Aloha, Golden! Welcome to planDisney. I'm so glad you found our happy 'Ohana, and it's my pleasure to help with your vacation planning question to make sure your upcoming trip is as magical as can be!
I am excited FOR you to journey to where the sky meets the sea--otherwise known as
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa. This Hawaiian paradise is where our family heard our first "Welcome Home" as
Disney Vacation Club Members and it holds a very special place in our hearts. You are going to absolutely love it! More on some of my top Aulani recommendations in a moment...
There are so many cool adventures to be had on the island of Oahu. From surfing on the North Shore to hikes in stunning scenery and gourmet dining, you will have no problem filling a day before your Aulani arrival. I recommend staying in Honolulu along Waikiki Beach, where you can enjoy the iconic beach and its views of Diamond Head--it's a great home base!
Some of our family's favorite experiences from our last Hawaiian adventure include the DOLE plantation, the Honolulu Zoo, and Iolani Palace (the royal residence for the Kingdom of Hawaii). We also love to fit in a hike at Diamond Head or the Koko Head Stairs and reward ourselves with some tasty malasadas afterward. Waikiki is also home to many high-end boutiques and fantastic restaurants if you're feeling fancy! Be cautious about booking timed tours or excursions in case you experience flight delays--but I promise you will still have plenty to do!
You'll be happy to know that you can begin your vacation at Aulani starting at 6:00 AM on the day of your scheduled arrival. Complete Online Check-In, stow your luggage with Bell Services, and start exploring! For a chill check-in day, there's not much better than floating in the lazy river, (it's exceptional!), getting a photo with Moana and Mickey, and taking a stroll along Ko Olina Beach. There are also plenty of dining options for a casual meal before check-in.
During your time at Aulani, there are so many activities to try, as well as
excursions if you want to venture beyond the resort. A few of our must-dos:
- Excursions to Pearl Harbor can be booked through Aulani. Tour transportation picks you up right at the resort, and it is a truly meaningful and memorable experience.
- On property, the nighttime luau KA WA'A is simply amazing. It's a beautiful celebration of Hawaiian stories, song, dance, and food--our kids still talk about it! Advance reservations are a must, so be sure to schedule this experience before you journey beyond the reef!
- Speaking of the reef...there are great opportunities to snorkel at Aulani and along the public beaches of Ko Olina. Aulani is home to Rainbow Reef, the only private snorkeling reef on Oahu--it's perfect if you have some keiki who aren't quite ready for open water.
- Book a private photography session on the beach. You will not regret having precious pictures of your family to remember your vacation!
Hopefully, your trip will be "Golden" with these tips, friend! Thanks so much for visiting planDisney, and please reach out again if I can help with any other questions about Aulani or DVC in general!
Stay Magical!
Susan