Aulani or Four Seasons?

[Reginaphalange1]

I’m taking a solo trip to Hawaii and debating either Aulani or Four Seasons in Oahu? I don’t have kids but I don’t mind being around them. I take lazy vacations - food/swim/lounge. Also a DVC member but this trip would be a cash room anyway so, any opinions? Please and thank you!

 

[iheartglaciers]

I recently stayed at Aulani for the first time (just me and my mom, no kids) and we also walked over to the Four Seasons, so I can give some thoughts but obviously my experience with the Four Seasons was very brief.

First off, I’ll say the two resorts are right next to each other, so it’s easy to walk between the two and eat at their respective restaurant, and hang out in the lobby areas.

Overall the Four Seasons seemed much calmer and less crowded than Aulani. Lots of nice seating areas to hang out and chill, with pretty ocean views. Their lobby is closer to the ocean, probably because their pool is smaller.

I think what sets Aulani apart is that it’s supposedly the only resort in Oahu built specifically around Hawaiian culture. It’s reflected in both the activities and the way the resort is designed (there are two tours you can take to learn about it) and there is a lot of live music throughout the day (maybe this is the case at the FS, I just wasn’t there long enough). This made me really love Aulani and feel like it was a really special place. As a DVC member, you’ll probably appreciate the theming!

The pool at Aulani is much larger and more extensive (lazy river, infinity whirlpool, grotto pools), but it’s also way more crowded and hectic. I didn’t mind the crowds, but my brief glance at the Four Seasons pool area it was much calmer (but also waaaay smaller and not as pretty… Aulani has a lot of vegetation planted around the pool).

I looked at the FS activity schedule while I was there (but not sure if it was complete since I wasn’t staying there), and it seemed like Aulani has more included activities (there are activities that cost extra too). I will caveat that you need to sign up at 8am each day for many of them, and I found you had to line up 30 mins early for the popular ones. So Disney . They also have character meet and greets throughout the day.

Aulani’s spa was amazing and gets you access to a really nice outdoor area with different temperature whirlpools, lounge chairs, and water features. I could’ve stayed there all day! But you can do this even if you decide to stay at FS.

I also meant to eat at Mina’s Fish House at the FS, but ran out of time. I heard the happy hour is great there. So that’s also something you can do at FS even if you’re staying at Aulani.

I know you said you were going to stay cash, but I’ll just mention the value staying on points was great!

 

[Reginaphalange1]

Wow! Thank you for your reply, it’s definitely helpful. After watching youtube videos on both places I’m leaning more toward Aulani, it looks happy over there if that makes sense lol

 

[Kmk2]

It depends. If you were staying on points you already had I would say Aulani. It’s a great use of points.

Assuming similar pricing for a cash room I would choose the FS. Generally though FS is going to be more expensive - so you would need to find stay 4 pay 3 deals and whatnot. We also book through a credit card that gives you free breakfast, room upgrades and 4pm checkout etc.

It’s such a far flight for us so I want the luxury amenities that FS has that Aulani just doesn’t. Room service, turn down service, an adult pool with a swim up bar cart, flexible and easy kids club, a nice breakfast that doesn’t need to be planned in advance. It’s a very calm place. Also if you are staying there you can easily liaise with the concierge via the App (so they can make dinner reservations/ book the kids club etc).

The positives of Aulani are the character meets, the absolute beauty of the building and the charm of all the landscaping. The Disney touches. The extensive water amenities are a huge draw. It’s a very beautiful place.

The food and beverage are basically neutral bc you can use them as non hotel guests (except over holidays at FS).

 

[Kmk2]

^ and rainbow reef is amazing at Aulani

 

[iheartglaciers]

Since you’re paying cash, I agree with Kmk2 that it could be a good opportunity to stay at the FS and do another trip later at Aulani on points. But you might feel FOMO being so close to Aulani and not being able to participate in the activities. Maybe this is just me, but if I was traveling solo, it might be nice to have the familiar Disney/DVC atmosphere! (and I’ve travelled solo in random other non-Disney places like Hong Kong, so it’s not that I dislike solo non-Disney travel).

Depending how long you’re planning on staying, maybe a split stay would be an option so you can experience both resorts, although if you’re going to split stay it might be nice to do two resorts on different parts of the island.

I did a split stay between Turtle Bay Resort on the north shore and Aulani (3 nights each) and it was nice to experience two different resorts and areas of the island.

 

[tankin]

If both were equally priced, FS every day all day. I love Aulani but its 5 star vs 4 star and for equal money I'm headed to the 5 star. However, I doubt they are equally priced so only you can decide if the added amenities at FS is worth the added expense.

 

[Noah_t]

If both were equally priced, FS every day all day. I love Aulani but its 5 star vs 4 star and for equal money I'm headed to the 5 star. However, I doubt they are equally priced so only you can decide if the added amenities at FS is worth the added expense.

Yes I love Aulani too but comparing it to the Four Seasons seems unfair. Your looking at paying at least twice the rate of Aulani and even three times if you did an Aulani trip renting points. I just did two trips in the last two years, one without kids and one with them. Doing a trip without kids and money not being in the equation, hands down I am choosing the Four Seasons.

 

[Kmk2]

I’ve paid in the 700-800 range for rooms on the low end more than once. A bit above 1000 on the high end. I’ve been there a handful of times.

Obviously the suites are $$$ - and if you have a large family that would stay in a 1 or 2 bedroom it would be way more expensive.

I think cash prices have been going up at FS lately and going down at Aulani. Which is not surprising to me.

 

[maxbuffmelvin]

I've only visited FS. iheartglaciers summed it up nicely. Aulani is my pick because of Aulani's strong theming, immersion, extensive pools, and character greets.

I would generally stay at a 4-star Disney resort over any 5-star non-Disney resort because of the theming and immersion. I rarely use or need the amenities of a 5-star resort anyways.

 

[Reginaphalange1]

Since you’re paying cash, I agree with Kmk2 that it could be a good opportunity to stay at the FS and do another trip later at Aulani on points. But you might feel FOMO being so close to Aulani and not being able to participate in the activities. Maybe this is just me, but if I was traveling solo, it might be nice to have the familiar Disney/DVC atmosphere! (and I’ve travelled solo in random other non-Disney places like Hong Kong, so it’s not that I dislike solo non-Disney travel).

Depending how long you’re planning on staying, maybe a split stay would be an option so you can experience both resorts, although if you’re going to split stay it might be nice to do two resorts on different parts of the island.

I did a split stay between Turtle Bay Resort on the north shore and Aulani (3 nights each) and it was nice to experience two different resorts and areas of the island.

I hadn’t even considered a split-stay but that’s a great idea! Thanks for the tip! I’m seriously thinking of that now

 

[AstroBlasters]

I’d look at a cash room rates at the Marriott in Ko Olina as well. It’s a very short walk along the beach to Aulani and a beautiful property.

 

[Lilsia]

Wow! Thank you for your reply, it’s definitely helpful. After watching youtube videos on both places I’m leaning more toward Aulani, it looks happy over there if that makes sense lol

I get what you are saying. We walked all through the Four Seasons on one of our trips and it felt very sterile. It was almost like a library where you were afraid to talk because it was so quiet. Just a few people walking around. No one looked like they were having fun and the staff was standing around looking bored. It was a really strange vibe for a hotel.

 

[Kmk2]

I get what you are saying. We walked all through the Four Seasons on one of our trips and it felt very sterile. It was almost like a library where you were afraid to talk because it was so quiet. Just a few people walking around. No one looked like they were having fun and the staff was standing around looking bored. It was a really strange vibe for a hotel.

It’s a physically ugly hotel for sure - like the bones of it. But the vibe is luxury. And the staff is waiting around to be helpful - not to ignore your concerns. The rooms are amazing and have fluffy duvets and actual ocean views. <<Deleted>>

 

[TinkAgainU]

Check current reports on the Aulani lazy river temps. Had friends VERY unhappy that it was too cold to enjoy, since that was a big part of their decision to stay there. Someone mentioned the pool heater was out?

 

[maxbuffmelvin]

I get what you are saying. We walked all through the Four Seasons on one of our trips and it felt very sterile. It was almost like a library where you were afraid to talk because it was so quiet. Just a few people walking around. No one looked like they were having fun and the staff was standing around looking bored. It was a really strange vibe for a hotel.

My impressions as well.

 

[Lilsia]

My impressions as well.

Thank you.

 

[Noah_t]

I felt incredible envy walking around the four seasons as I am not in the four seasons tax bracket. On my many Aulani vacations I would be lying if I said I always enjoy being surrounded by all the screaming/playing children and did not often think of that much less crowded Oasis next door.

The worst thing is two of those aforementioned juveniles belong to me and I imagine would follow me over there. Ahhh only 10 more years till College. Bring on the empty nest!!

 

[raidermatt]

I’m taking a solo trip to Hawaii and debating either Aulani or Four Seasons in Oahu? I don’t have kids but I don’t mind being around them. I take lazy vacations - food/swim/lounge. Also a DVC member but this trip would be a cash room anyway so, any opinions? Please and thank you!

If you are paying cash its the FS hands down. The two are not even in the same class in terms of service, quality, etc. That's not a knock on Aulani, but Disney bowed out of the premium service league long ago.

Of course, if the FS is going to be significantly more expensive, it will then come down to your own personal value equation.

 

[panfan2507]

I know this thread is older but doing research for an upcoming October trip. Our family had the opportunity to stay at the Four Seasons last year ( Stay 4 , pay 3 ) and Im telling you ... I wish we didn't !! It has US spoiled and wanting to go back .

Until you stay at a Four Seasons, you just can't imagine what goes on there . Im serious. Just visiting or walking thru the property is no match to actually staying there . We were BLOWN AWAY !

The lei greeting, the bamboo tray with ginger lemonade upon check in . The glass of champagne offered to me as I checked in. And this was only the first 10 minutes.

From a long flight from Pennsylvania to drinks in the Adult Pool . Room service with a sunset view on our room balcony. Magical.

Somehow you are greeting by name everywhere you go . Your pool drink is remembered day after day. No lazy river ?? No problem , that adult infinity pool with a terry cloth fitted " sheet " over the lounge " mattress" will do everytime. Complimentary Ice water , sunscreen and pineapple skewers at the pool. A swim up bar at the pool.

Booked Ko Olina Ocean adventures for snorkel or a sunset cruise ? No problem , the complimentary Four Seasons van will take you and pick you up.

The spa.. oh the spa! The Gym !! It's on the upper level of the spa with open air tennis, basketball etc etc.

I could go on and on. .. mostly because I am sad that it will be many , many years until we can afford to do that again !

Just my 2 cents. We LOVE AULANI, we LOVE DISNEY , but the FS was next level.