Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

Our family just returned from a seven-night dream vacation at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and honestly, I’m already mentally booking our next stay. This was a big splurge for us—we usually stick with value resorts—but the Poly completely lived up to the hype and then some. The location is fantastic- a quick monorail to Magic Kingdom, and we loved being able to walk to the Transportation and Ticket Center for an easy Epcot hop. The lobby is stunning (and smells amazing), the Dole Whips were as magical as always (I had three, no regrets), and the overall tropical vibe had us in vacation mode from day one. We kicked off our trip with dinner at Wailulu Bar and Grill on the tower side, where we watched the fireworks while enjoying the most delicious (and yes, pricey) meal of the trip—completely worth it. Our room was a DVC rental, and the villa setup was perfect for our crew. The fifth sleeper was a lifesaver for our teenage boys who are not into sharing a bed, and the split bathroom setup made mornings way smoother. We spent our afternoon breaks either napping or enjoying the Oasis pool right outside our door—so relaxing and much calmer than the louder Lava Pool, which is great for little ones but less our speed these days. We also hit up Trader Sam’s (after a four-hour wait that was supposed to be two—but hey, it was our rest day!), and it was quirky, fun, and full of tasty drinks. Breakfast at ‘Ohana was adorable, but probably a one-and-done for us given the price and okay food—though that castle view from our table was hard to beat. Captain Cook’s was our go-to for quick bites, and we loved being able to mobile order. All in all, the Poly was the perfect mix of Disney magic and laid-back island charm. Worth the splurge, and already dreaming about the next visit!

I stayed here for 2 nights for my birthday weekend. While I love the hotel itself, the rooms are a little dated --- especially for the price you are paying. That said, I do love the hotel grounds, the overall vibe of the hotel, and the location. Also the lounges are awesome (although you don't have to stay at hotel to go to those). I would stay here again, but only if the price is reasonable (which is rare).

This review is for the over the water bungalows, and it's a no for us. We had zero help with checking in and getting acquainted with our bungalow, and there are quirks for sure that ned to be explained, such as how to use the light switches that are overly complex. Or explaining the kitchen which has no sharp knives or even salt and pepper. Our unit felt very unprepared for guests. If you have young children, they will not go to sleep before about 9:30 bc there are fireworks to music, electric parade, and more fireworks with music. All of this is VERY loud on your back lana'i and you can't turn it off or tune it out. Our bedroom was warm. We slept so poorly here and it is so expensive that it felt like a trick. The location is great. And it is beautiful! Just need a lot more care for taking care of your guests.

We stayed at the villa tower. The hotel is pretty and the lobby is clean and there is a great view for fireworks. The room is spacious and there are two bathrooms in the villa which is great. This hotel is a difficult place to stay if you don’t have your own car. There is no coffee anywhere in the lobby and there is really no where to get food. If you are bringing your own car and own food you will do well. If you try to call a car for pickup and drop off they will have a hard time getting through the gate and it had the same address as the regular polynesian so that adds a level of difficulty. There was an incident in the pool by the tower that needed attention (poopy diaper) and again there was no lifeguard or attendant . Kind of felt like a condo situation but it is a hotel… Walking to the monorail is about 15 minutes. It is just a lot of walking to get to the basic amenities of the hotel. Overall will never stay here again but I hope my review helps people who are looking at this option.