Walt Disney Parks & Resorts has begun preliminary site work at its first family destination resort in Hawai'i at Ko Olina.

This work includes excavation, laying underground utilities and establishing where the foundations will be placed, said Djuan Rivers, vice president, Disney Vacation Club and Resort, Hawai'i.

"This is an important milestone for the project, as we continue to look forward to sharing the magic of Disney with Hawai'i's residents and visitors alike," he said.

The resort is scheduled to open in 2011. The new family-friendly destination is planned to include 350 traditional hotel rooms and 480 vacation villas dedicated to Disney Vacation Club, Disney's rapidly growing timeshare business.

Plans call for an expansive pool and water play area, an 18,000-square-foot spa, a wedding lawn, an 8,000-square-foot convention center, a children's club and two restaurants, one with an ocean view.