Spa at Aulani

[cruisehopeful]

I'm looking for any recent experiences at the spa. Do they upsell during the treatment? They offer a poltice massage/treatment and the price shows "starting at $280" but I don't see any options on the booking app that would change the price.
I really don't like places that interrupt my zen by up selling in the midst of my treatment

How is the hydrotherapy garden?

 

[Flash_Sloth]

I was there a couple of weeks ago. I think that if you're DVC blue card, they'll give you a free upgrade to heated stones, but that wasn't applicable to my kilikili treatment. They didn't try to upsell me. They automatically add a 20% tip; that's not exactly upselling, but treatments aren't cheap to begin with.

The hydrotherapy garden was open and everything was working except the hot tub; arrive an hour before your appointment to enjoy it. Be advised that their website lists some dates that the hydrotherapy garden will be closed.

They do have some drinks and snacks.

 

[bakofarmgirl]

we love massages at the spa and have not had any upsell for products or extras, it does interrupt if there is some, one of the reasons i prefer not to do treatments on dcl

 

[VGCgroupie]

My daughter did the spa and really loved it. No upselling. I haven't tried it because I simply cannot relax, so massages and spas aren't my thing

 

[cruisehopeful]

we love massages at the spa and have not had any upsell for products or extras, it does interrupt if there is some, one of the reasons i prefer not to do treatments on dcl

I don't go to the spa on the ships for the same reason. Nothing like sitting in robe wanting to get dressed while someone won't leave the room until they recommend a bunch of overpriced products....

My daughter did the spa and really loved it. No upselling. I haven't tried it because I simply cannot relax, so massages and spas aren't my thing

I used to be like you and didn't enjoy a massage because it was way too long. I used to feel like jumping off the table after about 30 minutes and declaring that I was done. For some reason I can chillax for a facial much easier than a massage.

 

[BoilerBob]

My wife likes spas with the "extras" (hydrotherapy room, etc) which is why she doesn't like cruise spas. Is the limit only one hour before? I'm trying to decide if this would be an experience just for her or if we'd be able to combo a couples treatment with one of the longer paid experiences at Auntie's Beach House for our 6-yr old.

 

[cruisehopeful]

My wife likes spas with the "extras" (hydrotherapy room, etc) which is why she doesn't like cruise spas. Is the limit only one hour before? I'm trying to decide if this would be an experience just for her or if we'd be able to combo a couples treatment with one of the longer paid experiences at Auntie's Beach House for our 6-yr old.

Yes it says one hour before the appointment to enjoy the outdoor showers and tubs.

 

[J-Dog]

My wife likes spas with the "extras" (hydrotherapy room, etc) which is why she doesn't like cruise spas. Is the limit only one hour before? I'm trying to decide if this would be an experience just for her or if we'd be able to combo a couples treatment with one of the longer paid experiences at Auntie's Beach House for our 6-yr old.

We did the couples things in mid-2024, so policies may have since changed, but they wouldn't let you into the relaxation area until 1 hour prior to your appointment. I don't remember if they would let you go back out there after the massage or not. The relaxation area is very nice - has multiple hot tubs with different temperatures, a cold plunge, a sauna, etc.

I personally had never done a spa or massage ever before and, for me it was a one-and-done, but that's not necessarily a knock on Aulani's spa, just I tried it and found out it's not my thing.

 

[BoilerBob]

Thanks for the replies. I'm not really a spa person either but my wife likes the idea of us being able to use the relaxation area together. At other spas I've done something like get a pedicure so I didn't have to drop the coin that a massage requires. It's a little disappointing that the time is that short (we've stayed much longer at Four Seasons or Ritz spas) but I also get that they want the area to not be crowded.

 

[Perdita&Pongo]

Thanks for the replies. I'm not really a spa person either but my wife likes the idea of us being able to use the relaxation area together. At other spas I've done something like get a pedicure so I didn't have to drop the coin that a massage requires. It's a little disappointing that the time is that short (we've stayed much longer at Four Seasons or Ritz spas) but I also get that they want the area to not be crowded.

Note that the Kula Wai hydrotherapy garden is only included with certain Lani Wai Spa services, namely massages, body treatments and facials.

Laniwai does offer a ‘DVC plus one’ feature where a DVC member that has a qualifying spa treatment and can bring someone with them to enjoy Kula Wai hydrotherapy garden, steam & dry saunas and other spa amenities for a $100 fee.

We enjoyed Kula Wai before our spa services and were then invited to go back after. Of course YMMV, as it could be that they’re weren't that busy at the time and could offer us a return.

 

[Steelers0854]

We just did a couples massage yesterday and it was fantastic, probably one of the best massages I’ve had. The price was also not terrible at $205pp for 50 minutes. I’ve had much worse on cruises and some other resorts before lol.

The hydrotherapy garden was amazing. My issue is they don’t give you enough time to use it without feeling rushed. We got there an hour before our treatment and by the time they walk you around and you get your stuff settled you have about 50ish minutes. But the space is incredible. I wish they let you in 90 minutes beforehand and I think that is the sweet spot. By the time I soaked in the hot pool, went through the 6 different showers, relaxed for a it and then went into the sauna I barely had enough time for a shower and I didn’t get any time to chill on a lounger.

That said I would 100% do it again. And while they have a huge selection of product, never once was I presented with anything to buy. Not like on cruise ships where I feel like it’s a used car lot with them pushing solutions to all my health problems they saw. 10/10 highly recommend.

 

[tikisunset77]

Whenever I stay at Aulani I never miss an opportunity to go to Laniwai Spa. I seriously think it is one of the best I have ever been to and if they had ocean front massages then it would be the best. They have thought of everything. I mean its Disney of course every detail is right. Also the smell is so incredible- we have asked what they use but they say it is just a mix of all the different scents being used there- ahh its so good!! I cannot wait we will be there in four days!!

 

[texansue]

Note that the Kula Wai hydrotherapy garden is only included with certain Lani Wai Spa services, namely massages, body treatments and facials.

Laniwai does offer a ‘DVC plus one’ feature where a DVC member that has a qualifying spa treatment and can bring someone with them to enjoy Kula Wai hydrotherapy garden, steam & dry saunas and other spa amenities for a $100 fee.

We enjoyed Kula Wai before our spa services and were then invited to go back after. Of course YMMV, as it could be that they’re weren't that busy at the time and could offer us a return.

Where did you find the info about the 'DVC plus one' benefit? I'm not seeing that on their website and would like to see if that is still true.

 

[Perdita&Pongo]

Where did you find the info about the 'DVC plus one' benefit? I'm not seeing that on their website and would like to see if that is still true.

You have to request it when you call in and schedule your treatment appointment. It’s not something that’s published.

 

[Steelers0854]

Where did you find the info about the 'DVC plus one' benefit? I'm not seeing that on their website and would like to see if that is still true.

They also told me this last week. I actually asked if there was any way to just access the Sauna, without a treatment, and they said no but if my wife got a treatment I could access the entire hydrotherapy area for $100

 

[RivGirl]

This thread has convinced me to book a massage during our upcoming stay (first timers). I was hesitant because it would mean time away from my family and I feel guilty about that. But when I voiced it to my husband he said, "Go for it. Treat yourself. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity." (Little does he know that I fully expect us to fall in love with the place and want to come back again...and again...)

I'm so excited!

 

[Steelers0854]

This thread has convinced me to book a massage during our upcoming stay (first timers). I was hesitant because it would mean time away from my family and I feel guilty about that. But when I voiced it to my husband he said, "Go for it. Treat yourself. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity." (Little does he know that I fully expect us to fall in love with the place and want to come back again...and again...)

I'm so excited!

Oh you will, and you’ll have such a great massage it will be a part of your future trips too

 

[maleficent55]

We just did a couples massage yesterday and it was fantastic, probably one of the best massages I’ve had. The price was also not terrible at $205pp for 50 minutes. I’ve had much worse on cruises and some other resorts before lol.

The hydrotherapy garden was amazing. My issue is they don’t give you enough time to use it without feeling rushed. We got there an hour before our treatment and by the time they walk you around and you get your stuff settled you have about 50ish minutes. But the space is incredible. I wish they let you in 90 minutes beforehand and I think that is the sweet spot. By the time I soaked in the hot pool, went through the 6 different showers, relaxed for a it and then went into the sauna I barely had enough time for a shower and I didn’t get any time to chill on a lounger.

That said I would 100% do it again. And while they have a huge selection of product, never once was I presented with anything to buy. Not like on cruise ships where I feel like it’s a used car lot with them pushing solutions to all my health problems they saw. 10/10 highly recommend.

Did you have the option to use the hydrotherapy garden after instead of before?

 

[Steelers0854]

Did you have the option to use the hydrotherapy garden after instead of before?

I didn’t ask, but when they called to confirm they specifically said to come before so that’s what we did. IMO to get the full advantage of the area going before your treatment is best. Otherwise you just have loungers that wouldn’t impact whatever treatment you just had. Because its mainly pools, showers, saunas etc, and your gonna wash off whatever was just done to you.

 

[RivGirl]

I'm looking for any recent experiences at the spa. Do they upsell during the treatment? They offer a poltice massage/treatment and the price shows "starting at $280" but I don't see any options on the booking app that would change the price.
I really don't like places that interrupt my zen by up selling in the midst of my treatment

How is the hydrotherapy garden?

Figured I would leave my glowing review of LaniWai here!

First off, to answer your main question: I did not experience any upselling during the treatment. When it was finished and I was back in my robe and getting water and a "treat" (a dark chocolate quinoa crisp concoction that was a delight) from the therapist, she asked if I would be interested in purchasing the lotion she used during the massage, and if so she would leave it at the front desk for me. I told her I would look at it, so they did leave it at the front desk, but I ultimately did not purchase it. No biggie.

I booked the Signature LomiLomi. If you are DVC, call them beforehand or tell them you are DVC at spa checkin. There is a free hot stone upgrade for DVC members. I had never had a massage with hot stones before, and I really enjoyed it. The massage itself was very, very good. I was truly relaxed and floating on a cloud when I left. She did what I think was some pressure point stuff around my scalp and neck at the end that truly sent me to another plane of existence for a moment!

The Hydrotherapy Garden is an amazing, immersive feature. I took advantage of the DVC +1 benefit as well. For $100 you can bring a guest with you to experience the hydrotherapy garden and all of the spa amenities. I brought my 14yo daughter, and I think it felt like a very special treat for her, and I enjoyed the bonding time. We both had a locker with a plush robe and spa sandals. We did all 6 rain showers in the garden, alternating each one with the cold plunge tub, and ended with the hot tub. Then we tried the sauna and the steam room (those chilled lemon towels! Mmmm!), had some hydration beverages and snacks (a yuzu Madeleine and a dark chocolate coconut macaroon), and enjoyed the reclining massage chairs in the relaxation room. When it was almost time for my massage, I walked her out, then went back to the massage chairs to wait.

I would absolutely do all of this again. It was so serene, and I felt truly pampered.

As for using the garden after, I did not get the impression that you could. Plenty of staff were walking around and checking on guests, namely to find people for their appointments, but I also had a sense that they were keeping tabs on who was there and for how long. I did take time to shower, dry my hair, etc. after my massage. They have lotion, hair spray, disposable hair brushes, even mouthwash, all for guest use. But as soon as I was showered and dressed, I left.

I would recommend that you arrive already dressed (or underdressed) in your swimsuit, so that you can take advantage of as much pre-treatment time as possible. And definitely arrive on time!