TVLLeaders: Highlights of Disney’s Aulani Resort

Highlights of Disney’s Aulani Resort

One of Disney’s most recent projects is the development of the Aulani Resort and Spa on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. This impressive complex has just celebrated its tenth year of operation, and its popularity is well deserved. The Hawaiian theme is central to all of its attractions – even Mickey and Minnie are decked out in Hawaiian attire! The resort prides itself on being environmentally friendly and culturally accurate, celebrating the unique traditions and way of life of the Pacific Island populations.

Dining options are many. Not to be missed is the luau at the Ka Wa’a restaurant, featuring typical Hawaiian dishes (pit roasted pork, taro root salad, poi, and coconut pudding), storytelling bringing to life ancient legends, and traditional music and dance. Casual poolside dining can be found in the Ulu Cafe, Off the Hook, and Papalua’s Shave Ice Stand. Dine overlooking beautiful Ko Olina Beach at the elegant ‘Ama’Ama restaurant, and cool off at the beach with a frozen drink from Little Opihi’s Beach Kiosk

The resort has its own private saltwater lagoon, Rainbow Reef, which is perfect for snorkeling among many species of tropical fish like angelfish, butterfly fish, and colorful tangs. As an example of Disney’s commitment to the environment, this facility is now breeding rare tropical fish for distribution to aquariums worldwide in an attempt to preserve species that are becoming endangered. Little kids will love the Keiki Cove Splash Zone and the Menehune Bridge featuring whimsical, mischievous “little people” – Hawaii’s version of the leprechaun! Tubing on the Waikolohe Stream is a great way to relax – tubing on the Tubestone Curl, on the other hand, will get your heart pumping as does careening down the Volcanic Vertical slide. The Waikolohe pool is the largest on the property and is usually bustling with activity. Other more secluded pools offer a quieter experience. The Ka Maka Grotto is an infinity pool overlooking the beach, and the Wailana Pool and four whirlpool spas located throughout the property are less active.

And if you really want to relax, pamper yourself at Laniwai, Disney’s full service spa. Soak in the outdoor hydrotherapy garden and enjoy a massage or facial treatment. The spa also offers conditioning and yoga classes as well as fun “makeovers” for kids.

Live entertainment is offered every evening at the Olelo Room where local artists perform traditional island music. Kids will enjoy Aunty’s Beach House for supervised activities and games and the Menehune Adventure Trail – a scavenger hunt throughout the resort to discover hidden surprises.

This resort truly lives up to the Disney standard of excellence. Make it your base of operations if you plan to visit Hawaii.