The Hawaiian islands can be one of the best places for a family vacation and if you’re Disney fans like us then the Aulani Resort is the perfect place to stay. The property encompasses all things Disney and is packed with family activities to enjoy at his Hawaiian resort. If you want an epic first magical visit, then here are the top things you can’t miss during your stay. 

SHAVE ICE 🍧

Papalua Shave Ice has a ton of flavors to choose from and to be honest, we snagged Shave Ice a few times while we were here. You can add Mickey Mouse ears for $1.

They have a ton of flavors to choose from and are generous with the toppings. According the the cultural experts, Shave Ice is a favorite snack throughout Hawaii so it’s on the top list of things to try especially if it’s your first time visiting Hawaii. 

LUAU 🌺

The KA WA’A luau at Aulani was awesome and full of Disney Magic! Included in the experience (beyond the delicious food) is an open bar (try the mai tais) for parents and plenty of cultural activities to do as a family. Audrey learned how to make Poi, Addy took a Ukulele class.

They keep you busy with the pre-show activities and offer a temporary tattoo station and a lei-making station. We enjoyed all the performances collectively telling the story of Hawaii.

AUNTY’S BEACH HOUSE ✨

The kids club at Aulani is included with your stay and is a great way to get some alone time away from your kids. Audrey really loved hanging out here. Aunties Beach House is not geared toward super young children and is for kids aged 5 to 12.

Adult Tip: *Pre-Signup at least 2 days in advance, they were offering 90-minute slots once a day.

SCAVENGER HUNT ✨

Go on a hunt throughout the resort to find all the cool places Aunty wants you to see. Each location has an animation and teaches your kids more about the culture, landscape & animals of Hawaii. It’s the best way to get to know the property quickly and find the hidden gems that are scattered throughout.

I didn’t about about this on our first visit until our second stay here. There was a clue in the fantastic lava rock formations and I had no clue that with the device they give you the rocks move. This activity is free and included in your stay so if you have time definitely consider doing it.  

SPAM MUSUBI 🍣

The Mickey-shape called to Alex! He loves spam and said these were so good! It’s a must try while in Hawaii. It’s another food that is enjoyed here on the island so if you’re looking to try new things, you’ll want to add this to the list. 

CHARACTER MEET EXPERIENCES ✨

Meet Mickey, Minnie & the rest of the gang all decked out in Tropical shirts & Hawaiian vibes. There are so many opportunities to meet characters scattered throughout the property daily. You don’t have to do a character breakfast to get a chance to meet any of the characters.

Just check the app and you’ll know where they’ll be at. The lines to meet the Characters are small and move fast because only resort guests can participate in the character meets.

MAKING EARS

When they told us we could make our own ears, we signed up ASAP! And it was an activity the girls really enjoyed! You’ll be able to choose between plain or light-up ears & decorate them with plumerias or trinkets found on the island.

It’s a great place to get crafty while also making a memorable souvenir to take home with you. The best part about making Mickey ears is that you can wear them at other Disney parks you visit. 

‘AMA’AMA

We splurged on this four-course dining experience at the Ama Ama and I don’t regret it at all. The food is locally inspired and was the best dining we had at Aulani. The restaurant has beautiful ocean views with live music every night.

If a four-course meal isn’t your thing, no worries there are a ton of dining options on the property and nearby! Check out Ultimate Guide to Aulani to get a full list of other places to eat nearby. 

SNORKELING

Rainbow Reef is Aulani’s own saltwater lagoon with tropical fish you can swim with or watch just like you’re at an aquarium. Snorkeling is for ages 8+ and is definitely a cool experience we saw many families enjoying it.

We also noticed some of the coral-shaped Mickey ears so keep a lookout for them when you’re checking out the fish. See for yourself in this video!

LAZY RIVER & WATER SLIDES

The Pool area of the property is undoubtedly the coolest part of the park. It’s the magic of Disney that really brings the whole area to life. You’ll want to swim in the infinity pools, Waikolohe stream AKA the Lazy River, the Wailana pool, and just have a blast with all the water activities you have to choose from. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Is there a Disney World in Hawaii? 

No there is not a Disney World theme park in Hawaii but Disney does have a Resort here called “Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa”. The property has Disney Characters decked out in Hawaiian outfits. The resort is themed around the spirit of aloha featuring many elements of Hawaiian Culture. The Resort is located on the island of oahu in the United States of Hawaii.

It’s my first time going to Aulani is there anything special I’ll receive? 

Yes! you’ll want to let a cast member know when you’re checking in. They will give you a special button souvenir with your name on it that you can keep. They also do this for birthdays so be sure to let them know if you or someone in your party will be celebrating while there.

Does Disney Aulani offer Military Discounts? 

Yes. It’s mostly on the standard room but both times we have stayed at Aulani I have gotten 30% off the normal nightly rate. We have never gotten an ocean view when staying in one of the hotel rooms. However, you’re not in your room much anyway so for the discount I’ll happily take this deal every time. 

Do you have any more advice for visiting Disney Aulani Resort and Spa? 

Of course!! Check out our Ultimate Guide and if you have any questions leave a comment and we’ll get back to you ASAP. You’re also welcome to message me on Instagram or check out our videos on Tiktok. I also saved a Pinterest Board specifically for Disney Aulani Inspo if you’d like to check it out.

Read the Ultimate Guide Here: