Kids don't always have to come first to have a memorable family holiday, but that's likely – and unfortunately – why Laniwai, the resort's full-service spa, salon, and fitness centre is the first of its kind among all Disney properties. Because Aulani has created a more relaxed Disney experience, an adults-only spa day is finally, gloriously possible.
I spent an afternoon at the Laniwai, which was rooted in Hawaiian history. Early inhabitants believed in the healing power of ancient hydrotherapy, so spa-goers get to take part in cold water plunges, temperate rainwater showers, and hot baths. Aside from my traditional Lomilomi massage – that had been passed down from generations and uses sticks and warm river stones to release tension – a highlight of the day was choosing a random "intention" stone at the start of the experience. Mine read "pono," which is Hawaiian for balance and not a word most parents utter on a trip with their kids.