Where Disney Magic Meets the Aloha Spirit
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, is nestled on 21 oceanfront acres in Ko Olina on Oahu's sunny western coast. It's the only Disney resort where the focus isn't on theme parks — it's on Hawaiian culture, family relaxation, and creating memories in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. As a Utah travel agency that specializes in Disney destinations, we know how to help you get the most out of this unique experience.
From the moment you arrive and receive your lei greeting to the evening Starlit Hui celebration, every detail is infused with authentic Hawaiian storytelling and Disney's signature attention to detail. The resort features a massive pool complex with waterslides and a lazy river, a protected beach lagoon, world-class dining, and the beloved Aunty's Beach House kids' club — all designed so both kids and parents have the vacation of a lifetime.
What Makes Aulani Special
This isn't just another beach resort — it's a Disney experience rooted in Hawaiian culture and designed for families.
🏊 Waikolohe Pool & Lazy River
The centerpiece of Aulani is the Waikolohe Stream — a winding lazy river that flows through lush volcanic rock formations, past hidden grottos, and under waterfalls. The main pool area features two waterslides (including the thrilling Volcanic Vertical tube slide), a splash zone for little ones, and private cabanas for families who want a VIP poolside experience.
Pro tip from your Utah travel agent: arrive at the pool by 9 AM to claim lounge chairs near the lazy river entrance. By mid-morning, the best spots are taken.
🌺 Hawaiian Culture & Disney Characters
Aulani is the only place where you can meet Moana in her homeland. Characters appear throughout the resort for meet-and-greets, and the resort offers cultural activities like ukulele lessons, lei making, and traditional Hawaiian storytelling. The KA WA'A Lū'au is an unforgettable evening of Hawaiian music, dance, and cuisine.
Your Utah travel agency can help you book the lū'au and character dining experiences before they sell out — which they often do, especially during peak season.
Choose Your Perfect Room
From cozy hotel rooms to spacious multi-bedroom villas, Aulani has options for every family size and budget.
Standard Hotel Room
Comfortable & Convenient
Beautifully appointed rooms with island-inspired décor, perfect for families who want the full Aulani experience without the villa price tag.
- Sleeps up to 4 guests with a queen bed and pull-down bed.
- Access to all resort pools, beaches, and activities included.
1-Bedroom Villa (DVC)
Space for the Whole Family
Full kitchen, washer/dryer, and separate living area — ideal for longer stays or families who want to save on dining out.
- Sleeps up to 5 guests with a king bed and queen sleeper sofa.
- Full kitchen means you can prep breakfast and snacks in-room.
2-Bedroom Villa (DVC)
Multi-Family or Extended Stay
Two full bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a full kitchen — perfect for multi-generational trips or two families traveling together.
- Sleeps up to 9 guests across two bedrooms and a living area.
- Lock-off design lets you split into two separate units if needed.
Expert Tips from Your Utah Travel Agent
Strategies we share with our Utah families to make the most of their Aulani vacation.
The Pool Strategy
Aulani has multiple pool areas. The Waikolohe Pool with its lazy river and waterslides gets crowded by 11 AM. Head there early, then switch to the quieter Ka Maka Grotto infinity pool in the afternoon for a more relaxed vibe.
Character Breakfast Hack
Book the Aunty's Breakfast Celebration at Makahiki restaurant for your first morning. Characters rotate through the restaurant so every table gets visits — and it frees up the rest of your trip for beach mornings instead.
Starlit Hui Evening Show
Don't miss the complimentary Starlit Hui show — a Hawaiian celebration with live music, hula dancing, and fire performers. Grab spots near the stage 30 minutes early for the best views. It's the highlight of many families' trips.
Know Before You Go
Essential info to make your Aulani trip seamless from day one.
Download the Aulani App
Check pool wait times, book spa appointments, view daily activity schedules, and order poolside food — all from your phone.
Aunty's Beach House (Free Kids Club)
Ages 3-12 can enjoy supervised activities, arts & crafts, and Disney movies at no extra charge. It's one of the best kids' clubs in Hawaii — and gives parents free time for the spa or a quiet dinner.
Off-Property Excursions
Don't spend your entire trip at the resort. Book a snorkeling tour at Hanauma Bay, visit Pearl Harbor, or drive up to the North Shore for shrimp trucks and turtle watching. Your Utah travel agent can help coordinate excursions.
Getting to Paradise from Utah
Your Utah travel agent monitors flight deals from Salt Lake City to Honolulu year-round so you never overpay for your Hawaiian getaway.
Departing from Utah
The most convenient option for most Utah families. Direct flights to Honolulu (HNL) are available on Delta, Hawaiian Airlines, and seasonally on other carriers. Flight time is approximately 6 hours.
Arriving in Hawaii
Oahu's main airport, located about 35 minutes from Aulani in Ko Olina. Disney offers a resort shuttle (fee applies) or you can rent a car — we recommend renting for at least part of your trip to explore the island.
💡 Utah Travel Agent Tip
We track SLC → HNL flight prices daily and alert our clients when deals drop. Round-trip flights typically range from $350-$600 depending on season and how far in advance you book. Booking 3-4 months ahead usually gets the best rates, and we often find deals through our flight alert system that save families $200+ per ticket.
Ready for Your Hawaiian Disney Adventure?
Aulani is unlike any other Disney destination — it combines the magic of Disney with the beauty and culture of Hawaii. As a Utah travel agency that books Aulani regularly, we know the best room categories, the must-do experiences, and the insider tips that make the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one.
Whether you're celebrating a milestone, planning a multi-generational family reunion, or just need a break from Utah winters, let your dedicated Utah travel agent build a custom Aulani itinerary that fits your family perfectly.
No extra costs. No hidden fees. Just expert planning from your Utah travel agency for the perfect Aulani escape.