The most remote and unique DVC destination, Disney's Aulani Resort is located on the island of Oʻahu within the Ko Olina Resort area (see map). It is approximately a 20 mile drive from Honolulu.

When describing Aulani to DVC members, it is often best to make comparisons to mainland DVC resorts. We would say that its building setup reminds us very much of a much larger Animal Kingdom, combined with the pool complex of Beach Club. Replace the animals at AK with a view of a massive pool complex and private ocean lagoon. You have to like the water if you want to be an Aulani guest because you will be swimming constantly. Is a lazy river near the ocean overkill? We do not think so.

Food offerings abound with the Table-Service Restaurants AMA‘AMA (an open-air restaurant overlooking Ko Olina Beach, serving a modern take on Hawaiian cuisine), Makahiki (offering family-friendly three-course breakfasts and dinners) and KA WA‘A (a great buffet with hula dancing and traditional Hawaiian music). If you are in a hurry, quick-service locations are also available in the pool and hotel areas.

Transportation options are hard to compare with other DVC locations (a purely apple to oranges situation); however, Disney does not offer free airport transportation to Aulani. Parking is free for DVC guests at the resort and the beach is a stone's throw from every room. The resort is private, and many people use it as a break from the more touristy areas of the islands, so the lack of transport is not a deal killer. We must add that rental cars are available right at the resort, although you may get them less pricey if booked elsewhere.

Activities abound at Aulani and although schedules vary by the day and weather, you can expect over two dozen free things to do while on your stay, as well as several paid add-ons. You will meet some characters too! Even though you are far from the theme parks, make sure to check with the cast to see when you can get a picture with Mickey and his other friends.

Value and availability: Although on the pricier side, Aulani is located on one of the most expensive vacation spots in the world. As such, we think the value provided by the Disney brand and isolation from the rest of tourists make the spot a great choice. Definitely try to get studios as the larger rooms go up quickly in price.

Distance to parks:  Not applicable.