If you’re a Disney Vacation Club member, chances are your bucket list is already packed with magical destinations. Atop of many owner’s lists is Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa. Aulani isn’t just another DVC resort. It’s an experience that blends culture, relaxation, adventure, and the unmistakable touch of Disney magic.
1. Perfect Blend of Disney Storytelling and Hawaiian Culture
Disney didn’t build a Hawaiian hotel — it partnered with local cultural experts, historians, and artists to authentically represent the spirit of Hawai‘i.
From the design of the lobby to the Menehune statues hidden throughout the resort, Aulani is a masterpiece of cultural storytelling, teaching guests about Hawaiian traditions, legends, and values in an engaging and respectful way.
Aulani regularly offers the Māka‘ika‘i, The Art of Aulani Resort Tour, including a DVC member exclusive tour. This tour walks you through the history and culture infused throughout the resort. Check in with the DVC desk upon arrival to make reservations.
2. Disney Magic Without the Theme-Park Planning Hustle
For many families, DVC trips are all about park strategies, rope drops, and dining reservations. Aulani changes that pace.
While there are an endless array of activities to fill your day, you can also spend your vacation simply relaxing by the Waikolohe Valley pool complex or Ko Olina beach lagoon. Some dining and activities are booked in advance, but you can have a wonderful vacation without extensive planning as well. Many activities are simply booked upon arrival at the resort. Keep an eye on Aulani’s website for the latest planning timelines.
3. Wide Variety of Activities and Adventures
Aulani shines as a multi-generational destination. Whether you’re traveling with little ones, teens, grandparents, or doing an adults-only trip, everyone will find their own version of Aloha spirit. As mentioned above, there are a countless array of activities on property, and the entire island of Oahu to explore as well.
- Aunty’s Beach House (kids club for ages 3-12, offering both complimentary and paid experiences)
- Excursions from snorkeling to catamaran cruises
- Cultural activities like lei-making, ukulele lessons, and fireside storytelling
- Multiple pools – oceanfront hot tubs, waterslides, a lazy river, and splash pad
- Ko Olina Lagoon – a calm, quiet beach with complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas
I highly recommend taking at least a couple days of your vacation to explore Oahu beyond Aulani. Take an excursion or rent a car to drive to the North Shore, check out Kualoa Ranch’s horseback riding and ATVs, embark on a surf lesson, or snorkel in Hanauma Bay. Aulani offers paid excursions as well as a car rental counter on site.
4. Exceptional Value for DVC Members
As a luxury resort within one of the most expensive vacation destinations in the country, Aulani’s cash room rates are steep. As an example, I paid just over $1,000 per night for a DVC studio in January 2023! (This was the trip that convinced me I needed to become a DVC member.)
As a hypothetical example:
January 3-4, 2027 in a DVC oceanview studio
- $1,082/night plus $202.46 tax – total of $1,284.46
- 25 points plus an estimated Transient Accommodations Tax of $19.18
DVC members also benefit from free self-parking (normally $40/night). With access to a kitchenette or full kitchen, the ability to make meals within your accommodation can also bring down the cost of a Hawaiian vacation.
Final Thoughts: Aulani Isn’t Just a Resort – It’s the Crown Jewel of Disney Vacation Club
The breathtaking views, infusion of Hawaiian culture and traditions and huge array of activities and amenities make Aulani the most unique of Disney Vacation Club resorts. It’s the vacation that reminds you exactly why you joined DVC in the first place—to slow down, be together, and make memories that stick.
If Aulani is sitting on your “someday” list, consider this your sign. Move it to the top!
Is a trip to Aulani on your bucket list? Join the conversation in our DVC Fan Facebook Group.
