Aloha, Robert!
What can I say except welcome back to planDisney and mahalo (that means "thank you" in Hawaiian) for surfing by planDisney with your question. Robert, see the line where the sky meets the sea? It calls me, and it sounds like it is calling you too! It's why
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa is my favorite Disney Vacation Club Resort and why my family has visited many times.
Robert, I like the way you think. Booking a
cabana or a casabella during your stay sure is a way to relax and recharge in the most comfortable of ways when not flippin' your fins on the Hawaiian roller coaster ride (in this case the
Waikolohe Stream - a.k.a. the lazy river.)
The casabella is a two-person shaded seating area located on the lanai near the 'AMA'AMA restaurant. They face Ko'Olina Beach and are ideal for relaxing and reading for two people in each casabella. You have the option of one of three levels of casabella - on the upper lanai which has two casabellas, the lower lanai which has three casabellas, or the Executive ‘AMA‘AMA Lanai, which has a bigger setup. It features two casabellas, two lounge chairs, a table and two chairs and two umbrellas, a locking cabinet, a fruit platter, towels, and 10 bottles of water.
The cabanas are bigger and more expensive, and they come with more amenities. Cabanas are located in different pool areas at the Resort. What makes these different than a casabella is that they come with more of a luxury seating set up, ceiling fan, TV, fridge, select included snacks, and a dedicated cabana host. They fit various-sized parties from up to 7 Guests to up to 12, depending on the cabana.
If you plan to stay and play by the pool all day, and would like luxury seating, I recommend the cabana. But if you only see yourself at the pool or beach for part of the day, or don't need the extras, the casabella would be a better way to go, as it is really more shaded and comfortable seating with less of a living room feel. To me, it is a great place to have comfortable seating and shade in an ideal location overlooking the ocean. It is also a more economical choice, especially if you won't be at the pool or beach all day.
Now, here's a tip, Robert. Be sure to purchase a refillable mug at
Ulu Cafe when you arrive at Aulani. You will want to refresh with hot or cold beverages many times throughout your stay, and the refillable mug is a great way to do it. When I was there last, Aulani was also offering a stainless steel refillable mug that was perfect for enjoying my Kona Joffrey's Brew and delicious banana bread in the morning. It also made for a great (and shiny) new souvenir to take home. If you are an eligible Disney Vacation Club Member, you may also receive a Member discount on your purchase, putting even more magic back in your wallet!
I hope this helps you, Robert! If you have any more Disney Vacation Club or Aulani questions, sail back here to see me. At planDisney, we know the way to help you plan the most magical vacation and here you are 'ohana. 'Ohana means family and family means nobody gets left behind.
A Hui Hou (that means "until we meet again" in Hawaiian,)
Keri