We just returned from staying at the Aulani during American Idol filming Feb 4-8. For us, the presence of American Idol was incredibly intrusive. It essentially turned our long-planned family "Hawaiian idyll" into a rock concert. Music, playing on and off from 11 am to 8 pm every single day through the 8th, was so loud it was unpleasant to be on our balcony. Balcony doors had to remain closed (no sea breeze for us) to reduce the noise level enough for small children to nap and for adults to comfortably converse. On two nights, strong spotlights - from the stage structure one night and from the palm tree area SW of the lagoon the other night - were blinding on the balcony. Rooms most impacted were the most expensive rooms, the Grand Villas at the end of each wing. The only rooms not impacted were likely those facing the luau area. Moreover, daytime sound levels at pools near the stage were high enough to hurt ears. Like others, we were not told there would be a TV production until late November. The TV production was not identified, and nothing was said about music. Impact was vastly understated. Even if we knew what we were getting into, it would have been too late to change plans. Undoubtedly other visitors have had this negative experience as well, or Aulani would make the announcement earlier and more openly. It's too bad, because Aulani is otherwise a good place for small children. For others, especially non-DVC owners, we recommend resorts on the other islands more in tune with what Hawaii is supposed to be.