Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is one of the most popular resorts in all of Walt Disney World. Not only is it one of the first Disney resorts, but it offers unique theming, a great location, and so many magical touches. Like all Disney resorts, the Polynesian offers immersive theming. Here you can experience the tropical feeling of being in the South Pacific. Let’s find out if this is the right resort for you.
Why Should You Stay on Disney World Property?
Staying on Walt Disney World property can get very expensive very quickly, but it does have its benefits. These perks include early entry into the theme parks, complimentary transportation to and from the parks, water parks, and Disney Springs, the ability to buy Genie + at midnight, and the ability to book dining reservations 60 days in advance. For those staying at Deluxe Resorts, you even get extra time in the parks on select nights during extended evening hours. Look at the My Disney Experience app for dates and times available during your trip. You are also within close proximity to the theme parks, especially if you are staying at a Deluxe Resort. All of the Disney World Resort Hotels offer immersive theming, which helps keep the magic alive even outside of the parks.
Everything You Need to Know about Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
An Overview of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
The Polynesian is a deluxe resort, Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resort, and is located in the Magic Kingdom area. The theming is tropical and represents the South Pacific Islands. This resort is extremely popular because of it’s location and beauty. Not only will you feel like you are on an island getaway, but you will also be minutes from the Disney parks. Is it too good to be true? Let’s find out.
*Please note this resort is currently undergoing construction and refurbishments through 2024
Room Types
Besides your typical hotel room and suite offerings, there are several other options available since this is also a DVC Resort.
*Polynesian room rates vary depending on the time of year you book
Standard Rooms and Suits
- Sleeps up to 5 adults
- Water, resort, or theme park views
- King or queen beds
- Includes beverage cooler, coffee/tea station, and a patio or balcony
Club Level Rooms and Suits
- Sleeps up to 5 adults
- Water, resort, or theme park views
- King or queen beds
- Includes beverage cooler, coffee/tea station, and a patio or balcony
- Includes access to the Kamehameha Club
Deluxe Studios
- Sleeps up to 5 adults
- Water, resort, or theme park views
- 1 queen bed, murphy bed, and pull down single bed
- Kitchenette with small fridge and microwave
- Porch or balcony
- 1 full bathroom, but 2 showers
Bungalows
- Sleeps up to 8 adults
- Lake and theme park views
- Includes 2 full bathrooms, full kitchen, living room, dining room, and washer and dryer
- Private deck with a plunge pool
NEW! Bungalows in Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas and Bungalows
*Bookings start in June of 2024 with stays beginning in December of 2024
- Variety of rooms- studios, and 1 or 2 bedrooms
- Some rooms will sleep up to 9 adults
- Different room types will offer different amenities
Dining Options Offered at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Barefoot Pool Bar: This is a pool bar located at the Lava pool. Enjoy tropical cocktails and smoothies as you look out at Magic Kingdom in the distance. You can even grab Asian inspired appetizers and entrees.
Oasis Bar & Grill: This pool bar is just like the Barefoot Pool Bar, but is is located at the Oasis Pool.
Capt. Cook’s: This is the main quick service dining option at the Polynesian. Mobile order breakfast, lunch, or dinner on your way to and from the parks. Don’t forget to grab your resort refillable mug!
Pineapple Lanai: Looking for a Dole Whip outside of Magic Kingdom? You can find all your favorite pineapple and ice cream treats here.
Kona Cafe: Located on the second floor of the Grand Ceremonial House, this South Asian inspired cafe offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can find the popular Tonga Toast here!
Kona Island: Enjoy delicious coffee and baked goods for breakfast, or on the-go sushi in the afternoons and evenings. If you don’t have time to sit down and enjoy a full meal, but still want to try Kona Cafe, then I highly recommend stopping here for a quick bite.
Tambu Lounge- Great Ceremonial House: This is a tiki inspired bar and lounge that offers a variety of cocktails and small plates.
‘Ohana: There are two different sit-down dining experiences offered here. Enjoy a character breakfast in the morning, featuring Lilo and Stitch, or dine for a Hawaiian themed dinner without characters.
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto: This popular tiki bar offers unique and flavorful drinks with some incredible ambiance. This is a very popular place to visit, so it does fill up quickly. After 8 PM, only guests ages 21 and up may enter.
Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace: If you want a more laid back and outdoor tiki bar experience, but still want to enjoy the menu from Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, then this is the place for you. You can even enjoy some live music!
Things to Do
Pools: There are two great pools at Disney’s Polynesian Resort. The main pool is the Lava Pool that features a water slide, volcano, waterfall, and splash pad area for little ones. There are often family games and trivia throughout the day. The Oasis pool is much quieter for those wanting to relax. Both pools offer a great pool bar with cocktails and food.
Resort Campfire Activities: Head over to Seven Seas Lagoon Beach to roast marshmallows while listening to campfire stories. Please note that there is a fee for the s’mores kits, but feel free to bring your own instead.
Movies Under the Stars: On select nights, head over to the Great Ceremonial House Lawn to watch some of your favorite Disney films.
Electrical Water Pageant: Watch this light and music show float across Seven Seas Lagoon.
Water Adventures: There are motorized boat rentals and fishing experiences offered on Seven Seas Lagoon.
Volleyball: There is a beach volleyball court for you to enjoy located between the Hawaii and Tahiti buildings.
Jogging: Jog all around Seven Seas Lagoon! You will have some incredible views.
Relax on the Beach: Now, there is no swimming on the beaches, but relax on the beach during the day or sit and watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks at night.
Transportation to the Parks
Magic Kingdom: Monorail, water taxi, or walking path
Epcot: Monorail
Hollywood Studios: Bus
Animal Kingdom: Bus
Disney Springs: Bus
Typhoon Lagoon: Bus
Blizzard Beach: Bus
Pros and Cons to Staying at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Pros:
- Great location- Easy access to both Magic Kingdom and Epcot. Also close to other resorts.
- Great dining options
- Extra park time because it is a deluxe resort
- Can see the Magic Kingdom fireworks
- Variety of room options offered
Cons:
- Very expensive
- The resort is made up of separate buildings, which some don’t like. You need to walk outside to get from your room to the lobby in most cases.
- It is very dark at night, which can make it difficult to navigate.
- Some of the rooms are outdated
- It’s very busy. Many people visit even if they aren’t staying at the resort.
- It can be loud. You will hear the Magic Kingdom fireworks at night and the ferry boat in the early morning and late evenings if you are staying in a building that is located near the TTC (Transportation and Ticket Center).
