We are thinking of going over Christmas next year if covid normalizes. Anyone know how it is there Christmas week?
I stayed at Aulani over Christmas last year from December 20-27. When I left Aulani, I flew to Maui and stayed through New Year’s. Because I always travel during high peak times (holidays and summer time/school breaks), I didn’t feel that Aulani was super crowded. Yes, it was busy—but it always is when I visit because it has become very popular. The main pool was very crowded, but there were plenty of chairs at the adult pool and beach. Below are things to keep In mind if you decide to travel to Aulani during this time:
1) Pack your patience. The airports are packed. Maui airport was especially bad and the wait for luggage was about 30-45 minutes.
2) If you plan on renting a car, reserve it ahead of time and check in online for your reservation if the car company allows it. The rental car lines are crazy and you can easily spend an hour waiting to pick up your car at the airport. If you’re not renting a car at the airport, Aulani has an Alamo Car Rental counter and there is an Enterprise at the Marriott. Again, make your reservations ahead of time.
3) Make table service dining reservations (AMA AMA, etc.) as soon as you can. It can be very challenging to get a walk up reservation. You can also make reservations for a lot of the Hawaiii restaurants(Monkeypod, Roy’s, etc.). The popular restaurants often have waits for walk up reservations. Unless you’re used to eating really early, you may need to plan your meals in advance.
4) Most excursions require a minimum number to go. Aulani offers excursions that typically leave from the resort, but check the tour details because all of them don’t. If you decide to book tours on your own, most companies require pre-payment and you can book your tour online. If you book a tour independently, most don’t provide pick up at Aulani. You will need to drive to Waikiki to get the tour.
Other than that, enjoy being in Hawaii in December. December is the start of whale watching season and Honolulu has a light display downtown at Honolulu Hale.