It’s no secret that Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is one of the most delightful of all Disney resorts. Located in the heart of the Magic Kingdom Park area of Walt Disney World the enchantment of the South Pacific islands welcomes guests at the Great Ceremonial House lobby. Be transported to far off Polynesia surrounded by whimsical island-inspired architecture, volcanic rock accents, spellbinding torch lights, wood-carved Tiki totem sculptures, and lush tropical gardens. The resort boasts outstanding accommodations, a waterfront location and plenty of fun and amenities. Here are 7 reasons to put this outstanding Disney Vacation Club resort on your bucket list.
- LOCATION! You just can’t beat the centralized, convenient location. Disney’s Polynesian Villas charming DVC resort features incredible waterfront views of Cinderella Castle and the sparkling Seven Seas Lagoon. The resort also offers incredibly quick and easy access to the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and other area resorts. For the ultimate in transportation convenience, catch a ride on the complimentary Monorail from the 2nd floor of the Great Ceremonial House lobby. Head out for a full day at the Magic Kingdom or stop by other resorts along the route (Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Contemporary Resort) for sightseeing, shopping, spa treatments or dining reservations. The Resort Monorail also makes a stop at the Disney Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) linking guests to other areas of Disney World. The Express Monorail and the Epcot Monorail offer swift round-trip service to the Magic Kingdom Park and Epcot, originating at the TTC.
- THE DELUXE VILLAS! Guests staying in the deluxe Disney’s Polynesian Villas or the resort units at the Polynesian will be exceptionally pleased with the accommodations. The décor is a creative mixture of natural, island-inspired elements blended with Mid-Century modern furnishings and accents. Designer touches like a surfboard coffee table and colorful artwork set the stage for an enchanting experience at this property. Two- and three-story lodges or “longhouses” named after islands in the Polynesian isles contain the resort rooms and DVC villas. The well-appointed Studio units will accommodate up to 5 adults comfortably. All DVC villas are slightly larger than the standard resort rooms. Studio villas provide either a standard view or impressive lake view and feature a queen bed, queen sleep sofa, a single pull-down bed, kitchen or kitchenette, plus a private patio or balcony.
If you have the DVC points or cash to splurge, get the ultimate in a Disney Polynesian experience stay at one of the 20 luxuriously over-the-water “Bora Bora” Bungalows! Two-bedroom, two-bath over-the-water bungalows sleep up to 5 adults comfortably. Island-inspired modern décor includes wood-beamed ceilings, distressed wood floors, tile that resembles a volcanic rock, natural accents, and oversized windows. These open floor plan villas have all the comforts and conveniences of home including fully-equipped kitchen, spacious living and dining area, washer/dryer, WIFI, flat-screen TVs, 1 king bed, 1 queen bed, queen sleep sofa, 2 single pull-down beds, and deluxe baths in addition to a huge back patio complete with cushioned deck furniture and even a private plunge pool!
- POOL, LAKE & THE BEACH! Take a dip in the main themed zero-entry “Lava Pool” and enjoy the tropical waterslide, in-pool seating, underwater music and an exciting volcano that erupts at various intervals during swimming hours. Prefer a more sedate experience? The quieter Oasis Pool offers a relaxing spot to take in some sun and grab a snack or refreshing cocktail. As the Polynesian is a waterfront resort, rental boats are available for cruising around the lagoon or for a few hours of family fishing adventures. The smooth sandy beach provides a restful and scenic spot for awe-inspiring views while gazing across the sparkling lake. (No swimming is allowed in the lake.)
- AMENITIES! There are activities for guests of all ages at the Polynesian. Learn how to Hula dance, play Disney trivia games, bingo and more. Go for a jog along the 1-mile lagoon path to stay in shape enjoying outstanding views of Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Grand Floridian, and the Wedding Pavilion. Guests staying at the Tonga or Hawaii longhouse villas will have exclusive use of the Concierge Lounge for relaxation, refreshments and a spectacular view of the resort grounds. Kids will have a blast in the evenings at Lilo’s Playhouse or just letting off steam at the outdoor play area by the pool and lobby. Shop for basic necessities, clothing and Disney merchandise at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, Moana Mercantile and BonTiki. Guests love the five-minute scenic stroll along the lakeside path to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort for access to the state-of-the-art fitness center, the relaxation of Senses Spa, additional casual and fine dining and fabulous shopping.
- NIGHT-TIME FUN! After a day at the theme parks, round up the family for even more nighttime fun. Roast marshmallows around the Campfire and gather the gang for a beloved Disney flick at “Movies Under the Stars”. Head to the beach to watch the enchanting water creatures of the Electrical Water Pageant as they gently float along the Seven Seas Lagoon. This electrical boat show usually starts at 9:00 pm and goes around to various Disney resorts along the lagoon until 10:30 pm so check the resort’s exact start time. Disney’s Polynesian is also the perfect place to enjoy a distant view of the Magic Kingdom’s awesome fireworks display across the water. Just find a cozy spot on the tranquil beach and gaze skyward to take in the spectacular event. (hint: Try to find a speaker around the pool tiki bar so you can hear the music playing along with the fireworks show!)
- GREAT BITES, SNACKS, AND BEVERAGE OPTIONS! Grab a quick morning coffee, afternoon sushi or refreshing libation at Kona Island. Next door, the colorful Kona Café serves Asian/American fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Ohana’s Best Friends Breakfast features interaction with playful characters Lilo and Stitch. Ohana’s is also open for dinner with foods prepared over a fire pit, fruity tropical drinks, family-friendly games, dancing, and storytelling. For a cocktail before or after dinner, stop by Tambu Lounge located near Ohana’s entrance. Grab a Mai Tai or other refreshing beverage at the Barefoot Pool Bar. Quick bites, sandwiches and ice cream are available poolside at Capt. Cook’s. Pineapple Lanai is the spot for soft-serve treats. Oasis Bar & Grill is by the quiet pool and provides Polynesian-inspired cocktails, lunch, and dinner. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is the late afternoon/evening place for small plates, specialty drinks, souvenirs, and interactive entertainment.
- LUAU! Be sure to make advance reservations for tickets for the enchanting “Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show”. This event always sells out early. This grand luau evening celebration is held in the open-air Luau Cove theatre. Experience exotic cuisine and exhilarating entertainment from the Polynesian Islands of Tahiti, New Zealand, Hawaii, Tonga & Samoa. Watch fire and knife twirlers, drummers and beautiful hula dancers. The bountiful buffet feast includes a vast array of all-you-can-eat, island-inspired dishes like Polynesian ribs and Aloha pulled pork, fresh salads, sweet fruits, children’s favorites and plenty of tasty desserts. Adults will enjoy a refreshing rum punch cocktail served in a specially carved coconut container.
Vacation Club Loans proudly provides financing for resales at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows and all other fine DVC resorts.
–contributed by Chris Golden
