Are you planning a dream vacation to Aulani, Disney’s incredible beachside resort in Ko Olina, Hawaii? With itslazy river, world-class spa, amazing kids club, and proximity to incredible beaches, Aulani is a magical place for families, couples, and Disney fans.
But before the fun in the Hawaiian sun can start, you’ll have to figure out which airport to fly into.
If you’re looking for a quick answer, the best airport for Aulani is Honolulu International Airport. Locatedjust 30-45 minutes from the resort by car or shuttle, it offers the widest selection of nonstop flights fromacross the U.S. It’s easy to find a direct flight to Honolulu from most major cities.
Overview of the Two Main Airports for Aulani
When planning a trip to Aulani, Disney’s Hawaii Resort, it’s important to consider which airport is the best choice for your arrival. There are two main airports that serve as gateways to this tropical paradise: Honolulu International Airport and Kapolei/Kalaeloa Airport.
Each airport has its own unique features and benefits, so let’s take a closer look at what they have to offer.
Honolulu International Airport
Honolulu International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Hawaii, making it a popular choice for travelers heading to Aulani. Located on the island of Oahu, it offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
With its extensive flight options, you’ll have no trouble finding a convenient and affordable flight to this airport.
Once you land at Honolulu International Airport, you’ll be just a short drive away from Aulani. The resort is located on the island’s western coast, approximately 17 miles away. You can easily rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach your destination.
Plus, if you have some time to spare before or after your Aulani vacation, you’ll have easy access to all the attractions and amenities that Oahu has to offer.
Kapolei/Kalaeloa Airport
If you prefer a smaller and less crowded airport experience, Kapolei/Kalaeloa Airport is another option to consider. This airport is located just a few miles away from Aulani, making it a convenient choice for travelers heading directly to the resort.
Although it offers a more limited selection of flights compared to Honolulu International Airport, it still serves as a great alternative for those looking for a hassle-free arrival and departure experience.
Kapolei/Kalaeloa Airport is known for its relaxed atmosphere and shorter wait times. It’s a great option for those who value convenience and want to start enjoying their Aulani vacation as soon as possible.
Additionally, with its close proximity to the resort, you can easily reach Aulani in a matter of minutes, allowing you to start your vacation without any unnecessary delays.
Comparing Flight Options and Airfare
When planning a trip to Aulani, Disney’s Hawaii Resort, choosing the right airport to fly into is crucial. Two airports, Honolulu International Airport (HNL) and Kalaeloa Airport (JRF), serve as the main gateways to the island of Oahu.
Each airport has its own unique set of flight options and airfare prices to consider.
Airlines and Direct Flights into HNL
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is the primary airport serving the island of Oahu and is located approximately 17 miles from Aulani. It is a major hub for both domestic and international flights, offering a wide range of airlines and direct flight options.
Some of the major airlines that fly into HNL include Hawaiian Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.
With its extensive flight network, HNL provides travelers with a greater number of options when it comes to choosing their departure airport. Whether you are flying from the mainland United States or internationally, there are likely to be multiple direct flight options available to HNL, making it convenient and easily accessible.
Limited Flight Options into JRF
Kalaeloa Airport (JRF) is a smaller airport located approximately 20 miles from Aulani. While it offers a more convenient location for those staying at the resort, it has limited flight options compared to HNL.
JRF primarily serves as a hub for inter-island flights and general aviation, with a few commercial airlines offering limited flights from select destinations.
It’s important to note that not all airlines that fly into HNL also fly into JRF. Therefore, when considering JRF as your arrival airport, you may have to connect through another Hawaiian island or fly into HNL and then take a shuttle or taxi to Aulani.
Price Differences Between the Airports
When comparing airfare prices between HNL and JRF, it’s important to consider several factors. Due to its larger size and greater number of flight options, HNL tends to be more competitive in terms of pricing.
Airlines often offer deals and promotions for flights to HNL, which can result in lower airfare costs.
JRF, on the other hand, being a smaller airport with limited flight options, may have slightly higher airfare prices. However, it’s worth noting that the cost difference might not be significant, especially if you are able to find a direct flight to JRF from your departure airport.
When planning your trip to Aulani, it’s recommended to compare the airfare prices and flight options from both HNL and JRF to determine which airport offers the best combination of convenience and affordability for your travel needs.
Transportation Options from Each Airport
Rental Cars
For travelers looking for convenience and flexibility, renting a car is a popular choice when flying into any airport near Aulani, Disney’s Hawaii Resort. Each airport has multiple car rental companies to choose from, allowing visitors to explore the island at their own pace.
It’s important to note that parking fees may apply at the resort, so it’s a good idea to check with Aulani’s website for the latest information on parking rates and availability.
Shuttles and Taxis
For those who prefer not to drive or simply want to relax after a long flight, shuttles and taxis are a convenient transportation option. Many hotels in the area, including Aulani, offer their own shuttle services from the airports.
These shuttles are often more affordable than taxis and provide a hassle-free way to reach the resort. Alternatively, taxis are readily available at each airport and offer a direct route to Aulani. It’s recommended to check with the resort or airport for more information on shuttle schedules and taxi services.
Public Transportation Differences
While rental cars, shuttles, and taxis are the most common transportation options, some visitors may be interested in exploring the public transportation options available near Aulani. Oahu, where Aulani is located, has an extensive bus system operated by TheBus.
TheBus offers routes that connect the airports to various parts of the island, including Aulani. This option is ideal for budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer not to drive. Visitors can check TheBus website for schedules and fares to plan their journey.
It’s important to note that public transportation options may take longer and require more planning compared to rental cars or shuttles. However, they can provide a unique and cost-effective way to explore the island.
For more detailed information on transportation options from each airport, visitors can refer to the official websites of the airports or Aulani, Disney’s Hawaii Resort:
- Honolulu International Airport
- Kahului Airport
- Hilo International Airport
- Kona International Airport
Airport Amenities and Facilities
Dining and Shopping at HNL
When flying into Honolulu International Airport (HNL), travelers will be delighted to find a wide array of dining and shopping options available. From local Hawaiian cuisine to international flavors, HNL offers a diverse selection of restaurants and eateries to satisfy every palate.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite before your flight or a leisurely meal during a layover, HNL has you covered.
Additionally, HNL boasts an impressive range of shops and boutiques, where you can browse for souvenirs, clothing, accessories, and more. From high-end luxury brands to local Hawaiian specialties, you’ll find a little bit of everything at HNL.
So, don’t forget to leave some extra time in your schedule to explore the airport’s shopping options.
To learn more about the dining and shopping options available at HNL, you can visit their official website here.
Limited Amenities at JRF
While Honolulu International Airport offers a plethora of amenities and facilities for travelers, it’s important to note that the smaller airport located near Aulani, John Rodgers Field (JRF), has more limited options.
Due to its smaller size and fewer flights, JRF has a more modest selection of dining and shopping choices.
However, this smaller airport still has some amenities available for travelers’ convenience. There are a few dining options where you can grab a quick bite, and a small selection of shops where you can purchase last-minute essentials or souvenirs to remember your trip by.
It’s worth mentioning that JRF’s limited amenities are compensated by its proximity to Aulani, Disney’s Hawaii Resort. The resort itself offers a wide range of dining and shopping options, ensuring that guests have everything they need right at their fingertips.
To find more information about the amenities available at JRF, you can visit their official website here.
Choosing the Best Airport for Your Needs
Go with HNL for More Flight Options
If you’re planning a trip to Aulani, Disney’s Hawaii Resort, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is which airport to fly into. In terms of flight options, Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is your best bet.
As the primary airport in Hawaii, HNL offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, making it easier to find a flight that fits your schedule and budget. With multiple airlines operating out of HNL, you’ll have more flexibility when it comes to choosing the most convenient and cost-effective option for your trip to Aulani.
According to recent statistics, HNL handles over 21 million passengers annually, making it one of the busiest airports in the United States. This high volume of traffic translates into a greater number of flight options, allowing you to choose from a variety of airlines and departure times.
Whether you prefer a direct flight or a layover, HNL offers a greater chance of finding the perfect itinerary for your journey to Aulani.
Only Use JRF If You’re Renting a Car
If you’re planning on renting a car during your stay at Aulani, then the John Rodgers Field (JRF) might be a viable option for you. Located on the eastern side of Oahu, JRF is a smaller airport that primarily serves inter-island flights and general aviation.
While it may not offer as many flight options as HNL, JRF can be a convenient choice if you’re planning to explore the island of Oahu by car.
Keep in mind that JRF is not as well-equipped as HNL in terms of amenities and services. It has limited dining options and fewer facilities, so it’s important to plan accordingly. However, if you’re looking to save time on transportation and want the convenience of having a rental car waiting for you upon arrival, flying into JRF might be the right choice for you.
Arriving Late? Go with HNL
If you’re arriving in Hawaii late at night or have concerns about flight delays, it’s recommended to choose HNL as your arrival airport. HNL operates 24/7 and has a more reliable schedule, ensuring that you won’t be left stranded if your flight is delayed.
In addition, HNL offers a wider range of accommodations nearby, giving you more options for a comfortable night’s stay before heading to Aulani in the morning.
On the other hand, JRF has limited operating hours, and if your flight is delayed or arrives outside of those hours, you may have to make alternative arrangements. While it’s always important to check with your airline and confirm their operating hours, HNL generally provides a more convenient and reliable option for late-night or delayed arrivals.
Conclusion
With its wide selection of flights and easy transportation options, Honolulu International Airport is the bestchoice for most Aulani visitors. However, Kapolei Airport can make sense for travelers who only plan to rent a car.Carefully compare your options, flight costs, and arrival/departure times.
With some planning, you’ll be on your wayto a magical Hawaiian vacation at Aulani before you know it!
