I’m Disney dreaming again of my favorite Walt Disney World deluxe resorts. It’s a tough field to narrow, but I’m game! I have some surefire standouts, like the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa highlighted yesterday. Today’s Resort in the Sun is my nostalgia favorite because it’s been a part of the magic since the incpetion in 1971. I’m talking about…
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Shifting gears to a neighbor resort to the Grand Floridian and yet another Magic Kingdom resort on the monorail, I’m choosing Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort because as exceptional as it already was, the renovations and additions have made it even better! Admittedly, I have a serious soft spot for the Polynesian. We’ve been fortunate to be guests there for at least five vacations. I’m eyeing those Polynesian Bungalows now!
The Polynesian Village Resort has gorgeous South Pacific theming that convincingly makes you think you are island hopping in a tropical climate. The resort also boasts some of the best dining and bar options. ‘Ohana, Kona Cafe (order the Tonga Toast for breakfast), and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto win hands down as a trifecta of terrific tastes.Pineapple Lanai serves Dole Whips all day. Think pineapple and soft serve concoction. If you haven’t ever tried a Dole Whip or Pineapple Float before, you must. It’s my favorite Disney treat!
The Lava Pool still looks like a volcano with waterslide, with zero-depth entry and an expanded deck. After completing the Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon, I was thrilled to relax my sore muscles in the pool and hot tub.
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is my favorite new addition to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Having been to the Disneyland original, I am thrilled that this fun, interactive bar that serves up the most entertaining drinks and small plates has found a home here.
My favorite restaurant is ‘Ohana, unparalleled in location, ambiance, food and entertainment. For starters, ‘Ohana lives up to its name in being about family. From the welcoming “aloha” and leis to the coconut races and ukelele-playing hostess named Lipoa, we never stop smiling. My mouth waters at the thought of a Lapu Lapu (served in a pineapple) and the flame-cooked meats. But the cherry on top is the famous Bread Pudding while viewing Wishes Nighttime Spectacular fireworks display.
No ‘Ohana reservation? No problem! Guests at the Polynesian Village Resort can order the ‘Ohana Twilight Feast. We did just that during my girls’ weekend during the Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon weekend. ‘Ohana Twilight Feast is all the goodies served at ‘Ohana for dinner delivered to your room. It certainly was a feast: Spiced Chicken Wings, Asian-style Pot Stickers, Yokisoba Noodles, and Stir-fried Vegetables; Hawaiian Sweet Bread, salad, and ‘Ohana Sunset Punch; skewered meats and oak-grilled shrimp. Don’t forget the bread pudding with banana-caramel sauce. Yum! ($20 for guests 9 and under; $ 40 for guests 10 and older $40.00) As we finished feeding our faces, I thought to myself, “It doesn’t get any better than this!”
My kids’ favorites? The Lava Pool waterslide, Disney movies under the stars on the beach, and stunning views of Seven Seas Lagoon with a front row seat to Wishes Nighttime Spectacular and the Electrical Water Pageant.
Oh, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, “I lava you!”
Why You Should Stay There: Tropical paradise. Fabulous location. Updated rooms. Outstanding dining and bar options. And Dole Whips!
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, 1600 Seven Seas Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830. Phone: (407) 824-2000
In our search to unearth Disney’s best deluxe resorts, we will travel around the globe to a lakeside locale that features the stormiest pool, the biggest dessert, and not one but two side by side resorts? Where can I be?
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