A visit to the beautiful island of O’ahu you will find Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa

A visit to the beautiful island of O’ahu you will find Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa nestled on 21 oceanfront acres of beautiful beaches of Ko Olina. Picturesque views of the serene ocean waters on one side and gorgeous mountains to the other. There is spectacular views everywhere you turn.

Although you will feel true Disney hospitality and detail, it was important that Disney also celebrated the customs and transitions of Hawaii. In fact, Disney created a council of Hawaiian elders to ensure its authenticity.

There are two towers of 16 floors each in a U formation, the Ewa Tower (honouring woman) and Wai’anae Tower (honouring man), with the water activities in the centre.

My family has visited Aulani four times, once with our children, once as a couple and twice with friends, again without children. Every experience although different one thing remains unchanged, Disney’s magic.

What is there to do? It might be easier to say what isn’t there to do. Starting with the Waikolohe Valley pool area, which includes Ka Maka grotto, Kiki cove splash zone, Menehune (little people) Bridge play structure, Rainbow reef, yes you can swim with the fish in their private snorkelling adventure, Waikolohe pool with a water slide, a lazy river, an adult only pool and infinity whirlpool spa, oh and don't forget that beautiful beachfront ocean access with open seating or you can book cabanas or a shaded retreat. You also can rent beach equipment like paddle boards or snorkel gear from Maliki Joes.

Now let’s talk about that Disney magic, as you dip into the pool or enjoy a bite to eat you may see some characters walking about. The fab 5 will definitely be seen as well you may see Duffy, Shelly May, Moana, and Stitch. For the children, Aunty’s beach house always has fun activities for kiddos ages 4 to 12. You can also book premium character experiences playing traditional Hawaiian games in “Kakamora Chaos with Moana”, “Surf’s Up - A Surfin’, Fishin’ and Dancin’ Party” with Goofy, Chip and Dale or “Becoming Sea Creatures” learning about our ocean friends.

Is Disney Character dining what you seek, of course that is offered. How about a 3 course breakfast or dinner with visits from Mickey Mouse and friends offered in Makahiki on the first floor of the main building. Other enchanting premium experiences include Fireside stories with Moana, Moana transformations at Painted Sky, for guests 3 to 10. How about a luau, lets just say it is a culinary journey with an unforgettable performance. My family loved this experience. Also there is live entertainment throughout Aulani and honestly so much more. The beauty is you chose what works for you and your family and plan your day as you want it.

Now I didn’t even mention the photo pass photographers that are located throughout the resort ready to capture those core memories, or the private sessions you can book with a gorgeous sunset backdrop, or perhaps you want a vow renewal, wedding or honeymoon, it can be planned and booked for you.

I haven’t even deep dived into the local excursions to explore the island. There are endless possibilities.

I’ll leave you with some of my favourite must dos and tips:

• Shave Ice - a must try (over and over again), get it with the ice cream, and the snow cap. When they ask if you want it with Mickey ears, the answer is always yes!
• Book a one bedroom if possible. It has a full kitchen which can be a cost saver when you just want to eat in, it has laundry which is amazing when dealing with wet bathing suits.
• Book a reservation at Monkey Pod located across the street from Aulani. It’s an open air restaurant with great food and music.
• Visit the ABC store also located across the street from Aulani for some souvenirs, beverages and snacks.
• Go to the Luau.
• Enjoy the Spa, the massages are amazing and you leave even more refreshed and relaxed
• Have a late departure? Enjoy you last day knowing you can shower and change in the Luana Lounge. I suggest getting into line at the front desk early (5:45 am) to book a time slot as they fill up fast. Once ready, drop off your luggage (make sure to keep a bag of essentials to change into so you are ready for the trek home.
• Join the facebook group Aulani, pay it forward group before arrival. Guests post items they are leaving behind (boogie boards, sand toys, etc). Great cost savings and when you leave, you also pay it forward. Win/Win.
• Stack your pool bracelets. Everyday is a new colour, we loved keeping ours on for our time there. In fact my kiddos wore them for about a week after our trip.
• Rent a car and explore the island (ask me about the must dos on the island)
• There are 300 hidden Menehune throughout the resort (think hidden mickeys), can you find them all?
• Make the Mickey Ears, you can even choose ones that light up! (Premium)
• Swim in the ocean.
• Watch a sunrise and sunset.
• Relax and enjoy every second of it.
• Book NOW!