In late 2024, Disney opened up their newest hotel. Island Tower is a Disney Vacation Club tower located next to the main Polynesian Village Resort buildings. And while it started with some controversy, it’s been a pretty big hit!
While Island Tower is a DVC tower, regular guests can rent DVC points to stay here, or can watch for special deals to be announced that open rooms to non-DVC members. However, while this tower is close to the regular Polynesian Hotel, there are some key differences you need to know about, and these unspoken rules will help you make sure you’re set up for the best trip possible!
The Fastest Way to Magic Kingdom Isn’t The Most Popular
When you’re staying at Island Tower, it’s likely because you’re planning on visiting Magic Kingdom often throughout your trip. Thankfully, you’re at a hotel on the Monorail loop, so you’ve got a pretty much direct shot to the park. However, we’re here to tell you that this is NOT the fastest way to the park.
Island Tower is located on the far left side of the entire Polynesian Village resort when you’re looking at a map (and if you’re standing staring at the Grand Ceremonial Hall, it’s to your left as well). The fastest way to get to the Magic Kingdom will actually be from the boat transportation you’ll find closer to the back of the resort OR by walking to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and getting on the Monorail there.
We don’t recommend walking to the Ticket and Transportation Center to get to Magic Kingdom , as you’ll have to walk across the entirety of the resort to get there, but if you’re heading to EPCOT, it’s not a bad choice if you don’t mind the walk.
Don’t Forget Your Other Dining Options
It may feel most tempting to head to Wailulu Bar & Grill, the new dining location at Island Tower, but this spot will fill up FAST, especially on weekends. Currently there is no reservation system in place for this new dining spot, so you’ll need to walk-up.
The Polynesian is home to tons of other dining options you won’t want to disregard on your trip, and they’re only a few extra steps away! You’ve got ‘Ohana, Tambu Lounge, Capt. Cook’s, Kona Cafe, Kona Island, and more, so there’s plenty of options around. Not to mention that many guests travel from the parks or other hotels JUST for the dining options here, so you’re in good hands.
And remember that you can also order take-out food from Wailulu Bar & Grill through the My Disney Experience App — so that’s an option if you can’t find a table.
Pool Hopping is Allowed!
While it’s not expected for the new Cove Pool at Island Tower to fill up, it’s important to note that pool hopping between the tower and the rest of the hotel is allowed. This means that Polynesian guests may hop over to Island Tower to check out the new pool.
However, if things DO get too crowded, you can head over to either of the Polynesian Resort’s pools — the Lava Pool and Oasis Pool — if you’re looking for a quieter area. This is also a great way to take advantage of all the amenities at your disposal — you’re paying all that money to stay, might as well do all you can!
COMPLETE GUIDE: The NEW Island Tower Is NOW OPEN at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
The Beach is NOT The Place For Magic Kingdom Fireworks
While we love seeing Magic Kingdom’s fireworks from the gorgeous Polynesian Village Resort beach, it gets CROWDED over there! We’ve got good news though — if you’re staying at Island Tower, you have exclusive access to two areas that are perfect for fireworks viewing.
Instead you’ll want to head over to either the Bamboo Forest Terrace or Wave Break Terrace to watch the fireworks from these comfortable, beautiful, and peaceful spots. Disney even plays the music from the show, so you get the full experience (minus seeing the projections on the castle)!
We stayed at Island Tower right when it opened to be able to tell you ALL about the new hotel from our first-hand experience! Not only can you check out our full video below on the new hotel tower, but we’ve also got a complete guide you can check out to make sure you feel prepared for your upcoming visit!
COMPLETE GUIDE: The NEW Island Tower Is NOW OPEN at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Now you know how to be prepared for your stay at Island Tower! We’re always here to bring you all the latest Disney World news, so stay tuned to AllEars!
We May Have Found an Unfortunate Side Effect of Disney’s NEW Island Tower Hotel
What’s your dream Disney World hotel to stay in? Tell us in the comments!
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