Aulani, A Disney Resort: The Ultimate Family Getaway

If you’re dreaming of a Hawaiian vacation that feels easy, magical, and made for families—without sacrificing comfort or culture—then let me tell you about Aulani. This stunning Disney resort on Oʻahu is a place where families can truly relax and reconnect, with just enough pixie dust to keep the kids wide-eyed with wonder and the grown-ups blissfully content.

Set in the laid-back resort area of Ko Olina on Oʻahu’s western coast, Aulani is about 25 minutes from the airport and feels like a world away from the busier parts of the island. What makes it really special is how seamlessly it blends Hawaiian culture with Disney magic. This isn’t a theme park hotel. It’s a thoughtfully designed resort that honors the stories and traditions of Hawai‘i, created in partnership with local cultural experts, and it’s filled with those subtle Disney touches that surprise and delight in all the right ways.

What There Is to Do at the Resort

Aulani is packed with things to do, whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or just the young at heart. The Waikolohe Valley pool area is the hub of the action, with waterslides, a lazy river, splash zones, and a zero-entry pool that’s great for little ones. For something more peaceful, there’s a quiet pool and hot tubs with sunset views that feel like a true Hawaiian escape. You’ll also find cultural programming throughout the day—like lei-making, hula lessons, and storytelling with Uncle—that gives kids and grown-ups alike a deeper appreciation for the island.

If you’re looking for a little family adventure, try the Menehune Adventure Trail. It’s an interactive scavenger hunt around the resort that uses magic touchpoints to bring Hawaiian legends to life. The whole family can join in, and it’s the kind of activity kids will want to do more than once.

Why It’s So Great for Families

What makes Aulani so ideal for families is the way everything is designed with ease and fun in mind. It never feels overstimulating, yet there’s always something to do. Parents can relax knowing their kids are entertained, safe, and having fun—whether that’s in the pool, listening to stories, or getting a surprise visit from Mickey in his Hawaiian shirt. And because so much is included—like the kids club, pool activities, entertainment, and character experiences—it’s easy to plan your day without constantly reaching for your wallet.

It’s also one of the few truly high-quality resorts where parents can have some downtime while the kids are fully taken care of, which, let’s be honest, is a dream on vacation.

The Amazing Kids Club: Aunty’s Beach House

Aunty’s Beach House is one of the standout features of Aulani, and it’s not your average kids club. This is a Disney-level experience for children ages 5 to 12, blending play, creativity, and cultural immersion in a warm, welcoming environment. There are different themed rooms for arts and crafts, movies, games, Hawaiian storytelling, and even a magical dress-up area. The outdoor space is just as engaging, with a backyard for free play and supervised activities.

The cast members at Aunty’s Beach House are incredible with kids—they’re patient, fun, and genuinely enthusiastic about creating a memorable experience. Some activities are drop-in, while others require advance reservations (especially character experiences or themed programming). When your kids are there, they’re having the time of their lives—and you can slip away to the adult pool, spa, or a quiet drink with an ocean view.

Tips for a Smooth Visit to Aunty’s Beach House

To make the most of this experience, here are a few insider tips to keep in mind:

• Pre-register your child online before you arrive. Space is limited, especially for the most popular programs, and pre-registration helps secure your spot and saves time at check-in.
• Book advance activities as early as possible. These fill up fast—especially experiences like character storytime or themed play with Moana.
• Pack a change of clothes and slip-on shoes for your child. It helps them move easily between activities and keeps things simple for the staff.
• Let your kids know what to expect. Some younger guests may need a little extra time to warm up to being dropped off, especially if it’s their first time at a kids club.
• Use the downtime for you. Whether it’s a spa treatment, a quiet moment by the beach, or a sunset cocktail with your partner—this is your built-in adult time.

Dining at Aulani

Aulani offers a mix of casual and upscale dining, with something for even the pickiest eaters. Makahiki is the main restaurant, serving buffet-style breakfast and dinner. The breakfast includes beloved Disney characters, and the dinner often features local seafood and island flavors alongside familiar favorites. For something more refined, ‘AMA‘AMA is Aulani’s signature oceanfront restaurant with a beautifully updated menu that feels both elevated and distinctly Hawaiian.

If you’re looking for a quick bite, Ulu Café is a go-to for flatbreads, poke bowls, and rotating hot specials, plus it’s a great place to grab a coffee and head out to the beach. Poolside bars and snack stands make it easy to grab something without leaving your lounge chair—shave ice, anyone?

Oʻahu Day Trips from Aulani

While Aulani has plenty to keep your family entertained, Oʻahu itself is bursting with beauty and adventure, and I always recommend getting out to explore. The island offers a little bit of everything: history, scenic drives, cultural experiences, and jaw-dropping beaches.

One of the best family-friendly day trips is a visit to the North Shore, where you can watch surfers ride giant waves (especially in winter), stop at the Dole Plantation, and enjoy a laid-back lunch from a shrimp truck. Don’t miss a stop in Hale‘iwa for shave ice and boutique shopping—it’s a charming surf town that feels worlds away from Waikīkī.

If you’re up for a bit of history and reflection, Pearl Harbor is a powerful experience. Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial is a moving way to learn more about the events of World War II, and it’s suitable for older kids and teens who can appreciate the significance.

Hanauma Bay is a great half-day trip for snorkeling in calm, clear waters, and families with early risers will love hiking Diamond Head Crater in the morning, followed by brunch in Honolulu.

Looking for something immersive and educational? Plan a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center. It’s interactive, engaging, and gives your family an appreciation for the wider Pacific cultures in a way that’s fun and meaningful.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, finding sea turtles, or tasting your way through a farmer’s market, I help my clients map out the best blend of must-see sights and hidden gems.

✨ How We Help You Plan the Whole Trip

At Where To Go Travel Co, we don’t just book your resort—we take care of the whole trip. That includes coordinating your flights, arranging your rental car, helping you choose the best rooms and views at Aulani, and curating the perfect mix of activities both at the resort and around the island. You’ll receive a full itinerary with daily sightseeing suggestions tailored to your travel style, complete with timing tips and restaurant recs to make everything run smoothly.

We even help with those hard-to-book activities and give you guidance on what to prioritize, what to skip, and what will work best with your travel dates and family’s energy level. Whether this is your first time to Hawai‘i or your fifth, we’ll help you avoid the guesswork and make the most of your time—so you can focus on enjoying it with your family.

Ready to Plan Your Aulani Vacation?

Aulani is more than just a resort—it’s a thoughtful, joyful, easy-to-love experience that blends island adventure with just enough Disney magic. If you’re ready to start planning, I’d love to help you make it unforgettable.