Ready for a Hawaiian getaway, but not ready to travel that far?
Or perhaps you’ve been looking forward to a tropical retreat, but the rest of your family wants a more thrilling vacation.
Either way, I’ve got you covered. You can experience a taste of Hawaii right in the heart of Florida. At Walt Disney World® Resort you’ll find luaus, waterfront bungalows, sandy beaches, fresh pineapple treats, and more. With a little imagination and planning, you too can have the relaxing vacation you’ve always wanted. Here’s how to plan the ultimate Hawaiian vacation at Disney World.
Disney Resorts
For a Hawaiian escape, there is no better place to stay than Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows (except maybe Aulani, located on O’ahu). The Polynesian was one of the first resorts at Walt Disney World, opening in 1971 along with Disney’s Contemporary Resort. It is a tribute to the South Pacific and looks out onto Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom.
The resort has tiki-filled rooms, a volcano water slide, and even its own luau. You’ll find a variety of options for Hawaiian dining, whether you’re looking for a refreshing drink or an all-you-can-eat feast. Upgrade to a Club Level room to enter the King Kamehameha Club. You can even stay in a private bungalow with its own plunge pool!
If the Polynesian is unavailable, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort will give you a similar feel. Unlike the Polynesian it is a Moderate Resort, so you won’t find the same amenities. However, it does offer sandy beaches and hammocks that are great for napping in. Another great option would be Disney’s Beach Club Resort for its sand-bottomed pools and lazy river (it has the best pool in Disney World).
Resorts:
– Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
– Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
– Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
– Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Attractions
There is only one attraction at Disney World that can completely transport you to the islands: Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room. This classic attraction debuted at Disneyland in 1963, and opened with Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland in 1971. It was the first attraction to introduce audio-animatronics.
Sit back and be serenaded by colorful birds, flowers, and the Tiki gods. It’s a refreshing break from the Florida heat or rain (especially with some Dole Whip while you’re waiting to enter). I promise, the songs are as catchy as “it’s a small world”.
You can also cool off at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, home to the Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster. This waterpark has lazy rivers, wave pools, thrilling slides, and fun play areas. You can even get private surfing lessons just like Lilo!
Attractions:
– Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room (Magic Kingdom)
– Typhoon Lagoon
Entertainment
If you’re looking for tropical birds elsewhere, you can find macaws, parrots, and cockatoos on display at Animal Kingdom. Check out the Flights of Wonder show in the Asia section of the park. You may even get to see them fly over your head!
The main draw, however, is the Spirit of Aloha dinner show at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. You’ll be treated to a complete Polynesian feast while you watch drummers, hula dancers, and even fire dancers. You’ll see the traditions of Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, Tonga, and New Zealand. If you time it right, you’ll be able to enjoy the show before catching the Wishes fireworks from the Polynesian beach. It is a fun addition to your trip.
Entertainment
– Spirit of Aloha (Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort)
– Flights of Wonder (Animal Kingdom)
Characters
You can meet three of Disney’s Polynesian natives at Disney World: Moana, Lilo, and Stitch (okay, he’s an adopted native). Moana has a new meet & greet at Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream in Hollywood Studios. Ask her about her culture or strike a pose for the camera. She’s happy to sign autographs as well.
Lilo and Stitch can be found seasonally in Typhoon Lagoon (typically in the summer months). Stitch occasionally pops up on Main Street in Magic Kingdom in the morning, so keep an eye out for your favorite alien.
The best place to find them both, however, is at breakfast at ‘Ohana. This island-themed buffet boasts tropical favorites in addition to the famous Mickey Mouse waffles. You’ll conga with Lilo and Stitch, and maybe even Mickey and Pluto. It is located at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
Characters
– Moana
– Lilo
– Stitch
Dining
Speaking of ‘Ohana, this is just one of the many Hawaiian-themed restaurants located on the Disney property. At an ‘Ohana breakfast you’ll find American favorites along with Hawaiian welcome bread and fresh fruit (be sure to try the POG juice!). At dinner, participate in family island games and feast on BBQ skewers brought right to your table.
Another great option for a special dinner is the Spirit of Aloha dinner show. This is also an all-you-can-eat feast with live entertainment. As discussed above, get a taste of Polynesian culture as you watch hula and fire dancing performances.
Kona Cafe is where you’ll find Kona coffee and the famous Tonga Toast (banana-stuffed cinnamon-sugar french toast you don’t want to miss). At dinner you can enjoy freshly-prepared sushi, steamed pork buns, and coffee-roasted pork tenderloin.
For quick-service, you have several locations to choose from. Capt. Cook’s also offers Tonga Toast, as well as a dinner menu that includes pulled pork sandwiches and Hawaiian flatbreads. Kona Island has fresh sushi, tuna poke, and morning pastries. Grab a fruity cocktail at the Barefoot Pool Bar as you take in the sun.
The Polynesian also offers two of my all-time favorite Hawaiian treats: malasadas and Dole Whip. You can find malasadas (Portuguese donuts) with passion fruit curd at the Oasis Bar & Grill, exclusive to resort guests. Besides Magic Kingdom, you can find Dole Whip at Pineapple Lanai.
There are also two great lounges to check out: Tambu Lounge and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. The latter is based on the Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar found in the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim, CA. It is a must see – from the “punny” drink names to the adventurous theming, it’s one of the coolest bars Disney offers. Be sure to order the Krakatoa or the Uh-Oa! Take your drink outside to Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace to relax and watch the fireworks.
In Magic Kingdom you’ll also find two locations for tropical treats. Aloha Isle is home to the ever-refreshing Dole Whip (can you tell I’m a fan?) and Sunshine Tree Terrace offers citrus swirls.
Dining
– Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show
– ‘Ohana
– Kona Cafe
– Capt. Cook’s
– Kona Island
– Barefoot Pool Bar
– Oasis Bar & Grill
– Pineapple Lanai
– Tambu Lounge
– Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto
– Aloha Isle
– Sunshine Tree Terrace
Shopping
The best place to find Hawaiian-themed souvenirs is BouTiki at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Every Disney resort has gifts that you cannot find elsewhere, so this is the place to go for some island spirit.
If you’d like to surprise your child with a special gift, Disney Floral & Gifts offers My Storybook Moment – Lilo & Stitch. This set includes a ukelele, bamboo pen, picture frame, and a stuffed Stitch doll. Why not have them place it at your table during an ‘Ohana breakfast?
You can also find Lilo & Stitch trading pins located throughout the parks.
Shopping
– BouTiki
– My Storybook Moment – Lilo & Stitch
Activities & Experiences
When visiting Disney World, it’s the experiences you choose that make your trip unique to you and your family. If you’re looking to relax, reserve a tropical coconut body treatment or a citrus facial from one of Disney’s indulgent spas such as Senses or Ship Shape. Or spend an afternoon lounging by the beach at the Polynesian with a cold drink in your hand.
For those who need to keep moving, Typhoon Lagoon offers private or group surfing lessons before the park opens. Those who would rather sleep in can meet the rest of the family in a comfortable chair by the wave pool or coast down the lazy river.
While the adults are away, kids can enjoy Lilo’s Playhouse at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This children’s activity center offers character interactions, games, meals, and even volcano crafts.
Activities & Experiences
– Tropical Coconut Body Treatment at Senses
– Citrus Facial at Ship Shape Massage Salon Fitness
– Surf Lessons at Typhoon Lagoon
– Lilo’s Playhouse
You really can have it all on a Disney vacation. Of course, if you are looking for an authentic Polynesian experience, it’s time to explore Disney’s Aulani Resort in Ko Olina, Hawaii. Your vacation planner will help you choose the best options for your family and ensure your trip is truly magical!
Ready for your next Disney trip? Let me help design your dream Disney vacation! I offer stress-free vacation planning, personalized itineraries, 1-on-1 concierge services, and more at no cost to you. Request a free, no-obligation quote through my web form, email me at jtullino@themouseexperts.com, or call me at (321) 222-DSNY. I’d love to help your plan your most memorable vacation yet!
