Disney's Polynesian Village Resort

By: Kenni Rich
February 15, 2022

When it’s time to start planning a trip to Walt Disney World, resort options can be overwhelming. A go-to resort for my family is, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. With its perfect location, great transportation options, delicious dining and amazing theming, this resort is sure to check all of your boxes.

A little about the resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is one of the original Walt Disney World resorts. Like its neighbors, Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the Polynesian is a deluxe resort located in the Magic Kingdom area. Many like to call this resort a ‘monorail resort’ with its easy access to Disney’s Monorail system. You can’t beat hopping on the iconic mode of transportation and being whisked off to Magic Kingdom or Epcot directly from your resort.

Theming

The theme of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is, Polynesia. 11 long houses are situated throughout the property and named after islands in the South Pacific. Recently, the resort rooms went through a huge renovation where Imagineers redesigned the resort rooms to feature characters and theming from the beloved movie Moana.

Activities

There is a lot to do at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort! First, let's start off with my family’s favorite activity, the pool!

The main Lava Pool featuring a 142-foot waterslide, zero-entry area, with a nearby lounge and bar offering snacks and drinks. For younger swimmers under 48 inches, Kiki Tikis Splash Play Area will provide endless hours of water fun. Featuring two small waterslides, water buckets, water spouts and bubblers to round out this elaborate water playground. The last pool is the Oasis Pool. Nestled within the resorts beautiful landscaping, this pool is the perfect place if you’re looking for a quiet place to unwind.

In the evening there is just as much to do! Disney movies are played on select nights on the Great Ceremonial Lawn area, campfires are held nightly, take in the Electrical Water Pageant that makes its way around Seven Seas Lagoon, and my favorite, watching Enchantment from the sandy shores of the resort.

Dining

Indulge in an array of dining options from the South Pacific, Asian-inspired dishes and American options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. If you’re looking for quick-service dining options Capt. Cook’s is situated adjacent to the Lava Pool.

Looking for Dole Whip? You’re in luck when you stay here. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort has its own Dole Whip counter, the only place out of the parks that offers this tasty treat. Pineapple Lanai offers several versions.

Next, I want to share two table-service restaurants, be sure to make advanced reservations! First, Kona Cafe located in the Great Ceremonial House offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. For breakfast you can enjoy banana-stuffed Tonga Toast, macadamia-pineapple pancakes and variety of egg dishes. For dinner, you will find a selection of sushi rolls, poke bowls, burgers and sandwiches.

A favorite of mine and many is ‘Ohana where you can enjoy your meal. Serving breakfast and dinner, this restaurant serves their meals family style. For breakfast dine on scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes, Stitch and Mickey waffle, fruit and ‘Ohana pineapple bread. For dinner, enjoy pork dumplings, honey-coriander chicken wings, cheddar-bacon biscuits and ‘Ohana dinner skillet. Don’t be shy! It’s all-you-can-eat here.

Last but not least is Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. Venture to this tranquil and whimsical themed lounge, or step out onto the outdoor Tiki Terrace for a specialty cocktail, alcohol free options, beer, wine and appetizers. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto welcomes families with children form opening until 8:00pm. After 8:00pm, only guests 21 years or older may visit, but be sure to arrive early! This popular spot fills up and may require a wait to enter.

Transportation

If you love multiple transportations options, this resort is for you! Take the monorail to Magic Kingdom or Epcot. The Disney bus system will whisk you away to any of the four parks, Disney Springs and water theme parks. You can also walk over to the closely located Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) to hop on a ferry to Magic Kingdom. Travel agent tip: take the ferry from Magic Kingdom back to the Polynesian in the evening, you might catch the Electrical Water Pageant that takes place every evening on Walt Disney World’s Seven Seas Lagoon.

Overall

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a great option for those who love theming and options. I recommend this resort for those who really want it all! Great rooms, amazing pools, ease of transportation and a wide range of dining options.

I would love to help you plan your next Disney vacation! Email me at kenni@wishesfamilytravel.com for a complimentary quote.

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