Recently, a few Disney Vacation Club members were given an exclusive preview of the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows. This addition to the Polynesian resort offers a new dining experience, new room sizes, and much more while maintaining the resort’s signature charm that celebrates the culture and beauty of the South Pacific.
Here’s what has been reported from owners during the preview, including details about its facilities, dining options, recreation, and guest rooms.
Facilities Overview
The Island Tower introduces new features that blend modern technology with Polynesian-inspired design. The lobby stands out with four large pillars representing earth, wave, fire, and wind. While there is no formal front desk, cast members equipped with tablets will assist guests as needed.
Guests staying at Island Tower can access exclusive Terrace Gardens, which are carefully landscaped areas offering serene views—either of Seven Seas Lagoon or the golf course. These gardens are restricted to Island Tower residents and require a room key for entry. Additionally, key card access is required for the building’s elevators and upper floors, ensuring enhanced privacy and security.
Walking paths connect the Island Tower to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, offering picturesque strolls along Seven Seas Lagoon.
Dining Options
The Wailulu Bar & Grill is the primary dining spot for Island Tower guests. This open-air venue will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast items will likely include grab-and-go options like muffins and coffee, whereas lunch and dinner provide sit-down dining and mobile order options. Note that reservations will not be accepted here, so availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.
The outdoor booths near Wailulu are surrounded by a water feature that provides a unique and relaxing atmosphere. Adjacent to the pool area, guests will also find Coca-Cola Freestyle machines for a convenient way to refill drinks.
It’s important to know that there is no quick-service dining within Island Tower itself. However, guests can explore the Polynesian Village Resort’s existing dining venues for more options.
Recreation and Amenities
The recreation area around Island Tower includes a new swimming pool with several unique features. Guests can enjoy a Moana-themed water play area for kids, a hot tub, and a “sun shelf,” which offers shallow water for lounging. This sun shelf is distinct to Island Tower’s pool and not found elsewhere at Walt Disney World pools.
Access to the pool is gated, requiring an active room key for entry, and it will be available to all guests at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Additionally, Island Tower features a fitness center, which is open to all Polynesian resort guests, making it easy to stay active during your stay.
Room Features
The Island Tower guest rooms mirror the layout of accommodations at The Villas at Disneyland Hotel. Every room includes a private balcony, offering guests a personal outdoor space to relax. The design combines modern features with warm Polynesian-inspired decor.
For convenience, rooms include USB-A and USB-C charging ports, with a higher number of USB-A ports. Deluxe Studios are outfitted with a dishwasher alongside standard dishes and silverware—a step toward reducing paper waste. Larger accommodation types, such as One-Bedroom Villas and Two-Bedroom Villas, offer multiple bathrooms for added comfort.
Key Dates
The Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is set to officially open its doors to guests on December 17, 2024. All guest rooms and resort amenities are expected to be operational on opening day, making it an incredible addition to the DVC resort lineup.
Final Thoughts
The Island Tower represents a blend of Polynesian charm and modern convenience for Disney Vacation Club owners and resort guests alike. With its thoughtfully designed facilities, dining options, and recreation spaces, it enhances the overall experience at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Whether you’re visiting for a getaway or as an owner seeking an idyllic DVC stay, this new tower offers something for everyone.
For more updates on the latest developments at Walt Disney World, stay tuned to the DVC Shop blog and subscribe to our newsletter to get our latest articles delivered to your inbox.
Experience This Deluxe Resort For Less
If you’d like to view confirmed reservations for rent at Disney’s Polynesian Resort, you can experience Disney’s Deluxe resorts for less, even without being a DVC member!
If you’re interested in becoming a member, and joining the DVC family, you can save thousands by shopping from our current resale listings for Disney’s Polynesian Resort.
Disney’s Polynesian Resort
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
