Is Disney’s Aulani Worth It?
A Brief Overview of Aulani
Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is a tropical-themed resort located on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. It was opened in 2011 and is part of the Disney Vacation Club. The resort offers a range of activities, amenities, and accommodations for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Accommodations
Aulani offers various types of accommodations, including:
- Standard Rooms: These rooms are perfect for families with children and offer a comfortable and convenient stay.
- Deluxe Rooms: These rooms are larger and offer more space and amenities.
- Suites: These suites are ideal for families or couples who want extra space and luxury.
- Villas: These villas are the largest and most luxurious accommodations at Aulani, offering private pools and stunning ocean views.
Amenities and Activities
Aulani offers a wide range of amenities and activities, including:
- Water Park: Aulani’s water park is a must-visit for families with kids. The park features a variety of water slides, a lazy river, and a splash zone for younger kids.
- Beach: Aulani’s beach is a beautiful and tranquil spot for relaxation and sunbathing.
- Spa: The Aulani Spa is a luxurious oasis that offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.
- Fitness Center: Aulani’s fitness center is a great place to stay active and healthy.
- Kids’ Clubs: Aulani offers two kids’ clubs, one for children aged 3-12 and another for teenagers aged 13-17.
- Dining: Aulani offers a range of dining options, including restaurants, snack stands, and food courts.
Dining Options
Aulani offers a range of dining options, including:
- Food Court: The Food Court is a great place to grab a quick bite or snack.
- Table Service Restaurants: Aulani offers several table-service restaurants, including:
- Laniwai Beach House: A beachfront restaurant serving Hawaiian-inspired cuisine.
- Koko Head Cafe: A casual cafe serving breakfast and lunch.
- Menehune Bridge Cafe: A cafe serving breakfast and lunch.
- Snack Stands: Aulani offers several snack stands throughout the resort, including:
- Snack Stands: Offering a range of snacks, including popcorn, candy, and ice cream.
- Fresh Fruit: Fresh fruit stands offering a variety of fruits and juices.
Tips and Tricks
- Book Early: Booking a room at Aulani early can help ensure availability and get the best rates.
- Consider a Package Deal: Aulani offers package deals that include accommodations, dining, and activities.
- Take Advantage of Free Amenities: Aulani offers a range of free amenities, including the water park, beach, and fitness center.
- Be Prepared for Crowds: Aulani can get crowded, especially during peak season. Be prepared for crowds and plan accordingly.
Is Disney’s Aulani Worth It?
Pros
- Unique Experience: Aulani offers a unique and immersive Disney experience that combines tropical fun with luxurious amenities.
- Family-Friendly: Aulani is perfect for families with children, offering a range of activities and amenities designed for kids of all ages.
- Luxurious Accommodations: Aulani’s luxurious accommodations offer a comfortable and convenient stay for couples and solo travelers.
- Convenient Location: Aulani is located on the island of Oahu, making it easy to explore the island and its attractions.
Cons
- Expensive: Aulani is a luxury resort that comes with a high price tag. Be prepared for expensive rates and amenities.
- Crowds: Aulani can get crowded, especially during peak season. Be prepared for crowds and plan accordingly.
- Limited Dining Options: While Aulani offers a range of dining options, some may find the selection limited compared to other Disney resorts.
- Not Suitable for All: Aulani is not suitable for all travelers. It’s best for families with children and couples who want a luxurious and immersive Disney experience.
Conclusion
Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is a unique and luxurious resort that offers a range of amenities and activities for families, couples, and solo travelers. While it may come with a high price tag, the pros of staying at Aulani far outweigh the cons. With its luxurious accommodations, convenient location, and range of activities and amenities, Aulani is definitely worth considering for your next Disney vacation.
Table: Aulani’s Amenities and Activities
| Amenity/Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Water Park | A water park with a variety of water slides, a lazy river, and a splash zone for younger kids |
| Beach | A beautiful and tranquil beach for relaxation and sunbathing |
| Spa | A luxurious spa offering a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps |
| Fitness Center | A fitness center for staying active and healthy |
| Kids’ Clubs | Two kids’ clubs for children aged 3-12 and teenagers aged 13-17 |
| Dining | A range of dining options, including restaurants, snack stands, and food courts |
| Snack Stands | Several snack stands offering a range of snacks, including popcorn, candy, and ice cream |
Table: Aulani’s Dining Options
| Dining Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Food Court | A quick-service restaurant with a range of options |
| Table Service Restaurants | Several table-service restaurants, including Laniwai Beach House, Koko Head Cafe, and Menehune Bridge Cafe |
| Snack Stands | Several snack stands offering a range of snacks, including popcorn, candy, and ice cream |
Table: Aulani’s Tips and Tricks
| Tip/Trick | Description |
|---|---|
| Book Early | Booking a room at Aulani early can help ensure availability and get the best rates |
| Consider a Package Deal | Aulani offers package deals that include accommodations, dining, and activities |
| Take Advantage of Free Amenities | Aulani offers a range of free amenities, including the water park, beach, and fitness center |
| Be Prepared for Crowds | Aulani can get crowded, especially during peak season. Be prepared for crowds and plan accordingly |