Aulani Character Dining Guide: Breakfast with Mickey in Hawaii

Character dining is one of the most magical experiences at any Disney property, and Aulani's version brings a uniquely Hawaiian twist. Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and Pluto in their tropical Hawaiian costumes interact with guests during breakfast at Makahiki. For families staying at Aulani, this is one of the best uses of your resort dining budget. Here's everything to know.

The Makahiki Character Breakfast

Aulani's signature character dining is the buffet breakfast at Makahiki, "The Bounty of the Islands." The restaurant offers a beautiful open-air setting with views over Aulani's pools and lagoon. Characters work the room, stopping at every table for photos, hugs, and interactions.

The Characters You'll Meet

• Mickey Mouse (in Hawaiian aloha shirt and hat)
• Minnie Mouse (in tropical print dress)
• Goofy (in surfer style)
• Pluto (in his usual cheerful self)
• Sometimes additional characters like Daisy or Duffy depending on the season

The Food

The buffet is genuinely excellent and features Hawaiian-influenced breakfast options alongside traditional American breakfast:

• Made-to-order omelets and breakfast meats
• Hawaiian specialties: loco moco, fried rice, poi, taro pancakes
• Tropical fruit selection (some of the best fruit at any Disney property)
• Fresh-baked pastries and bread
• Coffee, juice, and a creative non-alcoholic drink menu
• Allergy-friendly and gluten-free options available

Pricing

• Adults: $46 (subject to change)
• Children (ages 3 to 9): $24
• Children under 3: Free
• Service charge and tax added to total

For a family of 4 (2 adults, 2 kids ages 3 to 9), expect to spend around $175 to $200 including tax and tip.

How to Get a Reservation

Makahiki character breakfast is the hardest dining reservation at Aulani:

1. Reservations open 60 days before your arrival date for resort guests
2. Book exactly at 7:00 AM Hawaii time on your 60-day mark
3. The most popular times (7:30 to 9:00 AM) book within minutes
4. Off-property guests can book 60 days before each individual day

If you miss the initial booking window, keep checking the Aulani app for cancellations throughout your stay. People DO cancel.

The Best Time Slot to Book

Earlier is better. Here's why:

• 7:30 AM: Quickest characters, fastest service, you have the day ahead
• 8:00 to 8:30 AM: Sweet spot, characters are warmed up, restaurant is busy but not chaotic
• 9:00 to 10:00 AM: Most crowded, longest wait between character visits
• After 10:00 AM: Characters may be wrapping up for the morning shift

What to Bring

• Autograph book or photo for the characters to sign
• Phone fully charged for photos (also Disney's PhotoPass photographer will take photos automatically)
• Memory Maker activated if you have it (PhotoPass shots are included)
• Aulani is more casual than other Disney character meals, so dress comfortably

Aulani's Other Dining Options

'AMA'AMA (Lunch and Dinner)

The signature Aulani restaurant, on the beach. Not a character dining experience, but the best food at Aulani and the most romantic dinner option.

Ulu Cafe (Quick Service)

The poolside quick-service option. Solid for lunch when you don't want to leave the pool.

Lu'au at Ka Wa'a

A traditional Hawaiian luau experience with fire dancers, performances, and a buffet dinner. Worth booking for at least one night of your stay. $185 to $215 per adult.

Mama's Coffee Counter

Open early. Hawaiian coffee, pastries, and quick breakfast options for non-character breakfast mornings.

Character Interactions at Aulani Beyond the Restaurant

Even if you can't get the Makahiki character breakfast reservation, you can still meet characters at Aulani:

• Character visits at the pools throughout the day
• Character interactions on the beach
• Stitch's Tropical Hideaway character meets (Stitch is exclusive to Aulani)
• Daisy Duck and Mickey for various stage shows and entertainment

The Verdict

For families staying at Aulani, the Makahiki character breakfast is one of the most important reservations to secure. The combination of excellent food, character interaction in tropical Hawaiian costumes, and the beautiful open-air setting makes it a uniquely Aulani experience. Book it as soon as your 60-day window opens, and don't be disappointed if your top time slot is taken; check for cancellations daily throughout your stay.