A Complete Guide to Staying at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

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Disney's Polynesian Village Resort Lobby

So you’ve decided to plan an amazing Walt Disney World vacation; now what? Choosing your resort is one of the most important decisions you make, and you will not be disappointed if you choose Disney’s Polynesian Resort! Located in the Magic Kingdom resort area, this Deluxe resort celebrates the culture & beauty of the South Pacific with lush greenery, tropical style pools, & delicious food and drink. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your stay at Disney’s Polynesian Resort.

Pros and Cons

Second floor out of Disney's Polynesian Resort Lobby windows

Pros:

  • Some rooms offer breathtaking views of Magic Kingdom & the fireworks with music piped in
  • Accessibility to Magic Kingdom & Epcot by Monorail (can walk to Ticket & Transportation Center to get to Epcot Monorail)
  • Water taxi option to get to Magic Kingdom 
  • Incredibly delicious & popular on-site Tiki bar & restaurants 
  • Moana themed rooms (depending on room type)
  • Wide variety of room type (standard, bungalows, & studios)
  • Great for large groups/families traveling together

View of Cinderella's Castle from The Polynesian Resort Beach

Cons: 

  • Shared buses; potential long rides to Animal Kingdom & Hollywood Studios
  • Large & spread out resort

Resort Overview

Location Benefits

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort will put you near all of the Magic Kingdom excitement; and you cannot beat staying along the Monorail route. Conveniently located minutes from Magic Kingdom, guests have a variety of complimentary transportations to choose from. Water taxis, buses, and the Monorail will take you to Magic Kingdom & buses are available for all other parks as well as Disney Springs. Catching the Monorail at the Ticket & Transportation Center will take you to Epcot.

Additionally, the Polynesian Village Resort offers stunning views of Cinderella’s castle along white sandy beaches. Here you can also have a front row seat for a view of the nightly fireworks from Magic Kingdom as well as the Electric Water Pageant. 

Resort Category: Deluxe

Resort Area: Magic Kingdom

Guest Rooms

Sleeper sofa Polynesian Resort bungalows

The Polynesian Resort offers a range of room types, accommodating 2-8 adults, depending on your selection. Select rooms have been refurbished in a Moana theme.

Standard Amenities in each room include: 

  • Hairdryer 
  • TV
  • Free WiFi 
  • Keurig coffee maker 
  • In-room beverage cooler or mini fridge
  • Telephone
  • In-room safe
  • Iron & ironing board 
  • Outlets and USB ports are scattered throughout the rooms for your convenience
  • Ample storage space; closets, drawers, bathroom counter space, & under the bed storage. 

It’s worth noting that the vanity/sink area is separated by a door from the shower & toilet. A wall separate the bathroom area from the bedroom area, providing privacy.

Room Types

The Polynesian Resort offers various room types to suit your preferences & party size, including standard rooms, Deluxe Studios, & Bungalows: 

Building Signs on Disney's Polynesian Resort Property

Rooms & Suites

  • Water View: Views of Seven Seas Lagoon, Marina, or Pool
  • Theme Park View: Views of Magic Kingdom Park & Seven Seas Lago
  • Resort View: Views of Garden or Quite Pool 

All Views offer:

  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Day Bed
  • 1 King Bed (Resort View only)
  • Sleeps up to 5 Adults

Deluxe Studios

Deluxe Studio- Lake View:

  • 1 Queen Bed, 1 Queen-Size Pull Down Bed, & 1 Single Pull Down Bed
  • Sleeps up to 5 adults
  • Views of water
  • 1 full bathroom (2 showers)
  • Kitchenette 
  • Includes patio or balcony

 

Deluxe Studio- Standard View:

  • 1 Queen Bed, 1 Queen-Size Pull Down Bed, & 1 Single Pull Down Bed
  • Sleeps up to 5 adults
  • Views of landscape or parking area
  • 1 full bathroom (2 showers)
  • Kitchenette
  • Includes patio or balcony

Bungalow

Overwater Bungalow- Lake View:

  • 1 King Bed, 1 Queen Bed, 1 Queen-Sized Pull Down Bed, & 2 Single Pull Down Beds
  • Sleeps up to 8 adults
  • Views 7 Seas Lagoon
  • 2 full bathrooms 
  • Full kitchen
  • Living & Dining areas
  • Washer/dryer
  • Private deck with plunge pool

Club-Level Service

Certain rooms and suites at The Polynesian come with Club-Level Service, which includes perks such as evening turndown, secured key access to the club-level lounge, complimentary fax assistance, continental breakfast, midday snacks, evening wine, cheese, cordials, dessert, access to Concierge service at the King Kamehameha Club, complimentary health club access, complimentary newspapers in the Club Level lounge, and personalized Front Desk and Guest Services.  Who wouldn’t love all of these amazing amenities?!

Disney's Polynesian Resort Lobby Looking Down from Second Floor

Rooms and Suites with Club Level Service

Resort View – Club Level: Views of Garden or Quiet Pool

  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Day Bed.
  • Sleeps up to 5 Adult

Water View – Club Level: Views of Seven Seas Lagoon.

  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Day Bed
  • Sleeps up to 5 adults.
  • Includes Patio or Balcony

Theme Park View– Club Level: Views of Magic Kingdom.

  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Day Bed
  • Sleeps up to 5 adults.
  • Includes Patio or Balcony

Honeymoon Room – Club Level: Views of Marina

  • 1 King Bed
  • Sleeps up to 2 adults.
  • Includes Patio or Balcony

1 Bedroom Suite – Club Level: Views of Marina.

  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Day Bed
  • Sleeps up to 5 adults.
  • Includes Patio or Balcony
  • Includes a small fridge 

Ambassador VP Suite – Club Level: Views of Garden.

  • 1 King Bed & 2 Queen Beds & 1 Queen Size Sleeper Sofa 
  • Sleeps up to 8 adults.
  • Includes Patio or Balcony
  • Includes a small fridge

King Kamehameha Suite– Club Level: Views of Cinderella Castle & Marina

  • 1 King Bed & 2 Queen Beds & 1 Queen Size Sleeper Sofa 
  • Sleeps up to 8 adults.
  • Includes Patio or Balcony
  • Includes a small fridge

Checking In and Out

There are multiple ways to check in for your stay; all being very easy. You can use the front desk, check-in online through the official Walt Disney World website, or utilize the My Disney Experience app.

After online check-in, you’ll receive a room-ready notification and can use your MagicBand or the digital key feature in the app to unlock your room door.

Using the app tends to be the quickest way to check in; it means you never have to wait in line to check in at the front desk. The MDE app can also be used virtually to chat with a cast member should you need any assistance. 

Guests will be automatically checked out of their rooms upon completion of their stay. Any unresolved charges will be put on the credit card on file & a final statement will be emailed to you. You may also visit the front desk if you wish.

Should you need assistance with your bags you’ll call bell services from your room phone and they will come to your room to assist you with your luggage.

Resort Shops

Moana Mercantile Storefront at Disney's Polynesian Resort

Disney’s Polynesian Resort offers various amenities and themed shops for your enjoyment. This is where you can pick up snacks and souvenirs.  In select shops you may also find wine, drinks, medications, and other small grocery/sundry type items.

The shops include:

  • BouTiki: A shop with apparel, accessories, pins, gifts, snacks, home goods, and other supplies.
  • Moana Mercantile: A shop with apparel, accessories, & resort themed collectables.
  • Disney’s Magnolia,Palm, & Oak Trail Pro Shop: Located at the Magnolia Golf Course, a shop for golf merchandise, rentals, and souvenirs. 

Window Display at Polynesian Village Resort

Amenities

  • Laundry Services: A 24-hour self-service laundry facility is available near Lilo’s Playhouse.
  • Parking: Complimentary parking is available to guests. Valet parking is available at a nightly rate. 
  • “Hey Disney!”:  Stay up to date on daily park info, play games, make requests in your resort with your in-room virtual assistant. 
  • Dry Cleaning Services: Offers dry cleaning and valet laundry services.
  • Movies Under the Stars: Enjoy complimentary Disney movies on select nights on the Great Ceremonial House Lawn.
  • Senses Spa: Guests have access to utilize the spa & health club at Disney’s Grand Floridian. 
  • Childcare Services: In-room babysitting for children aged 6 months to 12 years old. 
  • Lilo’s Playhouse: Drop off kids (3-12 years old) to enjoy activities based on classic Disney tales.

Shaded path at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort

Lounges & Entertainment

Colorful Tiki Drink in Front of a Trader Sam's Menu at Disney's Polynesian Resort

  • Tambu Lounge: An indoor bar & lounge offering drinks and small bites; sit in or take drinks to go. Select ‘Ohana dinner menu options available. 
  • Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto: A fun & festive themed-bar offering fun tiki cocktails in souvenir cups. Reservations are not accepted & this popular spot is on a first-come, first-served basis. You won’t want to miss it!
  • Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace: Outdoor bar serving the same tiki cocktails as Grog Grotto. 

Three Colorful Tiki Drinks from Trader Sam's at Disney's Polynesian Resort

Dining Options

The Polynesian offers a range of dining options. Whether you want a character sit-down experience or to grab a treat while walking the beautiful grounds, you’ll easily find something to enjoy.

Multiple Dishes of Food from Ohana at Disney's Polynesian Resort

Table Service

Disney World’s Table Service restaurants offer a magical dining experience, allowing guests to sit back and enjoy a delicious meal in a themed setting. Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance and are highly recommended. Table Service options cater to a variety of tastes. Use the Mobile Dine Check-In feature via the My Disney Experience app, and make checking in for your reservation is a breeze.

  • ‘Ohana: A very popular table service location that serves breakfast & dinner; enjoy beloved Disney characters during dinner. ‘Ohana offers a family style meal, featuring its famous noodles & bread pudding. 

Kona Cafe: A lovely table service location that serves breakfast, lunch, & dinner. Known for its Tonga Toast, Kona Coffee, & Macadamia Nut Pancakes.

O'hana Bread Pudding at Polynesian Resort

Quick Service

Disney World’s Quick Service restaurants provide a convenient and efficient dining option for guests on the go. Perfect for a quick bite between attractions, these restaurants offer diverse menus, from an afternoon sweet treat to an on theme small plate. 

No reservations are needed; simply order at the counter or on your My Disney Experience app and find a seat. Mobile Ordering through the My Disney Experience app lets you skip lines and customize your meal in advance. Quick Service options ensure you spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the magic of Disney.

  • Capt. Cook’s: A quick-service restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, & dinner. Start your day with Mickey Waffles or Tanga Toast. Come back from a fun assortment of island inspired sandwiches & salads. 
  • Pineapple Lanai: Grab a refreshing Dole Whip anytime throughout your stay; whether you like it traditional or in a fun float version, there are so many sweet treats to pick from. 
  • Barefoot Pool Bar: Walk-up pool bar, located at Lava Pool, offering perfect poolside entrees, smoothies, cocktails, beer, & wine.
  • Oasis Bar & Grill: No need to leave the pool, just grab a quick bite & cocktail before heading back into the water. Located at the Oasis Pool.
  • Kona Island : Make a pit stop here anytime of day; grab a morning pastry on your way to the parks or stop off for some grab & go sushi on your way to to the pool.

Entrance to Capt Cook's Quick Service at Disney's Polynesian Resort

Recreation

For guests looking to relax and have fun, The Polynesian offers a selection of recreational activities.

Waterslide at the Pool Area at Disney's Polynesian Resort

  • Swimming: Enjoy an exciting themed-swim at the Lava Pool, complete with waterfall, a large water slide, and a zero-depth entry point. Looking for more relaxation than excitement? Head on over to the Oasis pool; this all–ages leisure pool is tucked amid a beautiful garden landscape.
  • Fishing: Guided catch-and-release fishing excursions are available.
  • Jogging: Take a run along the scenic trail, giving you views of Magic Kingdom & Disney’s Wedding Pavilion.
  • Polynesian Village Campfire Activities: Gather around for a nightly campfire on Seven Seas Lagoon Beach between 6:30-7:30 on Monday, Wednesday, & Friday. 
  • Motorized Boat Rentals: Enjoy an afternoon of cruising around Seven Seas Lagoon.
  • Electrical Water Pageant: Once the sun goes down, head to the shoreline of Seven Seas Lagoon to enjoy this nightly floating spectacular; watch as the large sparkling displays float by to your favorite Disney songs.

Electrical Water Pageant at Disney's Polynesian Resort

Transportation

Sign with Monorail Stops at Disney's Polynesian Resort

Getting around from Polynesian Resort is a breeze with several transportation options:

  • Monorail: You can directly access Magic Kingdom on the Monorail & can also travel to Epcot, though you will have to transfer at the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC). You can also visit the Grand Floridian & Contemporary Resort via the Monorail. 
  • Water Transportation: Be transported across Seven Seas Lagoon to Magic Kingdom or the spa at the Grand Floridian.
  • Buses: Disney buses are available for transportation to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs.
    White sand beach at Disney's Polynesian Resort

How to get from The Polynesian to anywhere at Disney World

  • Magic Kingdom – Take the Monorail, water taxi, or a resort bus to Magic Kingdom. 
  • Epcot – Take the Monorail or a resort bus to Epcot; keep in mind you will have to transfer at the TTC if you take the Monorail.
  • Hollywood Studios – Take a resort bus or Minnie Van to Animal Kingdom. Uber/Lyft is also an option, however you will not be dropped off at the main entrance anymore. 
  • Animal Kingdom – Take a resort bus or Minnie Van to Animal Kingdom. Uber/Lyft is also a good option as you’ll be dropped off near the main gate.
  • Disney Springs – Take a resort bus or Minnie Van to Disney Springs. Uber/Lyft are an option but they will drop you off at the far end of Disney Springs close to the Rain Forest Cafe area.  It can be a long walk to more central locations.  The bus and Minnie Van will drop you off in a central location.

Resorts:

Magic Kingdom Area Resorts – including Grand Floridian, Contemporary, Wilderness Lodge, Fort Wilderness, Port Orleans Riverside, Port Orleans French Quarter, Saratoga Springs and Old Key West –

  1. Take a bus to Magic Kingdom
  2. Use Magic Kingdom transportation to the resort of choice.
    1. Walk to Contemporary or Grand Floridian
    2. Monorail or Ferry to Grand Floridian and Contemporary
    3. Water Taxi to Grand Floridian, Polynesian, Contemporary, Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness
    4. Bus to all resorts.
  3. Minnie Van or Uber/Lyft are the fastest transportation from The Polynesian to any Magic Kingdom area resort.

Epcot Area Resorts – including Yacht Club, Beach Club, Swan and Dolphin and Swan Reserve.

  1. Boat or Monorail to Magic Kingdom.
  2. Take the bus from Magic Kingdom to the resort of choice.
  3. Minnie Van or Uber/Lyft are the fastest transportation The Polynesian to any Epcot area resort. 

Hollywood Studios Area Resorts – including Art of Animation, Pop Century, Caribbean Beach and Riviera Resort.

  1. Boat or Monorail to Magic Kingdom.
  2. Take the resort bus from Magic Kingdom to the resort of your choice.
  3. Minnie Van or Uber/Lyft are the fastest transportation from The Polynesian to any Hollywood Studios area resort.

Animal Kingdom Area Resorts – including Animal Kingdom Lodge, All Stars – Movie, Music and Sports and Coronado Springs

  1. Boat or Monorail to Magic Kingdom/
  2. Take the resort bus from Magic Kingdom to the resort of your choice.
  3. Minnia Van or Uber/Lyft are the fastest transportation from The Polynesian to any Animal Kingdom area resort. 

Water Parks

  • Typhoon Lagoon – Take a resort bus or Minnie Van to Typhoon Lagoon. Uber/Lyft is also a good option as you’ll be dropped off near the main gate. Note that you will take a resort bus to Disney Springs and transfer to the Typhoon Lagoon bus there. 
  • Blizzard Beach – Take a resort bus or Minnie Van to Blizzard Beach. Uber/Lyft is also a good option as you’ll be dropped off near the main gate. Note that you will take a resort bust to Animal Kingdom and transfer to the Blizzard Beach bus there. 

Mini Golf

  • Winter Summerland – Take a resort bus or Minnie Van to Blizzard Beach. Uber/Lyft is also a good option as you’ll be dropped off near the main gate of Blizzard Beach.  Winter Summerland is next to Blizzard Beach.

Fantasia Gardens – Take a resort bus to Hollywood Studios and walk to Fantasia Gardens. Fantasia Gardens is next to the Swan Reserve. Uber/Lyft is also a good option as you’ll be dropped off at Fantasia Gardens.

Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian

Island Tower At Night Disney's Polynesian Resort
Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Resort

Staying at the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Resort offers a brand-new way to experience one of Walt Disney World’s most beloved resorts. This modern tower blends the laid-back, island-inspired atmosphere the Polynesian is known for with updated design and contemporary comforts. With accommodations ranging from cozy studios to spacious multi-bedroom villas, the Island Tower is a great fit for couples, families, and larger groups alike.

Designed to complement the resort’s South Pacific theme, the Island Tower features stylish interiors, lush outdoor spaces, and relaxing terrace areas with beautiful views. Guests also have access to new amenities like the Cove Pool and Wailulu Bar & Grill, adding even more dining and recreation options to an already iconic resort. Whether you’re returning from a long park day or enjoying a resort-focused vacation, the Island Tower offers a calm, convenient, and distinctly Disney place to stay.

Island Tower Lobby
Island Tower Lobby

Room Types 

The Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Resort offers a wide variety of room types designed to fit many different travel styles and group sizes. Guests can choose from studios, villas, and larger multi-bedroom accommodations, making it a great option for couples, families, and extended groups alike. While the Island Tower is part of Disney Vacation Club, it’s not exclusive to member; any guest can book a stay and enjoy the resort’s modern comforts, island-inspired design, and convenient location.

1 Bedroom Villa
1 Bedroom Villa
  • Duo Studios – Ideal for two guests, these studios feature a kitchenette and an outdoor patio or balcony, along with colorful artwork inspired by Moana and the sky element.
  • Deluxe Studios – Sleeping up to four guests, these earth-themed rooms highlight the islands’ lush flora and fauna and feature a kitchenette with a dishwasher, along with a relaxing outdoor patio or balcony.
  • 1-Bedroom Villas – Sleeping up to five guests, these villas feature serene, water-inspired artwork along with a full kitchen, spacious living area, two bathrooms, an in-unit washer and dryer, and a private outdoor patio or balcony.
Tropical bathroom details
Tropical bathroom details
  • 2-Bedroom Villas – Building on the features of the 1-Bedroom Villas, these water- and earth-themed accommodations include a third luxurious bathroom and comfortably sleep up to nine guests.
  • 2-Bedroom Penthouse Villas – Celebrating both water and earth themes, these villas sleep up to eight guests and include all the amenities found in other villas, plus stunning views of Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom Park, along with Disney’s Oak Trail and Magnolia Golf Courses.
2 Bedroom Villa full kitchen
2 Bedroom Villa full kitchen

Dining

Guests staying at the Island Tower can enjoy Wailulu Bar & Grill, located conveniently on the tower’s ground floor, offering a relaxed spot for island-inspired bites and drinks. In addition, guests have full access to all the dining options across the main Polynesian Resort, from casual quick-service spots to signature restaurants, making it easy to savor a variety of flavors without ever leaving the resort.

Vibrant drinks
Vibrant drinks
  • Wailulu Bar & Grill: Located on the ground floor of the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Resort, serves island-inspired entrees alongside a wide variety of sharable plates, perfect for tasting and social dining. Guests can choose between indoor and outdoor seating, with the outdoor patio offering stunning views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. Reservations are recommended, though walk-up tables may be available depending on availability.
wailulu wings
Tasty bites

Recreation 

The Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Resort offers a variety of pool experiences for guests of all ages. The zero-entry Cove Pool is perfect for swimming and relaxing, while families with little ones can enjoy Moana’s Voyage Splashpad, a playful, water-filled area inspired by the beloved Disney character. Guests can also unwind in nearby hot tubs and lounging areas, all set amid lush landscaping and tropical theming, providing a refreshing escape just steps from their villa or studio.

In addition to the Island Tower pools, guests also have access to all pool areas at the main Polynesian Resort, including the Lava Pool with its iconic volcano-themed waterslide, quiet leisure pools, and additional splash zones. This makes it easy for families and friends to explore a variety of water experiences while enjoying the full resort amenities.

Tips for Your Stay

  1. Make Dining Reservations Early: You’ll want to make dining reservations at the ever-popular Polynesian establishments or other Disney restaurants 60 days prior to arrival, especially for character dining experiences.  Table service dining does fill up and it’s not recommended to try to walk up to your favorite restaurant the day of.  Instructions on how to use the My Disney Experience app are here.
  2. Enjoy the Beachfront Viewings: Take advantage of the evening entertainment on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon; nightly views of the fireworks from Magic Kingdom with music piped in as well as the Electrical Water Pagaent .
  3. Use Mobile Ordering: To save time and avoid lines, use the My Disney Experience app’s mobile ordering feature for quick-service meals.  Best tips on mobile ordering and some of our favorites can be found here.
  4. Watch Magic Kingdom Fireworks from the Resort: Some rooms and the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon offer partial views of Magic Kingdom’s nighttime fireworks, so be sure to check the schedule and plan to watch from the resort or ask about rooms with theme park views. 
  5. Plan for Rainy Days: Pack ponchos or umbrellas, as Florida weather can be unpredictable. Fortunately, there are plenty of indoor activities at the resort to keep you entertained.

Use the Disney Transportation System: Take advantage of the complimentary Disney transportation options to access all the parks and Disney Springs with ease.

The Polynesian Village Resort Address & Phone Number

1600 Seven Seas Drive
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830-8423
(407) 824-2000

Conclusion

Staying at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort offers a unique and luxurious experience for guests who want to be in close proximity to Magic Kingdom. The immersive experience of the Polynesian Village and the popular dining options in the resort make it a great option for your Disney World vacation. With its themed decor, tropical accommodations, and recreational offerings, you will surely have a memorable and magical stay at this Deluxe Disney Resort. Enjoy your time at the Polynesian Village Resort!

Request a free, no-obligation quote from the Love of the Magic Vacations team here.

Pinterest Pin Complete Guide to Disney's Polynesian Village Resort

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