I just finished a seminar on the newest addition to the Disney Family and it is going to be on the top of every family's vacation wish list. The resort is centrally located in Ko Olina,  about 45 minutes from Waikiki, 30 minutes from Pearl Harbor to the south and 30 minutes to North Shore. The Aulani Resort & Spa, pronounced "Owl ahnee"  is scheduled to open August  29, 2011. It sits on 21 acres, has a white sand beach, tropical gardens, waterfalls, turquoise lagoon and will also feature a wedding lawn. The 8200 square foot  Waikolohe Pool has a water slide and cabanas are available for rent-reservations are recommended. There are 4 whirlpool spas that will be the perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink and watch for the perfect Hawaiian Sunset photo opportunity.  The Wailana Pool with an infinity edge is sure to be a popular place to congregate. If you've never seen one of these pools you will be awestruck. The first time I saw one was at the InterContinental resort in Papeete, Tahiti. (Pictured below)  I can't wait to see the Disney version.




Additional water features are the Waikolohe Stream. Float down the whimsical stream on a tube, where you will encounter plenty of surprises along the way. Menehune Bridge and Trail is an interactive water play area themed around Hawaii's legendary "little people". The trail winds through the resort.  Rainbow Reef is sure to keep the family entertained. The manmade lagoon will have fish and other local marine life to snorkel with. Bring your snorkel equipment or rent it at the resort.  The Conservation Pool requires reservations and all proceeds support wildlife conservation organizations. This is an interactive stingray exhibit.

The Disney Difference is visible everywhere,  you'll get to know the traditions and culture of Hawaii that is embedded in all aspects of the resort by the Disney Imagineers. The lava rock formations, artwork, storytelling by the fire pit, Disney Characters on their vacations, cooking classes and learning the Hawaiian language.

Disney's Discovery Experiences provide another opportunity to engage in Hawaiian culture, traditions and hospitality through local experts and activities that immerse you in the legends of the islands.

Take A Vacation~~~Because Having Fun Matters!