First timer asking for suggestions!

[cpgecko]

We're headed to Aulani next week. It'll be three of us (me, DW, allegedly three year old potty trained daughter) and I've been hitting up the boards for advice.

I know about packing tinfoil, bringing a waterproof camera, and a variety of other things, but I'd love to get some advice from those who've been.

What do you know now about Aulani that you wish you'd have known before your first trip?

A thing to do, a place to go, things to pack...whatever you're able to suggest would be grand!

 

[catmegs]

LESS is more! Two months to go till our second trip to Aulani, and me being beyond excited I tend to want to make extensive packing lists, shopping lists, itineraries, restaurant plans, etc etc etc- especially if you are used to planning for Disney. But I keep remembering that we didn't use any of it on our first trip. Packed a ton but only ever wore maybe 2 or 3 outfits each (did use the washer/ dryer often), could have packed carryon. Packed lots of cooking stuff/ spices/ extras- could have bought it all at ABC store/ target/ costco. Had a whole list of places to go- barely left the resort (kids were having too much fun). Had a list of activities to try from the Daily Iwa- never made it to any (the pools and beach are too fun!). Let go, relax and enjoy!!!

 

[ehrawn]

It's easy for our family stay on the property the entire time since, 1) there is so much to do for our kids (8&6), and 2) we live here. Of course, you are probably in a different situation. Do you come to Oahu often? How likely is it that you come again? How long will you be staying? Obviously, if this is a once in a lifetime trip, make the most of it and see the Island.

 

[cpgecko]

Love that less suggestion...

We're west coasters, so we're not local, but it's not crazy far and easier than east coast stuff.

My partner and I have done Oahu and Maui before, so we're largely set on staying around the resort.

We're on a 5 nighter and have a car our second day there with the intention of stocking up.

 

[crystal1313]

I agree with less is more too!! We were there 7 nights and we stayed at the resort the entire time. So much to do. Had so much fun. Never got bored. It was so relaxing and amazing!! I think one thing I wish i realized before we went was how much we would all love it!! Already planning a return trip best tip I learned from someone else on here: coconut rum and pog juice. So yummy. And much cheaper than the $13 cocktails at the resort!! They have ice water stands all around the pool too. So bring a refillable cup! Make sure to tell your little one to not run in the pool areas. It gets slippery. take advantage of the free beach toys! Happy hour at Oleo room and Monkeypod were both great. Best tip, take tons of photos and enjoy the time with your family!! Have a great time

 

[Janrantoo2]

I agree with less is more too!! We were there 7 nights and we stayed at the resort the entire time. So much to do. Had so much fun. Never got bored. It was so relaxing and amazing!! I think one thing I wish i realized before we went was how much we would all love it!! Already planning a return trip best tip I learned from someone else on here: coconut rum and pog juice. So yummy. And much cheaper than the $13 cocktails at the resort!! They have ice water stands all around the pool too. So bring a refillable cup! Make sure to tell your little one to not run in the pool areas. It gets slippery. take advantage of the free beach toys! Happy hour at Oleo room and Monkeypod were both great. Best tip, take tons of photos and enjoy the time with your family!! Have a great time

Before my last big trip to Maui, I found a Christmas bottle of Malibu Rum in the 1/2 off bin @ Albertsons. SCORE! Add some POG, garnish with marishino cherry & pineapple on a Party City cocktail umbrella and we had a cocktail better than any thing the bar could give!

 

[Elima2015]

With a little one with you, don't over-plan. I think it is more relaxing for everyone to just go with the flow. We went with 2.5 year old twins and while I had planned 3 days at the resort and 3 days touring Oahu, when it came down to it, the kids were happiest playing in the pool or at the beach. We did head out one day and a 1/2 another day, but abandoned the rest as it just wasn't worth the stress of packing them up, eating on the road, missing nap time. And for naps - take them! The littles were tired from all the playing in the water and the whole family took wonderful 2-3 hour naps each day. Have fun!!

 

[gumby5657]

We're headed to Aulani next week. It'll be three of us (me, DW, allegedly three year old potty trained daughter) and I've been hitting up the boards for advice.

I know about packing tinfoil, bringing a waterproof camera, and a variety of other things, but I'd love to get some advice from those who've been.

What do you know now about Aulani that you wish you'd have known before your first trip?

A thing to do, a place to go, things to pack...whatever you're able to suggest would be grand!

Just curious- why tinfoil? We are planning on traveling to aulani next June with our 5 year old, so I'm super curious about this one

 

[alohamom]

Just curious- why tinfoil? We are planning on traveling to aulani next June with our 5 year old, so I'm super curious about this one

I used it to cover what I had BBQ'd to take back to the room

 

[gumby5657]

I didn't realize there were bbq's to use on property

 

[brimorga]

If you didn't pay with points, try to see if there are any deals on a room upgrade at check in. It never hurts to ask.

If you are still doing naps, a pool side room is awesome. However, the elevators were amazing and quiet, so a room by an elevator is actually a plus. A time saver if you are in and out of the room a lot.

Bring a streaming device, like an amazon fire tv, if you have one. The wifi was great and easy to hook up.

Make some dinner reservations, like now, if you haven't already.

Get some solo cups to put your drink of choice in, or buy the mug. As noted above, rum goes well with a lot.

Personally, I love spray sunscreen to be used as a sunscreen refresher but I usually use some lotion for the first application. Another time saver.

Use the daycare, and go in when you are not in a hurry to register (and when the line is short). Sign up for the free activities in advance.

Check out the turtle beach and the other lagoons. I thought some were nicer then Aulani's.

Ok, that's all I got.