Polynesian: Should I Book the Island Tower or the Longhouses and Bungalows?
A little piece of paradise just minutes away from Magic Kingdom, the Polynesian is one of the most popular resorts at Disney World. From Dole Whips at Pineapple Lanai and dining at ‘Ohana to fireworks views from the beach, the Polynesian is a must try. If you’re looking to rent a DVC stay at the Polynesian, is it better to stay at the new Island Tower or the original longhouses and bungalows?
For Larger Accommodations
Choosing between the Island Tower and the original longhouses and bungalows can largely depend on the size of your travel party. Both the longhouses and the Island Tower have Deluxe Studios. However, the ones in the Island Tower only sleep up to 4 guests. If you have 5 guests, you’ll need to book the Deluxe Studios in the longhouses. These studios not only fit more guests, but they offer more square footage and split bathrooms, so there are two showers.
The One Bedroom Villa in the Island Tower sleeps up to 5 guests, like the Deluxe Studios in the original longhouses, but it offers additional space as well as more amenities such as a full kitchen, washer, and dryer.
For a travel party of up to 8, you can choose between the two-bedroom Bora Bora Bungalow and the Two Bedroom Penthouse Villa in the Island Tower. The standalone bungalows are unique accommodations over the Seven Seas Lagoon, which have private plunge pools and beautiful views of the Magic Kingdom. The luxurious Two Bedroom Penthouse Villas feature a large private deck with expansive views (including fireworks views of Magic Kingdom) and extra space in the living room that makes it perfect for gathering together.
The Two Bedroom Villa in the Island Tower is the only accommodation at the Polynesian that can sleep up to 9 guests.
For Quick Access to Amenities
Both the longhouses and original Polynesian DVC buildings have quick access to amenities, but it depends on which ones matter most to you. The walk to the Great Ceremonial House (where you’ll find most of the restaurants and Polynesian monorail station) from the original DVC buildings is about equal to the walk from the Island Tower. The Island Tower may actually be a slightly shorter walk to the Great Ceremonial House compared to walking from the Pago Pago or Moorea longhouses.
However, if you want quicker access to transportation, the original longhouses are closest to the Transportation and Ticket Center, which makes it easy to get to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.
If you stay at the Island Tower, your closest amenities are Wailulu Bar & Grill, the Cove Pool, Moana’s Voyage splash pad, and the fitness center.
For a Quieter Stay
The Great Ceremonial House and the surrounding areas near the longhouses tend to be more crowded, especially since the Polynesian can be a popular destination for dining. If you want a quieter stay at the Polynesian, you may want to opt for a stay at the Island Tower. The lobby of the Island Tower never feels congested.
Island Tower guests also have exclusive access to the terrace gardens, which are wonderful places to just sit and unwind whether it’s to enjoy a morning coffee, quietly read in the middle of the day, or watch fireworks from Magic Kingdom.
Start planning your next Disney vacation! Browse the confirmed reservations, or request a free quote to rent DVC points and save up to 65% compared to booking directly through Disney.
