Aulani Offers Great Water Activities with Hawaiian Flare

This past fall I had the opportunity to head to Disney's Aulani Resort in Hawaii as part of our family's 10-day cruise from Vancouver to Hawaii. One of my absolute favorite parts of the stay at the resort was enjoying the amazing water activities there on site. Even better was the obvious touch and care taken to incorporate Hawaiian culture into the entire area.

First, let me say that you can do just about any fun family water activity you can imagine here. From thrilling activities to relaxation, Aulani really has knocked it out of the park in the Waikolohe Valley pool area!

Relaxing Activities

Alumni features both adult and family focused relaxation options. My husband and I absolutely loved the Ka Maka Grotto. This pool featured an infinity edge that looked out over the ocean lagoon that is a center piece of the Aulani waterfront. A secluded grotto with misters also offered a quiet and serene place to relax for a few minutes. At night, the area comes to life with twinkling lights to help set a slightly more romantic mood.

The Wailing Pool also offers an adult-only area that allows you to sneak away for some non-kids time if you'd like!

Winding through the entire pool area is the Waikolohe Stream. This lazy river is perfect for the whole family (see the video below). We took our three year old daughter and it was probably the calmest she had been all trip long! The waters are kept at a constant 82 degrees, so it is perfect. Also throughout the area you will find those mischievous Menehune (more on this later)!

---

Rainbow Reef

Did you know that the only private snorkeling experience on the entire island of O'ahu is at Aulani? The saltwater lagoon is home to thousands of tropical fish. Snorkel among beautiful native species or stay dry and look through the glass. Snorkeling does have a small entrance fee, but anyone can enjoy the reef by visiting the observation area open to all guests.

​Fun for the Kids

​In the middle of Waikolohe Valley is the Waikolohe pool-- 8,200 square feet of water fun! The pool features a zero entry area, which makes it great for families with little ones. The pool has lots of unique features that make exploring fun and also includes Volcano Vertical, a fun waterslide! Throughout the day your favorite Disney characters will come out and host fun pool parties, in addition to lots of fun activities hosted by Aulani cast members.

The Keiki Cove splash zone also offers a fun place for kids. The area is inspired by the amazing tide pools in the area around Aulani

Beach

Whenever you see a picture of Aulani from above you cannot help but be taken in by the beautiful lagoon. The beach at Ko'Olina Lagoon offers lots of great beach time for your family. You can choose to hang out and relax or take part in the many great activities available throughout the day. There is also a special area, known as North Shore Beach Zone, available for teens in the afternoon to enjoy specially designed activities.

For a fee you can rent kayaks, paddle boards, and other beach gear. You can also reserve a special canoe experience. 

---

Find the Menehune

​Steeped in local Hawaiian folklore are the Menehune. These small people were said to be excellent craftsman and their work helped inspire Aulani. Throughout the resort you will find hidden Menehune, often doing fun things!

​These mischievous locals are especially featured throughout the Waikolohe Valley-- I loved looking for them when we sailed down the lazy river! There is also a special area just for kids called Menehune Bridge. This interactive play area is specially designed for kids and features super fun interactive water elements!

An Amazing Experience

The entire Waikolohe Valley pool area is an amazing part of a great resort. I highly recommend Aulani for anyone who is looking for a high end Hawaiian vacation for the entire family. Contact us today if you'd like to learn more about this resort!

Learn More

---