HONOLULU
The Walt Disney Co. will begin a major expansion project next month at its first Hawaii resort, a year after its opening. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa will add a third pool, splash area for kids, two food stations and retail space to its Hawaiian-themed offerings on 21 beachfront acres in Ko Olina.
Construction will start Sept. 10 and be completed in mid-2013, the company said in a news release. The cost of the project, which will coincide with the final build-out of the resort, wasn't disclosed.
Along with the expansion, the resort is temporarily closing its Wailana pool and bar in October through the duration of the construction. Its Makai Preserve stingray pond will be permanently shut down for the new amenities. The Waikolohe pool, two slides, a lazy river and Rainbow Reef snorkeling experience will remain open.
Its third and final phase, including 274 villas, will open next summer.
Courtesy of The Honolulu Star-Advertiser
