Everything You Need To Know To Plan Your First Visit to Disney’s Aulani in Hawai’i

Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawai’i

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is the magical creation of Walt Disney Imagineers who worked with local artisans and cultural experts to celebrate the beauty, history and aloha spirit of the islands of Hawai’i.

There are specific instructions and requirements for all visitors to Hawai’i, which may include mandated quarantine or pre-travel testing. Stay informed of these requirements and the most updated travel expectations leading up to your visit by visiting the Hawai’i Tourism Authority website.

Which Hawaiian Island is Aulani Located?

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is on the island of O’ahu, the same island as world famous Waikīkī and Diamond Head. Aulani is in Kapolei in Ko Olina Resort, about 20 miles from the airport.

What Airport Do You Fly Into?

Fly into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport formerly known as Honolulu International Airport, airport code HNL.

Aulani and Ko Olina guests can now enjoy the new and exclusive Ko Olina Club Lounge located at HNL. The Ko Olina Club Lounge is an exclusive arrival and departure lounge for confirmed guests and owners staying at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club, Four Seasons Resort O’ahu and the Beach Villas at Ko Olina. The lounge is located on the 1st Floor of the airport’s Main Terminal 2 near both domestic and international travel gates and is open daily from 11 am to 9 pm. Reservations are required.

Transportation

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa is about 20 miles from the airport and does not provide transportation to and from the resort. Transportation options are:

You do not need a rental car for your Aulani stay unless if you plan to do any activities outside of the resort during your stay. Aulani also has a car rental counter at the resort, located near the Conference Center on the lobby floor, if you want to rent a car from the resort for an excursion off property. However in our opinion, there is no reason to leave Aulani as there is so much to do to keep you busy and also to just relax. If you plan to spend a lot of time off property we would suggest you stay off property during those days and end your Hawai’i vacation at Aulani.

How Many Days Do You Need At Aulani?

This is really a personalized question, and depends on your budget. We would recommend no less than three nights for your first visit and more if possible. We never want to leave and if we could we would live there!

Is Aulani All Inclusive?

Aulani is not an all inclusive resort.

How Much Does It Cost To Visit Aulani?

Aulani is an expensive place to vacation, the biggest cost are the rooms and transportation. You will also need to consider the costs of food, activities and souvenirs (bring an extra suitcase for all the exclusive Aulani merchandise!). Although Aulani is expensive, like anything Disney, you are paying for the stellar, magical experience that Disney is known for.

Hotel Rooms At Aulani

The cost of the hotel room at Aulani will likely be the biggest cost for your vacation. One way to save on costs is to become a Disney Vacation Club member or rent DVC points from a trusted company. Also, rates will depend on when you visit and what kind of room you choose. Booking early and off season will also help lower costs.

Food At Aulani

There are many dining options at Aulani, from Character Breakfast at Makahiki to grab and go meals at Ulu Cafe. For first timers, you really want to experience it all and dine at the different restaurants and get every single Mickey treat! However, there is an Island Country Markets convenience store by ABC Stores across the street which has everything you may need such as a bakery, full service deli, and impressive selection of groceries, wines, drugs, clothes and souvenirs. Costco and Target are also nearby in Kapolei about 4 miles away, though not walking distance.

Aulani truly is a special place with the perfect amount of Aloha spirit and Disney Magic located in one of the most beautiful vacation destinations in the world. An Aulani vacation is a must for every Disney lover.

Follow Disney Hawai’i Moms on Instagram for the latest updates and what’s new at Aulani.

Aulani

Halloween Time at Aulani

Every Disney trip is magical, but Halloween time at Aulani is extra magical! Pumpkins scattered throughout the resort, characters dressed up for spooky fun, Halloween treats and Aulani exclusive Halloween merchandise make visiting Aulani during the spooky season the best! Character Meet and Greets Vampire Mickey, Minnie Witch, Donald Pumpkin, Daisy Fairy, Goofy Mummy, Pluto […]

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Aulani

Safe Access O’ahu – Update 9/13/21

Beginning Monday, September 13, 2021, Safe Access O’ahu goes into effect, an island wide mandate requiring anyone 12 and older to show proof of full Covid vaccination or a current negative test to enter restaurants, gyms, theaters and other indoor venues on O’ahu. Aulani will restrict purchase of food and beverages on property to hotel […]

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Aulani

Aulani’s 10th Anniversary

Hau’oli Lā Ho’omana’o iā Aulani! Hau’oli Makahiki Piha ‘Umi! Happy Anniversary Aulani! Happy TEN Years! On August 29, 2021 Aulani celebrated 10 years of creating magic and sharing aloha here in the most beautiful place on earth! Pixie dust was in the air as Aulani commemorated this special day with beautiful banners throughout the resort, […]

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