Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort has expanded with its new Island Tower, a high-rise addition aimed at offering luxurious accommodations with sweeping views and unique amenities, and The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World coauthor Becky Gandillon has given this new overnight option the Unofficial Guides once-over. While the Tower shines in some areas, she says it falls short in others, leaving us weighing its beauty against its practicality.
Interior Design and Public Spaces: Aesthetic Excellence
The Island Tower’s lobby and public spaces are stunning. Disney’s signature attention to detail is evident in the design, with a sophisticated island (and Moana)-inspired aesthetic that feels light, airy, and luxurious. A standout feature is the set of four terrace gardens on floors 3–6, offering serene spaces to relax or take in views of the resort grounds.
Among the terraces, Terrace 5 steals the show with the best vantage point for Magic Kingdom fireworks. However, these terraces lack basic conveniences like outlets for charging phones or working remotely, which feels like a missed opportunity for such thoughtfully designed spaces.
Pools and Splash Pad: Hits and Misses
The Tower introduces a Moana-themed splash pad, a creative and whimsical addition that’s sure to delight families with young children. Unfortunately, the new pool accompanying the Tower is underwhelming. It’s smaller and less visually striking than the resort’s main Lava Pool. For a premium addition, this lack of a wow factor is disappointing.
Rooms: Style Over Substance?
The Tower’s Duo Studio rooms aim for an upscale experience with light, tropical decor. The design is modern and breezy, a departure from the Polynesian’s more traditional tiki style. But at a high price point (a rack rate of $700/night), the rooms feel cramped with their 262-sqare-foot footprint. The mattresses are thin, making for a less-than-comfortable night’s sleep, and the sink area is poorly lit, which can be frustrating for guests getting ready for the day.
Other practical issues include a lack of outlets—a surprising oversight for rooms marketed to premium travelers. While the aesthetic choices are lovely, the functionality leaves much to be desired.
Take a tour of a Polynesian Island Tower Duo Studio room in this video:
Logistics: A Frustrating Oversight
The Tower’s logistical shortcomings may outweigh its design charm. Despite being a self-contained building, the Island Tower lacks a front desk or dedicated transportation hub. Everything—from check-in to coffee refills for Disney’s refillable mugs—requires a trip to the Great Ceremonial House, which can be inconvenient, especially for families with young children or anyone pressed for time.
Deliveries, including groceries or packages, also go through the Great Ceremonial House, adding another layer of inconvenience. These logistical gaps might leave guests wondering if the Tower truly enhances the Polynesian experience or simply adds more walking to their vacation.
The Verdict
The Polynesian Island Tower is undeniably beautiful, with its public spaces and terraces setting a new standard for Disney elegance. However, its small rooms, underwhelming pool, and logistical headaches raise questions about its value, especially at its premium price point. For guests prioritizing convenience and comfort, staying in the main resort buildings—or at another Disney DVC resort—might be a better choice.
What do you think of Walt Disney World’s new Polynesian Island Tower? Let us know in the comments below!
For all there is to see and do at Walt Disney World, check out The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.
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