Have I Changed My Mind about Disney’s Polynesian Resort?

A few years ago I wrote an honest (not that great) review of Disney’s Polynesian Resort. I really wanted to give it another chance. So, after a second and third stay have I changed my mind?

Disney’s Polynesian Resort

Themed after the South Pacific with sandy beaches, lush vegetation, and tiki torches, Disney’s Polynesian is highly sought after by guests. It’s like taking a Hawaiian vacation in the middle of Florida with all the Disney perks.

The resort is located on the monorail, directly across the Magic Kingdom on the Seven Seas Lagoon. It is one of the pricier Disney World Resorts because it is categorized as a deluxe resort.

But, with that price tag comes some great perks and amenities! There are several restaurants and even a couple lounges onsite. The pool is one of the best on property.

There is even a marina with boat rentals and other recreational activities. And the best one of all I already mentioned: it’s just steps from the Magic Kingdom!

You can read all about the resort in our guide.

My First Stay

I (Monica) stayed at Disney’s Polynesian Resort for the first time in the summer of 2021. It was before the DVC rooms received a soft-goods refurbishment and in the middle of a lot of construction chaos. Even ‘Ohana was not open yet! You can read that full review in this post.

I loved a lot of things about the resort. The location cannot be beat. Who doesn’t love hopping on the monorail to get to two theme parks or looking at across the lagoon and watching the fireworks?

I also enjoyed the theming although it was not as “in your face” as some other resorts. The grounds, Ceremonial House, and pool invited you to sit back and relax. While I did not care for the dark materials and colors of the buildings’ exteriors, I understand that is how it looks “in real life.”

Finally, having two bathrooms in the DVC studio is a major perk. Only the Grand Floridian, Polynesian, and Riviera offer such a nice layout. While one bathroom does not have a toilet, both offer a vanity and shower. This makes getting ready for the day much, much easier.

What’s Changed?

Unfortunately, at the time my biggest complaint was the DVC studio. Not only did I have issues with the light switches, but the room was so dark and uninviting. The dark orange walls did not complement the deep blue bathrooms. It felt very disoriented and unorganized with so many color schemes happening in one area.

I am very glad Disney refurbished these rooms. On my second and third stays, I felt the room was much more cohesive and bright. No longer did I feel I was being forced into a tropical dungeon!

I know many appreciate the calmness of the Polynesian after the chaos of the parks, and I think Disney was able to accomplish that with the refurbishment while brightening up the room. See more photos of the refurbished rooms in this post.

Also, Disney announced a brand new DVC building at the Polynesian. Currently, DVC members can only book studios and bungalows. The new building will feature more room layouts that offer flexibility for larger parties and those who wish to spread out more.

On the cash side, there are larger rooms for Club Level guests. Unfortunately, because there are so few rooms that sleep more than 5 guests, the Polynesian really lacks in this department compared to other deluxe resorts. The new DVC project will solve that problem.

Finally, the layout of the resort as a whole was an issue for me (although a very small issue). It was so difficult walking around at night when the only lights to guide you were tiki torches. While that has not changed, requesting a building closer to the Great Ceremonial House would be a strategic way to avoid some of the confusion.

Would I stay there again?

Well, clearly, I would stay here again. I did not let the negative experience of my first stay deter me from booking a second and third stay! I do truly believe Disney Resorts are magical in their own unique ways. My Disney Bucket List even includes staying at each Disney World resort (only Yacht Club and Art of Animation left!).

I really wanted to give the Polynesian another chance. Rarely have I found issues with any Disney resort, and I am so glad I booked two more stays.

Disney “fixed” my biggest complaint which was the room situation. I love the refresh they did both on the DVC side as well as the Moana rooms (which I have not gotten to stay in yet). Second, with the expansion of the DVC building, I’ll be able to bring my large family for a stay at the Polynesian without having to sacrifice an arm and a leg.

Not to mention, the major refurbishment work is complete besides the new DVC building. It’s wonderful having all the food options again and not seeing cranes and construction crews near the Great Ceremonial House.

I do have one final tip: if you are booking a DVC room at the Polynesian, the Moorea building is right next to the ferry. While it is great for TTC transportation, you will also hear the ferry horn at all hours of the day and into the evening.

Tokelau is my favorite DVC building. It’s far enough away that you won’t hear ferry horns and it’s also located right next to the quiet pool.

Do you love Disney’s Polynesian Resort? Or, do you prefer other Resorts? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below, and share this post with a friend who may want to stay here.