Guests planning a visit to Walt Disney World Resort in the coming months will notice changes taking shape across the property—and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is no exception. As one of the original hotels to debut with Magic Kingdom in 1971, the resort has always blended tropical atmosphere with convenient monorail access and fan-favorite dining like ‘Ohana and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. Now, it’s stepping into a new era.
In December 2024, a new chapter began for the Polynesian with the addition of the Island Tower, a Disney Vacation Club expansion built along the shore of the Seven Seas Lagoon. The 10-story structure draws inspiration from concept art created during the 1960s and ’70s when the resort was first imagined. The tower’s 260 rooms include Duo Studios, Deluxe Studios, 1- and 2-bedroom villas, and 2-bedroom penthouses, all with kitchens, patios, and decor featuring characters and settings from Moana.
Island Tower guests can explore several new features exclusive to the expansion. These include the Cove Pool, four themed terrace gardens designed for quiet retreats and fireworks views, and the Wailulu Bar & Grill—an eatery that runs on an all-electric kitchen and serves dishes inspired by Polynesian flavors and traditions.
Environmental considerations also play a role in the project. The development uses recycled materials, energy-saving systems, and preserves existing trees, reflecting Disney’s commitment to sustainability.
While the Island Tower is now open, additional work is underway across the resort. Construction continues near the front of the property, where a reimagined roadway entrance and bus area are being developed. These updates began in June 2025 and are expected to continue through 2026. The current entrance is undergoing paving and landscaping, and dark scrim now surrounds the work area, replacing plastic barriers (per WDWNT).
Disney previously shared this update with guests:
“From May 2025 through 2026, some areas of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows are being refurbished. This work includes the reconfiguration of the front entrance roadway and bus area. While construction activity will be noticeable during daytime hours, efforts will be made to minimize disruptions. All Resort dining, pools, and amenities will remain available. Additionally, some views of the theme parks and other surrounding areas may be impacted. Please allow for extra travel time when arriving at or leaving the Resort.”
According to the official Walt Disney World website, “Some areas of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows are being refurbished through 2026. Guests may see and hear some daytime construction, starting at 9:00 a.m. Additionally, some views of the theme parks and other surrounding areas may be impacted.”
Once complete, the refreshed roadway area will support the Disney World Transportation System’s bus route, offering updated access to and from this Magic Kingdom-area resort.
Planning a stay during the enhancements? Let us know how you’re preparing for your visit and what you’re most excited to see when the work is complete!
