Written By: Stacie Whalen. stacie@teplanners.com.
My current (I always give myself some wiggle room for change) favorite property at Walt Disney World is Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. You know you have found a winner when you often find yourself mentally slipping away to the memories it holds for your family. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, also known as, The Poly is rewarded with my highest ranking due to its stellar location, beautiful theming, delicious dining and abundance of recreation offerings available.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort falls into the Deluxe Disney Resort category and is located within the Monorail Loop of resorts. The location of the resort allows for multiple options when getting not only to the Magic Kingdom but also EPCOT. One of my favorite ways to end a day at Magic Kingdom is to enjoy the Seven Seas Lagoon on the ferry back to the resort. This location also allows for beach and dining views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks(they even pipe in the music!).
Upon entering the resort you are transported to the South Pacific by not only the sights of the lush palms, but also by the Polynesian fragrances, and welcoming cast members. When we stepped off the Magical Express we were greeted with a lai as a welcome and this totally put us in the vacation mindset. You will find thoughtful theming throughout the Ceremonial House (lobby), the grounds and in the rooms. Our accommodations included a pull down bed that had a beautiful Lilo and Stitch painting.
As a self proclaimed foodie, the dining options available at the resorts weigh heavy in my decision on choosing where to stay. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort offers a great variety of options that will please not only those wanting to try something new but also your families picky eaters. I could write a whole blog on the dining at the resort because I truly enjoy all of the options but I will try to focus on my must haves. The resort is best known for one of its table service options, ‘Ohana. ‘Ohana offers a character breakfast(Mickey, Pluto, Lilo, Stitch) served family style. The restaurant is best known for its Polynesian-themed dinner option that is also served family style (no characters though). ‘Ohana is one of the most popular restaurants on property so advanced dining reservations are a must and be sure to save room for ‘Ohana Bread Pudding. Another highlight in the dining category is Pineapple Lanai, where you can enjoy a Dole Whip outside of the park! The last recommendation I have in the dining category is the Thai Coconut Meatballs located at the quick service location, Capt. Cook’s.
My family and I enjoy taking breaks from the parks to rest and explore the resort. The Poly certainly delivers in this category as well! My son and husband enjoy the zero entry pool with the volcano water slide. They also spend a lot of time in the kids splash area. One of my favorite places on Walt Disney World property is Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace. Trader Sam’s is an interactive bar where your order awakens different experiences within. The bar is a small area so I always recommend getting your name on the list as soon as they open for the day. Oh and don’t worry, kids are welcome to join as well. As a family, we enjoy watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the beach and the rental boats that are available.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is an excellent option to call home when you are on vacationing at Walt Disney World! Whether it is a multigenerational trip or an adult only getaway, it truly has something for everyone! If you are interested in learning more about The Poly and how it can fit into your Walt Disney World vacation please reach out to me today.
-Stacie Whalen
To take advantage of our complimentary expert planning services contact Stacie Whalen at stacie@teplanners.com today!