Disney World vacations in 2026 will come with a few extra planning considerations, as Disney has begun notifying guests about refurbishment-related closures at select resorts.
According to reports, Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Old Key West Resort are both scheduled for temporary amenity downtime, offering guests advance insight into how their stays may be impacted.
At Beach Club, Disney is preparing guests for the upcoming closure of the Tidal Pool, one of the resort’s smaller swimming areas. The pool is slated to close in mid-January 2026 and is expected to remain offline until early May. While this may limit options for guests seeking a quieter swim, Disney has confirmed that Stormalong Bay will stay open throughout the project. The expansive pool complex, shared with Yacht Club, remains one of the most elaborate water recreation areas on property.
In addition to the pool closure, guests should be aware that Disney Skyliner maintenance is scheduled during the same general period. For Beach Club visitors, this could mean altered transportation patterns when traveling to EPCOT or Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Although Disney has not suggested significant interruptions, the overlap of maintenance projects may influence how guests structure their daily schedules.
Further west on property, Disney’s Old Key West Resort is also undergoing updates, particularly in the Turtle Pond area. Disney has advised that several Turtle Pond amenities—including the pool, spa, playground, and BBQ picnic area—will be unavailable through early February 2026. These closures are confined to one section of the resort and are part of routine upkeep rather than a resort-wide renovation.
To offset the impact, Disney is directing guests to other recreational areas across Old Key West. The Sandcastle Pool, South Point Pool, and Miller’s Road Pool will all remain open and fully operational, providing multiple alternatives for swimming and relaxation. Guests can still expect standard services, dining options, and transportation offerings to function as usual.
These announcements reflect Disney’s broader approach to keeping guests informed well ahead of arrival. While some travelers may adjust their expectations or daily plans, others may find the changes minimal depending on how they use resort amenities.
How do you feel about these upcoming closures? Let us know in the comments down below!
