Leit's Aulani Trip Report
- Thread starter Leitadala
- Start date
Brancaneve
That means Snow White in another language.
- Joined
- Dec 7, 2006
Loving your TR!
joelnkelly
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Dec 6, 2010
My wife and I are planning a trip in 2014, on dvc it mentions something about an additional fee per day for the trip. Do you have any idea what this is and how much the fee is? Love the trip report so far.
momof3poohlovers
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Oct 11, 2004
I have only read your first page so far,but you are making me want to go there!
Me too!
Leitadala
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2009
Thank you!
I'm so glad!
There was a day tax, and I don't remember the specifics on it but it ended up being like $30 for all the days we were there. It has something to do with a tax having to be paid to the state of Hawaii for every point you are using to stay in the timeshare. We just prepared to have that fee and had it set aside when we made our reservations (the DVC staff that booked us told us how much to expect to pay).
I have only read your first page so far,but you are making me want to go there!
Me too!
I'm glad, because I was afraid I wouldn't be able to do justice to how awesome it was there!
You're welcome! I'm glad it's useful to people, that was my hope!
Leitadala
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2009
We were woken up shortly after falling asleep last night by the smoke alarm going off! No sooner had I convinced DH that it was the smoke alarm and opened the door to the hall (where I heard other smoke alarms going off) than it stopped. DH called the front desk and they didn't know anything about it. I thought I might have smelled burning from the next room over (when we went on the porch it smelled like burned toast and they had their porch door open we could hear them inside) so we convinced ourselves that it was just a small kitchen mishap and went back to bed.
We slept in till 6:30 today! We were going to go to the morning stretch class, but decided we'd rather take our time and wake up slow with our coffee and tea (and cereal) on the balcony. At 8:45 we headed to the spa and were seated to wait for our spa guide. When she arrived she presented us with the basket of stones that have an English word on one side and its Hawaiian translation on the other. We both ended up with the same word (Strength) and we were told to hold the word in our heart and return the rock to the water in the small pool in the entryway to the spa.
The lockers have pin pads on them for you to enter your own code to lock them! Hit C, then your 4 digits, then the key to lock it! They are the same in the Luana lounge.
Then the spa attendants took over our individual tours (men and women's change rooms, shower, wet and dry sauna). They each mixed us our own body scrub (I got the plumeria with rose petals - it smelled so good!) and let us change into our swimsuits so we could enjoy the hydrotherapy area before our massage.
The mixing station where they made our body scrub
I was a little surprised at how small the area was I was expecting much bigger. Of course, there was no one else using it the whole hour we were out there, so I guess the size didnt matter.
The walking reflexology path shorter than Id imagined, but no matter because I could do as many laps as I wanted since no one was waiting to use it! It reminded me of walking barefoot on my parent's gravel driveway, who knew I grew up with such a great reflexology tool
There were two hydrotherapy pools (Green/Seaweed for detoxification) and we tried the Blue/Eucalyptus one (for relaxation) - it was heavenly. I wished that I'd brought my book to read, as it was just as relaxing as taking a bath in nice smelling salts at home!
Two hydrotherapy pools
Next we tried the rain showers. The motion sensors were difficult to use. We even asked if there was a trick to turning them on but we were told you have to move forward, back, side to side, up and down, to try to get the right spot to activate them. There was one that we could never get to turn on, and another only turned on once. DH was doing silly dances (he called them his rain dances) to try to activate them (it usually worked). The ones that did work were really enjoyable (some showered down, some up, some higher pressure, some soft), and we would have spent more time there if it wasn't so much effort moving from one to another.
DH enjoying a working rain shower
Next we did the hot tub / cold shock (good for circulation). I'd never done that before! You go from hot to cold back to hot and your body tingles - which is a good sign for your circulation.
Go from one temp to the other (or dont, if its not your thing)
Relaxing Area outside (I did not get a shot of the indoor relaxation room, as there were some people in it)
Outdoor massage table (ours was indoor, we werent given a choice)
Then we were given our 10 minutes notice and changed from our wet clothes for our massages. We sat in the relaxation room and were served hot tea and given hot shoulder pads and face masks. Then we were greeted by our massage therapists. They were great! The Honi Honi was definitely worth it. They gave you music to choose from (and we got some lessons on Hawaii to go along with each music choice) and a choice on what massage body butter you wanted. It was DH's first massage and now he's deffinately hooked!
After the massage DH stayed in the relaxation room and I went to get my eyebrows waxed. The esthetician was really good. After that I showered at the spa and did my hair (they have everything there for you to get ready for the day) and left DH in the green pool while I went back to the room.
Blow dryers, hair spray, cotton balls, Q-tips, etc (and there was shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in the showers)
I needed to check in for our Adventures by Disney Exursions and pick up our voucher tickets, so I stopped by the Holoholo Desk, which is a really formal looking room. I was a little intimidated to go in (it looked like somewhere you would sign bank loans instead of sign up for surfing). When DH returned we left to go find food. It took us forever to find One Paddle Two Paddle (the quick service food place)! It's to the left of Aunty's Beach house (before Ama Ama, it's right beside it actually, but down a dead end (for now) path).
One Paddle, Two Paddle
DH could hardly decide on what he wanted to eat, it all looked so good to him. I got an Angus Cheeseburger with regular fries (it was pretty plain):
DH got the fish tacos of the day with Taro Chips and he LOVED them.
The Onions on the side are from my hamburger, not a normal part of this meal
I wasn't sure where we were supposed to eat though, there didn't seem to be specific seating for One Paddle Two Paddle, so we sat at an umbrella table at Off the Hook (where they do poolside dining) and no one asked us to move so I guess that was okay. Afterwards we went to Community Hall and watched Incredibles while we waited for the Lei making class to start.
Community Hall, aka Pau Hana Room
The girls doing the class were excellent. They showed all the different ways to string the flowers, and gave ideas on how to make them. DH made a quick one and then was given the idea to string the loose petals into a bracelet.
I can't speak highly enough for Janelle that works there, she was an extra-needed Disney magic pick-me-up (she even gave us kukui nut bracelet kits, since we were going to have to miss out on those classes).
Menehune were often decorated with leis. Janelle told us not to throw our leis in the garbage - that everything needed to go back to nature so once we were done with our leis we should take any man-made part off (such as the string) and then set them back to the earth or to the water.
Since we were told that the Menehune Adventure Trail was still not being handed out (as it wasnt working properly) we went back to the room then for some down time (we were still pretty exhausted from the hikes the day before, not to mention the massages in the morning, lol). We checked our e-mail (on the free wi-fi), watched the DVC channel, and read a bit before we started getting ready to go to the Paradise Cove Luau.
Paradise cove is two hotels down from Aulani, towards the entrance gates (so leave Aulani, pass the Mariott, and you'll see parking and then the Paradise Cove Box Office sign you cant miss it from the sidewalk).
They let you in at 5 and as you enter you get one complimentary (alcoholic or non) fruity beverage.
Before they seat you they take your photo with a guy and girl from the show (you can pick up your photo for $15 at the end of the show as you exit). Then they take you to your seats, where they write down your name so they are assigned to you, and then you are left to wander around.
Seating area
There are booths selling lots of cool souvenirs (one booth offered plain jewellery that he could personalize with your requested Hawaiian name) and pre-show attractions (like hula lessons, how to open a coconut, and hukilau) and games (rock rolling and spear throwing).
Kayaking
Spear throwing
You can go up to the bar and get your drinks or you can sit at your table and there is wait staff to take your order.
Food
We were there at 5 and I think it was between 7 or 7:30 before they started serving the food / letting people go up for the buffet. Then there was more activity on stage while we ate, and the real show started at about 8:15. It was a lot of fun to watch - hula dancing (with the audience invited up), a comedy host and singer, fire spinning, dancing pretty much everything you'd want to see.
Dancing
Fire Spining
It was a nice walk back to Aulani (I had gotten cold durring the show, but it was ok walking back). Getting back around 9 the lobby was empty! We got our daily IWA and headed back up for the night. This was the latest we'd been up all vacation!
The empty lobby, and beautiful collage
Up Next: Adventures By Disney Hawaiian Fire Surf School (followed by relaxation at Aulani)
We slept in till 6:30 today! We were going to go to the morning stretch class, but decided we'd rather take our time and wake up slow with our coffee and tea (and cereal) on the balcony. At 8:45 we headed to the spa and were seated to wait for our spa guide. When she arrived she presented us with the basket of stones that have an English word on one side and its Hawaiian translation on the other. We both ended up with the same word (Strength) and we were told to hold the word in our heart and return the rock to the water in the small pool in the entryway to the spa.
The lockers have pin pads on them for you to enter your own code to lock them! Hit C, then your 4 digits, then the key to lock it! They are the same in the Luana lounge.
Then the spa attendants took over our individual tours (men and women's change rooms, shower, wet and dry sauna). They each mixed us our own body scrub (I got the plumeria with rose petals - it smelled so good!) and let us change into our swimsuits so we could enjoy the hydrotherapy area before our massage.
The mixing station where they made our body scrub
I was a little surprised at how small the area was I was expecting much bigger. Of course, there was no one else using it the whole hour we were out there, so I guess the size didnt matter.
The walking reflexology path shorter than Id imagined, but no matter because I could do as many laps as I wanted since no one was waiting to use it! It reminded me of walking barefoot on my parent's gravel driveway, who knew I grew up with such a great reflexology tool
There were two hydrotherapy pools (Green/Seaweed for detoxification) and we tried the Blue/Eucalyptus one (for relaxation) - it was heavenly. I wished that I'd brought my book to read, as it was just as relaxing as taking a bath in nice smelling salts at home!
Two hydrotherapy pools
Next we tried the rain showers. The motion sensors were difficult to use. We even asked if there was a trick to turning them on but we were told you have to move forward, back, side to side, up and down, to try to get the right spot to activate them. There was one that we could never get to turn on, and another only turned on once. DH was doing silly dances (he called them his rain dances) to try to activate them (it usually worked). The ones that did work were really enjoyable (some showered down, some up, some higher pressure, some soft), and we would have spent more time there if it wasn't so much effort moving from one to another.
DH enjoying a working rain shower
Next we did the hot tub / cold shock (good for circulation). I'd never done that before! You go from hot to cold back to hot and your body tingles - which is a good sign for your circulation.
Go from one temp to the other (or dont, if its not your thing)
Relaxing Area outside (I did not get a shot of the indoor relaxation room, as there were some people in it)
Outdoor massage table (ours was indoor, we werent given a choice)
Then we were given our 10 minutes notice and changed from our wet clothes for our massages. We sat in the relaxation room and were served hot tea and given hot shoulder pads and face masks. Then we were greeted by our massage therapists. They were great! The Honi Honi was definitely worth it. They gave you music to choose from (and we got some lessons on Hawaii to go along with each music choice) and a choice on what massage body butter you wanted. It was DH's first massage and now he's deffinately hooked!
After the massage DH stayed in the relaxation room and I went to get my eyebrows waxed. The esthetician was really good. After that I showered at the spa and did my hair (they have everything there for you to get ready for the day) and left DH in the green pool while I went back to the room.
Blow dryers, hair spray, cotton balls, Q-tips, etc (and there was shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in the showers)
I needed to check in for our Adventures by Disney Exursions and pick up our voucher tickets, so I stopped by the Holoholo Desk, which is a really formal looking room. I was a little intimidated to go in (it looked like somewhere you would sign bank loans instead of sign up for surfing). When DH returned we left to go find food. It took us forever to find One Paddle Two Paddle (the quick service food place)! It's to the left of Aunty's Beach house (before Ama Ama, it's right beside it actually, but down a dead end (for now) path).
One Paddle, Two Paddle
DH could hardly decide on what he wanted to eat, it all looked so good to him. I got an Angus Cheeseburger with regular fries (it was pretty plain):
DH got the fish tacos of the day with Taro Chips and he LOVED them.
The Onions on the side are from my hamburger, not a normal part of this meal
I wasn't sure where we were supposed to eat though, there didn't seem to be specific seating for One Paddle Two Paddle, so we sat at an umbrella table at Off the Hook (where they do poolside dining) and no one asked us to move so I guess that was okay. Afterwards we went to Community Hall and watched Incredibles while we waited for the Lei making class to start.
Community Hall, aka Pau Hana Room
The girls doing the class were excellent. They showed all the different ways to string the flowers, and gave ideas on how to make them. DH made a quick one and then was given the idea to string the loose petals into a bracelet.
I can't speak highly enough for Janelle that works there, she was an extra-needed Disney magic pick-me-up (she even gave us kukui nut bracelet kits, since we were going to have to miss out on those classes).
Menehune were often decorated with leis. Janelle told us not to throw our leis in the garbage - that everything needed to go back to nature so once we were done with our leis we should take any man-made part off (such as the string) and then set them back to the earth or to the water.
Since we were told that the Menehune Adventure Trail was still not being handed out (as it wasnt working properly) we went back to the room then for some down time (we were still pretty exhausted from the hikes the day before, not to mention the massages in the morning, lol). We checked our e-mail (on the free wi-fi), watched the DVC channel, and read a bit before we started getting ready to go to the Paradise Cove Luau.
Paradise cove is two hotels down from Aulani, towards the entrance gates (so leave Aulani, pass the Mariott, and you'll see parking and then the Paradise Cove Box Office sign you cant miss it from the sidewalk).
They let you in at 5 and as you enter you get one complimentary (alcoholic or non) fruity beverage.
Before they seat you they take your photo with a guy and girl from the show (you can pick up your photo for $15 at the end of the show as you exit). Then they take you to your seats, where they write down your name so they are assigned to you, and then you are left to wander around.
Seating area
There are booths selling lots of cool souvenirs (one booth offered plain jewellery that he could personalize with your requested Hawaiian name) and pre-show attractions (like hula lessons, how to open a coconut, and hukilau) and games (rock rolling and spear throwing).
Kayaking
Spear throwing
You can go up to the bar and get your drinks or you can sit at your table and there is wait staff to take your order.
Food
We were there at 5 and I think it was between 7 or 7:30 before they started serving the food / letting people go up for the buffet. Then there was more activity on stage while we ate, and the real show started at about 8:15. It was a lot of fun to watch - hula dancing (with the audience invited up), a comedy host and singer, fire spinning, dancing pretty much everything you'd want to see.
Dancing
Fire Spining
It was a nice walk back to Aulani (I had gotten cold durring the show, but it was ok walking back). Getting back around 9 the lobby was empty! We got our daily IWA and headed back up for the night. This was the latest we'd been up all vacation!
The empty lobby, and beautiful collage
Up Next: Adventures By Disney Hawaiian Fire Surf School (followed by relaxation at Aulani)
DenLo
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jun 3, 2009
Actually that makes sense that the balcony would be straight out for some of the rooms especially those closest to the lobby because only the wings would have slanted balconies to get an ocean view. BTW all of the Aulani studios are part of a lock off 2BR. There aren't any dedicated studios at Aulani, which is the same as at BLT.
One question for you, was the pull out couch on the same wall as the TV? That's one thing I noticed in the floorplan for Aulani. A guest sitting on the couch couldn't watch TV.
Thanks for all the great pictures and TR. The details are great. It really gives me an idea of what we should do on our trip to Aulani.
Leitadala
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2009
Ah, I didn't know that about the studios at Aulani! It was sort of funny because our neighbors kept trying to open the door - I had to stop DH from opening our side to greet them lol!
In our studio the TV was opposite the couch and bed so everyone could watch TV. I didn't even notice that about the floorplans!
podsnel
<font color=blue>just skippin' around, amusing mys
- Joined
- Nov 14, 2007
Thank-you sooooo much for all these fantastic details- you are helping me plan our trip like you can't believe!
I LOVED all the spa stuff- can't wait to spend a day there....
and I have been flip-flopping about the luau, but it sounds like something my family would enjoy- I know my boys would be excited about the games, and the entertainment looks fantastic. Did they talk about all polynesian cultures during the show, or was it strictly Hawaiian?
Thank-you-
Ellen
I LOVED all the spa stuff- can't wait to spend a day there.... and I have been flip-flopping about the luau, but it sounds like something my family would enjoy- I know my boys would be excited about the games, and the entertainment looks fantastic. Did they talk about all polynesian cultures during the show, or was it strictly Hawaiian?Thank-you-
Ellen
Leitadala
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2009
Thank-you sooooo much for all these fantastic details- you are helping me plan our trip like you can't believe!
Thank-you-
Ellen
I'm glad it's helpful!!! I would have spent more time in the spa if I'd brought my book or my own iPod, but I got a little restless. DH stayed there longer - it was really so nice! The luau was lots of fun, I think it's definitely an experience families would enjoy! As far as talk about cultures, I think the luau focused more about the history and importance of activities, recreation, and dance to the Hawaiian culture. I think Aulani's Starlight Hui was more general about Hawaiian and Polynesian culture (how their people respect for the earth and nature). The best culture and history lesson we got was from our bus driver, Shannon O'Brien, on our Kualoa Ranch Excursion! Anyone that gets him as a driver is lucky!
It's cool to have you read my TR 'cause I was paying close attention to your April SSR TR in preparation for our May SSR trip!!!
mckryan
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jul 18, 2003
Ellen, do not miss the spa! My SIL and I spent 6 hours there, with only 80 minutes of it being massage time. It was heavenly and sooo relaxing. You can order food in and everything, too! We were staying in Waikiki for a conference she was attending, but we went a day early just so we could go over and spend the day at Aulani.
justkeepswimmin
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jul 4, 2006
Great report. My family was just there Sept 27-Oct 2nd. Love looking at pictures from the resort. We also ate at Romy's as that is where we were told the locals go. I thought it was good but I think my expectations were set too high after all the shrimp truck hype I read about.
1EvilQueenfan
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Apr 4, 2008
I am really enjoying your TR, especially since we will be going in January. I have never done the online check in, do you think it is better to do online check in or check in when we arrive?
Wilsonfamily4
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Aug 29, 2006
Very excite dby your trip report. We will be there in May and it's so nice to feel more in control by seeing pics and hearing things. 
Love the review of the Luau. Going to go look into that now.
Love the review of the Luau. Going to go look into that now.
dr&momto2boys
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Oct 4, 2006
Great TR and pics! Thanks for taking the time to do it! We get to go to Disneyland then Aulani in February and I'm already getting super excited about it!
Leitadala
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2009
I agree, it was very hyped, and DH did say it was really good... just maybe not something to go that far out of the way for if you have limited time
We checked in online and they had our key waiting for us when we walked up - it was the most awesome resort arrival ever! Of course, we arrived later so I don't know if they personally greet every guest that way, but it's worth a shot!
Very excited by your trip report. We will be there in May and it's so nice to feel more in control by seeing pics and hearing things.
Love the review of the Luau. Going to go look into that now.
I know how you feel - I'm glad my TR is useful! I was looking everywhere for stuff before we went!
Thank you so much for your trip report. It is wonderful!!!
We are hopping for June 2012. Our 7 month mark is coming up.
Thanks for joining and for your kind words! I'm happy to share!
Leitadala
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2009
We actually had to set the alarm today for 6am to make sure we were up and ready for our excursion (since we were sleeping in later)! We woke up for another morning of breakfast on the balcony, watching the cast members prepare the resort for the day and watching the waves slowly roll into the cove. We had our cereal (multi grain cheerios for me, oatmeal for him) and coffee (for me, tea for him) as usual, then put on our bathing suits and sunscreened up.
We met the Adventures by Disney staff in the lobby at quarter to 8 and he told us we were still waiting on some people. We ended up waiting until around 8:20 (20 mins after we were scheduled to go) and the last family still hadn't shown up (they were later driven to the location by an Aulani van when they did show up). I'm not sure if this actually cut into our surf time or not, but they assured us we would get all of our water time (we ended up back at the hotel at 11:30 instead of 11, so maybe we just got it all pushed back, or maybe we were always supposed to be back at 11:30, even though the info said 11). Anyway, we were met at the resort by a Hawaii Fire van, driver, and translator. We all packed in and on the short ride (about 10 mins from the resort) our ABD guide told us Disney/Hawaii stories and the Hawaii Fire instructor / translator girl told us about the buildings we were passing (such as the old Air Force Base, which is now used by the coastguard).
We arrived at the beach, which was well off the road (through a wooded camp area) and the other Hawaii Fire guys instructed us to pick a rash guard and pair of water boots from the bags of different sizes they had lined up for us. It was at this point I found out how... unpleasant... the bathrooms were at this little secluded beach! No TP in all but one stall, and only one stall (a different one) actually locked (and I wont go any further into that)!
After changing into rash guards we sat down in beach chairs under a big tent/umbrella and our ABD guide pointed out the landmarks around us (Diamond head and Waikiki could be seen in the distance), then one instructor told us the history of the beach ("Officer's Beach" or "Long Beach" as it's one of the longest beaches in Hawaii).
Waikiki and Diamond Head
Then another instructor came and talked safety (don't surf all the way to the sand, bail off if you're aiming towards someone, don't shuffle your feet over the corral) and then the last one came and talked technique (Positioning: making sure you stay on the back 3/4 of your board and keep your weight evenly distributed right/left; Paddling: one arm swim stroke forward, both arms swim back, "windshield wipers" to turn; paddling fast and then leaning up when you are close to white water, and then standing up on the board after the instructor gives you a push and you paddle 4 times).
The Hawaii Fire photographer took some pictures of the groups, then we picked/got matched to boards and practiced standing, and then they told us to strap on the ankle tie and get on out there!
The instructors all went further out on the sandbar, and one stayed behind so we knew how far to walk before getting on our board to then paddle out to the other instructors. When we got to them we turned the board around and they held us in place until a good wave came and then they'd tell us to start paddling, they'd give us a push, and they'd say "Paddle, paddle, paddle, paddle, now up! All the way up! You can do it!" They were so friendly and encouraging! Then we'd get to where we were supposed to hop off (before the shore) or else fall off, and then we'd turn around, get back to them, and wait our turn to go again! It was exhilarating, but after awhile it was exhausting! DH and I ended up mostly walking back to the instructors because after so long it gets really hard on your arms to keep paddling against the waves and wind lol. The really nice part is that the waves were only 1-2 feet, so it was a great learning environment.
DH and I getting up on our boards
Towards the end (many of our classmates had taken it in already) the instructors told us to look on shore, and a monk seal had made his way up to the beach to sunbathe! They told us it was really rare (as they are critically endangered, with only about 1,000 left in the world) and we should probably get a picture, so we decided to take it in and grab pics of this awesome animal. DH was even lucky to catch a wave on his own (with the instructor only coaching, not pushing too) to take him to shore!
DH surfing in
Cute Monk Seal
He nuzzled his head in the sand to make a pillow then flipped over to sun his belly!
We went to see the seal, and then we went back and turned in our rash guard and boots and the ABD guide (Eki) gave us granola bars and cold water. Hawaii Fire had a photographer that had a slideshow going of all the photos he took (they were all pretty awesome) and they had a CD available or we could go to a website to purchase singles (DH and I got the CD, which they ship for us unless we wanted to stop in their shop in town to pick it up - although one guy had a USB stick and so he got the pics all right there and didn't have to pay for shipping). Then we all packed into the van and headed back to Aulani.
By now DH and I are exhausted, so we took showers and order Private Dining. DH got a salad and fish, which he really enjoyed (big surprise there), and I got the kids meal grilled chicken strips, which (along with the fries that came with it) was so delicious and satisfying (the kiddie Hawaiian chocoalate cake was pretty average, not much special about it, just chocolate cake). I also tried the Mac and Cheese and peas, but it was really plain (not Disney World Mac and Cheese).
DH went to refills our mugs so we can have soda with our lunch. We stay in the hotel room for much of the afternoon, laying and resting after so much activity. I finish "The Help" (awesome book) and we watch "Jessie" on the Disney Channel and then "Extreme Couponing" on whatever channel that comes on. Finally we headed out, and walked around the resort, taking pictures of flowers and menehune.
Aulani Resort Map
Koi pond by the Makahiki Restaurant
Waterfall/Koi Pond outside of the 'Olelo Room
Koi pond and water lilies
Wai'anae Tower/Lobby
And Stitch!
We visit the 'Olelo room (to learn some Hawaiian words), and then get a wonderful tour of the amazing Aunty's beach house. The workers inside are so happy and friendly and they give us a beautiful tour (they said as members and guests we were able to sign in as visitors and hand in our room keys for visitors badges at the front and walk around ourselves without an official tour). Everyone has to wash their hands when they enter to keep down the spread of germs, and we had to agree not to take pictures of any kids (so for privacy sake we didnt really get any pictures inside to share).
Outside play area
It is a really impressive set up they have in there, I have to say the pics I've seen don't really do it justice. There is so much Disney Magic, and the cast members there were superb. It really looked like one of the places around Aulani that I don't think they could possibly have any more improvements in store for phase 2 or 3 - it looks complete and polished and amazing. One cast member, who was playing the ukelele in the entryway, walked us down the hall and told us about all the pictures and history of Hawaii that was featured in the hall, and then showed us all of Uncle's sitting room, garage, and TV room.
Map in the hallway
He was really awesome, and he went out of his way to give us more suggestions on things to do around the island. On our way out we heard a girl complaining about leaving to her mom, which was so funny because the cast members had told us that often times the parents check in on the kids and the kids don't want to leave! If we had kids in our family to take with us I wouldn't hesitate to leave them in the capable hands of the staff at Aunty's, and I know they would have tons to do because there were just so many games and activities to participate in!
We went to watch the sunset by the firepit (which wasn't going at the time - we had just missed the fireside storytelling). Around 6 live music started to play (sunset was set for 6:15ish that day).
I got some pictures, and we saw a little mongoose (someone called them Hawaiian Squirrels).
We ended up eating at One Paddle, Two Paddle again, but this time we took our food to the room and we watched some TV (Phinneas and Ferb).
We closed out the night watching Up on our balcony from the big screen at the family movie night. We could barely hear the words, but it was pretty cool to see it in the distance. There was also live music playing right below us at the same time. That night we were in for a good nights sleep for sure, after all that paddle and surf action (we crashed by 8:30)!
Up Next: Day Six, Part One: Kualoa Ranch Adventures by Disney Excursion
We met the Adventures by Disney staff in the lobby at quarter to 8 and he told us we were still waiting on some people. We ended up waiting until around 8:20 (20 mins after we were scheduled to go) and the last family still hadn't shown up (they were later driven to the location by an Aulani van when they did show up). I'm not sure if this actually cut into our surf time or not, but they assured us we would get all of our water time (we ended up back at the hotel at 11:30 instead of 11, so maybe we just got it all pushed back, or maybe we were always supposed to be back at 11:30, even though the info said 11). Anyway, we were met at the resort by a Hawaii Fire van, driver, and translator. We all packed in and on the short ride (about 10 mins from the resort) our ABD guide told us Disney/Hawaii stories and the Hawaii Fire instructor / translator girl told us about the buildings we were passing (such as the old Air Force Base, which is now used by the coastguard).
We arrived at the beach, which was well off the road (through a wooded camp area) and the other Hawaii Fire guys instructed us to pick a rash guard and pair of water boots from the bags of different sizes they had lined up for us. It was at this point I found out how... unpleasant... the bathrooms were at this little secluded beach! No TP in all but one stall, and only one stall (a different one) actually locked (and I wont go any further into that)!
After changing into rash guards we sat down in beach chairs under a big tent/umbrella and our ABD guide pointed out the landmarks around us (Diamond head and Waikiki could be seen in the distance), then one instructor told us the history of the beach ("Officer's Beach" or "Long Beach" as it's one of the longest beaches in Hawaii).
Waikiki and Diamond Head
Then another instructor came and talked safety (don't surf all the way to the sand, bail off if you're aiming towards someone, don't shuffle your feet over the corral) and then the last one came and talked technique (Positioning: making sure you stay on the back 3/4 of your board and keep your weight evenly distributed right/left; Paddling: one arm swim stroke forward, both arms swim back, "windshield wipers" to turn; paddling fast and then leaning up when you are close to white water, and then standing up on the board after the instructor gives you a push and you paddle 4 times).
The Hawaii Fire photographer took some pictures of the groups, then we picked/got matched to boards and practiced standing, and then they told us to strap on the ankle tie and get on out there!
The instructors all went further out on the sandbar, and one stayed behind so we knew how far to walk before getting on our board to then paddle out to the other instructors. When we got to them we turned the board around and they held us in place until a good wave came and then they'd tell us to start paddling, they'd give us a push, and they'd say "Paddle, paddle, paddle, paddle, now up! All the way up! You can do it!" They were so friendly and encouraging! Then we'd get to where we were supposed to hop off (before the shore) or else fall off, and then we'd turn around, get back to them, and wait our turn to go again! It was exhilarating, but after awhile it was exhausting! DH and I ended up mostly walking back to the instructors because after so long it gets really hard on your arms to keep paddling against the waves and wind lol. The really nice part is that the waves were only 1-2 feet, so it was a great learning environment.
DH and I getting up on our boards
Towards the end (many of our classmates had taken it in already) the instructors told us to look on shore, and a monk seal had made his way up to the beach to sunbathe! They told us it was really rare (as they are critically endangered, with only about 1,000 left in the world) and we should probably get a picture, so we decided to take it in and grab pics of this awesome animal. DH was even lucky to catch a wave on his own (with the instructor only coaching, not pushing too) to take him to shore!
DH surfing in
Cute Monk Seal
He nuzzled his head in the sand to make a pillow then flipped over to sun his belly!
We went to see the seal, and then we went back and turned in our rash guard and boots and the ABD guide (Eki) gave us granola bars and cold water. Hawaii Fire had a photographer that had a slideshow going of all the photos he took (they were all pretty awesome) and they had a CD available or we could go to a website to purchase singles (DH and I got the CD, which they ship for us unless we wanted to stop in their shop in town to pick it up - although one guy had a USB stick and so he got the pics all right there and didn't have to pay for shipping). Then we all packed into the van and headed back to Aulani.
By now DH and I are exhausted, so we took showers and order Private Dining. DH got a salad and fish, which he really enjoyed (big surprise there), and I got the kids meal grilled chicken strips, which (along with the fries that came with it) was so delicious and satisfying (the kiddie Hawaiian chocoalate cake was pretty average, not much special about it, just chocolate cake). I also tried the Mac and Cheese and peas, but it was really plain (not Disney World Mac and Cheese).
Kid's Hawaiian Chocolate Cake, Grilled Fish (salad underneath), Mac and Peas, Grilled Chicken Strips and Fries, Side of Fruit (DH says he still can't believe how good all the fish was!)
DH went to refills our mugs so we can have soda with our lunch. We stay in the hotel room for much of the afternoon, laying and resting after so much activity. I finish "The Help" (awesome book) and we watch "Jessie" on the Disney Channel and then "Extreme Couponing" on whatever channel that comes on. Finally we headed out, and walked around the resort, taking pictures of flowers and menehune.
Aulani Resort Map
Koi pond by the Makahiki Restaurant
Waterfall/Koi Pond outside of the 'Olelo Room
Koi pond and water lilies
Wai'anae Tower/Lobby
And Stitch!
We visit the 'Olelo room (to learn some Hawaiian words), and then get a wonderful tour of the amazing Aunty's beach house. The workers inside are so happy and friendly and they give us a beautiful tour (they said as members and guests we were able to sign in as visitors and hand in our room keys for visitors badges at the front and walk around ourselves without an official tour). Everyone has to wash their hands when they enter to keep down the spread of germs, and we had to agree not to take pictures of any kids (so for privacy sake we didnt really get any pictures inside to share).
Outside play area
It is a really impressive set up they have in there, I have to say the pics I've seen don't really do it justice. There is so much Disney Magic, and the cast members there were superb. It really looked like one of the places around Aulani that I don't think they could possibly have any more improvements in store for phase 2 or 3 - it looks complete and polished and amazing. One cast member, who was playing the ukelele in the entryway, walked us down the hall and told us about all the pictures and history of Hawaii that was featured in the hall, and then showed us all of Uncle's sitting room, garage, and TV room.
Map in the hallway
He was really awesome, and he went out of his way to give us more suggestions on things to do around the island. On our way out we heard a girl complaining about leaving to her mom, which was so funny because the cast members had told us that often times the parents check in on the kids and the kids don't want to leave! If we had kids in our family to take with us I wouldn't hesitate to leave them in the capable hands of the staff at Aunty's, and I know they would have tons to do because there were just so many games and activities to participate in!
We went to watch the sunset by the firepit (which wasn't going at the time - we had just missed the fireside storytelling). Around 6 live music started to play (sunset was set for 6:15ish that day).
I got some pictures, and we saw a little mongoose (someone called them Hawaiian Squirrels).
We ended up eating at One Paddle, Two Paddle again, but this time we took our food to the room and we watched some TV (Phinneas and Ferb).
We closed out the night watching Up on our balcony from the big screen at the family movie night. We could barely hear the words, but it was pretty cool to see it in the distance. There was also live music playing right below us at the same time. That night we were in for a good nights sleep for sure, after all that paddle and surf action (we crashed by 8:30)!
Up Next: Day Six, Part One: Kualoa Ranch Adventures by Disney Excursion
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Dreams Unlimited Travel is committed to providing you with the very best vacation planning experience possible. Our Vacation Planners are experts and will share their honest advice to help you have a magical vacation.
Let us help you with your next Disney Vacation!
