as sink and so comfortable. I cannot recommend them or this resort enough. Even a short stay is going to a very memorable experience whether you're on your own, as a couple or as a family. -
Review from Aditi C.
Redondo Beach, CA
4/17/2012
I stayed at the Aulani over Spring Break and have mixed reviews. I'll try to be as objective as possible, especially given that my husband works for Disney. The bottom line, unless you're wealthy and have small children, I wouldn't bother. Here are the pros and cons from my perspective. I went there with my husband and 6-year-old daughter for five days in early April.
Pros:
- Beautiful, gorgeous, breathtaking - the architecture and layout of the hotel and pool are flawless
- It has its own private beach with rentals like kayaks, boards, etc.; beach chairs are provided by the hotel as well
- Disney characters are abundant but not in your face all the time, just enough for your kid to get to meet them and be satisfied
- Food is not bad (that's the best I can do)
- The pool is fantastic, especially the lazy river and various slides, which all dump into the pool; also a small, "quiet pool" is nearby, separately, for people who want to pretend like it can be quiet with kids running around the premises
- The Hawaiian theme is entrenched throughout the facility
- Plenty of activities inside the resort for small kids
- Babysitting service (Auntie's Beach House) is provided for adults who want some quiet time of their own; fun activities planned for kids from time to time
- The spa is fantastic, worth every penny!
- My daughter LOVED the pool and refused to leave. To her, it was all worth it!
Cons:
- Ridiculously expensive! We got almost 1/2 off because my husband is a Disney employee and the standard (2 queen) room was still over $200/night. You can do the math on how much it would be for regular folks. Granted, we did go at a busy time, but still.
- As my husband put it, the hotel is "not ready" for prime time. It was operating at only half the capacity (only one of the two hotel towers have been opened so far) and all the pool chairs are full and restaurants are booked days ahead of time. Even for a planner like me, it was frustrating. I don't want to book every dinner for every night three weeks ahead of time. I can't imagine what it will be like with twice as many people. All of the food service was VERY slow. For the last couple of days we went to the small market across the street to get wraps for lunch and it saved us oodles of time and money
- The resort is in the middle of nowhere so you're pretty much stuck there unless you want to book excursions, which will cost you even more $$
- They add in gratuity on your bill automatically for all dinner services, which I HATE, especially since the service sucked here
- The food is pretty much the same in all of their restaurants, nothing spectacular, and no special Hawaiian themed foods
- Drinks are weak sauce - we ordered wine, they couldn't screw us there; but some of the fruity drinks were tasty
I may have forgotten something but when it comes down to it, it's not worth the money (unless you have money to throw away). I would have preferred my cheap vacation I took many years ago on Waikiki Beach. This was more memorable because it was with family, but it'll be a do-over soon. -
Review from Milka C.
Cypress, CA
4/13/2012
Wow Aulani, it was way better than I expected.
From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with pineapple water to soothe us from our long trip. We were then mesmerized by the entryway and open lobby that shows us the luxurious sunshine of the pool and beach (sigh)
I could try to use all sorts of adjectives to tell you, dear reader, that this was service at its top level. Mind you, we are a humble family of four that could only afford a simple room with a partial mountain view. The service was stellar, every single staff member was so accommodating and cheerful. they were so happy and cheerful in fact I was starting to get nervous..but anyway...It was way better than I expected. We arrived on spring break week, but luckily we avoided the large crowds and were able to have a memorable week of luxury.
Pros:
The beach was pristine and clean. the lagoon and surrounding area was just lovely.
The pool and waterslides were really cool and the infinity hot tub overlooking the ocean is not to be missed. Aunty's beach house was great for my kids, it was very well staffed, it seemed like there were more staff than kids at times and they are serious about security. I have an autistic son that I felt apprehensive about dropping off at the playhouse, but they reassured me everything was going to be ok and even though I checked in often, the staff was pleasant and were great with both of my boys.
The fitness room was state of the art, I did not get to enjoy the spa but did a quick walk through and it looked enviable. Housekeeping was great and our rooms were cleaned throughly every morning and turndown service was pleasant too.
A newsletter was delivered nightly that described the activities for the following day.
Although we were there a week, we only participated in a fraction of the activities offered, so more of a reason to go back.
Cons:
As a lot of people say, the food is very forgettable. We did the Character Breakfast buffet, and the food was so bland and tasteless but mickey waffles were a hit with the kids. AMA AMA restaurant was a step up but still nothing special. The shave ice place I thought was pretty good and reasonable and a quick refresher.
Also, the rooms are kind of small, although very well stocked and decorated. But for some reason, the in room refrigerator did not get very cold, so when I called housekeeping, they told me its more of a cooler than a refrigerator (WTF? for
$400 a night they should put in a working small fridge, not a cooler) but these were minor things.
Overall, I can easily say our stay was magical. The service was top notch, whatever character building exercise/teamwork really works for the Aulani. The service was way better then Grand Californian Hotel and I thought it was great there. I highly recommend staying here. Hopefully one day we can be DVC members so we can enjoy staying in a villa.
Hint: the ABC store across the street is great for a quick bite/take out meal.
I really enjoed -
Review from Shay F.
*shakes my head* I'm so dissapointed with you Aulani. You have totally crushed a girl's heart and happy feelings of "happiest place on Earth" vibe.
I was sooooooooooooo excited to go to Aulani to celebrate my birthday. I got my 11:00 am breakfast brunch buffet with the characters and ready to celebrate with lots of joy. (Read my review on THAT place too...ugh.)
Stitch was out and about snapping photos with the guests. After a guest took a picture with one, I immediately ran up and asked, "May I take a photo?" But the staff said, it's time for us to go back. But but but...you JUST took a photo before me I was thinking. So I said, "It's my birthday!" But the staff just shrugged. Then she said, "Well, we'll be back at 2:30pm." But I said, "I'm only here for the character brunch. Please!?!?" ....and they just walked off....
If I wasn't an adult...I would've cried. My eyes were watery and my heart was crushed. Ya ya ya...it's just a photo opp with a stupid walking stuffed animal thingy, but it would've brought me extreme joy.
So much for an awesome experience...
Yelp 365 Challenge #203/365Listed in: Yelp 365 Challenge
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Review from Rob W.
Huntington Beach, CA
3/15/2012
All I can say is EXCELLENT! We spent a week here and it has been fantastic! a super relaxed atmosphere gets you into the vacation mode as soon as you walk in the door.
Staff and services are superb. Everyone really tries to make your stay as pleasant as possible. The accommodations are what you expect from Disney, all first class.
The pool and beach areas are beautiful and we could have stayed another week without getting bored.
Oh, the kids had a great time too. -
Review from Jen S.
Issaquah, WA
4/28/2012
We stayed next door and walked over to have dinner, check out the grounds and see if we'd return with our son. The grounds are gorgeous, building is exceptional. However, I was stunned at how dark it is at night---lots of hiding places for creeps, very low lighting. The food was eh and super expensive. Waitresses told us that only 1/2 the hotel is open and there are alot of issues with people getting space at the beach and pools. I think I'd skip the Mickey logo and stay at another full service resort on Maui if you really want to do Hawaii with your kids.
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Review from Tad K.
Monterey Park, CA
1/30/2012 1 Check-in Here
A very disappointing experience.
Here on Oahu on business and went out to Aulani to see the resort. It's big and tall - too big if you ask me. I think it's just too imposing for the area, maybe lower would of been better.
Anyhow, I went to buy omiage (gifts) for friends and family back in Ca. The shop was small, but had plenty to choose from. No bargains here, but that's to be expected at a Disney resort.
Ended up buying over $200 of stuff and asked the clerk for individual bags to use when I gave the gifts. She replied that they were running low and would not be able to offer them. I was taken aback. Hawaii merchants are in the business of selling gifts, especially one's for visitors to take back homr. She gave me a few sheets of orange tissue, that's nice (NOT!).
I then asked for validation for my parking - it's $10 for the first hour. She matter-of-factly told me that was not an option. Only F&B.
So fuming, I went to the front desk and was told the same thing. I showed her my receipt and was told the same thing. I suggested to her that I have to go downstairs to buy a coke to get the validation and she cheeryfully advised that was not the case, that I would have to spend $35 at the restaurant.
I guess my rolling of eyes got her thinking and she suggested that I hold on, and she would check with her manager about my request. A minute later, I was on my way to the car - validation in hand.
The grounds are beautuful and depict the Hawaiian infulence, but they showed me the mainland influence - They need to work on their Aloha. -
Review from Mark S.
Aliso Viejo, CA
2/23/2012
We are DVC members who visited Aulani for the first time in January (2012). I've been around this country and around Europe, and I have to say that Aulani is simply unbelievable! Not a dull moment, not a pressured moment, not a moment when you didn't just bathe in the hospitality and the feeling that everything is just about right about this resort.
Our villa was the perfect size for a family of four (mom, dad, college-aged son & HS-aged daughter). The only drawbacks to the room were that while there were two separate bathroom areas in our villa, there's only one toilet (which is typical of most resort rooms), and the fact that the shower floor was installed with the grade channeling water away from the drain (!). How'd that happen?
There could be more restaurants and food choices at the resort, and the restaurants are pricey. We had a complete kitchen and laundry in our suite, so I drove over to the Safeway in the town of Kapolei (about 4 miles away) and stocked up on food etc (they accepted my Von's Club card, BTW). That allowed us to save a lot of money by eating every b'fast and a few lunches and dinners in the room, cooked on the brand-new appliances. We probably saved at least a couple of hundred dollars that way.
I highly recommend visitors avail themselves of the island-centric activities at Aulani, especially the Star-lit Hui and the nightly story telling by Uncle Ito, who is one of the most-talented performers one could hope to encounter.
The cast members were great. I took a spill near one of the pools as I was carrying burgers from One Paddle-Two Paddle. Nothing big, scraped a knee a bit. There were two cast members by my side practically before my knee hit the concrete! I continued on to our chairs by the Wailana pool to have our lunch, and less than 2 minutes later, a lifeguard with band-aids etc was there to make sure I was OK and to patch up my scraped knee (the scraped ego was another story!).
6 nights at Aulani weren't enough, and we can't wait to get back! I for one will take a realistic island feel over DWR service any day of the week. The trade off is no big deal. After all, you're in paradise. What could be better?
BTW - the Aulani staff gave us the ol' DVC "welcome home" all the time, so I don't know what people are complaining about. They even greeted us by name as we got out of the car when we arrived, complete with leis for the entire family. Everybody is always saying "Aloha," and we learned quite a few Hawi'ian words from the staff.
How many vacations does one take where you can honestly say you came home a little bit wiser?
To the staff for the GREAT time we had - Mahalo!
A hui hou! -
Review from Drina P.
Waianae, HI
4/24/2012
What a beautiful Hotel/Resort! The wood work is amazing, the deco just delivers a feeling like you never want to leave. But today, I'm reviewing the Buffet restaurant Makahiki in Aulani. Buffet line always full, wonderful array of foods and deserts, drinks available along with coffee and assorted tea. I loved my experience there as we celebrated a birthday for a friend. $ 43 a person is not bad since you can stay for 4 hours. Go check it out! Valet parking avail too.
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Review from Sharon O.
Aiea, HI
2/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
Loved our stay here. We were there for a couple of days so we tried to cram everything into the time that we had.
The ambiance of the Hawaiian culture in every bit of the hotel, absolutely wonderful. Being a local, it was really nice to see that they spent so much on the details of the history and culture of Hawaii. A little touristy, but very special.
The food...well, we only ate at the gift shop and at the wedding we were attending, but everything was awesome. The prices were a bit on the high side, but that was to be expected.
The spa was wonderful. Quiet and beautiful decor. I only wish we signed up for more treatments so we could experience the whole spa. From what I had seen, it stretched farther (seemed like a whole wing and the outdoor area immediately surrounding it) than just the salon area. Would love to go back and experience this.
The hotel room was spacious for a deluxe. Loved the comfy bed. Flat screen TV. Everything was clean. There was a little damage to hooks on the closet doors, but that's due to guests not being careful, not the hotel's fault.
The pool area was cool. It was like an interior water park. My daughter loved the lazy river and the water playground. Our family loved the jacuzzis and hot pools. The infiniti hot pool was especially breathtaking. It sits at the edge of a rocky precipice that looks out to the ocean.
Aunty's Beach House is genius. Aulani's answer to day care. There was an area for little toddlers to dress up, a movie room, a full playground, a kitchen area, computer room and several interactive/touch screen tables for the kids to play on. Think giant ipad. I wanted to stay there with my daughter, but that would defeat the purpose of day care. They even feed your kids snacks or lunch, but of course, you have to pay for it. For safety, they ask you to fill out contact information and set-up a password in order to check your child out. They even put a security wrist band (looks like a kid watch) on your child that they have to tap on a sensor upon entry. Don't forget to return the band before leaving though, they will charge you $50 for it!
It was a wonderful stay. The grounds were beautiful, the staff was extremely friendly and knowledgeable...I would definitely want to stay again! -
Review from Dodie S.
Diamond Bar, CA
4/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
Did not stay here for it was too expensive. Drove out to check the place out. Sorry to say, was not impressed. The hotel itself, looked nice & differen from the others. Parking was $10 an hour & $5 after was not worth it. Maybe to go there for a party is worth it. Sorry :(
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Review from Noelani C.
Honolulu, HI
2/13/2012
A beautiful hotel with so many fun activites, delicious restaurants, fun attractions, beautiful pools to swim in, yummy character breakfast, and dinner buffet... but today's phone call to book a hotel room 2 bedroom villa was the worst experience ever! I definitely changed my mind after speaking with the attitude lady that spoke to me as if I was a child and couldnt understand what she had to say. I understood her loud and clear but she seemed to have been frustrated with me asking for different room rates. Is it really that hard to help me book a 2 bedroom villa here? I thought their customer service was better than this!
Too bad because my daughter's 2 year birthday party is now going to be cancelled at this location and I never want to call and book a hotel package ever again!!! -
Review from MARGIE I.
1/23/2012 2 Check-ins Here
As soon as you step in there's a breathtaking view. We had fish tacos and sweet potato fries for lunch. The taco's weren't bad but the fries were soggy. Their signature cocktails were pretty good. We actually spent most of our time over at the lagoon. On our way back we were lucky enough to take a picture with Chip & Dale.
Fun times. -
Review from Michellea D.
Ladera Ranch, CA
2/2/2012 9 photos
I recommend getting the most inexpensive room available. It does not matter if you have a view, because you will only be in your room to sleep. There is so much to do at the resort. The sunset view from the hot tub near the beach was amazing!!!
When we arrived at the Aulani, they gave us leis and gave us a small tour of the front of Aulani before dropping us off at the front desk.
This place is the best for kids and teens. My daughter loved the water slides (for kids and adults) and the lazy river. The lazy river could have moved a little faster. There is also a toddler/ small child water play area which has a couple of water slides.
We did not eat at the Disney resort, so I cannot review the food. We went to Costco near Aulani and picked up PB&J sandwiches, potato chips, coke and water for the week. I also got my leis at Costco ($8 for 2 flower leis). Target also had the leis for $8 and inexpensive HI t-shirts. We did eat at the JW Marriott next door; the buffet there was great.
Uncle's story time was my favorite activity. I loved the stories he told.
Check out the JW Marriott's Fia Fia Luau, only on Tuesdays, great luau and smaller than the other luaus around. Book Fia Fia Luau at least 2 weeks before arrival.
Another JW Marriott event to try to see is the 7:30am fish feeding (free) at the sales kiosk in front of the JW Beach Club to the right of the Disney beach access. Fun to see all the fish in the bay eat and fun to learn about the fish of Oahu.
My daughter and I did the Stingray experience at Aulani. We loved it, but it was overpriced. Everything at Aulani is overpriced.
I liked snorkeling in the fish pond, I bought the full stay snorkel. The snorkel equipment is free when you purchase the snorkel pass. I tried to snorkel in the bay but the water was to dirty from the sand, too many people in the water. I walked over to the bay next to the Disney bay and the water was clear and perfect for snorkeling.
You can get parking for free if you are a Disney Vacation member or handicapped (must have a valid handicap place card). We did have to fight the front office staff for the free handicap parking. We were told on the phone that handicap parking is free, then we got there with the rental car and the front office staff had no idea about handicap parking. Some said yes free, some said no not free. Talked to two different managers and got two different answers. So be ready to talk to a manager and write down all the names of people you talked to in order to get free handicap parking.
There are tons of free activities (like lei making of hula dancing) for the family, teens, and kids. My daughter (7) loved Auntie Annie's clubhouse. It is free for children staying at the resort. She went to Aunties every night, free time for my hubby and I. -
Review from Lianna N.
Definitely a fun Day-cation. I live in Honolulu, so this was just a short getaway for me. Here are some casual thoughts and observations:
1. Bunch at the Makahiki?
Expensive but tasty, love the island flavors
2. Parking?
Full validation with a purchase of $35 or more (easy if you are having brunch for 2), parking garage is close and easily navigable. Lots of spaces mid morning
3. Is this place real Disney or tacky Disney?
Absolutely Real, Disney service is at an all time awesome here. When done with brunch, we were asked if we would like a drink in a to go cup. What buffets offer that?? Staff was awesome, all smiles and very kind and helpful. The Disney touches are subtle but there, I LOVE LOVE LOVE that they promote local Hawaiian Culture instead of overpowering the Disney Theme.
Beautiful location, awesome service and a real gem out there. I would definitely return. They are really doing a great job!!!Listed in: If I had a week in Oahu
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Review from ems o.
Milpitas, CA
4/17/2012
My daughter has been bugging us to go here ever since they started their commercials (Disney branding at its finest), so we gave in.
A regular room was $600+ night. SIX HUNDRED A NIGHT. At that price, I fully expected to be flown into my room on a magic carpet, but I was not.
Pros:
~Lovely, personalized greeting. Leis for me and hubby. Bracelet for our daughter.
~Nicely decorated room with a view of the ocean and mountains
~Activities (which is really what you're paying for): Slides (5 minutes wait usually), lazy river, lei making, and movies under the stars
~Beach shared with the JW was so pretty and with a smooth ocean floor (unlike our Waikiki hotel's counterpart)
~Courteous cast members
~Auntie's beach house, my daughter wanted to be left there!
~Fire side story telling was a nice break from a busy day
~Character meet and greets
~Pools were awesome. Not too crowded. I did see a bunch of people without the colored wrist bands and felt a pang of "what the!" in my stomach, but reminded myself to chill because I was in Hawaii
~Lounge for early/late check-in/check out. My husband and I never even used the shower in our room, as they were always in the pool and just showered at the lounge
Cons
~Did I mention it was $600 a night?
~Long waits to eat. Any restaurant on the grounds (except poolside dining) needs a reservation---even for breakfast. -
Review from Keane L.
12/30/2011 5 photos
I get a bit giddy anytime I experience that good ol' Disney magic. My visit to Aulani was nothing short of wows. I did not expect much from the Hawaiian-themed resort as I had heard it wasn't very Disneyfied at all. This, I later learned, is probably for the best, as the resort exudes a reverence for the Hawaiian culture more than any other local resort I've been to. Sure, you'll see Stitch walking around in aloha wear and the gift shop is full of Mickey Mouse apparel, but the only real Disney magic you get here is the subtle sense of fun, quality entertainment and superb service.
Parking for visitors costs a whopping $35/day, but this can be offset by spending $35 on the premises and validating your ticket. Given this is a fancy resort, that shouldn't be very hard.
From snorkeling with tropical fishes, lounging in tubes in a lazy river or enjoying the white sands of Ko Olina, Disney's Aulani is an absolutely beautiful experience.Listed in: Hometown Hawaii
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Review from Tish P.
Vero Beach, FL
4/9/2012
ALOHA!! Disney has done it again! Aulani( the place that speaks for the great ones)Disney Resort & Spa is the ULTIMATE Hawaiian destination for both leisure and luxury travel for every type of traveler.You will be engulfed in the Hawaiian culture,arts,and nature as soon as you arrive.5-star guest svc from all the staff on the resort. 359 rms(16suites incl) 460 villas,9 adventure excursions.Rainbow Reef has a huge saltwater fish tank where you can see people snorkel,fish,& swim underwater.One of a kind spa Laniwai (outdoor hydrotherapy) has outdoor rain showers that will take your breath away @ Kula Wai .Kids enjoy Aunty's Beach House(3-10 y/o) with certified youth counselors.Painted Sky Spa *exclusively for teens* (13 and up). Relaxation for adults as well as *adult only excursions* available.4 different restaurants for fine,casual, buffet style dinning& room service. $35 for hotel guests to park at Aulani Resort. Disney Vacation Club Members receive complimentary parking.Total Cost for a family of four staying 4 nights: $3066.The takeaway window at One Paddle Two Paddle is a fast and reasonably priced alternative to a sit down meal. Kids meals are $6.95 and include a drink and side dish.Their is so much more to discover both on and outside the resort.Lets travel today! :-)
MAHALO,
Tish
http://pieceofparadise... -
Review from Megan C.
Honolulu, HI
4/9/2012
Ok..so I didn't actually STAY there..but I walked through it with my kids and was treated like a guest! :) The grounds were amazing with just a little Disney and Polynesian mix thrown in. I especially loved the snorkel area that was set like a huge saltwater fish tank where we could look in and see people snorkel and fish swim underwater. I knew it was a five star review when my kids exclaimed " Awww...I want to LIVE here". :)
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Review from Kristie Y.
Honolulu, HI
12/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
12-15-11
So I booked my reservation in September for Christmas... with a little hassle from the online method because it wouldn't accept the fact I have two names for my first name. Ended up having to talk to a representative that wasn't helpful.
Making a surprise stay here was impossible for me to keep from my boyfriend due to the fact Aulani keeps sending me mail about my stay and my boyfriend often comes with me to check our mail.
So if you're trying to surprise a special someone that lives with you, try hard to get rid of the excessive mail Aulani keeps sending.
To be continued...
12-30-11
Stayed for two nights, three days.
Out on the driveway, they serve you citrus water and lei you with kukui nut leis.
In the lobby, they served eggnog, apple cider, hot chocolate,
and christmas cookies.
Let me say everything about this resort is all about top notch service which is received throughout the stay!
Ice machine, soda machine and laundry room which has 6 dryers and 3 washers and a flat screen tv is all in one room accessed by your key.
The room key is multi-functional and can be used as a charge card, access to laundry room, fitness center, parking structure and at the end of your stay it is kept as a souvenir.
The pools are fun! I loved the slide the one used with the floating tubes (not the body only one), I was the only one screaming on the way down. There were many kids going on this and I was the only one screaming! The lifeguard apparently heard me as my boyfriend and I came out because he was smiling and I couldn't stop laughing after we came out from it!
The Spa
Two soak tubs one is a eucaleptus which is the green water tub and also an algae tub which is the yellow water tub.
They have a sauna and theyhave showers that each one water comes out in a different direction all triggered to turn on by a movement sensor. hot tub and a cold "shock" tub.
Ladies section has everything u need... locker room with locks... a dryer for your swimsuit. A private changing room too if you're modest. Lotions (body and face), hair gels, feminine products, rubber bands, disposable shavers, q-tips....
The Anuenue room has loungers to wait for your service... they serve three different teas... 2 herbal (non-caffeine) and another one also pineapple infused water with zucchini/ carrot muffins, chocolate covered blueberries, and gummy bears.
Tip: If you're staying here pay attention to the flyer they give you because it lets you know about all the activities and times , like when the characters will be out, etc.
There is a lot to rave about, but really to know... you just have to go experience it for yourself. -
Review from Jen S.
Because we are such huge fans of accommodations and Disney World travel in Florida ,we assumed Aulani would meet all our high standards and uphold its reputation. Our past visits to Florida in 2009 and 2010 have been pleasantly seamless... but compared to Disney World Resorts in Orlando, Oahu's Aulani Resort needs so much more time in settling into their customer service and amenities being more prompt and familiar to its cast members. In their defense, I thought I had left a personal item there, after I'd returned home, and the front desk promptly assisted me to try to locate it via their lost & found. Seems the attendants want to be helpful, but limited on what's available or knowing all their resources.
UNBELIEVABLY beautiful grounds, the top-notch attendant cast members yes, but it seemed some of their familiarity with the grounds lagged some. I don't know if it's really their fault as I'm sure the recent opening of the grounds, there bound to have some adjustments to make. Overall, it's a wonderful family-oriented resort with fun activities. Fun water activities, slides, lazy river, snorkeling pool keeps the day busy. The vanishing edge spa, multi-level made it a wonderful location to sit by sunset. Incredible sunsets here on this part of the island, as Aulani is nearby the ever-so-popular Paradise Cove Luau!
Beautiful cove to relax under the sun and feel safe from harm with little ones. I'm not in any rush to return to Oahu, but of those avid Disney fans, and for beautiful grounds with lavishly comfortable rooms, then Aulani is a wonderful place to stay, away from the hustle and bustle of traffic and congestion.
Note: I was so impressed that Aulani caters to electric vehicles with FRONT parking spots in each level, and electrical outlets so readily available! Parking PLUS here! Also, larger parking spaces compared to driving in Waikiki Beach area. -
Review from Scott K.
Ive been here pre-construction and finally once it was completed. Im giving this hotel the 5 stars because of the name, the service and everything you would imagine and associated with Disney.
From the moment you pull up to valet, the "experience" begins. eager staff is ready to answer questions and direct you to where you need to go. Upon walking in you will notice the Hawaii theme and decor. From the large murals to the local plants, it gives you a sense of Disney meets Hawaiian.
Touring the property you will notice......
1. Many restuarants, all priced from affordable to expensive.
2. A large floating traveling pool with plenty of life guards
3. Beach front chairs to enjoy the sand and the Hawaiian sunset
4. Numerous Disney themed playgrounds for the kids
In talking with the front desk staff, I learned that they offer a discount to "kamaaina's". They said to just make sure that you have your local ID.
For the kids, there is a ton of activities throughout the day that you can sign them up for. This allows the parents to enjoy and relax while on vacation. -
Review from Ron S.
Manteca, CA
2/20/2012 6 Check-ins Here
Pricey Resort, but your in Hawaii right?
Full Kitchen in room, Shopped at Costco, Walmart for food. Also have alittle store inside that sells some Grocery type items.
Bars close @ 11pm a big bummer when you have friends that like Late night and last call is 10:45pm
Staff is super nice and willing to help. -
Review from David C.
Honolulu, HI
2/22/2012 2 Check-ins Here
The Aulani is a beautiful resort. But that is all I can really say about it. Like so many others I immediately compared my experience at the Aulani with staying at the Disney World resorts. There is no comparison when it comes to service when you stay at a Disney World resort and the cast members there set a high bar. The cast members at the Disney World resorts give you individualized attention and say things like "Welcome home" when you return to your resort. In one occasion I arrived at the Wilderness Lodge at night after the kitchen was closed. Starving, I returned to my room and the staff delivered a free pizza to my room and I didn't need to ask. They make you believe they care and they are good at making you believe it!
From those experiences, Disney has taught me that is what I can expect when I stay on their property and the Aulani cast members did not come close to that expectation. It was like any other resort in Hawaii. Some may argue that we are "Hawaii" and we do things differently here. However at the same time the Aulani is also Disney and I would suggest the cast members mirror the genuine hospitality of the Disney World cast members. It is difficult to explain if you haven't experienced staying at a Disney World resort and what might be helpful to the Aulani cast members is to take a trip to Disney World in an attempt to emulate the workers there who draw us back each year. -
Review from Lori I.
Highlights according to the kids:
***MENEHUNE ADVENTURE TRAIL***
This is FREE for hotel guests, and is a "scavenger hunt" that can be enjoyed by both adults and kids. VERY VERY COOL, HIGHLY RECOMMEND. Roam around the property and activate and unveil secret "treasures" and other hidden "secrets" that you don't get to see unless you go on this trail.[1]
Check in downstairs in the Holo Holo room (the community activities room), and give them your hotel key card in exchange for an iPod looking device. (If you're not a hotel guest, see [2]) This device is also your GPS "remote control":
http://www.yelp.com/bi...
You need to allow approximately 45-60min for each "trail", and there are 7 different trails you can choose from. We were only able to do two trails, the hotel lobby trail and the Waikolohe Valley trail, but if we had more time, I would have done all 7.
[1] Activate shooting water out of the kukui bowls at the unsuspecting guests floating down lazy river:
http://www.yelp.com/bi....
Make volcanoes errupt, make "lava flow" in a secret spot, see petroglyphs "move", geckos in the light fixtures "dance", and even get a "prize" from one of the menehunes)
[2] Find some friends staying at this resort, and join them when they do the scavenger hunt. Must pay $35 for parking unless you eat at the overpriced restaurants and spend more than $35, which is not a problem here.
***AUNTY'S BEACH HOUSE***
http://www.yelp.com/bi...
FREE for potty-trained little hotel guests. So much to do: dress up for the girls, touch screen video game tables for the guys, books, games, puzzles, balls, a huge back yard to play in, a large computer room for the kids to go nuts in, and even a "resting" room (yes, there were kids actually sleeping there too). Depending on the day, they have organized activities and even a meal for an additional cost if they get enough parents to make reservations ahead of time. The kids all wear GPS bracelets so as soon as you walk in to pick your kids up, the front desk can tell you what room your children are in. You can LEAVE THEM THERE ALL DAY if you wish, from 10am-10pm on certain days. I know you're thinking about it. Don't forget to return those GPS bracelets when you leave or you'll get charged $50 for each souvenir bracelet. Oh yes they do.
***LAZY RIVER***
http://www.yelp.com/bi...
http://www.yelp.com/bi...
EXTREMELY FAMILY FRIENDLY and super FUN! Because of the consistent 3 ft depth (except under the bridges, 3'6"), and the abundance of lifeguards placed every 15 feet or so along the winding lazy river, my son (the not-so-great swimmer) felt comfortable swimming the length of the river without any help. We were also with an adult who doesn't know how to swim AT ALL, and she inner-tubed the whole river and even went down the tube slide! THE TUBE SLIDE! You better get down there early!! You can use a double inner tube and go down with your child even if they don't know how to swim at all, just make sure you grab them if they bounce off the tube during the turns. There is also the lava tube slide which I did not dare venture into. I didn't want to go on the dark-vertical-drop-ride-on-your-butt slide after I heard all the screams coming from below.
Pool bracelets: if you have on a long sleeve rash guard, they don't ask you to show it while you're in the pool but the slide monitor might ask to see it. They are very strict about how many bracelets each room gets for the day and actually log it into their computer (if you have 4 people in the room, they will only give you 4 bracelets for that day) so you can not use the same key and try to get 6 bracelets, just sayin'. You may not register more than 4 people (including kids) in a regular double occupancy room. Trust me.
***RAINBOW REEF***
http://www.yelp.com/bi...
For an additional fee (see above pic), you can swim in the salt water "REEF", using a mask/snorkel, and a blow up floaty vest. My son does not know how to swim well enough to go snorkeling out in the ocean, but because there are shallow areas, he was able to go snorkeling and see real fish for the first time here. For an even heftier fee (see above), you can go into the marine preserve and get up close with the sting rays.
http://www.yelp.com/bi...
Those were the highlights. (Notice I didn't mention food anywhere in the highlights.) If you live on Oahu, scan the room rates periodically. Sometimes a large travel agency will hold a block of rooms, and when they aren't able to fill them, they get released back to the hotel last minute, at reduced rate
