This summer flew by, but one experience truly stood out: Laniwai- A Disney Spa at the Aulani Resort in Oahu. My family and I finally experienced Oahu Disney style, joined by seven of my closest friends and their families—25 people total (crazy, right?). It was an unforgettable trip, the kind my kids will talk about for years. Especially since we likely won’t be making a return visit anytime soon!
The resort was amazing (obviously), but I’ll be honest- I’m not a die-hard Disney fanatic. I enjoy and appreciate the magic, but my life definitely does not revolve around Disney. That said, a few of my clients, both avid travelers and spa-goers, convinced me that the Laniwai Spa at Aulani is a must-visit, claiming it’s the best spa they’ve ever been to. Even though Aulani had already worked its Disney magic on my wallet (poof, money is gone!) I took their advice—and had no regrets.
I booked my appointment two weeks before our stay and was pleasantly surprised to find availability on my preferred date. Their booking system was easy, and no deposit was required. I decided on the Wai Lomilomi-Pineapple Whip, a full-body exfoliation, and a massage. This seemed perfect for pampering my skin and muscles after days of pool and ocean adventures (tough life, I know).
First Impressions: Aulani Magic
Laniwai Spa is tucked away in the Waianae Tower, a part of the resort I hadn’t explored yet since we were staying in the Ewa Tower on the opposite side. The soothing atmosphere immediately struck me as I stepped inside. The soft lighting and beautiful hardwood floors were gorgeous and, as a wannabe interior designer, I couldn’t help but grin from ear to ear. And this was just the hallway leading to the spa—I hadn’t even reached the main event yet!
The reception area was equally beautiful and thoughtfully designed. The staff was attentive, guiding me to another team member who was holding a bowl filled with stones, each inscribed with a Hawaiian word. I was told to pick one, and I chose “pono”, which means “balance.” She explained that this word would be my focus during my time at the spa. I was then led through a dimly lit hallway to a small pool, where I was instructed to close my eyes, focus on my word, and gently place the stone in the water. This unique ritual truly set the tone for my experience, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the moment (which is why I didn’t take many pictures—sorry!)
Next, I was shown the locker room, restroom, sauna, and steam room—all impeccably clean and well-stocked. My only minor complaint was the lack of hair ties or headbands, as I forgot to bring something to hold my hair back. It did not take away from the experience, but it’s worth noting for future spa-goers.
The Kula Wai: An Outdoor Hydrotherapy Garden
Since arriving just over an hour before my appointment, there was plenty of time to enjoy all the amenities. I quickly changed and headed straight to Laniwai’s outdoor hydrotherapy garden- this feature was the unique selling point for me and it was everything I dreamed it would be. The garden is an oasis complete with soaking pools, rainfall showers, and a hot tub with massaging jets. There were two soaking pools each with different temperatures (hot and hotter) and I relaxed in both. Next to the pools, a small waterfall fountain added to the mesmerizing backdrop, but it didn’t distract me from trying everything this place had to offer.
Taking the Plunge
After the soaking pools, it was time for the cold plunge. As a first-time cold plunger, and hater of all things chilly, I appreciated the advice from a team member: plunge in quickly, get out, and then immediately dunk yourself in the warm jet spa. The cold plunge was surprisingly refreshing, but I don’t think I’ll need to do that ever again.
Next up were the six rain-style showers. Since time was ticking and others were also using the showers, I couldn’t try them all, but I got the gist of it.
Then I walked on the reflexology path, designed to massage your feet, but I found it a little painful. To help soothe my minor aches, I decided it was time for a snack so I went to the lounge area
Sustenance
I walked into the bright & breezy lounge area where a snack table awaited with oatmeal raisin cookies (the chef’s specialty), coconut macarons, muffins, hot water, and an assortment of tea. There was also a mini fridge with bottled water. Everything was delicious-even the oatmeal raisin cookies!
The Treatment: 80 Minutes of Hawaiian Heaven
After stuffing my face in the lounge, I waited for my therapist in the quiet room. The room had a row of massage chairs and I was lucky to have it all to myself. I settled into one, played around with the settings, and enjoyed my chair massage in silence.
My therapist greeted me in the quiet room and escorted me to the treatment room, which was as clean and gorgeous as expected. My treatment was the Wai Lomilomi-Pineapple Whip, a pineapple exfoliation followed by Laniwai’s signature Lomilomi massage. First up was the all-over body scrub which had the most intoxicating pineapple scent. Afterward, my therapist stepped out while I rinsed off the scrub in the shower, leaving my skin feeling incredibly smooth. Then came the Lomilomi- the most unique, deeply relaxing, and invigorating massage I’ve ever had. She checked in regularly to make sure the pressure was ok and that I was comfortable during the entire experience. My only complaint was that my 80 minutes would eventually have to end.
Final Thoughts: A Must For Spa Lovers
When it was time to pay, I realized I had forgotten my wallet (fail), but the team member was accommodating and charged it to my hotel room (phew!). Then I was given a surprise treat- a complimentary sample pouch of bath salts labeled “Pono (balance),” my focus word of the day. This was a thoughtful touch, serving as a reminder to keep this intention in mind for the rest of the trip.
Laniwai- A Disney Spa at Aulani was an unforgettable experience and I left feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to enjoy the rest of my stay. If you’re not staying at the Aulani resort, you can still book a treatment. My booking confirmation email states, “If you are not staying overnight at the Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, four (4) hours of self-parking is included when you spend $50 or more at Laniwai.” That is plenty of time to enjoy the spa.
For those seeking a break from the excitement of Aulani (or parenting), Spa Laniwai provides the perfect balance of tranquility and luxury. It’s a must-visit for anyone needing to unwind and a beautiful way to immerse yourself in the spirit of aloha.