We had no idea that others had no idea that (following?) Disney’s Aulani® Resort & Spa in Hawaii was NOT just for Disney Vacation Club Members. Surprise! Disney’s Aulani® Resort & Spa in Ko’Olina, Hawaii is for everyone! So pack your sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses and Minnie Ears and get ready for the most magically relaxing Disney Destination vacation you will ever have! But before you board that plane, here are a few things you will want to know before you arrive.
Book Early
It’s no secret that the earlier you book the better rates you will get! Further out does not just mean more time to save, it means better rates. In addition to the lower rates, there is more availability around the resort. Your room preference as well as tower preference will have more availability the earlier you book.
Buy a Refillable Mug on Day 1
These mugs are available for about $19 and may be refilled at any of the three drink station locations which can be found across from the Papalua Shave Ice stand, next to Aunty’s Beach House and in the Ulu Cafe. Each of the beverage dispensers has a variety of sodas, fruit punch, lemonade or PowerAde. At Ulu, you can also get coffee and a variety of iced tea. The earlier you purchase in your trip, the more you will use it and get the “most out of your dollar”.
Transportation To & From the Airport
Disney’s Aulani® Resort & Spa is approximately 20 miles west of Honolulu. Depending on traffic your ride to and from the airport can be as short as a half hour or upwards of over an hour so plan accordingly. Unlike the Walt Disney World ® Resort, there is no such thing as Disney’s Magical Express. There are ride share vans, taxis and private limousines available for transportation. If you are like us and do not like to wait until you arrive, the private transportation is always reliable. We are not going to lie – private transfers are certainly not cheap, but they are always safe, clean and friendly. Plus, many companies hire the same driver (if available) to pick you up for your return which makes it a little less of a hassle when you are tired and maybe a bit cranky on your return home. We cannot forget the fact that it is nice to see a friendly face when you are bummed that you are heading back home.
Activities
Take advantage of all of the activities that the resort has to offer! Every day at Aulani there are many family activities and classes happening. You’ll need to check the daily schedule since activities are signed up for on the same day. Some of these activities are ukulele lessons, character drawing classes, Hawaiian crafts, hula lessons, and mini-canoe racing. Pick up a copy of the Daily ‘Iwa when you arrive, and every morning thereafter .This is a double-sided activity page full of all of the many activities offered around the resort that day. Some activities like Aunty’s Beach House (children ages 3 – 12) book early, so be sure to head there first thing each morning to register. Traveling with a teenager? No worries, there are plenty of activities geared for all ages around the resort.
Off Resort Activities
Don’t be afraid to book excursions off the resort. There are all sorts of touring companies that will provide “to and from” transportation from whatever excursion your family plans. Remember, you are in Hawaii – get out there and explore all that the island has to offer. You never know when you will get the chance to go back!
If you are interested in heading to the land of sunshine and sea turtles then we cannot wait to help you plan for the most magically relaxing vacation you will ever have! Don’t forget to wear that sunscreen – Hawaiian sun is no joke!
Your referrals are our most MAGICAL compliments!
Contact us today! durfee@themouseexperts.com