Polynesian Village Resort

The Polynesian Village Resort at Disney World offers a tropical-themed stay that is both relaxing and convenient, especially for guests looking to stay near the Magic Kingdom. This resort, which is designed to resemble a South Pacific village, combines immersive theming with modern comforts. Here’s a look at the rooms, dining options, and amenities to help you decide if this resort is the right choice for your Disney vacation.

Polynesian Rooms:

The resort offers a range of accommodations that are designed with Polynesian-inspired decor:

Standard Rooms: These rooms can sleep up to five guests and feature either two queen beds or one king bed with a daybed. Views vary, with options for garden, pool, or beach-facing rooms. Each room includes modern amenities like a mini-fridge, a coffee maker, and a flat-screen TV. It’s a comfortable choice for families or groups looking for easy access to the monorail and Magic Kingdom.
Deluxe Villas: For those looking for a bit more space, the Deluxe Villas offer kitchenettes, separate living areas, and the ability to sleep larger groups. The decor mirrors the tropical theme of the main resort but with additional conveniences like microwaves and toasters. These are a good option for families who prefer the flexibility of dining in the room.
Bungalows: The resort’s bungalows are over-water accommodations that feature two bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a private deck with a plunge pool. They offer views of the Magic Kingdom, and during the evening, you can watch the fireworks directly from your private deck. These are designed for larger families or groups looking for a unique and more private experience, but they come at a premium cost.
Club Level Rooms: For guests who want access to extra amenities, the Club Level rooms include access to a private lounge that serves complimentary food and beverages throughout the day. Club Level guests also receive concierge services that can assist with dining and event reservations.

Dining Options at the Polynesian

Polynesian Village Resort offers a variety of dining experiences, catering to different tastes and budgets. Here’s what you can expect:

‘Ohana: A family-style restaurant that serves Polynesian-inspired dishes. The breakfast here includes a character dining experience featuring Lilo and Stitch, while dinner offers grilled meats, shrimp, and side dishes served directly to your table. It’s a popular choice, so reservations are recommended.
Kona Cafe: A casual sit-down restaurant offering a mix of American and Asian-inspired dishes. The menu ranges from items like poke bowls to the highly recommended Tonga Toast at breakfast, a thick piece of sourdough stuffed with bananas and rolled in cinnamon sugar.
Captain Cook’s: A quick-service option located near the pool area, Captain Cook’s is great for grab-and-go meals or a quick bite without the need for reservations. The menu includes sandwiches, flatbreads, and other fast meals with a Polynesian twist.
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto: A themed tiki bar that’s known for its unique atmosphere and creative cocktails. The small plates menu includes options like dumplings and poke, but the real draw is the themed experience. Be aware that Trader Sam’s can get busy, and it’s often better suited for adults or families with older kids.
Pineapple Lanai: If you’re looking for a snack, Pineapple Lanai serves the famous Dole Whip soft serve, which is a must-try for many Disney visitors.

Resort Amenities

Beyond its convenient location and thematic appeal, the Polynesian Village Resort offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay:

Pools: The resort has two main pools. The Lava Pool is the more popular option, featuring a volcano water slide and a children’s splash area. For a quieter experience, the Oasis Pool is more subdued and features a poolside bar. Both pools offer plenty of lounge chairs, though the Lava Pool tends to be busier due to its location near the Great Ceremonial House.
Monorail Access: One of the biggest advantages of staying at the Polynesian is its direct access to the monorail, making it easy to get to the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. The resort is also a short walk from the Ticket and Transportation Center, providing additional convenience if you plan to visit other Disney parks.
Evening Activities: The resort offers some great ways to unwind after a day in the parks. The Electrical Water Pageant passes by the resort each evening on the Seven Seas Lagoon, which can be viewed from the beach area. There are also Movies Under the Stars, where Disney movies are shown outdoors near the Great Ceremonial House.
Shopping: The resort has a few shops, such as BouTiki, where you can find Polynesian-themed merchandise and essentials for your stay. It’s a good place to pick up souvenirs without having to leave the resort.
Campfire and Marshmallow Roasting: In the evenings, the resort hosts a campfire on the beach where guests can roast marshmallows. It’s a simple but fun way to spend some downtime with the family.

Is Polynesian Village Resort Right for You?

The Polynesian Village Resort is a good choice for guests looking for a Disney resort with a more relaxed, tropical feel while still being close to the action. Its direct access to the monorail makes it one of the more convenient options for families who plan to spend a lot of time at the Magic Kingdom or EPCOT. The dining options are varied and offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sit-down meal.

This resort tends to appeal to families, couples, and groups who enjoy a bit of extra theming in their accommodations, and who value proximity to the parks. It’s one of the more expensive options at Disney, so it may not be the best fit if you’re looking to stick to a tighter budget. However, if convenience and theming are priorities for your trip, the Polynesian Village Resort is well worth considering.