Ko Olina Dining Guide for Aulani Guests
Ko Olina offers a fantastic range of dining options within walking distance or a short drive from Aulani, blending Hawaiian flavors, ocean views, and family-friendly service. Below are top recommendations dining around Aulani.
🍹 On-Property at Aulani
Off the Hook – Poolside Bar & Grill
Located just steps from Aulani’s main pool, this open-air bar serves casual fare like fish tacos, burgers, and tropical drinks. This is your easy, no reservations required, dinner option at the resort.
‘Ama ‘Ama – Signature Oceanfront Dining
Aulani’s upscale oceanfront restaurant offers modern Hawaiian cuisine with stunning sunset views. Reservations are strongly recommended via Disney’s website or the Aulani app. Located within Aulani, just beyond the main pool.
Makahiki – Post-COVID, Makahiki has transitioned from a buffet to a three-course, sit-down dining experience featuring Hawaiian-inspired dishes and local ingredients. Dinner includes options like island-style fish, steak, and seasonal desserts. Breakfast remains a lively character meal (see below). Located inside Aulani near the lobby. Reservations are recommended for both breakfast and dinner, especially during holidays.
🌴 Ka Wa‘a Aulani Luau– Held several nights a week on Aulani’s Hālāwai Lawn, the Ka Wa‘a Luau combines storytelling, hula, live music, and a full dinner buffet. This can easily count as your dinner for one night of your stay.
The menu features traditional Hawaiian fare like kālua pork, fresh island fish, and poi. Families should note that even older kids sometimes prefer ordering from the kids’ menu, which includes more familiar options such as mac and cheese, chicken, and rice.
Reservations required. Book early, as seats fill quickly.
Note that the max reservation size for Aulani dining is 8 people. They’re firm that you need to break your party up if you’ll be a larger group.
🍽️ Within the Ko Olina Resort Area
All are within a 5–10-minute walk or a quick 2-minute drive from Aulani. Parking is a bear, though, so I recommend to walk when you can.
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman – Hawaiian Regional Cuisine
The area’s most popular off-property spot with what is usually solid upscale bar-food. Known for fresh local ingredients, live music, and the legendary Mai Tai with honey-liliko‘i foam. Reservations highly recommended, this one fills up fast. Located across the street from Aulani near the golf course.
Roy’s Ko Olina – Upscale Hawaiian Fusion
A local institution blending Hawaiian flavors with Asian influences. The Hawaii locations are typically better than what you find locally. Great for good seafood or steaks after a day at the lagoon. Reservations recommended. Located across the street from Aulani near the golf course.
Longhi’s Ko Olina (at Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club) – Italian & Seafood with Hawaiian Flair
Serving pasta, seafood, and steaks in a relaxed setting at the Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club. It’s about a 10-minute walk from Aulani along the lagoon path or a quick drive if you prefer. Reservations accepted but not always necessary.
Noe (at Four Seasons Oahu) – Elegant Italian Fine Dining
Beautiful, romantic setting with ocean views and handcrafted pastas. Perfect for a special night out. This place also services a great kid’s pasta and is 100% family friendly, just a bit more upscale family friendly. Reservations required. Located next door at the Four Seasons Resort, about a 3-minute walk from Aulani.
Mina’s Fish House (at Four Seasons Oahu) – Seafood by Celebrity Chef Michael Mina
Upscale beachfront restaurant featuring local fish and a dedicated “fish sommelier.” Ideal for sunset dining. On certain excursions, you can turn the fish you caught in here to be prepared for you. Pretty awesome. Reservations recommended. Located next door at the Four Seasons Resort, about a 3-minute walk from Aulani.
808 Craft House – Casual Taproom & Eatery
Laid-back spot for burgers, poke, and local craft beers. Usually walk-in friendly; reservations not needed. Located across the street, a few minutes’ walk from Aulani in the Ko Olina Station center near the Island Country Market.
🍔 Want to Grill Instead?
Aulani offers grill equipment rentals through Pua Hana. Perfect for families who want to cook dinner outdoors and enjoy a relaxed night on property. This is a much more economical way to prepare that fish that you caught after an excursion.
☀️ Lunch & Breakfast Options
Aulani Character Breakfast at Makahiki – A highlight for families, the Aulani Character Breakfast at Makahiki features classic Disney characters dressed in Hawaiian attire, plus a hearty buffet with local touches like pineapple scones, Portuguese sausage, and tropical fruit. Characters visit each table for photos and autographs, making it a memorable way to start your day. Characters do rotate, but Minnie and Mickey are pretty much a sure bet.
Reservations are required and can be made through the Aulani app or Disney’s dining website 45 days in advance.
La Hiki (at Four Seasons) – Lunch Favorite
Open daily for lunch with a mix of fresh poke bowls, sandwiches, and salads by the pool. Definitely a great way to escape the crowds and get some tasty food mid-day. Walkable in 2 minutes from Aulani; reservations usually not required. The exception to that is the Sunday Brunch buffet, which is one of the best meals on the island and sells out fast. Its premium priced, but well worth the splurge if you can swing it.
Ulu Café (at Aulani) – Casual On-Property Quick Service
Located within Aulani near the pool area, Ulu Café serves breakfast and lunch favorites like flatbreads, poke bowls, and grab-and-go options. It’s convenient but expect resort pricing and occasional long waits for what’s meant to be a quick bite. You can also get your refillable popcorn buckets here.
Eggs ‘n Things (Ko Olina Center) – Local Breakfast Favorite
Just across the street from Aulani, this Hawaiian staple is perfect for hearty breakfasts or brunch. Known for macadamia nut pancakes and local-style omelets. You can also stuff your face full of chocolate pancakes. Reservations not needed, but expect a short wait during peak times. There’s a kiosk to sign in outside.
Starbucks (Ko Olina Station) – Quick Grab-and-Go Option
For an early coffee or breakfast on the run, there’s a Starbucks directly across the street from Aulani, ideal for travel days or early excursions.
Planning a trip to Aulani? I help families take the stress out of vacation planning. From choosing the best restaurants to booking experiences that fit your style, I’ll make it easy. Reach out to start creating your stress-free Hawaii getaway.
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