Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai’i, is a place where Disney magic meets Hawaiian culture, making it a truly unique vacation destination. While there are plenty of things to do at Aulani, one of the most popular — and often raved about — experiences is the Aulani breakfast with characters at Makahiki.
But is the Aulani character breakfast really worth the hype (and the cost)? What can you expect from this experience? And how can you best prepare for it?
This guide will give you a complete overview of the Aulani breakfast characters experience, so you can decide if it’s right for your family and make the most of it if you do.
Planning Your Aulani Character Breakfast: Reservations and Logistics
If you want to add a character breakfast to your Aulani vacation, keep in mind that reservations are essential. Here’s what you need to know:
Securing Your Spot: The Importance of Reservations
Aulani character breakfast reservations are crucial. You can book them 30 days in advance using the Aulani Resort app or the Aulani website. Reservations often fill up the morning they open.
Walk-in options may be available, but reservations are strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.
Reservations open at midnight Hawaii time. You can book online or by phone up to 30 days in advance. If you prefer to book by phone, you can call the Aulani Disney Reservation line.
If you don’t get a reservation right away, keep checking back closer to your trip. People cancel all the time, so you might get lucky!
Location, Hours, and Accessibility
The Aulani character breakfast is held at Makahiki Restaurant, located within the Aulani resort.
Breakfast is served daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
The restaurant is great about accommodating dietary restrictions, including gluten-free and dairy-free needs. If you have food allergies, be sure to inform the restaurant when you make your reservation or as soon as you arrive. You can even request to speak with the chef to review the menu items for allergens.
The Makahiki Experience: What to Expect
Let’s walk through what you can expect when you reserve a character breakfast at Makahiki.
Check-In and Pre-Meal Photo Opportunities
When you arrive at Makahiki, you’ll check in with a host or hostess. Before you’re seated, you’ll have the opportunity to pose for photos with some of your favorite Disney characters.
Disney PhotoPass photographers are on hand to capture the moment, and they’ll also be happy to snap some pics with your phone.
Atmosphere and Setting
Makahiki is beautifully decorated in a contemporary Hawaiian style. It’s a lovely, light-filled space to enjoy your breakfast.
Character Interactions
At the Aulani character breakfast, you’re likely to see Mickey Mouse and some of his best pals. Characters vary from day to day, but you might see Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, or Max. There’s also a chance you could see Moana or Lilo and Stitch!
The characters will come to your table so you can interact with them. Mickey Mouse is even known to flash a “shaka” sign, a traditional Hawaiian gesture of friendship and goodwill.
The Aulani Character Breakfast Menu
The Makahiki character breakfast is a sit-down, three-course meal. It used to be a buffet, but now they bring the food to you, and there’s plenty of it!
You’ll find a wide variety of breakfast options, including both traditional Hawaiian dishes and familiar Western fare. I’m talking eggs, bacon, waffles, pastries, fresh fruit, and local specialties.
Specific dishes will vary, so it’s worth checking out the menu online before you go. That way, you can start planning what you and your family might like to order.
Aulani Character Breakfast: Cost, Value, and Special Considerations
Okay, let’s talk brass tacks. Is the Aulani character breakfast worth the price? Here’s a breakdown to help you decide.
Understanding the Pricing Structure
As of Fall 2024, here’s what you can expect to pay:
- Adults (ages 10 and up): Around $50, plus tax and gratuity
- Children (Keiki) ages 3-9: Around $29, plus tax and gratuity
Keep in mind that a 19% service charge is automatically added to parties of 7 or more. Also, Hawaii’s general excise tax of 4.71% applies to everything you buy.
Assessing the Value Proposition
This is where it gets subjective. Is the Aulani character breakfast worth it? Honestly, it depends on your priorities. The food is good, not mind-blowing. You’re definitely paying for the character interactions and the overall Disney magic.
Having been to a few of these character meals at various Disney properties, I’d say “you get what you pay for.” The Aulani experience is definitely on par with other Disney character breakfasts, and perhaps even a touch more special given the Hawaiian setting.
Addressing Dietary Needs and Special Occasions
Like most Disney restaurants, Makahiki is excellent at accommodating dietary restrictions. If you have gluten-free or dairy-free needs, be sure to note them when you make your reservation. The chefs are usually happy to whip up something special.
And if you’re celebrating a special occasion, like a birthday or anniversary, let them know! During a past visit to Aulani, we were celebrating our marriage and were presented with a complimentary treat! It’s those little touches that really make a Disney vacation memorable.
Tips and Tricks for a Magical Aulani Character Breakfast
Want to make the most of your experience? Here’s some advice:
- Book Your Advanced Dining Reservation! Seriously, set a reminder for 30 days before your trip. These reservations are tough to get, and you don’t want to miss out.
- Arrive Hungry! The buffet is extensive, and you’ll want to sample everything from the traditional American breakfast fare to the Hawaiian-inspired dishes. Pace yourself and enjoy!
- Come Picture Ready! Break out your best Hawaiian shirts, dresses, or even Disney-themed outfits! The characters are always up for a photo op, and you’ll want to look your best.
- Navigating Food Allergies: Be sure to note any allergies when you make your reservation. When you arrive, speak to a chef or manager. They’ll happily walk you through the buffet and point out safe options, or even prepare something special for you.
- Walk-Up Reservations: If you’re feeling lucky, you can try for a walk-up reservation. But this is a gamble. Arrive very early (think 7 am) and be prepared to wait. It’s much less stressful to just book in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the character at Aulani breakfast?
Prices for the character breakfast at Aulani’s Makahiki restaurant (Mickey’s Tales of Adventure) vary depending on the season and demand. Expect to pay around $54 per adult and $34 per child (ages 3-9), plus tax and gratuity. Prices are subject to change, so checking the official Aulani website or calling the resort directly for the most up-to-date information is always a good idea.
What characters are at Aulani breakfast?
Mickey’s Tales of Adventure breakfast buffet typically features Mickey Mouse (of course!), Minnie Mouse, and Goofy. Sometimes, other characters like Pluto, Chip, or Dale might make surprise appearances, adding to the fun! Character appearances are subject to change.
What characters are at Mickey’s Tales of Adventure breakfast buffet?
Mickey’s Tales of Adventure breakfast buffet stars Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Goofy. These are the characters you can generally count on seeing. Remember, character appearances are always subject to change without notice.
What characters are at the Aulani Disney resort?
Beyond the breakfast, you’ll find Disney characters throughout Aulani! Keep an eye out for characters like Moana, Stitch, Duffy the Disney Bear, and ‘Olu Mel. Check the daily ‘Iwa (Aulani’s daily activities schedule) for character greeting times and locations to make the most of your character interactions.
Closing Thoughts
The character breakfast at Aulani is one of the most coveted dining experiences at Disney’s Hawaiian resort. You’ll enjoy a delicious buffet while beloved Disney characters, dressed in their best Aloha attire, visit with you at your table.
If you’re traveling to O’ahu with your family, this experience is worth the cost. It’s a fantastic way to start your day in paradise.
So, embrace the Aloha spirit, book your reservation, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!