Aulani Mickey and Minnie
  • On Aug 4, 2025
    Thomas from HI Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Is the Aulani luau a buffet

    Aloha Thomas, and welcome back to planDisney! I’m excited to hear that you’ll be heading to Aulani in just a few weeks. So let’s talk about the luau!

    I’m happy to confirm that the KA WA’A luau is indeed a buffet. You’ll find delicious Hawaiian dishes from prime rib to local seafood. You’re welcome to enjoy as much food as you’d like, but they do clear the buffet tables before the luau is about to begin. So don’t wait too long to go up for seconds or even thirds. That was definitely me with the unlimited poke!

    My other recommendation would be to arrive early because there are photo opportunities and fun activities before dinner starts. My family got there about 30 minutes before our check-in time since there’s usually a line to enter. We loved learning to pound taro, make flower bracelets, and play the ukulele. Some of the activities are even run by the luau performers!

    If you’re staying at Aulani, be sure to download the Aulani Resort mobile app so you can easily check out the daily schedule. Some activities need advance registration through the Pau Hana Room website, like Family Fun Animation and the ‘Ohana Ho’okani Pila ‘ukulele lessons. Booking for those activities starts 45 days in advance, so if they’re already full, I’d suggest stopping by the Pau Hana Room each morning to check for cancellations.

    There are also other activities that don’t require a reservation at all! Some of my favorites are hearing Uncle tell legendary Hawaiian tales at Mo’olelo Fire Pit Storytelling and learning more about Aulani at the two Maka’ika’i tours— Art and Culture of Aulani and Culture through Nature.

    I hope you have a magical visit to Aulani later this month! And if you have any other questions, you’re always welcome at planDisney.

    JoAnna
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Meet the Panelist: JoAnna, New York

Hi, friends! I’m JoAnna, an Imagineering nerd and dog mom from New York. I’ve traveled to all of the Disney parks around the globe, but Disney World will always be home.

Whether I’m navigating Rider Switch with my nephew or snacking around World Showcase with my friends, I love discovering what’s special about each of the different Disney destinations. I can’t wait to help plan your next adventure and get you on your way to making magical memories!
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