Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa opened on the Hawaiian island of Oahu in 2011. It’s located right on the Pacific Ocean and is a great Disney Vacation Club property to visit for a relaxing vacation. There are quite a few places to dine at the resort, many poolside, but also celebrated local options nearby. When it comes to food, you may notice higher prices due to the island location and import costs. Upon reopening, Aulani launched its own app which can be a helpful resource for your stay. Let’s take a look at the Aulani dining options.
Aulani Grab and Go, Quick Service and Mobile Order
Ulu Cafe serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can find pastries, hot food and grab and go selections here. The lunch time poke bowls are raved about. There is a covered outdoor seating area here with a view of the ocean.
Mama’s Snack Stop is a quick service, walk up eatery that offers lunch with hot menu items like fish and chips, coconut shrimp and chicken tenders. There are also appetizers like mozzarella sticks, corn dog nuggets, and fries and a keiki, or kids, menu.
Papalua Shave Ice has the most visually iconic snack at Aulani. Get the cold treat in the three colors option and add ears. This creates the rainbow Mickey shave ice! It’s the delicious dessert you’ll want to take a photo with before you eat. There is also a variety of tropical flavors and the option to add a sweetened condensed milk topping. This is also a great choice for poolside fun.
Little ‘Opihi’s is a beachside kiosk that serves the famous Dole Whip pineapple soft serve. The soft serve comes in other flavors too. You can also get other chilled treats here like ice cream novelties, fresh fruit and a selection of drinks and adult beverages.
For in room or poolside snacks or to stock your mini fridge check Lava Shack. This merchandise shop is located near Mama’s Snack Stop. Also check Kalepa’s Store merchandise shop near the lobby for these kinds of needs.
Aulani Lounges
The ‘Ōlelo Room is a favorite among guests for appetizers and drinks. This lounge is inspired by the Hawaiian language. The artistic visual decor may teach you some new words on your visit. The popcorn fries are a unique item here. You can also get sushi. There is indoor and outdoor seating at The ‘Ōlelo Room.
Aulani Poolside Dining
Many of the quick service restaurants mentioned above are easy to get to for poolside dining.
Wailana Pool Bar is a quiet space that serves as a coffee bar by morning and has a full bar and lunch later in the day. Wailana offers appetizers, burgers, salads and sandwiches. You can order to go.
Off The Hook is themed after a Hawaiian fisherman’s seaside shack. This indoor, outdoor spot has ocean views and offers the poolside menu found around the resort. There is also a full bar with signature drinks.
Aulani Table Service and Signature Dining
‘Ama ‘Ama is the restaurant closest to the ocean at Aulani. You can expect stunning Hawaiian sunsets at this upscale, signature dining location that’s perfect for a date night.
Makahiki – The Bounty Of The Islands offers prefixed, three course meals for breakfast and dinner. There is a colorful indoor atmosphere or a lanai next to a koi pond. Makahiki is named after the Hawaiian harvest season. Breakfast is a character meal here some days with visits from Mickey and friends in their Hawaiian best. Be sure to check for character dining availability.
Ka Wa‘a – A Lū‘au at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa is the iconic Hawaiian tradition of an outdoor dinner and show with live performances. Learn about Hawaiian culture through storytelling, authentic attire and traditional dances like fire dancing. Advance reservations are required for the luau. This seems like a must do when visiting Aulani.
For menus, pricing and more information see Disney’s Aulani page.There are many walkable local restaurants in the area if you want a taste of the island. One of note is the nearby Monkeypod Kitchen for lunch and dinner. Eggs ‘n Things is known for pancakes and breakfasts to remember. Island Vintage Coffee is a loved restaurant featuring kona coffee, acai bowls and hot breakfasts and lunches.
