By: Bobbie Jo Schieber, a Marvelous Mouse Travels agent
As a travel agent and mom who recently visited Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina with my family (two adults and two kids), I can confidently say that this Hawaiian getaway is more than just a vacation—it’s an unforgettable adventure! Not only does Aulani provide an incredible mix of Disney magic and Hawaiian culture, but there’s also a special, “secret” experience that I’m excited to share with you: swimming with sea turtles just steps away from the resort!
Aulani: What’s Included in Your Stay
First, let’s talk about what’s included at Aulani. This resort has something for everyone, and much of the magic is complimentary! Here are some of the highlights that made our family trip so special:
- Water Park Fun: Aulani’s sprawling water park has everything from thrilling water slides to the relaxing lazy river. Our kids spent hours exploring the splash zones, while we enjoyed the peaceful poolside areas.
- Character Meet and Greets: Every day, we got to meet beloved Disney characters like Mickey, Minnie, and Moana! The joy on my kids’ faces when they hugged Mickey in his Hawaiian shirt was priceless.
- Pool Parties and Beach Time: Aulani hosts lively pool parties with games, music, and characters! We also loved that Aulani provides beach toys and boogie boards for guests—perfect for a fun day on the lagoon.
- Nightly Disney Movies and Entertainment: Imagine watching Disney movies under the stars with the sound of the ocean in the background. It was a magical end to our evenings. Plus, there’s live nightly entertainment, from traditional Hawaiian music to storytelling performances that celebrate the local culture.
- Ukulele Lessons and Cultural Activities: Aulani offers fun cultural experiences like ukulele lessons, where even beginners can learn to play. It’s a great way to connect with Hawaiian traditions while having fun with the family.
- Auntie’s Beach House (Kids Club): If you’re traveling with kids, Auntie’s Beach House is a complimentary kids’ club packed with activities like arts and crafts, movie time, and interactive games. Our kids loved their time there, and it gave us a chance to enjoy some peaceful moments as adults!
But here’s a little insider tip: If you’re staying at Aulani, you can also enjoy a free and unforgettable experience—swimming with sea turtles at a “secret” beach right next to the resort!
The Hidden Gem: Swimming with Sea Turtles
Every day of our stay, we took a short walk through the parking lot next to Aulani, which led us to a less-known beach where sea turtles regularly swim. It became our favorite part of the trip!
This beach is truly a hidden gem—less crowded, peaceful, and perfect for snorkeling. We brought our own snorkel gear and swam in the clear waters where sea turtles gracefully glided past us. It felt like we were in our own little paradise!
A few tips for turtle swimming:
- Respect the wildlife: Remember to keep a respectful distance from the turtles. They’re beautiful creatures, and observing them from afar helps keep them safe.
- Pack the essentials: We brought sand towels and our own snorkel gear from home, which made the experience hassle-free.
- Lunch on the go: For a budget-friendly option, we grabbed lunch from a little grocery store across from Aulani. This kept us energized for our beach adventures!
Plan Your Aulani Adventure Today!
Between the magic of Aulani and the bonus of swimming with sea turtles, our family vacation was beyond amazing. Whether you’re looking to make memories with your kids, experience Disney magic with a tropical twist, or simply relax in one of the most beautiful settings in the world, Aulani is the place to be.
If you're ready to start planning your next family vacation to Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, reach out to Bobbie Jo or Marvelous Mouse Travels today! I’d love to help you create a trip full of magical moments, hidden gems, and endless fun in the sun. Let’s make your Hawaiian dream vacation a reality!
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