Aulani Disney

Question

Looking for something similar in amenities to Aulani resort in the same area. We love Disney, but wondering if there was something in the same island that would be cheaper, but with similar amenities in offerings.

Answer

Great question! Aulani is a really special resort, but if you're looking for something with similar family-friendly amenities on Oʻahu *without* the Disney-level pricing, there are a few very good alternatives. While none are exactly “Disney + water-park resort,” you can find places that offer strong pools, waterslides, cultural activities, and a family-friendly feel.

Here are a few Oʻahu resorts to consider, plus how they compare to Aulani in terms of amenities, and some tips to help you save.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
This is one of the most family-oriented large resorts on Oʻahu, located in Waikiki. According to comparisons of Oʻahu resorts, it has five pools, including a “Paradise Pool” with a long waterslide, plus a kids’ pool. There’s a “Camp Penguin” kids’ club for ages ~5–12. It’s more accessible and probably more affordable than Aulani, since it's in a very developed area (Waikiki) with more competition.
Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club
This resort is *very* close to Aulani (Ko Olina area), which means you still get that more relaxed, resort-village feel rather than being in the heart of Waikiki. According to family-travel guides: the resort has several pools, a waterfall, a waterslide, a kids’ pool, and a whirlpool spa. While it doesn’t have a full “kids club” in the same way Disney does, it has fun family-oriented activities like lei-making and “mermaid swimming” for kids. Villas here also have full kitchens, which can save you money on food (especially breakfasts or snacks).
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
Located more centrally in Waikiki, the Sheraton Waikiki has family-friendly amenities, including a kids’ club (via Poppins Keiki), plus multiple pools + waterslides according to family travel blogs. Because it’s in Waikiki, you’ll be close to many restaurants, shopping, and the beach, which may help stretch your budget.
Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu at Ko Olina
This is a more upscale but very family-friendly resort right in the same general area as Aulani. According to sources, they offer a “Kids for All Seasons” program (arts & crafts, Hawaiian storytelling, games) for children ages ~5–12. While they don’t have crazy water-park slides, their pool and grounds are very high-quality, and the resort offers a more tranquil, luxury experience (fewer crowds than Aulani, potentially, depending on timing).
Turtle Bay Resort (North Shore)
If you’re okay being a bit further from the Ko Olina / Waikiki area and want a more nature-focused stay, Turtle Bay is worth a look. It’s more “resort + adventure” than “resort park,” but it has a large pool area and plenty of outdoor activities. Families can do horseback riding, surf lessons, or explore the North Shore — great if you want a relaxing, more local Hawaiian vibe rather than big resort entertainment.

How these compare to Aulani:

Aulani’s major draws are its themed pools, lazy river, interactive splash zones, Disney character experiences, and its full-service Laniwai Spa.
The alternatives above may not have *Disney characters*, but several offer strong water-amenities (slides, pools), family programs, and places to unwind.
On average, staying in Waikiki or with a non-Disney resort in Ko Olina can be less expensive than Aulani, especially if you take advantage of villas (with kitchen) or choose mid-tier family resorts.

Tips to save money while getting a “resort feel”:

Book in advance and look for package deals — many hotels run promotions, especially in non-peak times.
Consider a villa or condo-style stay (e.g., Marriott Ko Olina) so you can cook some meals or at least have a kitchenette.
Limit paid resort activities: choose free or low-cost family programs (lei-making, cultural classes) rather than expensive “extras.”
Compare resort fees: some hotels charge a daily resort fee, so factor that into your total cost when comparing to Aulani.

Bottom line: If you love Aulani for its family pools, water play, and resort-village feel, then Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club or Four Seasons Ko Olina are your closest non-Disney matches in terms of ambiance. For more budget-conscious family fun with water slides, Hilton Hawaiian Village or Sheraton Waikiki are solid options — and Turtle Bay gives a completely different but very charming, nature-oriented experience.

Aulani Disney

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