Aulani for empty nesters?

[PrestonatorSR]

Hello all

I know this resort is already discussed extensively on these threads, but wanted to get the latest greatest feedback on Aulani. Trip Advisor seemed to have a fair amount of dissatisfied visitors recently--noting that customer service has slipped significantly. True or not? Can we accomplish enough in 5 nights at Aulani? Any tips for DW and me with regard to nearby, including drivable, activities? Pearl Harbor is on the list and we'd like to find a hike or two. Thanks for sharing or pointing me in the right direction.

 

[Paul Stupin]

Hello all

I know this resort is already discussed extensively on these threads, but wanted to get the latest greatest feedback on Aulani. Trip Advisor seemed to have a fair amount of dissatisfied visitors recently--noting that customer service has slipped significantly. True or not? Can we accomplish enough in 5 nights at Aulani? Any tips for DW and me with regard to nearby, including drivable, activities? Pearl Harbor is on the list and we'd like to find a hike or two. Thanks for sharing or pointing me in the right direction.

My wife and I (no kids) just got back from Aulani and we loved it. Customer service was excellent. My only issue was that the adult two level hot tub was closed for 3 days, but they fixed it. You’ve got to be prepared for a lot of kids, since it is Disney, but so what…the theming, rooms, lazy river and lagoons were wonderful.

Everything is pretty much driveable on Oahu and nothing is too far away. Hike wise, check out the Makapuu Lighthouse hike as well as the one to Manoa Falls. You can see videos of both on YouTube. They’re super fun. Also, even if you’re not movie fans, a visit to Kualoa Ranch is a must do. The ATV “raptor” drive is the best of the experiences they offer. It’s kind of like a souped up golf cart, and you drive as a group around the most stunning scenery imaginable.

 

[AustinTink]

adult two level hot tub

Is that on the left side of the pool grounds if you are facing the lagoon? Are chairs hard to find by the hot tub?

 

[AustinTink]

Hello all

I know this resort is already discussed extensively on these threads, but wanted to get the latest greatest feedback on Aulani. Trip Advisor seemed to have a fair amount of dissatisfied visitors recently--noting that customer service has slipped significantly. True or not? Can we accomplish enough in 5 nights at Aulani? Any tips for DW and me with regard to nearby, including drivable, activities? Pearl Harbor is on the list and we'd like to find a hike or two. Thanks for sharing or pointing me in the right direction.

I’ll be following this thread. We’re visiting Aulani for the first time in May. We’re also empty nesters. Slightly worried it will feel weird to be there without kids.

 

[Imurhuckleberry]

Just got back from a trip this December. While we do have a little one, there were plenty of adult activities or spaces IMO.

Yes, the adult pool is basically gone. And yes there will be kids everywhere during the day at the pools and beach.

But you can explore at sunrise and after sunset and it will be mostly adults around. We also "escaped" next door to either the Four Seasons, Mariott, or any of the other lagoons. Some kids there but nowhere near as many as at Aulani

Dining at night at either Ama Ama or the bar at Olelo room was all adults

Between the food, bars, spa, and nearby (walking distance) facilities, we would have no problem going there sans little one

 

[Paul Stupin]

I’ll be following this thread. We’re visiting Aulani for the first time in May. We’re also empty nesters. Slightly worried it will feel weird to be there without kids.

No, for us it didn't feel weird. Still fun! Not many seats by the hot tub, and they're pretty cramped. Not good. For us the best place to sit were the two levels of chaise lounges in front of Ama Ama. Almost no kids there because they all want to be by the pool. They go fast, though, in the morning, especially the ones under umbrellas.

Another good seating choice is to rent a two person, covered chaise called a Casabella that sits on the grass behind the beach. But thats about $80 a day, so its not something you'd do every day.

 

[AustinTink]

No, for us it didn't feel weird. Still fun! Not many seats by the hot tub, and they're pretty cramped. Not good. For us the best place to sit were the two levels of chaise lounges in front of Ama Ama. Almost no kids there because they all want to be by the pool. They go fast, though, in the morning, especially the ones under umbrellas.

Another good seating choice is to rent a two person, covered chaise called a Casabella that sits on the grass behind the beach. But thats about $80 a day, so its not something you'd do every day.

These loungers?

 

[Paul Stupin]

Yes those loungers!

 

[PrestonatorSR]

Hi again, everyone. Thanks for your initial responses--very helpful. We are looking at a 5-night/4-day experience. One of biggest challenges is organizing a daily hiking itinerary--what's the best sequence, etc.? CanShould you do more than one in a day. We are looking at easy to moderate treks--read you'll still have oxygen and no reasonable fear of imminent death from a fall. Any further insights appreciated!

 

[Paul Stupin]

Hi again, everyone. Thanks for your initial responses--very helpful. We are looking at a 5-night/4-day experience. One of biggest challenges is organizing a daily hiking itinerary--what's the best sequence, etc.? CanShould you do more than one in a day. We are looking at easy to moderate treks--read you'll still have oxygen and no reasonable fear of imminent death from a fall. Any further insights appreciated!

Makapuu lighthouse
Manoa Falls
Waimea Valley

They're all within driving distance. You could do one a day.