Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, was designed by Walt Disney Imagineers working hand in hand with Hawaiians to create a place celebrating island culture and history. Everything from the wondrous volcanic outcroppings to the breathtaking Resort architecture honors the fundamental connection between nature and humanity that the Hawaiians have cherished since the beginning of time. And because Hawaiians love to layer meaning in their words, so the name "Aulani" has more than one meaning. It is the place that speaks for the ancestors, yet it is also the place that speaks with deep messages.
Aulani is indeed a place where ancestral stories are told, built with the nobility, beauty and grandeur of Paradise.
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Experience the Disney difference when you stay at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, and find out why Disney Resorts are a top vacation destination.
Discover the Difference at Aulani Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, is a new kind of Family Resort - your host and home on the shores of Oahu Aulani is more than a place to stay - it is a place to start. Through the magic of Disney, we open doors to the wonders of Hawai'i. And from our renowned service to the quality you come to expect from Disney, Aulani delivers the difference that makes Disney destinations some of the most sought-after vacation locations in the world!
World Famous Disney Service Disney is known the world over for its unparalleled dedication to impeccable service and providing the ultimate level of personal attention during your stay. Be assured that the needs of you and your family are anticipated at every step. Enjoy your time together and let Disney take care of the details!
Storytelling Our Imagineers have brought the stories of Hawai'i to life by layering story into every aspect of the Resort. An enormous amount of detail and surprising, hidden magic has been crafted into the Resort itself to immerse you fully in the legends of the land - from the fantastic lava rock formations that meld with the architecture to the themed recreation areas such as the whimsical waterway and menehune trails, and the stunning lobby artwork. These are just a few of the many ways that Disney makes the stories of Hawai'i a vital part of your vacation experience. And don't miss the tales told 'round the fire pit by our incredible performers!
Local Experts When you visit Aulani, you are not a tourist but an explorer. With the help of local experts, you'll experience Hawaiian culture through exciting excursions that immerse you in the culture and legends of the land. Whether you are learning the hula, taking a cooking class or trying the lilting Hawaiian language for the first time, our local experts help you celebrate the people, art and history of the islands through the magic of Disney.
Disney Characters Watch your child's face light up with delight at the sight of new and old Disney friends during special events and meals. It's the perfect way to create magical memories that last a lifetime!
Unique Family Recreation VIDEO From the pool of velvety sting rays to the mischievous watercourse with an exhilarating tube ride, Aulani provides plenty of fun uniquely designed with family in mind! Adults can enjoy lots of relaxing "me" time as kids of all ages play in their own special places, such as Aunty's Beach House, an enormous kids' club where they can have fun while discovering Hawai'i through activities created especially for them! Pool parties, lawn events, Character dining and sunset ceremonies all engage both parents and their kids so that they can connect in inspiring new ways - to the place and with each other. It's an exciting time together for the whole family.
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Aulani is indeed a place where ancestral stories are told, built with the nobility, beauty and grandeur of Paradise.
Which path will you take to discover the heart of Hawai'i?
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The People
Origins Historians believe the Polynesians migrated to the islands thousands of years ago. But the beauty of Hawai'i could not be kept a secret. Eventually immigrants from all over the world flooded into this paradise. Initially attracted by the fishing and abundant agriculture in sugar cane and pineapple, they stayed for the balmy climate, refreshing sea breezes and tranquil cultural life.
Values With a keen reverence of the land from generations past, the people who live in Hawai'i today also value aloha and practice generosity daily. They pay special respect to elders because they are the keepers of wisdom. These values create a peaceful culture that treasures the magical connections between all living things.
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The Place
Location Located on the west coast of O'ahu, Ko Olina has always been known as sparkling cove to Hawaiians. In ancient legends, it is the place where Pele, the goddess of fire, came to rejuvenate after her travels. Ko Olina was also a sacred place of renewal for Hawaiian royalty such as Kamehameha the Great and his wife, Ka'ahumanu. Known for its mountains and spectacular seascapes, Ko Olina is home to many islanders who make their living from its bountiful agriculture and fishing.
Resort Community & Marina Aulani is located amongst the numerous beaches of the Ko Olina Resort & Marina. This family resort community mixes single-family homes, townhouses and villas featuring a variety of amenities, including an 18-hole golf course designed by Ted Robinson. It's a popular vacation destination because of its white sandy beaches, premium snorkeling and great shopping. Also, the world-class Marina delivers the ultimate in sports fishing and recreational boating.
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The Art
Layers Hawaiian art is characterized by layers - of color, patterns and refined thought. The elegant interior design of Aulani reflects those layers and traditional images found throughout Hawai'i. For example, the shape of an adze - the woodworking tool used to carve canoes - is a common motif in the architecture. You can also find colorful kapa artwork, featuring vibrant waves and lines produced using stamps made of plant stems or bamboo. Even enigmatic petroglyphs grace the rocks. Much like prehistoric drawings, petroglyphs are rudimentary depictions of humanity and nature, reminding us of our ancestors.
These elements are all woven together to tell stories at every turn - from the lobby mural depicting Hawaiian life to the pathfinding symbols on the floor, leading you to greater wonders.
Colors The colors of Aulani and its artwork reflect those of the island, such as the brilliant reds of the 'I'iwi bird's feathers or the buttery yellow of native hibiscus. The oaky tea color of Koa wood is a popular hue, as are wheat and chalky cream for kapa backgrounds. Charcoal black and wood are often used for sharper lines while tropical greens and blues brighten.
The Menehune VIDEO Everywhere you look, these magical "little people" of Hawaiian legend are smiling ear to ear with joy as they hide, play and make mischief throughout the Resort. The petite menehune peer from rocks, trees and even unexpected niches. As with much of the magic in Aulani, the more you look, the more you see! So look carefully. You might catch sight of a menehune out of the corner of your eye…