If you're planning a trip to Aulani, Disney's resort in Hawai‘i, you might be wondering: how much is Aulani character breakfast? I had the same question before our visit, and after finally doing it, I can say it's one of those experiences that's worth planning ahead for.
Whether you're going for the photos, the food, or just to see your kids light up when Mickey shows up in a Hawaiian shirt, here's what to expect – including the cost, what’s included, and whether it's worth it if you're traveling on a budget.
Key Points
- Reserve early: it books up fast, even for non-resort guests.
- Prices vary by age – adults pay more than kids, and gratuity is not included.
- Characters rotate: don’t expect all the big names at once; it's usually 3-4.
How Much Is Aulani Character Breakfast?
As of our most recent visit, the Aulani character breakfast at Makahiki Restaurant costs around $54 for adults and $34 for children (ages 3–9). Kids under 3 eat free.
These prices don’t include tax or gratuity, so after everything is added, expect to pay closer to $65 per adult and around $42 per child. A family of four with two adults and two kids will spend about $210 total before tipping.
You don’t need to be staying at Aulani to make a reservation, which is great if you're nearby or staying at a Ko Olina property like the Four Seasons or Marriott. That said, it books up early – especially during school breaks, holidays, or weekends.
You can make a reservation through Disney Aulani's official site, and I recommend doing it as soon as possible to get your preferred day and time. It’s available most mornings from about 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
If you're budgeting for your trip, the total cost adds up quickly, especially with a larger group. You can compare this with other dining options in the area by checking out our guide on food near Aulani and breakfast near Aulani.
What’s Included in the Character Breakfast?
The Aulani character breakfast is more than just a meal – it's part character meet-and-greet, part Hawaiian cultural experience, and part buffet brunch. It takes place at Makahiki – The Bounty of the Islands, which is located on the first floor of the main Aulani resort building.
The Food
The breakfast is buffet-style, which I appreciated because it let us try a little of everything. It’s a mix of traditional American breakfast foods and local Hawaiian options.
Here's a sample of what we saw on the buffet:
- Scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage
- Mickey-shaped waffles (a favorite, obviously)
- French toast and pancakes
- Portuguese sausage and steamed rice
- Island fried rice with bits of spam and vegetables
- Fresh tropical fruits like papaya, pineapple, and mango
- Pastries, muffins, and mini croissants
- Yogurt and granola bar
Beverages like coffee, tea, juice, and water are included in the price. Specialty drinks, like mimosas or lattes, are available but cost extra.
The food quality was solid – nothing gourmet, but fresh and well-prepared. It’s not just for kids either; the local flavors make it appealing for adults looking to try something beyond the standard eggs and toast.
The Characters
When we went, we met Mickey Mouse at the entrance, where a Disney photographer takes professional photos. This photo is not included in the meal price, but you can preview it and purchase it separately.
Inside, we saw Minnie Mouse and Goofy, who came to each table for hugs, autographs, and photos. Characters rotate throughout the dining room, so you don’t need to get up or worry about missing them. Staff does a good job making sure everyone gets a moment.
Not every character is guaranteed to be there every day. The usual rotation includes Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and sometimes Pluto or Stitch. For more about character appearances, check out our breakdown of what characters are at Aulani.
Cultural Touches
This is something that sets Aulani apart. During the breakfast, there was live music with a local musician playing ukulele and singing traditional Hawaiian songs. Occasionally, a cast member came out to engage the kids in hula or Hawaiian storytelling.
These touches are low-key but add a sense of place to the meal. It feels more grounded in the local culture compared to a standard character breakfast at Disneyland or Disney World.
Is It Worth It?
This depends on what you’re looking for.
If you’re trying to do every character dining opportunity on the island, or if you have kids who absolutely love Mickey and friends, it’s probably a yes.
If you're on a tight budget or prefer quiet mornings, you may want to skip it and explore breakfast options near Aulani instead. That said, for what you get – a full buffet, character access, and live music in a beautiful open-air setting – the value feels fair.
This is also one of the few ways to enjoy Aulani without staying at the resort. If you’re curious about can you eat at Aulani without staying, the answer is yes, but with limited options. Character breakfast is the most immersive option for day visitors.
If you're still comparing experiences and trying to figure out where Aulani fits into your Hawai‘i trip, we also have helpful guides on Aulani vs Four Seasons, Aulani vs Disney Cruise, and Aulani vs Hilton Hawaiian Village.
Tips for Booking
Reservations are essential. Book your character breakfast as soon as your reservation window opens.
If you’re a resort guest, you can often book 60 days out or more. If you’re not staying at Aulani, your window may be shorter. Either way, it fills up fast.
Dining at Makahiki is popular not just for the characters, but for the atmosphere and convenience. Breakfast typically starts around 7:00 AM and runs until 11:00 AM. Earlier seatings tend to have shorter wait times for characters.
Trying to visit Aulani on a budget? Don’t miss our article on how to book Aulani for cheap and see how much is Aulani resort to better plan your expenses.
My Final Thoughts
Aulani's character breakfast was a highlight of our stay. It was relaxed, well-organized, and had a good mix of food, atmosphere, and Disney touches.
Even if you're not staying at the resort, it gives you a taste of the Aulani experience. It's not something I would do multiple times in a trip, but I’m glad we did it once.
Still deciding if Aulani is right for your Hawai‘i vacation? Be sure to check out the full Aulani travel guide for tips on dining, room types, snorkeling, and planning. You might also want to know which island Aulani resort is on and how far it is from Honolulu Airport if you're still sorting out logistics.
