At Aulani - First Impressions

[LJD2143]

We were there in a 2BR in mid January and had TV issues for a couple of days. Luckily, we didn't really care about watching TV - too busy during the day and too tired at night.

We also arrived at 10pm and did not receive flower leis. I assumed it was because it was so late at night and they were gone for the day. Since they are fresh, they probably only make a limited amount each day?

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[aboveH20]

Arrived about 10:00 PM yesterday after a long day of island hopping. Glad that Alamo gave us a paper with directions because it was better than phone app. Resort was beautifully lit at night.
My first 3 experiences were less than magical but undoubtedly influenced by the fact that I was very tired:
1). It felt like we were being taken hostage as we drove in. I am obsessive about guarding rental cars after reading online horror stories about valets/car damage/rental car damage claims denied because a non-authorized (valet) driver had caused damage. The valet practically grabbed our keys, started unloading our luggage before I even put the car in park. I was tired and they

I never thought about that. We're renting a car as well. Where do you suggest we self park? Do signs make it obvious where to park as your first arrive?

I see you're from MN. We're from NY and it's so hard to pack for Hawaii weather when we keep seeing minus signs in the forecast here. What do you wear at night for warmth? Any other packing tips for those of us coming from ? We have dinner reservations at Ama Ama. What do "young seniors" wear?

 

[deedisneydream97]

H2O: you cannot self park until you have your room key. I simply told the valet we were too tired to "valet park", go into the lobby and do the whole "welcome" thing. I parked right past the lobby doors after telling the valet we would NOT need valet service as I just wanted to get our room keys, left hubby in the car, and went to the little desk outside where the citrus drinks are. There were a couple of CM's there, and they were able to give me my room keys and lei's. It was before 10 pm though. The parking garage can be confusing to get to, make sure you ask. We parked, unloaded our luggage ourselves and went to our room. Or you can have the valet unload your luggage, get your key, go self park and then call for your luggage when you get to your room.

I watch the 10 day forecast on the weather channel dot com for honolulu to see what the temps will be (usually 80). A zip up fleece is good for cool, windy evenings. We didn't eat on property at all, so can't help you there. Have fun in the sun!

 

[Neraj]

You can self park without a room key (push the button to get a ticket, then use your room key to get out). The reason the resort wants you to go up to valet is because of the greeting and leis. It is also possible to get help with your luggage. The resort wants to give you that 'wow' greeting, and the valet's can help you with directions if you want (To help avoid confusion in the parking structure).

 

[JWG]

This was by far the best resort experience we've had. We arrived as the 2nd half of our party (first group checked in in the AM, we arrived closer to 8pm). Our early arrivers dropped us off the lobby so we could get our leis, which we were able to do.

Everything about the place was great from service on down (for the most part, we had a few trips to the pool side bar/restaurant with a lazy wait staff). But, like being on the cruise ship, the staff said hello (aloha) every pass.

We wouldn't hesitate to go back, other than we're not overly intersted in staying on Oahu for any extended period again. Too bad Maui or the Big Island isn't an option.

 

[lovetotraveltx]

H2O: you cannot self park until you have your room key. I simply told the valet we were too tired to "valet park", go into the lobby and do the whole "welcome" thing. I parked right past the lobby doors after telling the valet we would NOT need valet service as I just wanted to get our room keys, left hubby in the car, and went to the little desk outside where the citrus drinks are. There were a couple of CM's there, and they were able to give me my room keys and lei's. It was before 10 pm though. The parking garage can be confusing to get to, make sure you ask. We parked, unloaded our luggage ourselves and went to our room. Or you can have the valet unload your luggage, get your key, go self park and then call for your luggage when you get to your room.

I watch the 10 day forecast on the weather channel dot com for honolulu to see what the temps will be (usually 80). A zip up fleece is good for cool, windy evenings. We didn't eat on property at all, so can't help you there. Have fun in the sun!

where did you eat off property and what was your favorite(s)?

Thanks!

 

[jekjones1558]

I never thought about that. We're renting a car as well. Where do you suggest we self park? Do signs make it obvious where to park as your first arrive?

I see you're from MN. We're from NY and it's so hard to pack for Hawaii weather when we keep seeing minus signs in the forecast here. What do you wear at night for warmth? Any other packing tips for those of us coming from ? We have dinner reservations at Ama Ama. What do "young seniors" wear?

I did actually self park. I told valets, in as nice a way as I could, that I did not want anyone else driving the car. After we finally got checked in and the bellman brought up our bags, giving resort info on the way, I went back down and parked the car.
I packed a hoodie and a sweater. I have used neither on Big Island or here. It can get breezy sometimes but it has been very warm this trip. I would pack a casual and a little nicer sweater and you should be good to go.
We are not doing Ama Ama until Tuesday. We did not pack anything fancy. We are wearing nice capris and tops. During my Hawaii trips over the years I have learned that those who like to get dressed up can do so, so if you like to do that, go for it. I like to pack light and there aren't that many restaurants where you have to wear glam. Nicer resort casual will usually work.

 

[jekjones1558]

Thank you very much.

My husband would like to know if you ate or snorkeled off the premises

This trip has been a whirlwind of touring because DSis has never been to Hawaii and she does not know whether she will ever be back, so we have been just grabbing food on the go. We enjoyed Duke's on Waikiki today. The Sunday lunch buffet is a steal at $15.95 and actually very good and the view and vibe are great. Tomorrow we are doing the dinner and show at Polynesian Culture Center. Tuesday we do Ama Ama. Sorry I can't be of more help. I will add my name to the list of people who recommend doing Arizona Memorial, Aloha Swap Meet, Diamond Head and Waikiki on the weekend. Traffic on the weekend is bad enough when you are in an unfamiliar place. Weekday traffic would be seriously NOT fun. A tip if you go to Waikiki on the weekend: parking at the Waikiki Shopping Center is a flat $5.00 for 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. During the week it is $2.50 per half hour!

 

[Mickey Mantle]

Interesting.

Our TV isn't work isn't working tonight.

 

[jekjones1558]

Our TV isn't work isn't working tonight.

Ours worked until about 9:00 and then stopped. Front desk says it is another resort wide issue. Sad. Wanted to watch Olympics.

 

[deedisneydream97]

Thanks for the info about self-parking. Although I would still rather park by the lobby myself and get the keys first. We got stuck behind people a few times that didn't have keys to get into the lot or were not getting a response when pushing the button. LOL, when we were going out one day, the person in front of us kept putting their room key in the wrong slot.

Jek: we had a onebedroom, so made our own breakfast and lunch. For dinner we used the outdoor gas grills three different times and made burgers and steaks. We went to En Fuego's (near the Safeway)....very good local food. Went to Just Tacos across the street (Taco Tuesday for cheap tacos...but nothing to write home about). The ABC/Island market across the street for fried chicken and some good made to order salads. I've heard great things about MonkeyPod Kitchen across the street also. The barbeque place across the street is not very good in my opinion....it is mostly like Chinese food places around here, but with more seafood options. We did Germaine's Luau the previous trip and loved it. But Paradise Cove is closer and you can walk. We were also lucky enough to be invited over to an acquaintence's home nearby for a barbeque.

Oh....Nico's Pier 38 in Honolulu. We went after our Diamond Head visit for lunch. Would have gone there again except we do not like the Honolulu rush hour traffic.

Another place we still didn't get to: The Highway Inn....I think it might be off the Ewa Beach exit.

A hint: some CM's that work around the pool are very friendly and can tell you their favorite places. Alot love MonkeyPod.

 

[jerseygal]

ENJOY YOUR VAC WITH YOUR FAMILY!!! Your pics are GORGEUS!

Have you tried Chucks at the JW Marriott? I believe that I read good reviews..Think that they even have a salad bar if you like that!
We have a sunset reservation at AmaAma...Heard it is expensive and I still don't know if we will keep reservation...I will follow future reviews...
Would LOVE TO HEAR YOUR IMPRESSIONS of AmaAma dinner!

Envious as the tristate NY weather is really cold and snowed again last night!
Another storm coming Thursday possibly, coastal storm, so who knows!
CANNOT WAIT FOR THAT BEAUTIFUL HAWAIIAN WEATHER!

Did you fly nonstop? Not looking forward to 11 hours from Newark, but "that is the price for a BEAUTIFUL RESORT AND FUN FILLED VACA"!!! CANNOT WAIT FOR MAY!

 

[aboveH20]

ENJOY YOUR VAC WITH YOUR FAMILY!!! Your pics are GORGEUS!

Have you tried Chucks at the JW Marriott? I believe that I read good reviews..Think that they even have a salad bar if you like that!
We have a sunset reservation at AmaAma...Heard it is expensive and I still don't know if we will keep reservation...I will follow future reviews...
Would LOVE TO HEAR YOUR IMPRESSIONS of AmaAma dinner!

Envious as the tristate NY weather is really cold and snowed again last night!
Another storm coming Thursday possibly, coastal storm, so who knows!
CANNOT WAIT FOR THAT BEAUTIFUL HAWAIIAN WEATHER!

Did you fly nonstop? Not looking forward to 11 hours from Newark, but "that is the price for a BEAUTIFUL RESORT AND FUN FILLED VACA"!!! CANNOT WAIT FOR MAY!

Yes, I was surprised to wake up this morning with another inch or two on the ground. We debated doing the 11 hour flight and decided not to. My husband (formerly of Madison and Ocean City, NJ ) has restless leg syndrome so we're actually flying in three hops.

Question about Diamond Head. Everything I've read makes the climb sound strenuous. Even with the miracle of the internet I haven't quite figured out if there is anything to do at Diamond Head if you don't hike.


Two weeks from tonight we'll be dining at AMA AMA to celebrate a birthday ending in zero.

 

[gonzalj1]

Yes, I was surprised to wake up this morning with another inch or two on the ground. We debated doing the 11 hour flight and decided not to. My husband (formerly of Madison and Ocean City, NJ ) has restless leg syndrome so we're actually flying in three hops.

Question about Diamond Head. Everything I've read makes the climb sound strenuous. Even with the miracle of the internet I haven't quite figured out if there is anything to do at Diamond Head if you don't hike.


Two weeks from tonight we'll be dining at AMA AMA to celebrate a birthday ending in zero.

Having just done it in August there is really only the hike. I believe there were a few information signs by the bathrooms but that's about it if you don't do the hike.

 

[deedisneydream97]

Forgot....the other Marriott (you can walk it if you make a left instead of a right when you get to the beachside walkway) has a place called Longboards. People we met had good things to say about it.

Diamondhead: It was exhausting for us and we are not yet in our 60's. It was extremely hot (even in the morning). The view was nice at the top. That's about it. then the long walk down. Also, you have to pay to park and the lot is very small. If you don't get there early enough, you have to wait in a line and a lot attendant will direct you to the next open spot. The highlight of that day was lunch at Nico's Pier.

We've also done the 11 hour flight. In winter it is a better idea because if you are doing connecting flights, you never know if that plane is delayed in another area from snow, ice, etc. Plus, the fewer take offs and landings the better (I don't like flying). Plus the plane is much bigger than those United flights to Orlando so not so cramped. Make sure you pack some sandwiches and stuff to eat on the plane. There is only food for purchase on that flight.

I also recommend the book "Driving and Discovering Hawaii, O'ahu edition. A wonderful resource with great maps, directions and recommendations.

 

[Anal Annie]

Jean - did you do Pearl Harbor this weekend?? If so, what time was your tour and what time did you leave Aulani to get there?? Need some advice...I want to go ahead & buy our tix for this August - planning to go on a Sunday morning. I just looked at the website and all of the tix are gone already for the 8:00, 8:30 and 8:45 slots for the day we will go. There were still 25 avail. for 8:15 but I was thinking of doing the 9:00 slot just because DH doesn't want to have to get up tooooo early….but we want to also do the USS Missouri so we know it will take at least probably 5 hours. I was thinking of going on into Waikiki for lunch after we're done there. Should we do the 8:15 or the 9:00? What time will we have to leave Aulani to be there by 7:15 on a weekend if we do the 8:15?? Do we need to allow 45 minutes to drive it? I'm also trying to think what time we'll be able to eat lunch if we go later…It's probably another 30 min. or so to get into Waikiki from there isn't it? THX for your thoughts!

 

[jekjones1558]

Jean - did you do Pearl Harbor this weekend?? If so, what time was your tour and what time did you leave Aulani to get there?? Need some advice...I want to go ahead & buy our tix for this August - planning to go on a Sunday morning. I just looked at the website and all of the tix are gone already for the 8:00, 8:30 and 8:45 slots for the day we will go. There were still 25 avail. for 8:15 but I was thinking of doing the 9:00 slot just because DH doesn't want to have to get up tooooo early….but we want to also do the USS Missouri so we know it will take at least probably 5 hours. I was thinking of going on into Waikiki for lunch after we're done there. Should we do the 8:15 or the 9:00? What time will we have to leave Aulani to be there by 7:15 on a weekend if we do the 8:15?? Do we need to allow 45 minutes to drive it? I'm also trying to think what time we'll be able to eat lunch if we go later…It's probably another 30 min. or so to get into Waikiki from there isn't it? THX for your thoughts!

Our Pearl Harbor tickets were for 8:00. We left at 6:00 because I am a worry wart. There was lots of parking and little traffic. We could have left at 6:15. For 9:00 you coûld probably leave at 7:15. Because I am a worrier I got tickets for both Saturday and Sunday so if we missed Saturday we had Sunday as a backup. Since the fee for reserving is only $1.50 per ticket, it was cheap insurance.
By the time you do Arizona and Missouri there will be more traffic, so it probably will take a half hour to get to Waikiki and park. We had a lot of traffic to deal with in Waikiki for lunch on Sunday.

 

[shortypots]

Does Aulani offer tours to the various locations like Pearl Harbor, Polynesian Cultural center, sea life park, Paradise cove luau, etc? Since they are not in the Waikiki area, I am noticing we cannot get transportation so was figuring that typically large resorts would make deals to offer these kinds of tours. If so, any idea on pricing?

 

[dianeschlicht]

Heading to church shortly but will do some research when I get back.

I have to ask where you went to Church, Jean. We went to a very small Catholic Church just to the West of Aulani a few miles. It was right on the main drag, and very quaint and a LOT of fun! They greeted us with REAL flower leis (to make up for your Aulani disappointment), and even the priest came to visit with us before Mass. Wish I could remember the name, but I only remember the location.

 

[jekjones1558]

Jerseygal, we did not fly non-stop from Minnesota. We went to Big Island first and there are no non-stops to BI from MN. Even if there had been, I like one stop to break up the flight. It takes longer but I just can't sit in one place for such an extended time, even though we flew first class. We did leave our home airport on an early flight to allow a longer layover at LAX, just in case of weather delays getting out of Minnesota. Years ago DH and I used to do the non-stops into HNL, about 8.5 hours, and that was barely doable for me.