KO OLINA, Hawaii—Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii, has announced the expansion of its popular Waikolohe Valley water play area: Ka Maka Landing. The enhancement features a new infinity pool with a realistic grotto, a 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 most enthusiastic request Aulani guests have made during their stays: 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.”
Waikolohe Valley is the recreational center of the resort. Nestled between Aulani’s two towers and flowing from the lobby down to the beachfront, it is home to pools, whirlpool spas, and interactive water play areas.
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 an enchanting grotto that provides a relaxing view of the sunset over the Pacific.
Even Aulani’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 Starlit Hui show.
