Planning for a family trip can be quite a challenge at times. Especially, if you’re heading to a resort with tons of things to do – which Disney resorts are known for. We experienced Disney Aulani first hand as a family and we’re here to make your planning easier by giving you the best tips for you and your family!

10 TIPS FOR FAMILIES VISITING DISNEY AULANI:

1. GET A PASS FOR LUANA LOUNGE

Take advantage of the Luana lounge if you are arriving early and your room is not ready or, visit when it’s check-out day and you have a late flight. Drop off your luggage at the Bell Services and get a pass at the reception desk. They have a changing room, showers, lockers, and lounge area.

2. PRE-REGISTER FOR COMPLIMENTARY DAYCARE

Pre-register for a complimentary daycare at Aunty’s Beach House. It’s available for guests ages 3 to 12 years old from 8 am to 9 pm daily. Aulani – A Disney Resort & Spa offers activities and arts and crafts throughout the day. Your child may never want to leave!

3. GRAB THE DAILY ‘IWA

The Daily ‘Iwa is a daily flyer filled with activities for the entire family. You’re gonna want to check it out to plan out your day. It’s available at various locations throughout Aulani Resort such as the front desk. It usually comes out the night before around 7-8pm. You’re able to check it online as well, here.

4. SIGN-UP EARLY FOR THE ACTIVITIES

Referring back to the Daily ‘Iwa – once you pick out the activities that you’ll participate in. Some activities require you to sign up, be sure to do it as soon as you can since it gets filled quickly.

5. SAVE MONEY BY GOING GROCERY SHOPPING

While there’s a lot of dining options at Aulani, it can get quite pricey. If you have a fully equipped kitchen in your villa then you can do grocery shopping at Kalepa’s Store, located on the same floor as the main lobby. If you have a car, take a drive to the nearest grocery store. Our favorite places to shop for groceries around the area is at Costco, Safeway or Foodland.

6. GET UP EARLY AND SAVE SEATS AT THE POOL

It can get very crowded at the pools, make sure to save those seats! The pool opens at 8am but you’re able to place your towels at any time. While saving seats is a smart move, be mindful that the staff are timing these seats. If they don’t see anyone on the seats beside a towel, they’ll fold the towel nicely as a mark and will start timing. If no one comes back to the seat, they’ll take the belongings and take it to the front desk for guests to pick up. We’re not sure of the exact timer for the seats but just check it from time to time!

7. MAKE RESERVATIONS FOR THE DISNEY CHARACTER BREAKFAST

The Disney Character Breakfast is quite a popular buffet for guests and locals at Makahiki restaurant. You’ll get to meet Mickey, Minnie, and their friends while dining. This is a must do with the family when you’re staying at Aulani. It runs daily for 4 hours (7am-11am) so be sure to make reservations as it gets booked.

8. ATTEND THE KA WA’A LUAU

Hands down, the best luau we have been to in Hawaii. We’ve been to quite a few but this really stood out to us! It’s fun for the entire family and they really include the kids. The best part, seeing Disney friends dancing the luau!

9. DO THE MENEHUNE ADVENTURE TRAIL ACTIVITY

Does your child like going on scavenger hunts? If so, embark on Aulani’s complimentary high-tech scavenger hunt (Menehune Adventure Trail) and see some magical surprises throughout the resort! Head over to the Pau Hana community center to check out a special tablet and start the adventure! Tip: best to do it at night to see the light and fire special effects even better.

10. SCHEDULE A FAMILY SPA DAY

Save the last full day of your stay pampering your entire family. Take your kids/teens to get their hair and make-up done at Painted Sky. For kids, they can dress up in their favorite Disney outfit! For adults, head over to Laniwai Spa for a manicure, pedicure, facial, or massage and enjoy the hydrotherapy garden.

We hope these tips prepare you for your upcoming stay at Disney Aulani. Being that we are locals on the island, we can definitely recommend more tips for you and your family! Please feel free to leave us a comment or email us if you need any recommendations while on the island!