Planning your magical getaway to Aulani? Wondering how to get from Honolulu International Airport to Disney’s Aulani Resort? Let me guide you through your options so you can decide if an airport shuttle is the best choice for your family’s arrival in paradise.
How Do Airport Shuttles Work for Aulani?
If you’ve never been to Hawaii, navigating transportation can feel like a big task, especially with kids in tow. Airport shuttles are one of the most convenient ways to travel from Honolulu International Airport (HNL) to Aulani. Shuttle services operate with pre-booked reservations and meet you at the airport for a seamless transfer.
Most shuttles are equipped to handle luggage and car seats, and some even provide lei greetings to add a special Hawaiian touch to your arrival. It’s about a 30-minute drive to Aulani, so having a professional driver who knows the area means less stress and more time soaking in the views, especially after a long flight.
When choosing a shuttle, look for options that cater to families, such as spacious vehicles and flexible pickup times. This can make a world of difference if your flight is delayed or you’re traveling with tired little ones.
Is a Shuttle More Convenient Than Renting a Car?
For many families, using a shuttle is more convenient than renting a car. Why? Because once you’re at Aulani, you won’t need a car to enjoy the resort’s activities. Aulani offers everything from snorkeling to character meet-and-greets, all within walking distance. If you plan to stay mostly on-site, a shuttle can save you the hassle of parking fees and rental costs.
On the flip side, if you’re planning to explore Oahu extensively—like visiting Pearl Harbor or hiking Diamond Head—a rental car might be the better option. Even then, Aulani has a rental shop onsite, so if you wanted to rent a vehicle for a day, that option may be easier than renting one at the airport. That’s what our family did during our last visit.
But for families who want a relaxing vacation focused on Aulani’s offerings, a shuttle eliminates the need to worry about navigation or parking.
How Much Does an Aulani Airport Shuttle Cost?
Costs for an Aulani airport shuttle vary depending on the company and your family size. On average, you can expect to pay $15–$25 per person one way. While this may seem steep for larger families, it often works out to be more affordable than renting a car and paying for gas, insurance, and parking.
If you’re traveling with younger kids, look for shuttles that include complimentary car seats or allow you to bring your own. And if you’re traveling with extended family, some shuttle services offer private vans for larger groups, which can lower the per-person cost.
Shuttles also make budgeting easier since the cost is fixed and there are no surprise expenses like tolls or parking tickets. Plus, you can often pre-pay online, so everything is taken care of before you even land in Hawaii. A shuttle can also be included in your Aulani package reservation making it even easier to have one reservation to include all the details.
Thinking about how to make your Aulani trip smooth and stress-free? I’ll help you find the best shuttle for your family!