KO OLINA, Hawaii
Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii, will welcome guests to explore a new expansion of its popular Waikolohe Valley water play area: Ka Maka Landing. The new enhancement features an infinity pool with a realistic grotto, a dynamic fun splash zone for smaller kids, and a new location for poolside and beachside dining.
The expansion comes just two years after the resort first opened to guests on the island of Oahu and responds to the requests Aulani guests have made during their stays for more water fun and more food options to enjoy.
"With the spectacular response Aulani received after opening, we were thrilled to have the opportunity to expand Aulani's enchanting Waikolohe Valley," explains Jeanette Lomboy, executive producer for Aulani, Walt Disney Imagineering. "In keeping with the rest of the resort, we integrated Hawaiian culture, stories and artistry into the design of the new pool area and restaurant to create an inspiring new environment for our guests."
The new pool, splash zone and additional deck space will extend the sun and water fun to the very edge of the resort property, with the new pool's "infinity edge" overlooking the adjoining lagoon. A highlight of the new family pool is a charming grotto that provides a relaxing view of the sunset over the Pacific. After dark, a starscape of glimmering lights appear on the grotto ceiling.
The resort’s littlest guests have a place to splash around in at the new Ka Maka Landing. Keiki Cove, Aulani's tide-pool-themed water play area geared towards toddlers, is a fun and safe spot where visiting tykes can cool off in a series of low-pressure water jets that gush up from below. Keiki Cove's water jets are provided courtesy of a friendly he'e, or octopus, whose large tentacles stretch out across the cove floor in a bright and friendly blue mosaic
Also open at the resort is a new food service location. Ulu Cafe is a poolside quick service restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a variety of grab and go options as well as hot entrees, daily sandwiches and soups, and specialty coffee and soft drinks.
Along with the water play and dining additions, the recent expansion provides a new, larger lawn location for events, weddings and the nighttime guest favorite, the Starlit Hui show.
Pictured: New infinity pool at Aulani
