Aloha Izabella, and welcome to planDisney. I’m always happy to chat with a fellow
Disney Vacation Club member! I recently returned from
Aulani and love how the resort combines Hawaiian storytelling with Disney touches. And one of my favorite parts is, of course, the food! So let’s chat about dining.
Currently, there isn’t a dining plan at Aulani, but there is a refillable mug available for purchase at
Ulu Cafe. You’ll have the option to buy a plastic or stainless steel mug, which you can refill throughout your stay at the soft drink machines or the coffee and tea dispensers. My family found it really easy to stay caffeinated and hydrated throughout our trip, and we use our stainless steel mugs all the time at home! The ones we bought feature Mickey and Minnie lounging in the water with Aulani in the background. It’s been the practically perfect keepsake to remind us of our trip.
I know that dining plans, like the ones at Disney World, are convenient for budgeting. As an alternative, you might consider purchasing Disney gift cards ahead of your trip to use at
Aulani’s many restaurants and eateries. I
added mine to my iPhone’s mobile wallet, which makes them super easy to use since I usually leave my wallet in the room when I’m hanging out at the resort.
While we’re on the important subject of dining, don’t forget that reservations for
Makahiki and
‘AMA’AMA open 30 days in advance. My family always starts at least one morning eating breakfast with some Disney pals at Makahiki. While there are
character meet and greets throughout the day at Aulani, the breakfast is such a relaxing way to get lots of quality time with the characters.
For dinner, you can eat at Makahiki (note that the characters don't make an appearance at dinner) or ’AMA’AMA for a fine-dining experience. My mom and I ate here a few years ago, and the locally-sourced dishes were amazing! I’d recommend making a reservation for about an hour before sunset because the tables have an incredible view of the water.
I’m wishing you the most magical stay at Aulani! And if you have any other questions, we’d love to have you back at planDisney.
JoAnna