Honolulu Hawaii Aulani Disney Resort and Spa

The Aulani - Disney Resort and Spa makes a visit to Honolulu, Hawaii even more special. After living in Tucson, Arizona for 7 years, my family and I always remember with love, our 13 years spent on the beautiful Island of Oahu. Now we have a reason to visit this magnificent island again. The Aloha spirit of the many friends we have there and the people of Hawaii, keeps drawing us back to the islands. It really is a special place right here on earth.

If you are thinking about a visit to the beautiful Island of Oahu, I suggest you check out this magnificent resort. It really is special.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons: File:Aulani Resort.jpg

A little bit of heaven right here on earth

Drive 17 miles north from the Honolulu airport and a surprise awaits you. You will find a magnificent beachfront resort for the whole family, Aulani - Disney Resort & Spa. This beautiful resort is on 21 acres with a white sand beach, sparkling blue lagoon and cove with lush tropical plants and a backdrop of green mountains. It is part of the 642 acre Ko Olina Community. Every one in your family will have a great time. Golf for the adults if they want a bit of exercise is one mile away at the Ko Olina Golf Club.

The stories of Hawaii come to life and combined with Disney magic makes it a special place. The Hawaiian motifs and Disney characters make it a place like no other. There are themed recreation areas, activities, and excursions making it an ideal vacation destination.

There is a 8,200 square foot pool and water play area with safe tube and body slides that weave through volcanic rock. One can explore the nearby saltwater snorkeling lagoon, where you will find tropical fish and other marine life. Children will love the supervised Disney kids' club with planned activities and adventures. Kayaks, canoes and paddle boards can be rented for ocean lovers.

The evenings are heavenly! You will have hula dancers sunset ceremonies and outdoor movies to entertain you.

There are approximately 150 Spa therapies that are offered. Massages and skin care treatments, and personalized programs make you unwind and ready to take on the world.

The Lomilomi a traditional Hawaiian hand-on massage passed down from generation to generation is one of my favorites as it promotes healing. Other massages that I recommend are Shiatsu a therapeutic massage which originated in Japan. It uses acupressure, applied with the thumbs and palms to specific areas of the body and the traditional Thai massage which I find relieves stress. For pain relief there is Reflexology which I enjoy.

There is a wellness program for every member of your family.

The resort is a place where ancient meets modern in a dazzling combination of natural beauty and sophisticated elegance. Aulani Disney Resort & Spa celebrates the customs and tradition of Hawaii with Disney and together to make this resort an unforgettable experience.

For breakfast join the Disney friends each morning. You can enjoy the fruits of the island wonderful pastries and daily specials, and can meet some of your favorite Disney characters!

There are several restaurants to choose from at the Aulani, including these favorites:

`AMA`AMA: Serves island cooking at its best. The restaurant is named after the local mullet fish.

Makahiki: This casual dinner buffet serves dishes with food from the islands. It is named for the Hawaiian harvest festival.

One Paddle, Two Paddle: For freshly made sandwiches and wraps, and house-made desserts.

An Experience of a Lifetime

Besides the smell of the magnificent Pacific Ocean, just the sight of the floating docks with the small boats and large yachts makes a visit to the Ko Olina Marina worthwhile. There is a wide variety of ocean cruises to choose from with a romantic sunset cruise being my favorite. If you want to charter a luxury boat yourself it is available.

There are snorkel tours where you can swim with hundreds of beautifully colored tropical fish, with the Hawaiian Spinning Dolphins, and giant sea turtles following the boats . In the winter months perhaps you can see Humpback Whales. Whatever you choose, it would no doubt be an experience of a lifetime.