Our Trip to Aulani 2022! | The DVC Show 

I just got back from Aulani, and compared to before Covid, it's not as good. They are still working with a reduced staff, I think. Trash bins were overflowing. Also, Ama Ama, their best dining service is still closed?! I have to agree that their quick service cafe serves great meals. On top of that, the spa no longer offers a DVC discount - just their special DVC member massage. But none of that is going to stop me from returning this fall.

Pete, can you do a video on your points? I am so curious about how many points you have and how you typically spend them throughout the year.

Aulani is an amazing resort. Had 2 bedroom ocean view in February which was stunning. Can write a whole page on why we love Aulani (and are going back in August). But since the show covered the positives, I will add some things that Aulani needs to improve. In February, we stayed at Royal Hawaiian, Aulani and Koloa Landing in Kauai. Aulani is the only resort that didn’t greet us with a drink (not even water) or a Lei. We stayed on points but this 2 bedroom Villa goes for over $2000 cash per night…so coming off an East coast flight followed by land transportation, it seems ridiculous that Disney chooses to cut costs like this… especially for those who may be visiting Hawaii for the first time, Lei greeting is a nice start to your Hawaiian experience. AmaAma was my favorite restaurant in Hawaii, and is outside and on the ocean front yet Disney chose to close this restaurant down using Covid as an excuse. Makahini is nice but it does not compare to ama ama. So the spectacular ocean front signature restaurant at Aulani is closed and not coming back. For families with young children, the social distancing character experiences are a real let down and the man made reef was sold out so if you did not make advance reservations, more disappointment especially for kids. I was aware of these annoyances before we came in February but that didn’t stop us from having an amazing stay! It just seems to be an overall theme with Disney these days to cut costs and eliminate amenities that should not be eliminated at such an incredible resort where guests pay top dollar to stay.

I just came back from the Aulani 2 nights ago. This is my home resort & we love going “home” every year. My boys are 17 & 20 & can’t wait to go back year after year. I can attest to the great hospitality & care taken by the cast members. We even saw one taking a furniture pen to get rid of scratches in the hall. The cast members become like family & the food? Yum!!!

My wife and I are original Aulani owners. We even have a tile on the big rock. Our first trip was over holidays in 2012-2013. We had a 2 bedroom villa for 2 weeks. The resort was awesome, but crowded. I spoke with a cast member and relayed to my belief that Aulani needed to be managed like DCL, with adult only areas. That was the only negative about our first trip. 2 years later we went to Aulani again for 10 days in a 1 bedroom villa. Happily, the Wailana adults only pool had been built, and the infinity hot tubs were adults- only after about 7:00. Aulani became my happy place, where I could chill out during my stay, without having to deal with someone else's unruly children. Our 3 children were all adults by that time. This feeling held true for our next 4 trips. My daughter graduated from U of H in 2016, and we rented the 3 bedroom villa for the first time. We went to Aulani in 2021, in a 3 bedroom villa, for a week. To my dismay, the Wailana pool was no longer adults only. I inquired as to why this was, and was given nonsensical answers about covid being the cause. This at a time when capacity was about 35%, and the family pools were practically deserted. Aulani, as beautiful as it is, is no longer my happy place. I refuse to swim in an unflushed toilet filled with screaming small children. We will not be returning anytime soon. Instead, we will spend our money on other islands at other resorts, or on Oahu at other resorts, paid for by renting out my Aulani points. Bring back the adults only Wailana pool, and we will return.

Here's why I won't be going to Aulani. Per same travel website, 9/3 - 9/10 travel dates: BUF - MCO, 3 hrs 58 mins (1 stop), $233 round trip. $932 for family of four. BUF - HNL, 18 hrs 25 mins (2 stops), $636 round trip. $2544. No doubt it would be a great experience, but can't justify the cost nor the time spent travelling.

Pete you struck my heart strings! I didn't know your brother was a Charlie and that his wife is Cookie. My parents were Charlie and Cookie, both lived their whole lives on the Jersey Shore. Lost my mom the beginning of April. Love your videos and appreciate your team. Can't wait to go "home" to Aulani again after watching this!

I think you guys should post on this Channel twice a week!

Less than four weeks until we get to go! Six nights in a two bedroom! HELLISHLY expensive but I am confident this will be WORTH IT!

We live in Hawaii and are DVC members at AULANI. Just stayed for 3 days, relaxed at the spa twice and enjoyed the pools and just walking around enjoying the environment. We like fixing meals in our room but always have a pool side lunch, the service is the best and the food is great! As retired Military we are somewhat insulated from the high costs by shopping on base. Alot of military go to AULANI. Enjoyed your show and agree the best experience is being with family and friends. Thank you all!

Aulani is by far the best DVC resort. All of it is such a great time. We're hard pressed to leave the resort. We even bought the silly CD of the Hawaiian elevator music that's all Disney tunes.

Being in the UK, I doubt I'll ever be able to afford a trip to Aulani - WDW costs a fortune already - but this sure makes me dream of going there!

Great show! I like these episodes more than the rants. So many things so right at Aulani, but it’s also the experience and the time cherished with your loved ones. My kids still talk about Aulani, and although I thought they liked Maui better, they keep asking to go back to Aulani. Thank you for sharing.

TY for this video! I needed this to confirm my decision of my direct purchase to Aulani! Even though I’ve been considering this for about 7yrs. “wish I would have done it sooner”

We were there over the week of Feb 14th while American Idol was taping the shows that aired last night and will air tonight. That's good news/bad news - fun to see some of the contestants running around, but the huge production kinda cuts into full access to the beach and stuff. We're glad to have seen it ... and we'll book a different week in the future. 😉

Just bought my first contract, to Aulani! This video makes me so happy!

100% right on Pete! I’ve only been twice but going again in September for my husband 50th Birthday. His hands down favorite DVC. I am glad you have a wonderful time with your family and friends.

I've been to Disney in Paris, Cali and WDW Florida sooo many times, but Aulani was hands down the best trip of them all. I agree w/ every point that was made in this video.

This video was released about a week after we got back from our trip to Aulani. Totally missed our chance to grab some Honolulu Coffee Company beans! Ordered a few bags from their website and it arrived the other day. According to the bags, the beans were roasted a few days before it shipping out. Just brewed some of the Makahiki blend. It's fantastic! 👌 Thanks for the suggestion!

My daughter Lisa and her family do have a close friend that owns at Aulani. They go to Aulani every other year with their friends from California. They absolutely look forward to that trip every other year. They also get the Grand Villa.

Yay! It’s Pete, Kerri, Fiasco, Paul, and Panda! Thank you, Pete, as always, for your exquisite words regarding Aulani! Such a truly heartwarming story! Aloha! 🌴🥰🌴

We are headed there in a couple of months. Glad to hear your review. I was there in 2014, and really looking forward that the level of detail has not dropped. Our friends are going with us for their first trip. Looking forward to see their face. Thank you for the episode.

We went in 2017 for 5 days and then sailed NCL POA. One reoccurring theme was all the activities closing early, often by 5 PM. After dinner at Aulani, there's nothing to do but drink. There were several nights we were extremely bored. Not a trip we would repeat.

We always like Pete’s reviews and his passion. Let me tell you how rare the whale sighting was. I lived in HI for 25 yrs, been in the Navy & Coast Guard and on numerous cruises and I have NEVER seen 3 whales coming out of the ocean like that! You guys were definitely blessed. We lived 15-20 mins away from Aulani and was able to spend the first weekend when it opened. The same feelings you had, we felt that on every staycation we went! Aulani is the best DVC resort that Disney has. I strongly suggest visitors shop at Costco if you’re staying in a Villa. It’s the best priced box store you will be able to go to. It’s about 15 mins from Aulani.

We were at Aulani as renters when Covid took over the world. We are going back in June as owners. Still a little disappointed that: Leis are missing. Aunty's is missing. The adults only pool is 'missing '. The best restaurant is missing. 'Normal' character breakfast is missing (unless that changed today April 18). So until those return it won't be the same.

Thank you for sharing you experience. My boss is also recommending Aulani. I think this might be my next destination.

We just bought resale at Aulani after our "try before you buy" AKL stay in March. I fell in love with AKL. We had a savanna studio (I splurged as a gift to myself for graduating nursing school and getting a job as an ER nurse during covid) I've loved Disney since my Wish trip in the 90's where we stayed at Give Kids the World. My husband was introduced to Disney when we got married at Give kids the World in 2009, and honeymooned at Disney (with barely 2 pennies to our name, but we made it happen!) Many trips have come since, as a couple, solo, or with our son-always in a value. One day we will go to Aulani, which is why I wanted to buy their resale. For now we will use the points in FL. All this to say...I think Pete owes me money...he's a great salesman!

Makes me want to go back! Thanks Pete for the coffee recommendation--I am ordering it!

Awesome confirmation. We got our flights ready, just waiting for the DVC window to open for Aulani.

Aulani is amazing. I'm so glad I went when I was able to walk. I'm using a wheelchair now so I can't imagine trying to do it now so I have those great memories from 2016 so Poly is my next best bet for now. But you are so right the two just can't compare once you see this place but maybe once they finish the build out with the new building things will improve a bit. There is still something about Poly that's special maybe because it was the first Disney resort I stayed at with my family as a kid.

We love Aulani. Lived there for 4 years and just love it there. And yes Pete, it is that expensive to live there. Next time you go let me know and will share the best places locals go for our favorites.

Well said Pete. I just went to the first time with extended family in February and it was breath taking. Definitely want to go back again soon!

We are treating our family and have a grand villa booked in July.. first trip!!

DVC Fan, When you used to fly to Hawaii in the 70's, your holiday started as soon as you boarded your flight. Flew from L.A. on Delta Airlines Economy Class. As soon as we took off we were served a range of snacks a glass of Champagne, later a meal and just before landing some Delta gifts. Even then Hawiian Hotels were another level of service above what you could find in the U.S. for the same price. Disney will have to be carefull here if they start cutting corners as they seem to be doing at their parks the other hotels will soon take over. Service and price are very competitive in the future the Disney name might not be enough to keep us coming back. Cheers, Chris Perry.

We plan on going. Been planning for over 2 years and surprise the kids with a great vacation

You make me want to go so bad! My parents own a time share at the Marriott resort just down the street from Aulani and we have to opportunity to go with them every 4 years. The Marriott resort is beautiful and we love it so much. But we have walked the grounds of Aulani and it is so special. Disney has a way of creating atmosphere that is just unmatched. I dream about staying there one day.

Our only DVC property is at Aulani, ten years in October. We’ve only been there once and look forward to going back again soon!

Thank you for sharing your experience. I can’t wait to see the look on my family’s face when we go in July

Great Show. I've stayed at Aulani three times. It's on an undeniable nother level.

i have heard that many people cant afford to live on the island. lots of hawaiians live in pretty deep poverty. Very stark contrast between those who can afford it and those who cant

Pete, the street with all the luxe shopping in Waikiki is Kalakaua Avenue, named after the last King of Hawai’i. You also have there Kuhio Beach, named after his cousin Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana’ole, and Kapi’olani Park, named after his wife, Queen Kapi’olani. Amidst all the towers and tourists is the history of Hawai’i.

Panda and olu what a team

What an incredible experience! Thank you for sharing your Aulani vacation with us.

I see your heart, Pete. Don't worry, I won't tell anyone.

Just me or Does Pete looked exhausted? Two words Pete. "Hot Tub"

I stand by your word Pete, my family and I were there twice and the only way my family and I got to go is that we are DVC members and yes the flight is long but oh so worth it!

Fabulous whale watching tour! We saw a pod of Orcas in the Strait of Juan de Fuca on a whale watching tour from Victoria, BC , and the following year visited SeaWorld. So grateful we saw those magnificent whales in the wild. You are very, very fortunate.

For the coffee lovers. Where can you get the coffee?

That's it. I'm booking Aulani for next summer. Thanks a LOT, Pete.😀

Aulani just finished a room refurb, so that is why the rooms look mostly fresh right now. We were there in November, and again at the end of February. The refurb was in process in November, and seemed to be mostly complete in February. I will disagree about the food at Aulani. I recommend eating next door at the Four Seasons, across the street or somewhere else entirely.

This question was probably answered in 1 of the 26 Aulani videos so I apologize in advance. In regards to the Aulani Grand Villa what is the difference between Ocean View and Standard View? Seems pretty self explanatory but it says "does not impact the type of view you will have from your room."

They call it the paradise tax, everything is just so very expensive there. Lol

Suggestion: instead of talking about how long of a flight it is point out it’s only a few hours longer than going to Europe. Doesn’t sound as overwhelming and more doable

Should have went to Costco for much of your groceries. Prices there seem to be much more reasonable by comparison. We love Hawaii but haven't had a chance to get back there in several years. Just too far for us from the east coast.

Awesome video! Could feel the good vibes from you guys!! 👌🏽

This video makes me SO excited to go to Aulani in July with my family! Thank you for this video.

What quick service has the ribs, I don’t quite see a menu with them?

Can you adopt me Pete? I know you'd love a big sister, lol! You have so many fun adventures. All kidding aside this was a great video on Aulani. Thanks to everyone on The Dis who work hard to bring Disney to all of us.

I am telling you, Disney needs to hire Pete to sell Aulani.

OK Pete and Panda - need your restaurant and excursion recommendations while at Aulani. Booked a week in October for 10 people to celebrate my 40th anniversary.

That video of the whales is AMAZING!!!😍

Loved aulani! We were there before the world turned upside down, late 2019.

They sell the Honolulu cookies probably at the Poly. If they are the ones I am thinking about. I get them in Las Vegas. I have bought the coffee Pete recommended. I need to order more. Loved seeing this video.

If u r from the east coast, would u suggest to fly to California, Disneyland it a day or two, and then go to Aulani, and reverse it ur way back???

We want to do Aulani next year, we are in the uk, flight is good as we are used to long haul will do a city stop over on the way out maybe Vegas 💵 for hubs 50th birthday, when is a good month to go weather wise we want it warm to swim and sunbathe

Thanks.

Another great show. Any updates about the Auntys Beach house reopening? Planning on going in August for a week and we’re hoping to have a nice dinner without kids.

Aulani is a great resort and Pete is right, they do get everything right. Great for families with young Kids due to the man made lagoon. My only complaint would be the location. It is not a convenient location due to traffic, especially if you want to spend any time in Waikiki/Honolulu.

There are a lot of good eating options in the neighborhood of the resort. Across the street, Monkeypod Kitchen has a great happy hour, and the Island Country Market is not bad for take out. Down the street is also Roy’s, by celebrity chef Roy Yamaguchi, one of the godfathers of Pacific/Hawaii regional cuisine and fusion cuisines. The same exit 2 minutes away that has Target also has Costco and Foodland, a local supermarket chain. With the villas, you have a lot more options than just the resort food. The resort food is not bad, but you are paying for the convenience. But I do have to say that the coconut shrimp, chicken tenders, and fish and chips poolside are pretty addicting.

But I don’t go to the Polynesian because I think I’m in Hawaii. I go to the Polynesian because I love WDW and that specific hotel. I’m not pretending it’s Hawaii.

😊

Can you transfer your points on the disney site or do you have to call

Great Show, I shared linked to my daughter. I just gifted (DVC) her 7 nights for her honeymoon. You guys have a must do list for Aulani?

I always find calcified lime build up in the showers. You must had gone after the rederb.

Could you go into the process to book at Aulani and how much the “tourist tax” is for a 1 bedroom? If we have the points, can we book a 1-bedroom for 10-14 days? or is it strictly 1 week booking? Can we book ahead for spa days? Is there extra charges to use pool or hold pool chairs? Does Aulani help you book excursions off resort? Do you recommend renting a car to get around? This would be a dream bucket list trip so I would want to stay a minimum of 10 nights. TYIA

Can’t decide to get Alunai or Grand Floridian? My worry is the annual dues long term dues at Alunai and also the vaccine requirement for Hawaii.

love you guys and fantastic information but lots of lip smacking sounds in this episode lol.

Pete can u adopt my family lol? Planning on going there in October, just became a DVC member last June. Im a little worried about the flight as we do have 2 kids ( one almost 5 and other would be 1 1/2 yr almost)

Was it Liliha Bakery?

Going to Aulani for the FIRST time this summer!! So excited based on your reviews!

Gib Is our guide too. We bought SSR in 2003.

I flew 24 hours to get there 😂😅

Man, you just cost me 15k, It better be worth it.. lol

Enjoyed all the insights since I am planning our first trip to AULANI right now. But… I cringe when Pete CONSTANTLY repeats the phrase he just said 2 seconds before. Hate to be negative but Repeat Pete gets annoying. Kudos to the rest of the crew👏👏👏

Thursday, September 22 - Thursday, September 29, 2022 | 1 AduTotal $4,739.77 complete rip off...who can afford this???? not worth that kind of money.

Aulani made us cave into addonitis.

Aulani is beautiful, but this episode doesn’t add anything. Skip.