Any traveler planning a trip to Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa should be asking how they are going to get from HNL airport to the resort. Unlike Disney’s other destinations on the mainland, Aulani offers a challenge for most visitors as they cannot drive their own car to the resort nor does Disney offer any type of shuttle service. So how do you get from HNL to Aulani?
We’ve listed the best options you have below and chat about each one so you can determine which is best for you. First through, let’s answer a few questions you might have:
What is the closest airport to Aulani?
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is the closest airport to Aulani and the only major airport on the island of Oahu. If you’re flying any major airline including Delta, United, American Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines or Southwest Airlines, you will be coming in to HNL airport. The airport is about 20 miles from Aulani.
How do I get to Aulani?
Aulnai is located at 92-1185 Aliinui Dr, Kapolei, HI 96707. To get from the airport to Aulani you will need to first get on H-92 W via Aolele St, following signs toward I-H-1 W. Once you have merged onto H1 W stay on this towards Waianae and follow signs for HI 93/Farrington HWY. There will be a few traffic lights on the highway and then you’ll take the Ko Olina exit. Continue down the exit road until you see the turn in for Aulani, just past the first traffic light.
Does Aulani offer a shuttle service?
No. Aulani does not offer a shuttle service to and from HNL airport or Waikiki. Guests visiting Aulani will need to provide their own transportation to and from locations on Oahu and the resort.
Transportation Options
Rental Car
Renting a car is a popular option for travelers who want to explore the island on their own. There are several car rental companies located at the airport, and Aulani offers self-parking for $37 per night. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy during peak travel times including 7-9AM and 4-6PM. Also parking can be limited at Aulani.
Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available at HNL. The cost for a one-way trip to Aulani is approximately $40-60. However, if you are traveling with a large group or a lot of luggage, this may not be the most convenient option as both options can have limited space. If you’re unsure if your entire group and luggage will fit, go with the biggest car or taxi available. It may add some cost but will provide less of a headache for you and the driver.
Shuttle Service
Several shuttle services offer transportation from HNL to Aulani, including SpeediShuttle and Roberts Hawaii. These services can be booked in advance and cost approximately $30-40 per person. However, keep in mind that shuttle services may make multiple stops along the way or need to wait for other groups to arrive which can add to travel time. This option is great if you have a large party of 10 or more.
Public Transportation
The public bus system in Hawaii is called TheBus, and it offers service from HNL to Aulani. However, this option can take from 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic and the number of stops along the way. If you are traveling with little ones or a lot of baggage, this may not be the most convenient option.
The best transportation option from HNL to Aulani will come down to your trip plans and if you’ll be visiting other places on the island or not. If you are going to visit the North Shore for instance, we recommend you rent a car. This offers the flexibility and freedom to leave and come back when you want. Remember you’ll have the rental car fee + Aulani’s parking fee which is $37 per night.
If you plan to stay at the resort all or the majority of your time we would recommend getting a LYFT or Uber from the airport to the resort. They are readily available anytime of the day and you’ll save a ton of money by not parking a car. If you do plan to go out, try and make the outings part of an excursion that offers transportation from the resort to the activity and back.
If you’re traveling with little kids who require car seats, remember to bring them. Rental car companies will charge extra for car seats and most Rideshare options do not have them on hand.