New Up Close Encounters at Rainbow Reef debut at Aulani Resort

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa has launched two new programs that offer guests up-close encounters with the marine life at Rainbow Reef, located in the Waikolohe Valley pool area.

Underwater Explorers

One of the offerings, called Underwater Explorers, allows guests to try their hand at scuba diving without being scuba-certified. The two-hour experience will begin with a 25-minute lesson on the basics of scuba equipment, diving and safety procedures. Participants will get to practice the dive skills they learn and then enjoy a free swim through the waters of Rainbow Reef.

During the dive, guests will see beautiful and colorful marine life, like butterflyfish, angelfish, tangs, and surgeonfish. One might even see one of Aulani’s hidden Menehune. Since Rainbow Reef is a manmade lagoon, it offers a safe, high-visibility environment where guests can dive without worrying about unpredictable waves or currents.

Underwater Explorers is recommended for scuba beginners, ages 10 and up. Included in the experience are the use of a mask, fins and a wetsuit, a complimentary flask and Rainbow Reef fish ID card to take home, plus a video of the experience. Cost for the experience is $189 per person, plus tax.

Rainbow Reef Fish Feeding Experience

The Rainbow Reef Fish Feeding Experience is a fun, hands-on way for guests to have an up-close interaction and learn about the tropical fish who live in the local waters.

Aulani’s animal programs biologists will start the program with a brief introduction of all the fish that live in Rainbow Reef. Guests will learn the differences between the many fish species and learn what they eat. With a better understanding of these new fishy friends, guests will have the opportunity to feed them while standing on the Rainbow Reef walkway.

The fish feeding experience is about 15 minutes long and costs $7 per person.