What DVC Members Love About Disney’s Polynesian Villas and Bungalows

Location

The Polynesian has one of the best locations of any Disney resort – in my humble opinion. Guests can hop on the Monorail and arrive at the Magic Kingdom in minutes. Those wanting a more adventurous journey to Magic Kingdom can even walk there along the path that passes by the Grand Floridian. How beautiful?! This resort also enjoys close access to the Ticket & Transportation Center, the hub for guests going to EPCOT. Simply walk past the Disney Vacation Club buildings and in about five minutes, you’re there!

Something that this author has come to love about the location of this resort is that it still manages to feel tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Magic Kingdom. Stepping off the Monorail, you truly feel like you’re in a different world. Yes, you can see Cinderella Castle from the lobby, but take in that ukulele music and the sandy beaches and you’re no longer in the busiest theme park in Central Florida.

Room Features

At the time of publishing, Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows have two room types: Deluxe Studios and Bungalows. You can see both villa floor plans in our Resort Overview on the listings page. Once the new Polynesian Tower is open, we’ll be sure to update this post!

Photo Courtesy of WDWNT

The Deluxe Studios have two features that make them very popular at the seven-month booking window. First, they are the largest Disney Vacation Club Studios, coming in at 447 square feet. Even if you’re traveling with a family of four or five, you won’t feel quite as cramped as you might in another Studio! Second, the unique split bathroom design gives each Studio two showers. A shower/tub combination is located in one bathroom, along with a vanity and toilet. The second shower is a rainfall shower in another bathroom space with a vanity. This makes getting ready in the morning so much easier!

Courtesy of Disney Tourist Blog

The Bungalows are definitely some of Disney’s Vacation Club’s most unique villas! These over-the-water units feature two bedrooms and sleep up to eight adults. The primary bedroom features a king size bed and bathroom with a shower and bath tub, while the secondary bedroom features a queen size bed. The secondary bathroom has a split design with a vanity and toilet in one section, and a second vanity and shower/tub combination in the other. Perhaps the best features of the Bungalows are the decks overlooking Seven Seas Lagoon, complete with plunge pools. These villas are the epitome of luxury at this tropical resort!

Dining

We hope you’re hungry, because the Polynesian has so many amazing dining options. Each location features its own distinct take on the flavors of the South Seas, so let’s dig in!

Capt. Cook’s is the resort’s quick service location, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Disney fan favorites include the Thai Coconut Meatballs and Pulled Pork Nachos. If you’re unable to get reservations at the next restaurant listed here, stop by for some Tonga Toast!

Kona Café has been described as Polynesian’s hidden gem, and it shines even more after its recent refurbishment. For breakfast, definitely indulge in the decadent Tonga Toast. Lunch and dinner feature a variety of Asian- and Hawaiian-inspired dishes. You can’t go wrong ordering the Crispy Pork-Vegetable Pot Stickers, Poke’ Bowls, or Kona-Braised Short Rib.

Just beside the café, you’ll find Kona Island. This spot serves up some wonderful pastries and Kona coffee in the morning, and grab-and-go sushi for lunch and dinner. If coffee is your love language, order the Kona Coffee Press Pot for Two. It’s a luxurious caffeine experience!

‘Ohana is one of the most popular restaurants in all of Walt Disney World, and for good reason! During breakfast, families can meet up with their friends Lilo, Stitch, and other Disney friends – decked out in their Hawaiian best! Dinner features a big menu of tropical delights, including the legendary ‘Ohana Noodles and Pineapple Coconut Bread Pudding. Both meals are all-you-care-to-enjoy, so come hungry!

If lounging by the pool with a yummy drink in hand is more your speed, the Polynesian offers two great pool bars. Barefoot Pool Bar is located at the base of the Lava Pool’s volcano and allows guests to sip on tropical drinks with views of Cinderella Castle. Highly recommend the Lava Smoothie (non-alcoholic) and the Lava Flow (rum-based cocktail)! The Oasis Bar & Grill, beside the Oasis Pool, also has some amazing fare. Enjoy traditional Malasadas while sipping on a Frozen Margarita with DOLE Whip® Lime!

Too hot outside? Head into the Great Ceremonial House and stop by Tambu Lounge. This lounge sits just beside ‘Ohana and serves some amazing bites and cocktails. The iconic Lapu Lapu is served in a pineapple, and the Backscratcher cocktail comes with a useful tool (a bamboo backscratcher). They’re both the perfect accompaniments to the Pot Stickers and Big Kahuna’s Hot Wings!

Courtesy of Disney Tourist Blog

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is home to a lounge steeped in fan lore and bursting with hilarious antics – Trader Sam’s! This lounge features immersive theming that draws from the resort itself, The Jungle Cruise, and the Society of Explorers & Adventurers. It’s a must for any Disney fan! If you’re going into the Grog Grotto, the indoor lounge, definitely rope drop it as the wait can get as high as three hours! There is also a wonderful Tiki Terrace just outside, serving the same food and beverages. If you get in, save me a seat and order me an Uh-Oa…

It’s time for the grand finale of our Polynesian dining tour. The one, the only – DOLE Whip®! While you can find this tasty, tropical treat at multiple places in Walt Disney World, there’s nothing quite like stopping at Pineapple Lanai, grabbing a DOLE Whip®, and enjoying it on the resort’s beach. Guests over 21 can add a Parrot Bay Coconut Rum floater, if they’re feeling fancy!

Resort Activities & Amenities

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort offers two great pools – The Lava Pool and The Oasis Pool. The Lava Pool features zero-depth entry, a kids’ splash zone, and a 142 foot-long waterslide inside a “volcano!” Over at the Oasis Pool, more laid-back guests can enjoy a zero-depth entry pool surrounded by lush greenery. Oasis Patios are available to book, offering up to six guests lounge chairs, towels, and food service from The Oasis Bar & Grill.

Looking for a way to chill out in the evening after a long day in the parks? Enjoy Movies Under the Stars on the lawn behind the Great Ceremonial House or join in the fun of Campfire Activities!

Guests that enjoy time out on the water have found their perfect resort in the Polynesian. Rent boats and cruise around Seven Seas Lagoon, or hone your angling skills on a fishing excursion.

If you’re someone who likes to maintain a fitness routine on vacation, the Polynesian also offers a great jogging trail that winds through the resort, over to Grand Floridan, and up to the Magic Kingdom. Or you can work on perfecting your volleyball serve on the beach!

With so many fun activities and amenities, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a great spot for guests looking to enjoy resort days or an entirely resort-based vacation.

Are you ready to call this tropical hideaway your “home?” Check out our Polynesian listings!