Aulani, Disney’s resort in Hawaii, is the perfect mix of island paradise and Disney magic!
Here’s how to make the most of your stay, and we’re here to help capture it all with our photography services.
Hawaii’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant natural colors create the perfect backdrop for capturing cherished family memories. Oahu, in particular, offers a variety of stunning locations where families can take beautiful photos , from serene beaches to majestic mountain settings. Whether you're looking for the perfect sunrise or sunset, these locations provide unique opportunities to preserve your family's special moments.
Aulani is located in Ko Olina, on the leeward side of Oʻahu, about 20 miles from Honolulu Airport. Designed to celebrate Hawaiian storytelling, art, and traditions, it’s not a “Disneyland in Hawaii” but a resort where Hawaiian culture comes first—with Disney touches woven in.
For photographers, that means endless backdrops: from open-air lobbies filled with the world’s largest collection of contemporary Hawaiian art to sweeping ocean views framed by volcanic rock and tropical gardens.
Aulani books up fast, so reserve as early as possible—ideally 6–12 months in advance. Look out for special offers on the Aulani site (like stay 4 nights, get a night free).
When booking: Choose your view category carefully (Standard, Garden, Poolside, Partial Ocean, or Ocean View). Photographers especially will want Ocean View or Poolside rooms for sunrise and sunset shots. Consider booking directly through Disney for flexibility, even though some travelers rent DVC points for savings.
At the center of Aulani is the Waikolohe Valley, a lively area filled with pools, slides, and family fun. This is where guests of all ages spend much of their time, whether floating along the lazy river, playing in the splash zones, or simply lounging in the sun.
The Valley features the main Waikolohe Pool, the infinity-edge Ka Maka Grotto, the quiet Wailana Pool, and the kids’ play areas like the Menehune Bridge and Keiki Cove. Rising above it all is the Pu‘u Kilo volcano, home to two waterslides: the Volcanic Vertical for thrill-seekers and the Tubestone Curl, which sends riders splashing into the lazy river.
For those who want something more unique, the Rainbow Reef offers a chance to snorkel in a private lagoon stocked with hundreds of tropical fish. Guests can purchase a day pass or a length-of-stay pass, making it easy to enjoy the reef more than once.
One of the most magical parts of Aulani is seeing beloved Disney characters enjoying their own Hawaiian vacation. You’ll often spot Mickey, Minnie, Moana, Stitch, and friends roaming the resort in island-inspired outfits you won’t see anywhere else. Their bright aloha shirts, floral dresses, and leis make for extra special photos that feel unique to Hawaii.
The character schedule is posted each morning—either on the Aulani app or by dialing “CHIP” (2447) from your room phone. Not every character appears every day, so check early if there’s someone special you want to meet. Most greetings are held around the Waikolohe Valley, the lawn, or near the towers, and because the resort is smaller than the theme parks, wait times are usually short and relaxed.
Photo Tips:
- Arrive early to each spot for shorter lines and a chance to be near the front—especially for popular characters like Moana.
- Bring your own camera or phone. Cast Members are more than happy to take photos for you in addition to PhotoPass, so you’ll get both professional and personal shots. Look for candid opportunities. Characters sometimes walk the resort pathways between meets—these moments make for fun, unexpected photos.
Whether you’re traveling with kids, as a couple, or solo, meeting characters at Aulani feels more personal than at the parks—giving you time to connect, laugh, and capture authentic moments that reflect the laid-back spirit of Hawaii.
Options range from fine dining to poolside snacks:
Makahiki – The Bounty of the Islands
Makahiki is best known for its lively character breakfast, where you can enjoy a hearty buffet while Disney friends like Mickey, Minnie, and Stitch stop by for photos. In the evening, it transforms into a relaxed buffet dinner highlighting island flavors. For families, this is often the most memorable dining experience of the trip.
‘Ama ‘Ama – Oceanfront Dining
If you’re looking for something more upscale, ‘Ama ‘Ama is Aulani’s signature dining spot. Located right by the lagoon, it offers panoramic views of the ocean and is one of the best places to watch the sun dip below the horizon. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration—and the golden light at sunset makes it an incredible setting for photos, too.
Ulu Café – Casual & Convenient
For something quick and easy, Ulu Café is the go-to. It offers a mix of grab-and-go items like acai bowls, poke, flatbreads, and snacks you can take back to the pool or beach. It’s a great option if you’d rather maximize your time swimming or exploring, without committing to a sit-down meal.
While Aulani offers plenty of great backdrops and even PhotoPass photographers, many guests choose to capture their trip with a professional session. Photographers like Kim Ebert specialize in working at Aulani and know the best times and spots for photos—whether it’s golden hour on the beach, quiet corners of the resort, or candid family moments. Having someone familiar with the resort ensures your photos feel relaxed, natural, and truly reflective of your time in Hawaii.
Aulani truly blends Hawaiian culture, breathtaking scenery, and just the right touch of Disney magic. With a little planning, you can make the most of your stay—whether that means enjoying the pools, meeting characters, exploring the island, or capturing special moments through photography. However you spend your time, Aulani is a place where memories are made to last a lifetime. From sunrise walks along the lagoon to evenings filled with live music and storytelling, every detail is designed to immerse you in the spirit of aloha. It’s not just a resort, but an experience that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
Create everlasting memories in HawaiiKim Ebert is an Oahu couple photographer specializing in captivating Hawaii couple photography.
Kim Ebert is an Oahu family photographer specializing in captivating Hawaii family photography.
