Discover the Magic of Aulani: From Sunsets to Spa Days

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is nestled on the serene Hawaiian island of Oahu in the enchanting Ko Olina community. Known as the “Place of Joy,” Ko Olina boasts stunning resorts, but none quite like Aulani. While Aulani is widely recognized for its family-friendly atmosphere, with activities and amenities tailored to kids and families, it truly excels when it comes to offering an adults-only paradise. Combining the magic of Disney with the rich culture of Hawaii, Aulani is a true haven for those seeking relaxation and adventure. Although getting to Hawaii may require a long flight (mine was an 11-hour journey!), the rewards of this unforgettable resort make it all worthwhile. I recently visited Aulani with a group of family and friends, and while it was their first time, it was my third! This time around, we experienced Aulani from an adults-only perspective, and let me tell you—it was pure magic. Here’s a look at why Aulani is the ultimate destination for adults, from spa days to unforgettable sunsets.

A Resort That Celebrates Hawaiian Culture and Disney Magic

The moment you step into Aulani, you're immediately embraced by the beauty of the resort. The open-air lobby leads your eyes to breathtaking balcony with views of the pool area, the ocean lagoon, and the Pacific Ocean stretching out beyond. The space is rich with artistic storytelling, showcasing Hawaii’s creation and the island's deep cultural roots. Whether you're staying in a standard room, a suite, or a spacious 3-bedroom villa, Aulani’s accommodations are as comfortable as they are charming. Each room is adorned with tasteful Hawaiian décor, with a sprinkle of Disney magic. One of my personal favorites was the Mickey Mouse lamp, a sweet touch that you can even purchase in the gift shop!

Relax, Unwind, and Explore

Aulani is a paradise where you could easily spend your entire vacation without leaving the resort. There's an abundance of activities for both kids and adults. We began each morning with a stroll around the resort, followed by a specialty coffee from Off the Hook. For those looking to stay active, Aulani offers fitness classes, beach yoga sessions, and a well-equipped MikiMiki Fitness Center.

After grabbing towels and wristbands at the towel station, we’d head straight for the beach or one of the pools. Whether you’re lounging on the sand, floating along the lazy river (Waikolohe Stream), or enjoying the adults-only Wailana Pool, there’s no shortage of ways to relax and splash around. And if you’re a thrill-seeker, be sure to check out the resort’s waterslides or snorkel at Rainbow Reef.

Laniwai Spa: A Truly Relaxing Experience

For adults, one of the best experiences at Aulani is the Laniwai Spa. I recommend booking your treatments as soon as possible—ideally, 90 days in advance—because this spa experience is not to be missed. If you're traveling with kids (ages 4-12), they can enjoy the Auntie’s Beach House kids program while you unwind at the spa.

I opted for the 80-minute Lomi Lomi Signature Massage, and it was hands down the best spa experience I’ve ever had. The process begins with a unique ritual: you’re asked to pick a stone, each carrying a word with special meaning. After a brief explanation, you’re led to a serene pond where you toss the stone into the water as a symbol of returning it to the earth. Before your treatment, you’ll have time to explore the Kula Wai hydrotherapy garden—a stunning outdoor space with co-ed showers and pools. It’s a peaceful retreat where you can fully relax before your spa service begins.

Once I met my massage therapist, we discussed my preferences, from the type of music to the scent of my oils. The Laniwai Spa is an unforgettable experience, and I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you're booking a facial or a massage, you'll leave feeling completely rejuvenated.

Dining at Aulani: A Taste of Hawaii with a Disney Twist

Aulani’s dining experiences perfectly blend authentic Hawaiian flavors with a touch of Disney magic. The menus feature island specialties like poke bowls, flatbreads, and sushi, while also offering Disney-inspired treats like Mickey-shaped spam musubi and Mickey waffles. For dessert, you can indulge in Dole Whip or Mickey-shaped shaved ice.

One of the highlights of our trip was enjoying live music during sunset at The Olelo Room. Sipping on tropical cocktails made with pineapple, mango, and macadamia flavors was the ideal way to unwind. Another favorite was `AMA `AMA, an upscale restaurant with stunning views of the lagoon and ocean. Watching the sunset while dining there was simply breathtaking.

Don’t Miss the Luau: Aulani's Ka Wa'a Luau

No trip to Aulani would be complete without attending the Ka Wa’a Luau. As someone who’s experienced a few luaus on Oahu, I can confidently say this one is the best! The event doesn’t occur every night, so be sure to plan ahead. Your travel advisor can help you make reservations. Once there, you’ll be seated at long communal tables, where you can interact with fellow guests and enjoy some traditional Hawaiian activities, like ukulele lessons.

The buffet-style dinner is full of authentic Hawaiian flavors, including kalua pork, poi, and other island favorites. For adults, there’s a refreshing Blue Hawaiian cocktail to enjoy as well. The luau performance is a vibrant celebration of Hawaii’s history, with hula dancers and a mesmerizing fire twirling finale. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for two surprise special guests with the initials MM—they’re definitely worth seeing!

Explore Ko Olina and Beyond

If you’re looking to explore beyond the resort, the Ko Olina community offers a lovely village with shops, restaurants, and a convenience store, just a short walk away. The island of Oahu also offers plenty of memorable experiences. You can visit iconic beaches, hike Diamond Head, or even tour historical sites like Pearl Harbor. Several excursions can be booked directly through Aulani, making it easy to experience the best of Oahu.

Aulani: The Ultimate Hawaiian Getaway for Adults

Whether you’re relaxing by the pool, indulging in a luxurious spa treatment, or enjoying a sunset cocktail, Aulani has something special for everyone. From the magic of Disney to the authentic Hawaiian experience, this resort offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and rejuvenation. If you’re planning an adults-only getaway to Hawaii, Aulani is a must-visit destination. It’s a place where you’ll create memories to last a lifetime.

Ready to turn your Aulani daydream into reality? A Be Our Guest Vacations travel professional can help you plan the perfect Hawaiian escape, whether it’s your first visit or your third! From spa reservations to the best luau night, we’ll take care of the details so you can focus on soaking up the magic. Reach out today and let’s start planning your unforgettable Aulani vacation.