Aulani - 180 day out dining reservations needed ?

[RayMusicCityUSA]

We're going to Aulani for the first time this October. We just received our 'Aloha' packet in the mail. It includes a nice photo of the ocean view dining area of 'Ama'Ama with the advice that reservations are accepted up to 180 days from your arrival. Is it really that crowded or can we just wait to see which day we feel like dining when we're actually there?

I've also seen some advice about the different tours available. Is there much of a price difference from the Aulani Tour Desk vs. outside vendors?

Thanks !

 

[trs518]

Eat at Ama Ama for lunch. It's significantly cheaper. We were able to walk up. I wouldn't bother making reservations until you're there.

 

[lesabrowning]

We will be at Aulani in mid May. We made reservations for Mothers Day a few weeks ago on the off chance it gets filled. There was plenty of availability. I would suggest booking the character breakfast if that is on your list. I just called yesterday and had three days we could do it, two of those days the characters do not attend... LOL I had no trouble booking our party of four and had my choice of times for that third day though : )