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Where to stay at Aulani

Aulani has 351 rooms for guests to stay in during their visit to the resort ranging from standard rooms and suites to more spacious villas. I stayed in a standard room during my stay and it was lovely. The bed had one of the most comfortable mattresses I've ever slept on and an exquisite bathroom. I wish there was a bit more counter space for all of my makeup, however, that's a tiny complaint in relation to how amazing the room was. My favorite part of the room aside from the mattress was the bathroom. I loved the overhead rainfall shower as it screamed luxury and was a great way to unwind and cool down after a long day at the beach.

What to do at Aulani

Take a class

For starters, there are many classes you can sign up for that are included in your stay such as ukulele classes, animation classes, hula lessons, etc. These classes vary based on the day, but you can check the Aulani app to see if there are any scheduled during your stay. You'll need to visit the community hall to reserve a time slot prior to the start time since space is limited so make sure you do that early on in the day. I took the animation and ukulele classes and they were fun ways to spend the later evening hours.

The resort also offers fitness classes for hotel guests they can participate in and those vary based on the day. You'll want to check the app to see what's going on during your stay whether that's pilates or sunrise yoga.

Meet the characters

What really makes Aulani stand out from the competition is the Disney magic inside the resort. At Aulani guests can meet characters from popular Disney films including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Moana, Olu Mel, Angel, Shellie May, Duffy, Max, Stitch, Chip and Dale, Goofy, Pluto, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck. The characters aren't the same everyday, but you can check the app to see who will be out starting at 9am the day of your stay.

Make sure you line up early because they get crowded and the lines close quickly. You'll also need to make sure you have a wristband so the character attendants can know you are a registered hotel guest.

Visit the Menehune adventure trail

There's so much to see and do at Aulani, but one way to get a lay of the land is by completing the Menehune adventure trail. This interactive activity allows people both young and old to explore the resort while they answer trivia and learn about the property. Be sure to look up as you walk to see the different flowers and murals on the walls. You'll need to pick up a tablet from the community hall in order to participate and it's included in your stay.

See the Mo'Olelo fire pit storytelling

At night you'll want to head over to the firepit located by the beach for a storytelling experience conducted by Uncle. Each night you'll be able to hear traditional Hawaiian stories that have been passed down from generation to generation. You'll want to check the app for accurate times but usually there are showtimes at 5:45pm, 6:30pm, 7:15pm, and 8pm.

Watch live entertainment

You'll find lots of live music and dancing at Aulani during your stay. Enjoy local musicians playing traditional Hawaiian tunes and pop classics or you may catch Uncle or Auntie Cass walking around playing the ukulele with some hula dancers by their side.

During my trip, I saw Uncle and Auntie Cass walking around the resort at various times of the day and they stopped at different locations to entertain the guests in the vicinity. There was also a live-action Moana show during one of the days of my stay which was adorable and brought theme park quality entertainment to the resort.

Go to Aunty's Beach House

Kids ages 4 to 12 can enjoy a variety of activities at Aunty's Beach House during their stay at Aulani. Most of the activities are complimentary, however, there are some paid experiences that you can sign up for if you'd like.

Relax on the beach

You can head on down to the beach to take a dip in the ocean or simply watch the waves crash onto the shore. Hotel guests can check out complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas and boogie boards to use while they are there or bring their own.There's also the chance to rent out snorkel gear and paddleboards if that's something you're interested in exploring during your stay. Be sure to head over to the beach during sunset to catch the most picturesque view.

Participate in a paid activity

While there are a handful of included activities, there are also paid activities you can sign up for. These vary based on the day but some of the most popular include making your own ears, hair braiding, painting, scuba diving lessons, and fish feeding opportunities.

Go to the Laniwai

Although Aulani is a resort, the property is also home to a spa and fitness center. At Laniwai, you'll be able to book an appointment for a spa treatment of your choosing from massages to manicures and hair styling sessions. These come at an additional cost, but treatments come with access to the Kula Wai which has other relaxing amenities including heated pools, rainfall showers, whirlpools, and cold plunges.

Where to eat at Aulani

There is no shortage of food options while visiting Aulani from quick service locations to sit down restaurants, bars, and character dining. I went to almost all of the dining locations during my stay aside from Ama Ama.

On select night's each week guests can participate in a traditional Hawaiian luau, called the Ka Wa'A Luau, on the lawn of the resort. With live music, hula dancing, and singing, guests are transported into the culture right in front of their eyes. I absolutely loved the luau from the food to the show. It was definitely more of a spectacle with incredible storytelling, lots of fire, and even some special Disney friends.

For more casual meals, there are more quick-service dining options such as Ulu Cafe

Off The Hook, The Olelo Room, and Mama's Snack Stop. Ulu Cafe had delicious breakfast flatbreads and noodle bowls – plus you don't want to forget to try the Olu Mel cupcake. For dessert, be sure to stop by Papalua Shave Ice and Little Opihi to grab the viral rainbow shaved ice and classic Dole Whip.

If you're interested in meeting characters as you eat, Makahiki has a character dining meal every morning. The three-course meal allows guests to enjoy traditional Hawaiian dishes while they meet some special characters.

How much does Aulani cost?

In terms of price, Disney's Aulani Resort & Spa is pricey. Frankly, it's more expensive than a standard room at some deluxe hotels at Walt Disney World. The standard room rate starts at $999 per night. While you don't need to spend a week at the resort, even three or four nights will run you between $3,000-$4,000. Although you do get access to the pool area and the character meet and greets, that price doesn't include food and drinks or booked excursions — all of that is separate.

How many nights is enough at Aulani?

I can only speak from experience but I'd say four days is the perfect amount of time to stay at Aulani. During that time period, you'll be able to relax, enjoy the amenities and see different characters without having to rush. If you plan on staying longer in Hawaii, there are other hotels you can stay at and sights to see which you can find more about below.

Are there rides at Disney Aulani?

No, there are no rides at Aulani since it's only a resort and not a theme park. While there are character sightings at the resort, there are no rides or attractions for hotel guests to experience during their stay.

Can non guests go to Aulani?

Yes, non-guests can go to Aulani, however, they won't be able to participate in the character meet and greets, included activities, or swim in the lazy river or pools. A majority of non-resort guests visit the property to eat at some of the resort's top-tier dining options.

Other hotels on Oahu

While I loved my time at Aulani, I decided to venture to other parts of Oahu and checked out some other gorgeous properties.

The Royal Hawaiian

As a pink enthusiast, The Royal Hawaiian is a historic hotel that's all pink. From pink buildings to pink pancakes at breakfast, you'll be immersed in a chic and sophisticated pink palace. Located only steps away from the Royal Hawaiian Center, it's the perfect spot if you're looking to get a feel for Waikiki. My favorite part of my stay at the hotel was the hospitality — all of the staff were so friendly from the front desk workers to the valet employees.

In terms of food, I mentioned above that Aulani had a luau but there's also one at The Royal Hawaiian that's worth checking out. Aha'aina takes place steps away from the beach and you can listen to traditional Hawaiian stories while being entertained by hula dancers, singers, and fire knife dancers.

Outrigger Reef - Waikiki Beach

I also spent a few days at Outrigger Reef - Waikiki Beach which was right on the beach. When I tell you that my room was directly on top of the water I mean it — I was essentially sleeping on top of the waves. The rooms were chic, clean, and modern, but where the property really stood out was the location. It's right next to the shopping district and steps away from the beach. I took advantage of the on-site dining locations such as Monkeypod Kitchen which was absolutely delicious. Not only did it have a breathtaking view of the beach, but the flatbread was unlike anything I've ever had. Plus, I had a reservation at Merriman's Honolulu which was a 10 minute drive from the hotel and I was blown away. The property was so close to everything I wanted to check out during my stay while still providing a feeling of luxury.

1. Twilight (2008)

When Twilight premiered in 2008, it became an instant sensation and sparked a cultural obsession with supernatural romance. However, while it left an undeniable mark on pop culture, this film has some major underlying issues.

Once viewed as swoon-worthy, Bella and Edward's relationship feels problematic in hindsight. He was controlling, exhibited stalker-like behavior, and gaslit her into believing that she imagined his supernatural abilities.

Add in the fact that Edward is technically over a century old when Bella is a high schooler, and it's clear why Twilight might not resonate with audiences the same way in 2025.

2. Knocked Up (2007)

Directed by Judd Apatow, Knocked Up was initially well-received despite heavily leaning on outdated gender stereotypes. The movie follows responsible and career-driven Alison, who is forced to navigate an unplanned pregnancy with slacker Ben.

Even though Knocked Up delivers plenty of laughs, it also portrays women, especially Alison, as rigid and joyless. Katherine Heigl, the lead actress, criticized this, too, saying the film "Paints the women as shrews, as humorless and uptight, and it paints the men as lovable, goofy, fun-loving guys."

3. Norbit (2007)

This movie might've showcased Eddie Murphy's ability to transform into multiple characters, yet Norbit is still more cringeworthy than comedic. The portrayal of Rasputia, an over-the-top and domineering woman whose character is built around fat-shaming jokes, is particularly offensive.

Moreover, Murphy also plays Mr. Wong, a wildly stereotypical caricature of an elderly Chinese man.

4. Shallow Hal (2001)

Shallow Hal may have set out to deliver a message about inner beauty, but it really missed the mark. Again, this film relies on fatphobic humor, with Gwyneth Paltrow's character serving as the target of the jokes.

It arguably reinforces stereotypes about weight and attractiveness, and Gwyneth (who wore a fat suit) actually called the movie a "disaster" in 2020.

5. White Chicks (2004)

Featuring over-the-top humor and absurd disguises, White Chicks was a hit in 2004. Nonetheless, it's a tired portrayal of women as materialistic, shallow, and obsessed with their looks.

The premise involves two FBI agents posing as socialites during a Hamptons weekend, and it was always meant to be ridiculous. Even so, there are certain scenes that are especially questionable, like when an athlete at the club attempts to spike a woman's drink.

6. Brüno (2009)

Brüno was intended to be a bold satire, Sacha Baron Cohen's specialty, but it crosses the line of edgy humor. He plays an exaggerated, flamboyant Austrian fashion journalist, and the mockumentary was meant to expose homophobia.

Despite that, the movie incorporated a lot of outdated gay stereotypes and might've reinforced the notions as opposed to challenging them. In fact, Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) representative Rashad Robinson called the work "problematic in many places and outright offensive in others."

7. Wedding Crashers (2005)

Wedding Crashers revolves around two men who lie their way into weddings to manipulate women into sleeping with them. At its core, the film's plot is unsettling and questionable.

Aside from that, it features gay stereotypes, a racist grandmother, and scenes that blur the lines of consent. All that being said, t's obvious why this movie wouldn't fly today.

8. The Notebook (2003)

The Notebook is still one of the most favored romance movies of all time, so this may be an unpopular opinion, but some of its most iconic moments are more disturbing than anything.

There's no denying that Noah and Allie's love story is passionate, but his relentless pursuit of her is borderline manipulative. Remember when he threatened to let go of the Ferris wheel if she didn't go on a date with him?

Plus, once they actually get together, their relationship is filled with constant fighting, including scenes when Allie hits Noah. Female-on-male violence has traditionally been glossed over in films, but today, Hollywood is moving away from these problematic depictions.

9. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)

This movie follows advice columnist Andie Anderson, played by Kate Hudson, who wants to write an attention-grabbing piece. She finds Ben Berry, an advertising executive who's arguably creepy and manipulative.

While How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days may be a classic rom-com, it relies on gender stereotypes that can feel more offensive than humorous now.

10. Mean Girls (2004)

Finally, we can't forget about Mean Girls, one of the most iconic teen comedies of the 2000s. Sure, it's filled with endlessly quotable lines and a sharp take on high school cliques, but it also has relentless body-shaming.

Many of the scenes would hit differently in today's more body-positive era, making Mean Girls a more cringey watch in 2025.

What's 'Outlander' about?

Outlander follows Claire Randall, a British Army nurse who, after serving in World War II, goes on a second honeymoon in Scotland with her husband, Frank. He is an MI6 officer preparing for a new career as an Oxford historian.

However, Claire's life takes a dramatic turn when she is mysteriously transported back to 1743, where her safety and freedom are at risk. In order to survive, she marries a strong and charismatic Scots warrior named Jamie Fraser. Then, as their relationship deepens, Claire finds herself torn between two very different men and two conflicting worlds.

How many seasons of 'Outlander' will there be?

Whether you're an OG fan of Outlander or a newcomer, many are upset about it coming to an end soon with Season 8. The good news is that you have a prequel series to look forward to, Outlander: Blood of My Blood.

What is the 'Outlander' prequel 'Blood of My Blood' about?

Outlander: Blood of My Blood explores two parallel origin stories: the romance between Jamie's parents, as well as Claire's parents' love story during the war. The show will highlight these two love stories, set in different time periods, as they unfold side by side.

Who's in the 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood' cast?

Hermione Corfield and Jeremy Irvine star as Julia Moriston and Henry Beauchamp; meanwhile, Harriet Slater and Jamie Roy play Ellen MacKenzie and Brian Fraser.

The rest of the cast includes:

• Tony Curran, Rory Alexander
• Séamus McLean Ross
• Sam Retford
• Conor MacNeill
• Brian McCardie
• Jhon Lumsden
• Sara Vickers
• Peter Mullan
• Sally Messham
• Terence Rae
• Sadhbh Malin
• Alisa Davidson

Is there a trailer for 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood'?

Back in January, Starz released a 52-second teaser trailer for the show on YouTube, and it's clear the Outlander prequel will be packed with just as much passion as the original series. Eager fans in the comment section seemed to agree, with many sharing their excitement for the new spinoff.

"I can't wait to see the two love stories that gave us our favorite love story," wrote one viewer.

"I am so obsessed with Outlander, and I'm so excited to keep watching it in a different light," added another.

"Outlander is a very beautiful but brutal story, and I hope this new spinoff series captures that magic as well," noted a third.

Where can I watch 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood'?

You can watch Blood of My Blood on Starz!

When does 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood' come out?

Outlander: Blood of My Blood is set to premiere summer 2025! We don't have an exact date right now, but we'll update you as soon as we do! In the meantime, you can revisit the original Outlander series. All seven seasons are available to stream on Hulu.