8 Walt Disney World Resorts We Can't Get Enough Of

5. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

You’re in for the ultimate island experience at this iconic Disney World classic. As one of two original resorts having debuted in 1971 in conjunction with the grand opening of Magic Kingdom Park, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort truly captures the essence and authenticity of the south pacific. Here you’ll find yourself in a Hawaiian haven surrounded by palm trees and all around tropical touches in scenery, décor, and plenty more. Lose yourself in paradise as you enjoy a whole host of onsite activities and amenities, like swimming in the popular Lava Pool or the quieter Oasis Pool, renting a motorized boat, or taking a guided fishing excursion to name a few.

The Polynesian falls within the range of Deluxe Resort distinctions, so you know you can expect a vast array of accommodation selections. Choose from a standard room, a larger one or more bedroom suite at Club Level, or even a stellar Bora Bora Bungalow located right on the water. The latter is the resort’s newest addition and is a true marvel. In addition to a washer/dryer, furnished kitchen with appliances, and all the other comforts of home, the Bungalows boast an array of other unique site exclusives as well. Two such features worth mentioning are the magical mirror televisions you’ll find in the bathrooms and the personal plunge pools on each Bungalow’s private deck, overlooking the lagoon waters and offering the perfect views of the nighttime fireworks, Electrical Water Pageant, and more sights to behold.

Tantalize your taste buds with a flare for the tropical in the way of unique food and drink. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is one of the resort’s newer onsite establishments, serving up beer, wine, specialty drinks, cocktails (available in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic varieties), and other pub picks, as well as island-themed appetizers and lighter bites. You’ll also find various places on location for heartier cuisine helpings, including two well-loved restaurants—Kona Café and Ohana. The latter even features a special family-style all-you-can-eat character breakfast with Lilo, Stitch, and other Disney friends. And then there’s Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Show, which takes place onsite at the Polynesian’s own open-air Luau Cove theater and combines a wonderfully themed show with the most pleasing Polynesian picks for the palette. On one final food note, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is the only place in Disney World other than Magic Kingdom Park where you can dive into the delightful Dole Whip.

Like the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a Magic Kingdom Area Resort property, meaning you can reach the park conveniently via the monorail. And again, the same unique alternate method of taking a ferryboat, across Seven Seas Lagoon is another option to consider.