Take Your Aulani Vacation to the Next Level With Our Top Attractions & Eats!

If you’re considering an “Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa” vacation, you’re in for a treat, and not just because of the hotel and accommodations. Although the property is a feast for the eyes, located on a heavenly coastline, complete with its own lagoon, there is so much to experience outside of the resort. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting three of the Hawaiian Islands, and although Kauai will always have my heart, O’ahu is my favorite place for a return visit. My first trip was in 2011, a few months after Aulani’s opening (August 29, 2011).

Since then, I’ve visited O’ahu on three separate occasions, during which time my family has explored much of what the island has to offer. Part of what makes O’ahu so great is that there’s so much to do and see! From the North and South Shores to the East and the West, (where Aulani stands), adventure awaits! If you get the chance to visit Aulani, don’t miss all that O’ahu has to offer by staying exclusively inside the resort. Although there’s plenty to keep you busy, you’ll do yourself a disservice if you don’t branch out a bit. In order to help guide you on your journey, I’ve compiled a list of my personal favorite excursions and dining locations. Let’s dive in, shall we?! 

Not to Miss O’ahu Excursions (In No Particular Order)

Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki 

You can’t take a trip to O’ahu without visiting Waikiki. Not only is the downtown area alive with hustle and bustle, but the beaches are beautiful and offer stunning views.

There is so much to do and see here, but since time is limited, I suggest honing in on the Hilton Hawaiian Village area. This shopping center makes for the perfect stroll, offering a variety of stores and eateries!

Iolani Palace in Honolulu

If you want to learn more about Hawaii’s history, carve in time to visit Iolani Palace in Honolulu. The official website explains, “Iolani Palace is a living restoration of a proud Hawaiian national identity and a registered National Historic Landmark. Built in 1882 by King Kalakaua, Iolani Palace was the home of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs and served as the official royal residence and the residence of the Kingdom’s political and social life until the overthrow of the monarchy in 1893.” There are several different tours to choose from, including a self-guided one. I thoroughly enjoyed this excursion!

Tantalus and Round Top Drive

If exploring by car is your jam, you can’t miss the spectacular drive through Tantalus and Round Top. Although there are many scenic lookouts along the way, the crown jewel is Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside Park.

If you’re an Elvis fan, you might recall the picnic scene from the movie, Blue Hawaii. Well, this is the spot where it was filmed! Here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views from Diamond Head to Pearl Harbor.

Pearl Harbor

Speaking of which, a visit to O’ahu would not be complete without paying your respects at Pearl Harbor. An unforgettable experience, the location contains galleries, a theater, the USS Arizona Memorial, and historic sites. The USS Arizona excursion includes a boat ride to the memorial, where you can take time to honor those who lost their lives.

In addition to visiting the USS Arizona Memorial, my family also embarked on a tour of the USS Bowfin Submarine, which our young son particularly enjoyed!

Dole Plantation

Okay, okay, I know what you’re thinking, the Dole Plantation is too “touristy.” News flash people, we are tourists! I absolutely LOVE the Dole Plantation, and if you’re a Disney fan, chances are you’ll love it too. After opening as a fruit stand in 1950, it became Hawaii’s “Pineapple Experience” in 1989, and boy is it ever! Not only does it sit on a beautiful plot of property, but here, you’ll find the coveted Dole Whip, in a variety of options! The store is so much fun and is a fantastic place to obtain souvenirs and unique treats.

Pro Tip: The freshly made candied nuts are to die for – macadamia is my personal favorite – these make a great snack for driving excursions!

Although there are several activities available at the location, my favorite is the Pineapple Express Train Tour. Covering 2 miles in 29 minutes, the scenic trip takes you through a working plantation, where you’ll learn about James Dole and enjoy some pleasant tunes along the way. It’s magical!

Diamond Head 

Although this is touted as one of the top excursions in O’ahu (which is why I included it), it’s actually not at the top of my list, and here’s why.

There are SO many places where you can admire scenic views of Hawaii that don’t require so much work. While I don’t mind hiking to a waterfall, due to the reward of a cool dip at the end, this trek is hot and exhausting. Therefore, it’s a pass for me.

Atlantis Submarine in Waikiki

If you enjoy Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage at Disneyland, chances are you’ll appreciate this undersea excursion! Located in Waikiki, Atlantis takes you 100 feet down in an authentic submarine. The tour visits sunken ships, a plane, and some artificial reefs, but the highlight is undoubtedly the marine life. Keep an eye out for green turtles, sharks, stingrays, yellow tangs, eels, and more. The sea turtles are my favorite!

Byodo-In Temple 

O’ahu is home to several filming locations from the television show Lost, one of which is Byodo-In Temple. After seeing this beautiful structure in the show, I couldn’t wait to visit it in person!

Fashioned after the over 950-year-old Byodo-in Temple in Uji, Japan, the small-scale replica sits on lush grounds, complete with peacocks, koi, and waterfalls. Don’t forget to ring the sacred bell before you depart!

H-3 Drive

If there’s one O’ahu offering that will simply take your breath away, it’s the H-3 drive. I can’t even put its beauty into words. It honestly seems unreal. As you wind your way through towering green mountains, you’ll spot waterfalls gushing out from various locations. Needless to say, this 16-mile span of highway is magnificent!

Hanauma Bay

In all honestly, I was a bit nervous about snorkeling at Hanauma Bay. But, once I got in the water, I was hooked!

Spotting sea life in the reef is thrilling, and the view from the top ain’t so bad either!

Waimea Valley ~ Waterfall and Botanical Gardens

One of my favorite pastimes when visiting Hawaii is hiking to waterfalls. Although there are several different excursions you can take, some more wild than others, Waimea Valley is my favorite on O’ahu. At this stunningly beautiful location, you’ll traverse a 3/4 mile botanical gardens trail to Waimea Falls. The walk is pleasant and enjoyable, and swimming in a waterfall is something you won’t soon forget!

Tropical Farms

I love this place! A quaint macadamia nut farm, it’s laden with lush landscaping in peaceful surroundings. The coffee and nut samples are delicious and my son particularly enjoyed learning about Hawaiian culture here. 

Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center acts like a small theme park, and that’s why we love it! At this popular location, you can visit 6 island villages to learn about different cultures. In addition, there’s a spectacular Lu’au & dinner, as well as an entertaining evening show. It’s a thumbs up across the board as far as we’re concerned!

Kualoa Ranch

Last, but certainly not least, is Kualoa Ranch. This ranks high on my list! The backdrop for many television shows and movies, such as Jurassic Park, it’s breathtaking and filled with adventurous experiences. My family has embarked on a few excursions here including a bus tour back when there was a Lost-themed offering, and it was so much fun! Additional activities include a Hollywood Movie Sites Tour, a zipline, ATV tours, horseback riding tours, and more. You won’t wanna miss this one!

So there you have it, these are my top excursions on Oa’hu! After venturing out during the day, it’s always rewarding to head back to the confines of your Resort to relax and unwind, poolside. If you’re visiting Aulani, make sure to stop by some of these epic locations, for vacation memories you’ll treasure forever. Before we go, allow me to share a few of my top dining locations as well. Although Aulani has some fabulous food offerings (I particularly love the dinner buffet) there are some fantastic options outside of the Resort as well. Here’s a brief rundown!

Favorite O’ahu Foodie Spots  (In No Particular Order)

• Monkeypod Kitchen in Ko Olina – Located near Aulani, this is a great restaurant for families! Highlights include its open-air ambiance and a variety of menu options. My favorites include the Saimin (iwamoto family noodles with roasted chicken broth, all-natural pork, broccoli, beansprouts, red onion, peanuts, cilantro, mint) and Coconut Cream Pie (local coconut pastry cream, laie vanilla whipped cream, toasted coconut, homemade pie crust)!

• Island Vintage Coffee – Skip Starbucks and live a little! Although this adorable, little coffee shop used to be situated in close proximity to Aulani, that particular location has now closed. But, not to worry, there are other locations available! This is our go-to coffee spot in the morning. My personal favorite coffee beverage is the iced Island Latte, which includes macadamia nut and a hint of coconut. The Acai bowl and Papaya boat are to die for as well!

• Wailoa Kitchen and Bake Shop (Formerly Wailoa Tea Room) – Craving some Banana Macadamia Nut Pancakes, or traditional Loco Moco? Wailoa Kitchen has you covered. A favorite for breakfast, I love this scenic, hidden gem!

• Lappert’s Hawaii – While visiting the Hilton Hawaiian Village, do not, I repeat, do not miss out on the best ice cream of your life. Rich flavor concoctions showcase coconut, pineapple, and macadamia nut. I recommend getting them in a waffle cone!

• Shrimp Trucks – Shrimp trucks are a popular offering on O’ahu’s North Shore and for good reason! There are myriad options and we’ve visited many. All of the trucks are pretty equal when it comes to quality, and the food makes for a delicious lunch. Generally speaking, guests receive a satisfying portion of shrimp alongside some sticky rice. I recommend spicy or garlic flavors!

• Matsumoto Shave Ice – This is our favorite place to get shave ice! Located in beautiful Haleʻiwa, Hawaii, there are a variety of flavor combinations to enjoy. Make sure to go all the way, and order your treat with ice cream underneath and condensed milk on top. You won’t regret it!

• Haleiwa Joes – Last but not least is my top O’ahu dining spot! Haleiwa Joes has two locations, both of which I’ve been to, but my favorite is in Kaneohe. This restaurant is what dreams are made of. Disney fans will enjoy its Tiki Room vibes and open-air environment. The dining room overlooks the tropical Haiku Gardens and allows for spectacular views of the Ko‘olau mountain range. To top it off the food is fantastic! Although the prime rib is a  fan favorite, I always order the pork chop. Cooked to perfection, it melts in your mouth. Top it off with the mud pie, if it’s available, and you’re good to go!

I hope you enjoyed this little journey through the magnificent island of O’ahu. If you’re planning a trip to Aulani, give some of these offerings a try. I hope you have a magical and memorable vacation. Aloha, and safe travels!

More About Disney’s Aulani

Aloha Aulani: Where Hawaiian Paradise Meets Disney Magic

Island Magic: Aulani Through the MiceShots Lens

Let’s Hear From You!

Have you considered an Aulani vacation? Which of these O’ahu offerings sounds the most enticing to you? Let us know in the comments!