KAPOLEI, Hawaii — Like any Disney property, you'll find familiar faces like Mickey and Minnie Mouse, but at the Aulani Resort and Spa in Oahu, Hawaiian culture takes center stage. From the art in the Maka-ala grand lobby to the ukulele songs played by cast members, the story of Hawaii and its people come to life at Aulani.
"We always say it's the big H and little D because our Imagineers wanted it to be a representation of our Hawaiian culture with that hint of Disney," said Kanoa Kawai, an ambassador for the resort.
At the Laniwai Spa, which means freshwater heaven, guests start their journey by participating in a local tradition.
“We call it Pōhaku Makamae in Hawaiian. It's a wish stone and the significance of it is it was used in a lot of Hawaiian practices for healing," said Moli Mapu. "Our guests will be able to choose a stone or allow a stone to choose them. And that's their mantra for their experience with us at the spa.”
The Hawaiian experience continues at the KA WA'A Luau. Families get a front-row seat to the stories as they're told through fire and dance.
"We have a brother and sister who tell magical stories about where we are exactly here on the plains with a little bit of Disney magic which makes our show unique," said Eiji Kawakami, the assistant banquet and events services director. “When you see that fire, it just kind of draws people together. It tells a story about Maui, how he pulled up the islands, one of the legends we have here in Hawaii."
And don't forget about the Menehune. These mischievous mythical creatures are tricky to spot, but if you look closely, you'll find them hidden all around the resort.
“The Menehune Trail is a fun adventure that takes place on our little tablet games,” Kawai said. “It will take you around our valley and up in our lobby showcasing some of the stories of Hawaii, about our hula, and definitely stories about our culture.”
So whether it's playing, relaxing, or taking in the sights and sounds, you’ll feel the Aloha spirit at Aulani.
"I feel like when they come they want to see Hawaii and what better place to do it in a place that truly represents Hawaii, shares that aloha spirit, and makes that connection," Kawai said.
Watch Evening's 2022 Aulani Fall Showcase October 10-13 for a chance to win a four-night vacation to Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa for four people, with airfare, transfers, and resort credit included!
Sponsored by Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa. KING 5's Evening celebrates the Northwest. Contact us: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Email.