I have read so many reviews of people complaining about the price of Aulani that I could scream. Remember that Aulani is a DVC resort and isn't really that much more expensive then you would pay for a DVC resort at WDW during high season. Hawaii is an expensive place and Aulani is not located in Waikiki.
I'm a DVC member and stayed here in June using my points. I had a great time and appreciated the fact that hawaiian culture was present in the art, activities, shows, etc. You can be as immersed in the culture as you want to be. There were a lot of people at the resort when I was there(without it feeling crowded) and they are still adding on. It seems the resort is very popular and in high demand.