The “American Idol” episodes that were filmed at Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Hawai’i will begin airing this Sunday, April 16.

American Idol at Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa

“American Idol” began in 2002 with the goal of finding America’s next great singer. Contestants from all over the country audition for a chance to be the next “American Idol”.

This season, the popular singing competition show flew its contestants to the Aulani resort in Hawai’i to not only showcase their voices, but to also have some fun.

On Disney Park’s YouTube page, they released a promo video of the two episodes. The contestants seem to be enjoying the beautiful resort, and even met some popular Disney characters including Mickey, Minnie, and Moana.

During the two episodes, the top finalists take the stage on the beach at Aulani in Ko Olina, Hawai‘i in front of a live audience.

The episodes also features judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie. The show is hosted by Emmy-winning producer Ryan Seacrest, with special appearances by celebrity mentors, Noah Cyrus and Allen Stone.

It wasn’t just all work — there was time to play too — during this once-in-a-lifetime trip to Aulani. According to Disney Parks Blog:

“Between lessons with their mentors and performances, the contestants feasted at some of Aulani Resort’s unrivaled dining options, experienced the private Rainbow Reef snorkeling lagoon, splashed around in the Waikolohe Valley pool area and even met some favorite Disney friends!”

You can watch the competition take place at Aulani Resort and Spa on Sunday, April 16 and Monday, April 17 at 8/7c on ABC, or you can stream on Hulu.

Who are you rooting for this season on “American Idol”? Let us know in the comments below.

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

Aulani is a Disney Resort & Spa nestled on the shores of Ko Olina in Kapolei, Hawai’i on the island of Oahu. Aulani is one of three stand-alone Disney hotels that is located without a theme park on its premises.

The other two are Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort in Hilton Head, South Carolina (pictured above) and Disney’s Vero Beach Resort in Vero Beach, Florida.

Joe Rohde, a legendary Disney Imagineer, was one of the lead designers of Aulani. Having grown up in Hawai’i, Disney thought he would be able to perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the island and its people.

The 21 acre resort opened its doors on August 29, 2011 with 359 hotel rooms and 460 time-share villas. It features a volcano called Pu’u Kilo that has two water slides: Volcanic Vertical —which leads to the Waikolohe Pool, and Tubestone Curl — which ends up in the Waikolohe Stream.

There are plenty of restaurants on property including, Makahiki, Ulu Cafe, The ‘Ōlelo Room, and Off the Hook. Makahiki, however, is the only restaurant at Aulani that offers character dining.

If you would like to experience a Lū’au at Aulani, head to Ka Wa’a. Here, you can enjoy buffet-style dining with a Hawaiian fare while watching an enchanting Lū’au performance.

Have you ever been to Aulani? Let us know in the comments below.

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