Jane’s Aulani Experience
Thanks to our client Jane from Delaware in sharing her family’s experience of Disney’s Aulani resort.
We chose to fly first to San Francisco, stay overnight near the airport at the Hampton Inn, and then fly out on Saturday for Honolulu. It worked well for us coming from the East Coast. We were still tired early as we adjusted to the time change, but breaking up the long flight was good for us.
Aulani was beautiful and we really enjoyed it. They say that the focus was on big H (Hawaii) and little d (Disney). We would agree with that statement whole-heartedly! We had a two bedroom, garden/poolside suite. As expected, customer service was exceptional. The facility was gorgeous and we really liked being out of the hectic pace of Honolulu/Waikiki Beach area. The restaurant Monkeypod (located across the street and within walking distance) was DELICIOUS and if you went early you received happy hour pricing that helped to lower the cost. Target was not a far drive from the hotel and allowed us to get breakfast foods for our room. For as many people as were at the resort, we never felt crowded. Two things we did were the luau, Kawa’a (well done and not as crowded as others we heard about and a mini photo session). The photographer was very accommodating and we are pleased with the results. The pools and the access to the ocean was beautiful and one of our favorite things was to watch the sunset over the ocean, followed by storytime at the fire pit with Uncle!
We rented a jeep from Enterprise (located in the Marriott next door and again within walking distance) and then toured Oahu at our own pace. Purchasing a Go Oahu pass for three days was helpful and cut the costs on entry fees. We also got a bonus with the pass that allowed our daughter to have a dolphin experience at Sea Life Park. Pearl Harbor was great, although they have not yet restored the dock, so we could not go onto the memorial over the Arizona. We loved the North Shore and eating at the food trucks and plan on visiting them again more in the future. Waikiki Beach was commercial and crowded – we didn’t last too long there. Iolani Palace was a great tour and great for history geeks (like me!). Spending time at the stadium on Wednesday for the Honolulu Swap Meet was a great way to hang with locals and find some cool souvenirs.
It was a great trip and thank you for all you did to help make it special! We love working with you!
We can help with your vacation to Aulani! Contact us for details.
Aulani video courtesy of Disney