Holiday makers looking for a family friendly resort in Hawaii need look no further than the brand new Aulani Disney Resort & Spa.
Aulani’s grand opening, on September 22nd was celebrated with a ceremonial mixing of sand and pixi dust.
“Aulani is a stunning resort that offers something unique in the vacation industry,” says Bob Iger, president and CEO of The Walt Disney Company.
“It’s an incredible family paradise that combines the beauty and culture of Hawaii with a touch of Disney magic and we are confident that guests from around the world will continue to enjoy it for many years to come.”
Aulani sits on 21 acres of gorgeous Hawaiian ocean front property in Ko Olina. Honolulu International Airport is only 17 miles away and the fun of Waikiki is 30 minutes down the road.
“Aulani truly has something for everyone,” according to Tom Staggs, chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts.
“With specific spaces and experiences created for kids, teens and adults, as well as places where families can relax and make memories together, Aulani is just the answer for families who want to experience the incredible storytelling and great guest service of Disney while enjoying all that Hawaii has to offer.”
The resort boasts a huge spa, two restaurants (one buffet and one a la carte) and a seven acre water play area.
The water play area features several waterslides, each more exhilarating than the last, and a 3,800 square-foot snorkel lagoon called Rainbow Reef. There, guests can interact with native Hawaiian fish like angelfish, butterfly fish and tangs. The snorkel lagoon is the only facility of its kind on Oahu.
Kids will enjoy Disney’s magic over breakfast in the buffet, as they dine with their favourite characters. Parents and kids will love to take advantage of the kids club, Aunty’s Beach House, where children will be introduced to Hawaiian culture and enjoy some of their favourite movies, while Mom and Dad share some time together.
The resort also offers excursions to the nearby rainforest, mountain hikes, sailing on catamarans, swimming with dolphins, cooking classes with local chefs, and a ghost tour.
Aulani offers accommodation for conventions with 50,000-square-feet of meeting space that can be reconfigured for functionality.
Aulani is a great option for couples planning a destination wedding, with three event lawns, one being an oceanfront wedding lawn for Disney Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons. Imagine being married on the beach in Hawaii and then continuing to enjoy the resort throughout your honeymoon.
Aulani is the ideal experience for families. It offers a little Disney for the kids and a little Hawaii for everybody. It’s the perfect marriage of fun and adventure. – Jen R, Staff Writer