As much as I want to hype Aulani up, I have to keep it real. Aulani is so expensive.
I truly believe that every Disney fan should make the journey to this beautiful Hawaiian resort at least once in their lifetime. But man, does it get pricey.
Room rates are high. Food is expensive. And even just getting to Hawaii can be pricey, especially if you’re coming from the east coast.
But thankfully, there are some ways for you to make your Aulani vacation a little more affordable.
Aulani on a Budget
Here are some of my favorite ways to save money at Aulani without skipping out on all the fun and eats:
1. Take advantage of free activities
There are over 30 complimentary activities that you can do at Aulani. Here are some of the highlights:
- 5 pool areas (including an infinity two level hot tub)
- lazy river
- “private” beach
- character meet and greets
- Aunty’s Beach House (free kids club)
- ‘Ohana Disney movie night
- hula dancing lessons
- Mo’olelo fire pit storytelling
- Free access to beach toys
Aulani doesn’t have a resort fee like most hotels, but lets be real, this cost is just factored in to your overpriced room rate.
2. Get the refillable mug
This mug is the closest thing to “all inclusive” that you’d get at Aulani.
The mug costs less than $25 and provides you with unlimited refills on soda, hot chocolate, tee, and Kona coffee.
3. Do you grocery shopping at Target
Target, Foodland, and Costco are right down the road at Kapolei (10 mins) so be sure to stock up on food, drinks alcohol, and other essentials for the duration of your stay.
Sure there’s this ABC Store type of market across the street, but it’s definitely tourist prices.
4. Visit off-season
If you have a flexible schedule, then by far the best way to save money at Aulani is to stay during the slower, emptier times of the year.
Cheaper Months
- February
- October
- early November
- early December
Expensive Months
- June
- July
- early August
5. Compare Third Party Booking Sites
I like to use Google Hotels to compare the prices for your dates.
As you can see, the room rates vary depending on white site you book through.
And unlike Disney World hotels, lower room rates can be found outside of the official website.
6. Skip the Ocean View Rooms
Yes, the view from the Ocean view rooms is incredible, BUT if the main goal is to save money, then I would opt for the Standard View instead.
On average, an Ocean View Standard Room costs 35% more than a Standard View room.
- Ocean View Room = $774 per night on average
- Standard View Room = $574 per night on average
7. Don’t rent to snorkel gear
Imma be honest, the water is THAT clear in Ko’Olina to be snorkeling. Plus to rent this, it’ll cost you $25 per day per person.
You’re better off bringing your own set or getting a cheaper on from Target.
8. Use a Disney Visa to book your stay
During certain times of the year, if you book your vacation on the phone and pay with your Disney Visa, you’ll be able to take advantage of some seasonal promotions.
I’ve seen discounts anywhere from 25% all the way to 35%. Plus, you’ll even get resort credit during your stay.
But you will need to stay at least 4 or 5 nights on average to take advantage of these deals.
My last vacation, we saved 35% on a 5-night stay in a 1-Bedroom Villa with Poolside Gardens View, while also receive a $100 resort credit (which we blew through on the first day lol).
9. Don’t eat every meal at Ko’Olina
While there’s no shame to eat all your meals on property or at Monkeypod across the street, there are some many amazing restaurants and eateries around the island that it’ll be a shame to only be eating chicken tenders and fries all day.
Even if you don’t want to go that far, you’ll find some great spot in Kapolei.
My personal favorite for some local eats is always Zippy’s. So good and definitely will never break the bank.
10. Rent Disney Vacation Club Points
This is the one tip that I have zero personal experience with but it does save most people a ton of money.
When you rent DVC points, you can save between $100 – $250 per night depending on the time of year and room availability.
David’s DVC Rentals seems to be the most popular choice.
11. Skip the Aulani Poke and go to Foodland
The poke bowls are 59% cheaper at Foodland but 10x better. The quality and flavors are truly on point.
I’m still dreaming about the Maui Onion Poke and California Roll Poke.
12. Visit Aulani for the day
If you don’t want to pay those outrageous room rates then the next best thing is to visit the property for the day.
You won’t be able to use the pools or lazy river, but at least you can still shop, eat at all the restaurants, including the character breakfast, get a Mickey ear shave ice, as well as go to the Disney-style luau.
13. Don’t rent a car
Hear me out. IF you only want to stay at Aulani and have zero plans to explore the island, then you will not need a car.
You’re better off just Uber-ing from HNL for around $40 to $70 each way as opposed to renting a car and paying for parking at $40 a day.
But this is just bad advice on my part because I need you to explore O’ahu and all that it offers.
