If you know me, you know that I LOVE Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort! It’s my favorite resort at Walt Disney World and I have so many fond memories from over 20 trips with my family. So when Disney began construction on the new Disney Vacation Club Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, I was skeptical about the look and feel of the towering building. Mostly because I love the 1970s feel of the Polynesian and the longhouse design that is so unique from Disney’s newer resorts. From the outside, the Island Tower looks like it could be any hotel, pretty much anywhere.
After making a quick visit, I’m very happy to say I really like the new Island Tower! Does it feel like the rest of the Polynesian? No. Is it better than the Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show that once occupied the same land? Yes. Will I choose to stay in one of the longhouse buildings like Tokelau, Samoa, and Hawaii? Probably.
The lobby of the Island Tower is very impressive and reminds me of the grandeur of the lobby at Gran Destino. While it does feel much more modern than the Polynesian’s original lobby; Great Ceremonial House, the use of different textures, wood tones, and Hawaiian art is absolutely stunning.
Just like all of Disney’s new resorts and refurbishments, the Disney theming is subtle, but it’s definitely there! I especially loved the hidden Tamatoa and a model of what Moana’s boat was based on from Polynesian culture.
Okay, so the lobby is beautiful, but that’s not why I love the Island Tower. It’s this million-dollar view that has been maximized so that guests can enjoy it from the lobby, multiple outdoor spaces and terraces, the all-new Cove Pool, and, of course, Wailulu Bar and Grill.
I so appreciate all the new ways I can soak in this incredible view that made me fall in love with the Polynesian almost 20 years ago.
There is also a green space facing the Seven Seas Lagoon with Adirondack chairs and a hammock. Can you imagine watching the Happily Ever After fireworks from this hammock? Sign me up.
This area was formerly known as the “quiet beach,” where you could almost always find a spot for the fireworks but, unfortunately, did not have the music piped in for many years. Not only can you now hear the entire Happily Ever After soundtrack, but you can also enjoy the view from an all-new pool, outdoor terraces, or at Wailulu with a great cocktail or dinner experience. Making the Island Tower a completely new experience in a lot of ways. And, of course, we’ll have a review of Wailulu for you… because “wai” not??
While it’s by no means a highlight, I am excited to see that the Polynesian now offers Coca-Cola Freestyle machines for the first time. Other resorts like the neighboring Grand Floridian offer this amenity and it adds value to your resort refillable mug.
Would it even be a new Disney experience without a merchandise collection? You can find new Island Tower merchandise inside Bou-tiki in the Great Ceremonial House.
Island Tower Blue/ Grey Heather T Shirt – $34.99
Island Tower Ceramic Cream and Tan Coffee Mug – $16.99
Island Tower Wood Design Magnet – $16.99
Island Tower Limited Edition Pin – $19.99
Disney’s Polynesian Village is typically in high demand both for regular resort rooms and Disney Vacation Club Villas; opening the Island Tower gives us Poly die-hard fans more availability and new room options like the one and two-bedroom villas. I think the “newness” of the Island Tower will one day be replaced by happy memories and more opportunities to stay at the Polynesian.
I’m excited to stay at the Island Tower soon and can’t wait to get back to Wailulu Bar and Grill. Be sure to let us know your thoughts on the new Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian in the comments!
