Disneys Resort Profiles: Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Celebrate the spirit of the South Pacific at this oasis of tropical palms, lush vegetation and so much more. From the exotic tastes of our world-class restaurants to moonlit nights immersed in the outdoor island ambiance. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is located just across the Seven Seas Lagoon from the Magic Kingdom. The guest areas complete the experience with tiki torches, waterfalls, a beach with castle views, and lots of lush, tropical landscaping. Guests can even attend a luau at this resort and cap the evening off by viewing the fireworks from the beach or a dip in the volcano themed feature pool.
I love the Polynesian, it has everything! Good rooms, great pool, amazing dining, incredible location and unique theming that makes it feel like you are in the South Pacific. This resort has some of my favorite restaurants on property. Nothing beats enjoying a Dole Whip while watching the fireworks from the beach. This is one of the few properties I prefer to be in the Deluxe Resort over the DVC property. Unless you are able to swing an overwater bungalow, your only option are studios.
Even if it is still a bit higher to stay onsite, the benefits can far outweigh the added cost. I have laid out those benefits for you to see how staying at a Disney resort is a good value for you in my blog “Benefits to Staying at a Disney Resort.”
PROS:
Dining options
Pool
Additional activities
Fireworks view
CONS:
Not many room configuration options
Good For:
Everyone
If you would like to book this resort, click here
Room Options:
Deluxe Studio Units (Standard & Lake View) – Sleep up to 5 guests.
2-Bedroom Overwater Bungalows – Sleeps up to 8 guests. Bungalows overlooking the water with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, private back deck, and a plunge pool.
Dining:
Kona Cafe (Table Service)
This hidden gem infuses a bit of Asian zest into traditional American meals and features an onstage sushi kitchen. This casual café serves such breakfast delights as cinnamon and banana-stuffed Tonga Toast, a variety of savory egg dishes, and my favorite, macadamia-pineapple pancakes. Satisfy big lunchtime appetites with a delish Dashi noodle bowl or crispy baked cheddar cheeseburger. For dinner, feast on a divine selection of delicacies that includes sushi rolls, poke bowls and chef-recommended dishes like the Kona-braised short rib—all served amid the relaxed atmosphere of this Polynesian restaurant.
Ohana (Table Service)
The Best Friends Breakfast at Ohana features Lilo and Stitch. Enjoy your breakfast served “Family-Style” while Mickey, Pluto, Lilo, Stitch, and other Disney characters visit with you for pictures and autographs. In the evening enjoy the warmth of a glowing sunset and the smell of oak from the grill. Savor skewers of meats and vegetables and other uniquely flavored island specialties grilled over the expansive 18-foot wood-burning fire pit.
Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show (Table Service)
aaaFrom hula dancers to fire twirlers, the excitement doesn’t cease as you feast on an all-you-care-to-eat banquet inspired by the flavors of the South Seas. You may even want to join in on the fun, so brush up on your hula. Aloha! Welcome to paradise!
Captain Cook’s (Quick Service)
Explore the American cuisine offered at this convenient quick-service restaurant. Explore your options each morning as you start the day with a Mickey Waffle or banana-stuffed Tonga Toast. For lunch or dinner, discover an adventurous assortment of sandwiches, salads, and more. Beer and wine are also available.
Pineapple Lanai (Quick Service)
Savor a taste of island sunshine with the legendary frozen treat known as DOLE Whip®. Enjoy traditional soft serve swirls and floats, which are also available in souvenir Tiki Sippers or Bowls.
Barefoot Pool Bar
Kick off your shoes and enjoy the white sandy beach as you sip on Tiki drinks and take in views of Magic Kingdom park. Try an amazing cocktail, refreshing beer, delicious wine, or a smoothie!
Kona Island (Coffee Bar /Lounge)
Coffee grown in Kona, Hawaii and roasted in Orlando, Florida – Kona Island at Disney’s Polynesian Resort serves the perfect “morning” cup along with assorted pastries daily. In the evenings, say aloha to made-to-order sushi and sashimi at this quick-service bar.
Oasis Bar & Grill
Take a break from the sun and imbibe in some fun at this poolside retreat—featuring tasty favorites like fish tacos and Polynesian-themed burgers, along with tropical cocktails, wine, Hawaiian beer, and assorted beverages.
Tambu Lounge
Pull up a stool at this enchanting watering hole where you’ll find tropical drinks and Hawaiian-inspired appetizers to Tiki your fancy—from exotic flatbreads and flavorful barbecue pork ribs to island-themed specialty cocktails and a full bar menu. I recommend the Lapu Lapu (served in a pineapple) pulled pork nachos and finishing off with some of Ohana’s famous bananas foster bread pudding which you can order here without a reservation.
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto (Lounge)
Head in to this tranquil hideaway for an enchanting evening packed with fantastic fun and delightful surprises. Explore the whimsically themed lounge—overrun with ancient artifacts and exotic treasures. Delicious cocktails unique to Walt Disney World Resort include the Polynesian Pearl, Nautilus, Castaway Crush, Tahitian Torch, and the Dark & Tropical Stormy.
Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace (Lounge)
Enjoy the live music and lush island vibe of this outdoor lounge while sipping an exotic cocktail like the Polynesian Pearl or Tahitian Torch—courtesy of Jungle Cruise “head” salesman and mixologist Trader Sam himself—plus great food from Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto!
In-Room Dining
Whether you’re hungry for a late dinner or you just want some breakfast when you wake, private dining is the ticket. With Disney Resorts Private Dining, you can choose from a variety of American favorites—along with some specialty items particular to your Disney Resort hotel!
Activities
The feature Lava Pool includes zero-depth entry with sand bottom, a massive volcano, and a 142-foot water slide. The Lava Pool area also features a kids play/splash zone, and The Oasis Bar and Grill delivers orders poolside. The Oasis Pool is just as it sounds, this pool is here for tranquility and relaxation and has cabanas available to rent. Children will enjoy the playground, arcade, and campfire activities.
The Marina offers Kayaks, Canoes, & Motor Boat rentals, and fishing excursions. Check out the recreation calendar for some great cultural activities like hula or ukulele lessons, traditional stamp crafts, and the Cultural Festival.
Nightly Disney Movies Under The Stars on the beach
Activities and programs are subject to change. Although the activities vary by day and by resort, here is an example of some of the trivia, arts and crafts, dance parties, games, and bingo you might find.
Check your tv for the schedule during your stay.
Services
Self Service Laundry Facilities (Dry Cleaning & Valet Laundry Available by selecting “housekeeping” on Room Phone)
Shopping
BouTiki
This resort shop stocks Disney character apparel and souvenirs. As well as Polynesian Village Resort logo merchandise and other tropical surf-themed items. You can also find snack foods, beverages (including adult beverages), magazines and books, and other general sundries.
Moana Mercantile
Located on the second floor of The Great Ceremonial House Moana Mercantile features children’s toys, clothing, and other great Disney Character merchandise. Snacks and beverages (including spirits) are also available for purchase.
Disney’s Magnolia, Palm, and Oak Trail Pro Shop
Disney’s Magnolia, Palm and Oak Trail Pro Shop features a wide selection of golf merchandise and rentals. Take home such souvenirs as caps, logo shirts, clubs and towels. This location is one of 2 pro shops that serve golfers throughout Walt Disney World Resort.
Transportation:
Disney’s monorail service is available to the Magic Kingdom and via transfer to Epcot. The monorail station is on the 2nd floor of the resort. There is Disney bus transportation to Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom as well as the water parks and Disney Springs. The bus locations are across from the valet stand just outside of the lobby. A walking path to the Ticket and Transportation Center is also available.
These times are approximate, provided to give you an idea of average travel times. Please plan on up to a 20-minute wait for Disney transportation in addition to walking time to resort or theme park transportation stops.
Magic Kingdom – 12 minutes by monorail, 9 minutes by boat
Epcot – 19 minutes by bus, 15 minutes by monorail from the Ticket and Transportation Center, 35 minutes by monorail from the Poly station
Disney’s Hollywood Studios – 18 minutes by bus, 19 minutes by car
Disney’s Animal Kingdom – 21 minutes by bus, 17 minutes by car
Disney Springs – 26 minutes by bus, 20 minutes by car
Blizzard Beach Water Park – 22 minutes by bus, 12 minutes by car
Typhoon Lagoon Water Park – 24 minutes by bus, 15 minutes by car
Tips
Watch the fireworks from the beach, snagging a hammock if possible. It’s a nice way to get a different view of the fireworks.
Try to catch the torch lighting ceremony performed in front of the Polynesian Village Resort. Check with Guest Services for times and dates.
If you are heading to Epcot via monorail, you may want to walk over to the Transportation and Ticket Center. Depending on which longhouse you are in, it may be quicker than taking the Magic Kingdom monorail and switching monorail lines at the Transportation and Ticket Center.
Visit the Pineapple Lanai just outside the back entrance for a Dole Whip!
NOT SURE IF THIS IS THE RESORT FOR YOU?
The right resort can upgrade your entire Disney vacation—but with more than 25 Disney resorts and hotels to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed! I can help you so you can choose the perfect-fit resort for your family—based on your budget, travel style, and family’s interests. DOWNLOAD the Guide to Choosing the Right Resort to understand the differences in amenities, how to choose the resort with the right location and which resorts offer the activities you are looking for.
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