disney yacht club lazy river

Which Disney Hotel has a Lazy River?

We know Disney’s resort hotels have some of the best pools anywhere, but what about lazy rivers?

The only Walt Disney World Resort hotels with a lazy river are Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. There are lazy rivers at Disney’s water parks, non-Disney hotels, and several more in the Orlando area .

Here’s what you need to know about which hotels have a lazy river at Disney World.

Where to Find Lazy Rivers in and around Walt Disney World and Orlando

Since lazy rivers are all about relaxation and soaking up the sun, there’s no better place on Earth than Orlando Florida to enjoy a lazy river. And there’s no better time to enjoy relaxing on an inner tube than after a busy day at the theme parks.

In case you don’t know, a lazy river is a water “ride” found in hotel pools, water parks, and other recreation areas. They usually have a shallow pool that flows like that of a river, a slow current with just enough current to gently move you along on a tube. It’s all about de-stressing and cooling off on those warm Florida days.

Please note : Like any pool or attraction, some lazy river experiences may be closed or temporarily modified due to refurbishments. Be sure to check with your Disney Travel Agents for the current status.

Lazy Rivers at Disney World Resort Hotels

1. disney’s beach club and disney’s yacht club resorts.

Guests at these two Disney World resort hotels share access to Stormalong Bay, a 3-acre water wonderland located between the resorts. Here you can enjoy loads of water features including a massive sand-bottomed pool, a 230-foot-long waterslide, 3 whirlpool spas, an elevated tanning deck, and a relaxing lazy river.

Be advised that the lazy river is the deepest area of Stomalong Bay. It ranges from roughly 5 ft deep to 8 ft deep at certain points (so it’s deeper than most lazy rivers).

There are lifeguards stationed around the pool at all times, but you’re more than welcome to use a lifejacket as an extra precaution. They are free to use.

Stormalong Bay has a large stash of inner tubes for guests to use. You can always just swim around the river without any floatation device but it’s much more of a workout. If your goal is to relax and catch some rays, then, by all means, grab an inner tube.

The river itself is not particularly long, but it does give you plenty of space to float around without feeling overly crowded. There’s a gentle current to keep you moving along.

Hurricane Hanna’s is located on the backside of the lazy river and a great place to grab a drink or a bite to eat.

So, if you are looking for a Disney World resort with a lazy river, Disney’s Beach Club and Disney’s Yacht Club are your best (and only) bets!

We should also note that we voted Stormalong Bay as the best pool at a Disney World resort hotel . and its presence helps make this one of the best Disney World hotels for kids .

2. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

Although it’s not owned by Disney, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando is still located within the parameters of Walt Disney World Resort. It’s roughly 3 miles from both Magic Kingdom and Disney Springs.

This luxury hotel at Disney World offers nightly fireworks viewing (from Park View rooms), a golf course, a 13,000 sq ft spa, a gym, and easy access to the theme parks.

Four Seasons’ 200-acre Explorer Island sits at the center of the hotel. Here you can enjoy the interactive fountains, water slides, splash zones, and lazy river with a 9′ towering waterfall and a stretch of rapids. All this set amidst the resort’s lush tropical landscaping.

Lazy Rivers at Disney World’s Water Parks

Cross country creek at disney’s blizzard beach water park.

Disney’s Blizzard Beach is a perfect destination on those warm Florida afternoons. And what better way to soak up the sun than by relaxing on a lazy river?

Blizzard Beach’s lazy river, called Cross Country Creek , is 2.5′ deep and winds its way through the entire water park.

Grab an inner tube and let the gently flowing waters carry you along the 3,000-foot-long river. As you float along, you’ll encounter Ice Gator (the mascot), Mount Gushmore, a grotto, polar caves, geysers, leaky pipes, and waterfalls along the way.

Guests can find inner tubes at 7 different landings along the lazy river.

See our Disney World Water Parks Comparision page for more information.

Castaway Creek at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park is home to another fantastic lazy river, Castaway Creek .

Grab an inner tube and float down this 2000-foot-long lazy river as it winds its way around the entire park.

You’ll glide past thundering waterfalls, refreshing mists, lush rainforest landscaping, and shady grottoes as you encircle the “storm-tossed” water park.

Guests will find inner tubes at 5 landings along the route.

Other Lazy Rivers in the Orlando Area

Lazy rivers at universal orlando resort (universal studios florida).

Volcano Bay Water Park at Universal Orlando Resort

Kopiko Wai Winding River is located within Universal’s Volcano Bay water park. This lazy river drifts through lush tropical landscaping and the volcano itself. You’ll encounter secluded caverns, open spaces, and several surprising sprays of water along the way.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort at Universal Orlando Resort

Cabana Bay Beach Resort is themed to 1950s and 1960s Florida beach culture. The resort’s lazy river is true to this retro theme and features pop jets and waterfalls. Be warned that the resort sells inner tubes but doesn’t rent them to guests. You’re free to bring your own flotation device (or just swim in the lazy river) if you do not wish to purchase a tube.

Lazy Rivers at Orlando Area Hotels

Hilton Orlando

Hilton Orlando ‘s lazy river gently meanders along a beautiful 892-foot long course. As you glide down the lazy river, you’ll encounter water cannons, waterfalls, and fountains.

Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek

Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek ‘s lazy river is set amid a subtropical environment. You can even catch Walt Disney World’s spectacular fireworks as you drift down the river. Inner tube rentals are free.

The Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando

The Grove Resort offers one of Orlando’s most refreshing lazy rivers, As part of the resort’s own Surfari Water Park , the lazy river takes guests on a 695-foot winding adventure through the park. Safari Water Park also has duel water slides, FlowRider Double Surf Simulator, zero-entry pools, and various kid’s activities. Inner tubes are free to rent.

Holiday Inn Vacations at Orange Lake Resort

Holiday Inn Vacations at Orange Lake Resort ‘s pool complex, River Island, features a 1,200-foot-long lazy river, perfect for some relaxation time after a day at the theme parks. In addition, the pool complex offers 2 water slides. Play passes and tube rentals are extra.

JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes

Construction of the lazy river at JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes took over 400 million man-hours and 1 million sq ft. of tile and stone. We think the waterfalls and beautiful natural landscaping make it all worth the effort.

Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate

The 850-foot long lazy river at Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate is a thing of beauty. Kids and adults of all ages can float on inner tubes at speeds ranging from 2 mph to 8 mph. The course travels through gentle rapids, tunnels, and hidden canyons.

Reunion Resort & Golf Club

The 5-acre water park at Reunion Resort & Golf Club includes a gentle lazy river, 110-ft long water slide, shaded cabanas, poolside dining, lawn games, tropical landscaping, and waterfalls.

Lazy Rivers at Other Orlando Theme Parks

Aquatica Orlando

Grab an inner tube and drift down Loggerhead Lane , the lazy river attraction at SeaWorld Orlando’s water park. The course travels through a grotto, a waterfall, and even floats by the park’s dolphin exhibit.

LEGOLAND Water Park at LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Build-a-Raft River at LEGOLAND Florida ’s water park allows kids to imagine, design, and build their own unique LEGO vessel and then use it to float around the 1,000-foot-long lazy river. The course includes palm trees, fun LEGO models, and flowering vegetation amidst the lush landscaping.

Do you need help planning and booking your next Disney World vacation? Look no further than The Vacationeer . This Disney travel agency will get you the best rates and make sure every aspect of your trip is as magical as possible, all at no additional cost to you.

For more information about Disney, see our Disney World Map , Planning a Disney World Vacation , Why Use Disney Travel Agents? , Longest Ride at Disney World , and Disney Crowd Calendar pages. Enjoy your trip!

Share This Page: Choose Your Platform!

About the author: joshua powell.

Disney World Resorts with Kitchens or Kitchenettes

The Resorts Gal Guide to Disney’s Stormalong Bay (With Photos)

Stormalong Bay is the tremendous feature pool area at Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club Resorts. A day spent here might be the best part of your Walt Disney World vacation.

We planned our first stay at Disney’s Beach Club many years ago and fell in love with the entire Epcot Resorts Area during that stay. But what surprised us most was how much we enjoyed the massive pool. We found ourselves wanting to spend more and more time at Stormalong Bay than anywhere else.

On our last vacation day, we completely blew off our park plans and spent the entire day (and evening) at Stormalong Bay. I picked up a paperback novel in the hotel’s gift shop and found a place in the shade to read while my son played with other children at the pool.

Even though the day consisted of small things, like reading a book, it’s still one of my favorite memories. We both know that sometimes the little things become the best memories.

For some, that might be helping your child build a sandcastle at the sand bottom pool. That is until they meet a few pool friends. Soon after, you can return to reading that book. Meanwhile, the children will conspire to meet back at the pool the next day, oblivious to your vacation plans.

Whatever it is, Stormalong Bay has a way of making you want to linger a little longer than expected. Below, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about Stormalong Bay. Additionally, we’ve included a video with clips of various pool areas toward the bottom of this article.

Refurbishment Announcement for Stormalong Bay : From January 2025 through June 2025, Stormalong Bay and Shipwreck Pool at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts will be closed for routine maintenance. Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours. (This was originally scheduled to end in May of 2025.)

Pool Details for Planning a Day at Stormalong Bay

Stormalong Bay is more of a mini water park than a pool. The pool area is over three acres and holds 750,000 gallons of water. Those areas include a lazy river, multiple whirlpool spas or hot tubs, sand bottom pool areas, waterfalls, a waterslide, a kiddie pool, a sand bar, and a shipwreck, among other things.

It’s important to be aware that Stormalong Bay has deep areas. The various pools range from zero-entry to 8′ (feet) deep. That 8′ deep area is limited to a portion of the lazy river. However, some other pool areas transition from shallow to 4′ and 5′ (feet) deep.

The photo below shows a shallow pool for children at the far end of the pool. A sand bar sits in the center of the pool, where children spend hours building sandcastles. However, looking toward the photo’s center, you’ll notice a hot tub. Then, on the opposite side, steps lead into the lazy river, where it’s immediately 6′ deep and soon after 8′ deep.

Spa tub inside the pool area at Stormalong Bay.

Complimentary lifejackets are provided for anyone who needs them. Additionally, lifeguards are stationed across the entire pool deck.

complimentary life jackets at Stormalong Bay

Stormalong Bay is open daily from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. during the busier times of the year. Guests of either Disney’s Yacht or Beach Club can access the pool during regular operating hours.

Wristbands are provided at the gate, allowing guests to come and go from the pool. If you want prime seating (AKA by the pool, in the shade, or a table and chairs), you’ll want to rope-drop the pool when it opens.

On our last stay (in mid-August), guests lined up as early as 9:30 a.m. at both pool gates to secure seats. While plenty of chairs are provided at the pool, it’s often one of those scenarios where people throw their items or a towel down and then mysteriously disappear.

Pool hours might be reduced depending on several factors. For instance, when we stayed at the Yacht Club in January, the pool was only open until 10:00 p.m. due to fewer crowds. (We had no trouble finding seats during this time of year.)

Another instance is if you visit on a colder day. The pool might not open until the temperature increases to a certain degree, or if it’s exceptionally cold, it might remain temporarily closed.

However, the pools at Walt Disney World, including Stormalong Bay, are heated to 82 degrees year-round. So when it’s cooler outside, the pool will often feel pleasant, especially in the evenings.

The Sand Bottom Pool

Most of Stormalong Bay’s pool area has a sand bottom. This is soothing, unlike the typical abrasive concrete bottom pools that leave knees scraped.

Stairs in the center of Stormalong Bay lead up to a private alcove.

Here, you’ll find two separate hot tubs nestled among the rocks.

It was so hot in August that the pool water felt like a hot tub. So, no one was using the whirlpools. However, during our stay last winter, they were constantly packed.

Whirlpool hot tubs at Disney's Stormalong Bay

Waterfalls cascade down the rocks on both sides of the hot tub area.

Here are a few more photos of this area from various angles.

Water is various depths throughout the pool.

One side of this area adjoins the lazy river. A rope acts as a divider between the pool area and the lazy river.

Here is a view looking back from the lazy river.

portion of the lazy river at Stormalong Bay

The pool stretches linearly on the opposite side (toward the right). A volleyball net made from pool noodles provides an excellent place to get up a game.

This area is where the afternoon activities for children take place. Those with children (who want to participate in the pool activities) will want to grab a spot on this end of the pool early.

Unfortunately, the pool deck in this area is narrow, so it can be difficult to find a seat. You can tell in the photo below that most of the chairs under umbrellas are already in use. This photo was taken within 15-20 minutes of the pool opening!

guests playing volleyball in Stormalong Bay

Every afternoon, from around 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., recreation cast members provide entertainment. They play pool games like Disney trivia and guess that tune. You might be surprised at how much everyone enjoys it.

As the day shifts to dusk, cast members invite everyone to campfire activities like roasting complimentary marshmallows and watching Movies Under the Stars. Both resorts have a recreation calendar detailing the nightly movie and other specifics.

Guests enjoying the pool area at the Beach Club.

Past this portion of the pool, the area continues to Bubblin’ Bay and a lagoon with whirling waters.

You’ll find the slide’s exit at the end of this area.

The Lazy River

At the opposite end, we find the lazy river, the deepest pool area. It has several entrances. But you’ll want to remember that some of those entrances lead into 5′ to 8′ deep areas.

It’s not a large lazy river. You can see its entire circular shape in the photo below.

bridge over lazy river at Stormalong Bay

Hurricane Hanna’s , the poolside bar and quick service, sits directly behind the lazy river.

Hurricane Hanna's is at the back of the lazy river

A few clear inner tubes are available for guests to use. Naturally, the river does have a bit of a current that keeps you moving. However, on our last stay, less than ten were available. A good deal of guests were complaining about the lack of tubes.

In case you’re wondering, most of these photos were taken from a large deck on the Crescent Lake side of the pool.

upper level deck seating at Stormalong Bay

Additional seating is available at the top. However, like everywhere else, it can fill up quickly.

lounge chairs on the deck at Stormalong Bay

A few coveted spots in the shade are available if you get there early enough. A pool table was also present.

Stormalong Bay Water Slide (The Flying Jib)

From the upper deck, you can see the Stormalong Bay slide. It’s one of the best waterslides at the Disney Resorts . Called The Flying Jib, the slide is in a shipwreck across a walkway from the pool.

The shipwreck sits on the shores of Crescent Lake, so guests have to cross the walkway to get to the slide. The tunnel portion of the slide extends across the walkway from the ship back to the pool area.

Once you cross the path, you’ll climb into the ship and up the spiral staircase to access the slide.

It’s a speedy slide that almost always has a long line!

As far as the shipwreck goes, this is the same area where the nightly Movies Under the Stars are held. Cast members inflate a projection screen in front of the chairs sitting on the beach.

And here is a photo of where guests roast marshmallows each evening.

marshmallow roast area at Stormalong Bay

Kiddie Pool (The Shipwreck Pool)

Most guests have no clue that an additional kiddie pool sits inside the shipwreck. If you never took the time to check out the area, you’d have no idea it existed.

Kiddie Pool in the shipwreck at Stormalong Bay

It has a separate kiddie water slide!

No sand is involved at this pool. It’s a fun area.

Sand Bar Kiddie Pool

The other kiddie pool is back on the Yacht Club side of Stormalong Bay. This large wading pool has a sand bottom and a massive mound of sand in its center.

Additionally, Stormalong Bay’s third hot tub resides in this area.

A word of warning: After spending time in this area, young children will probably always remember this trip to the Beach Club. They will always ask to return to that place with the sand pool.

They will not want to leave when it’s time to prepare for your dinner reservation. And if you take them to the pool early on during your vacation, they will continuously ask when you’re going to the pool–even when you’re in the parks. Can you blame them?

Toward the back of the sand bar pool, the area forms another lagoon that’s approximately 3.5′ deep.

view of Crescent Lake from Stormalong Bay Pool

It’s a pretty area that looks out to Crescent Lake and Disney’s Boardwalk.

Cabanas at Stormalong Bay

Four cabanas are available to rent at Stormalong Bay. These cabanas are available at 60 days out and sell out quickly. They come with the following amenities:

A dedicated cast member providing service to the cabanas.
Cocktail Service
Ceiling Fan
Padded furniture, including chairs and a couch
Television with cable access
Charging Outlets/USB Ports
A mini refrigerator stocked with complimentary sodas and water.
Fruit Basket/Dessert Tray
A Cabinet Safe

Find details for cabana reservations and pricing on Disney’s site . Since we stay at these resorts often, we’ve rented a cabana at Stormalong Bay. You might enjoy reading about our experience in this article: Renting a Cabana at Disney World .

Towels, Lockers, and Changing Areas at Stormalong Bay

Before we wrap things up, I wanted to share a few other details that might help you plan time at the pool. For instance, towels are provided at Stormalong Bay. So you shouldn’t need to pack them. Guests can get as many as they need throughout the day.

Additionally, a locker area is available for guests who might need to store a few items while in the pool.

Restrooms are available immediately behind the pool area.

When you enter this covered area to the restrooms, you’ll notice a sign that says showers on the far right-hand side. This area leads to showers and changing areas for men and women. Inside, you’ll find a couple of showers, towels, a bench, and a place to hang items.

Toiletries like body wash, shampoo, and conditioner are available in the shower stall. This area provides a wonderful place to change or freshen up if you have a late flight on your check-out day. You might also use this area to change into your swimsuit if your room isn’t ready on arrival.

pool showers for guests at Stormalong Bay

Stormalong Bay Video

Here is a video of Stormalong Bay.

Disney’s Stormalong Bay Photos

Here are a few more photos of the pool.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, this review of Stormalong Bay provided you with everything you needed to know about the area to plan your vacation. We recommend spending at least one full resort day here during your vacation. Or maybe you can carve out time to spend here every day! We do!

If you want to learn more about the resorts, we have an entire resort guide for Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Resort . You might also enjoy our guide to the best pools at Disney World . Spoiler: This one’s pretty hard to beat!

Or you might enjoy one of the following hotel reviews. They are all located within the Epcot Resorts Area:

Nearby Resort Reviews

Disney’s Beach Club Resort Review (The 2 Reasons This Resort is Our Favorite)

Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Review (By Resorts Gal)

Walt Disney World Swan Reserve Review (Why We Adore This Upscale Hotel)

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Review (Why We Love This Nautical-Themed Hotel)

Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Resort Review

In the Comments

Feel free to comment below and share your thoughts on Stormalong Bay. Do you have any questions? What are you looking forward to experiencing here?

Pinterest 43

Hi, I'm Amber the owner of Resorts Gal . We have stayed at every single Disney Resort Hotel. Our philosophy? We believe you can have an incredible time at the resorts without ever setting foot in a theme park. We visit the resorts and parks regularly and would love for you to follow along!

5 Things to Know About Stormalong Bay at Walt Disney World’s Yacht and Beach Club

Walt Disney World , Walt Disney World Resorts | 0 comments

This article by Tanner Gamble

SAND – This is more than a pool.It wouldn’t be the Yacht and Beach Club without sand. Bring some shovels and other items to make sandcastles on the island of sand in the middle of the pool. Water depth is very shallow in these areas so it’s great for kids (and the grown up kids too) to lie in the water and soak up some rays.

SURPRISES – There are some surprises at Stormalong Bay as well.How about a fun game of water volleyball or basketball? There is also a whirlpool where you can spin around for hours. How about a lazy river inner tube ride? Now that’s relaxing! Be advised that the lazy river is deep at 8 feet so be sure to use a complementary life vest. The biggest surprise of all – spoiler alert – the bottom of the pool is sand! That’s a bonus treat for tired feet at the end of a Disney day.

After you cool off in the pool, you are steps away from Epcot and the Boardwalk area, a hidden gem for sure! What’s your families’ record on the Stormalong Bay slide at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club? Start planning your trip now and contact me today!

Ready to start planning your getaway?

Submit a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Disney's Yacht Club Resort

View Gallery 

While Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours, most Resort hotel amenities will remain available.

What Makes This Resort Hotel Unique

Disney Skyliner gondolas zip along a cable above Disney Resort hotel buildings

Disney Skyliner Transportation

This gondola system offers a bird's eye view as it whisks you and your family away to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Lakeside marina and watercraft rentals at Disney's Yacht Club Resort

Outdoor Water Recreation Area

Discover a life-size shipwreck, pools, lagoons and more at Stormalong Bay—a 3-acre water wonderland. Read More

Discover a life-size shipwreck, pools, lagoons and more at Stormalong Bay—a 3-acre water wonderland.

Climb the mast and zip down one of the highest hotel waterslides at Walt Disney World Resort. Catch currents on an inner tube in the lazy river, unwind in one of 3 whirlpool spas and relax on the elevated tanning deck. Children can wade into the main pool from a gentle slope and splash about in 2 kiddie pools—including one with a miniature waterslide.

Prefer a more tranquil experience? Explore 3 all-ages quiet pools—each with a whirlpool spa—located throughout Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts.

Learn more about recreation at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.

Yachtsman Steakhouse

Savor mouthwatering steaks, seafood and more at this sophisticated, family-friendly restaurant.

Ship Shape Health Club

Enjoy a workout or indulge in a massage at this full-service fitness center.

Dog-Friendly Accommodations

Bring your pampered pooch to stay with you at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Read More

Bring your pampered pooch to stay with you at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.

Here at Walt Disney World Resort, we know that dogs aren’t simply pets—they’re members of your family. And since family is at the heart of everything we do, for a limited time, your furry friends are welcome to join you at select Disney Resort hotels. Let the tail wagging commence!

Note: Limit 2 dogs per room. Restrictions and fees apply.

How to Book Bring your dog along on your upcoming visit by calling (407) 939-5277. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

Services for Guests with Dogs During your stay, Best Friends Pet Care can provide assistance with day care and other pet services (fees apply). For details, please call (877) 4-WDW-PETS or (877) 493-9738, or visit bestfriendspetcare.com . Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

Some restrictions on certain pets may apply. Before you arrive, be sure to download the official dog policy PDF .

A guest room with a sofa, coffee table, wall art, a dining area and an open kitchen with counter seating

Need More Room?

Consider booking a Disney Deluxe Villa with just-like-home amenities like a kitchen, washer, dryer and private bedrooms. Read More

Consider booking a Disney Deluxe Villa with just-like-home amenities like a kitchen, washer, dryer and private bedrooms.

When you stay at Disney’s Beach Club Villas , you’ll enjoy the same benefits offered at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort—along with spacious Disney Deluxe Villa accommodations. It’s an outstanding home base for your Walt Disney World vacation.

Discover the Villa Difference Disney’s Beach Club Villas and other Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts offer accommodations with just-like-home touches that go beyond the traditional hotel room.

Choose from 1-, 2- and 3-Bedroom Villas—as well as Cabins and Bungalows at select Resort hotels—with the following features:

A full kitchen , so you can prepare meals and snacks from the comfort of your villa
Spacious living and dining areas where your family can share even more quality time together after you return from the parks
Separate bedrooms that offer space, privacy and tranquility – so it’s easy to rest, relax and recharge your spirit after each exhilarating vacation day
A washer and dryer , so you can pack lightly and avoid airline baggage fees

A little more than you need? Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts also feature Deluxe Studios, which feature a kitchenette and sleeper sofa—a great option for smaller travel parties and shorter stays.

Reservations and Rates Check availability and nightly rates at Disney’s Beach Club Villas.

More Magic for Your Stay

A mom and a girl in front of a Hey Disney screen displaying Moana

A More Magical Stay Starts with "Hey Disney!”

The "Hey Disney!" voice assistant experience features tons of character fun plus a helpful host, who can order you extra towels and answer lots of your park questions.

A father, mother, son and daughter smiling while sitting on a bed in a hotel room

Disney Signature Services

Guests staying in Club-level rooms and suites are eligible for personalized vacation-planning support.

Enhance Your Stay with the My Disney Experience App

Simplify your arrival, access your room and discover a world of fun with this helpful app. Read More

Simplify your arrival, access your room and discover a world of fun with this helpful app.

Be sure you have the latest version of the My Disney Experience app to enjoy these handy features during your stay.

Check In and Check Out with Ease

Enjoy a simplified arrival at your Disney Resort hotel! Use the app to begin the check-in process , view your room number and even unlock your door .

At the end of your stay, there’s no need to stop by the Front Desk if you have a valid payment card on file or a zero-dollar balance on your account. Instead, check out of your room via the app by visiting My Reservations or your Hotel Account.

Plan, Play, Dine and Unwind

There are many more ways to enhance your stay! With the app, you can:

Make vacation plans during your stay—and review existing plans
Enter the theme parks (with a valid park reservation and valid admission) using Disney MagicMobile service
Order food and beverages with mobile order service
Check park schedules
Get directions
Explore transportation options
View your Disney PhotoPass photos

And that’s only the beginning!

Learn more about the My Disney Experience app .

Available for iPhone®, iPad® and smartphones for Android™. Message, data and roaming rates may apply. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first. Apple, the Apple logo, iPhone, and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google Inc .

Lightning Lane Passes

Plan ahead and save time in line for select attractions and experiences! Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels or other select hotels can purchase Lightning Lane passes—and choose experiences—up to 7 days in advance of their stay.

View Rooms and Prices

Hotel Address

(407) 934-7000

Check Availability

Change your travel dates, change your travel party size, use cobrowse to share your screen.

Even as the Disney Cast Member guides you around our site, they will be unable to access or view any files or information on your device or anything you type.

To stop the session, click the X in the screen-sharing window at any time. You can remain on the phone with the Cast Member.

Enter the code provided by the Cast Member and Accept to get started.

Invalid code. Please reenter

Not on the Phone with a Cast Member?

TouringPlans

GUIDE ME THROUGH—

Questions? Our community can help!

Forums Thoughtful, engaging talk

Chat Quick answers while in the parks

Subscribe now to create a customized Touring Plan for everything you want to do.

Crowd Calendar
Disney Springs

Transportation

sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Early Theme Park Entry
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Extended Evening Hours
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Front-of-Line Service: Lightning Lane
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Character Greetings
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Rider Switch for Small Children
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Special Needs Guests (DAS)
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Live Entertainment & Show Schedules
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Refurbishment Schedule
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Lines Mobile App
Attractions, Parades, & Fireworks
Height Requirements
Touring Plans
Attractions & Fireworks
Neighborhoods
Attractions
Cheapest Disney Tickets
Park Reservations

sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Basics
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Build-Your-Own Plans
Magic Kingdom
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Disney's Animal Kingdom
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Ratings for All WDW Restaurants
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Overview
Magic Kingdom Restaurants
EPCOT Restaurants
Hollywood Studios Restaurants
Animal Kingdom Restaurants
Disney Springs Restaurants
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Hotel Restaurants
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Reservations
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Tipping (Gratuities)
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Menu Search
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Disney Dining Plan
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Benefits
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Room Finder
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Compare Hotels
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge (Jambo House)
Disney's Beach Club Resort
Disney's BoardWalk Inn
Disney's Contemporary Resort
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
Disney's Wilderness Lodge
Disney's Yacht Club Resort
The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside
Disney's All-Star Movies Resort
Disney's All-Star Music Resort
Disney's All-Star Sports Resort
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Disney's Pop Century Resort
Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort
Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge
Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Jambo House
Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village
Disney's Beach Club Villas
Disney's BoardWalk Villas
Disney's Old Key West Resort
Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Disney's Riviera Resort
Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Treehouse Villas at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort
The Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
The Campsites at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort

sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Early Park Admission
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Tickets
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Front-of-Line Service: Universal Express Pass
Halloween Horror Nights
Rock the Universe
Gradventure
Special Needs
Kids and Babies

Universal Studios Florida
Universal's Islands of Adventure
Universal Epic Universe
Universal Studios Florida Restaurants
Islands of Adventure Restaurants
Volcano Bay Restaurants
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> CityWalk Restaurants
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Hotel Basics
Hard Rock Hotel
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Universal Helios Grand Hotel
Universal Stella Nova Resort
Universal Terra Luna Resort
Universal's Aventura Hotel
Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites
Universal's Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites
Downtown Disney

sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Early Entry
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="block text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Rider Switch
Lunar New Year
Food & Wine Festival
Disneyland Park
Disney California Adventure Park
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Ratings for All DLR Restaurants
Disneyland Restaurants
California Adventure Restaurants
Downtown Disney Restaurants
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Disneyland Hotel
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Disney's Grand Californian Resort & Spa
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> Pixar Place Hotel
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> The Villas at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo mouseover->sidemenu#activeChildLayerTwo" class="text-black text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-start gap-2 pt-[20px] leading-18"> The Villas at Disneyland Hotel
sidemenu#activeChild" class="text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-between pt-3 md:pt-14 leading-30"> Planning Your Cruise
sidemenu#activeChild" class="text-base font-eucliarSemiBold flex items-center justify-between pt-3 md:pt-14 leading-30"> Tips for During Your Cruise

common-navbar#activeTab">Overview common-navbar#activeTab"> -->
common-navbar#activeTab">Rooms common-navbar#activeTab"> -->
common-navbar#activeTab">Dining common-navbar#activeTab"> -->
common-navbar#activeTab">Amenities common-navbar#activeTab"> -->
common-navbar#activeTab">Transportation common-navbar#activeTab"> -->

common-navbar#activeTab">Overview
common-navbar#activeTab">Rooms
common-navbar#activeTab">Dining
common-navbar#activeTab">Amenities
common-navbar#activeTab">Transportation

Disney's Yacht Club Resort

Last updated: August 26, 2024

The Yacht Club's nautical beach theme includes model ships and antique navigation instruments. The Resort's best features are its top-rated pool, walking paths to EPCOT and the Studios, and Skyliner access.

$609 - $4,093

Lodging Area

Boat, Bus, Skyliner, Walk

Guest Overall Rating

Based on 276 surveys. (See our Ratings and Research page for details)

Lighting: A

modal#open click->video-modal#modalVideo">Club Level at Yacht Club

modal#open click->video-modal#modalVideo">Yacht Club Room Review and Tour

Best pool complex of any WDW resort

Excellent staff/service

Walking distance to EPCOT and DHS

Close to many BoardWalk and EPCOT dining options

Well-themed public spaces

Bright and attractive guest rooms

Boat and Skyliner transportation to DHS

Views and balcony size are hit-or-miss

Bus service to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, water parks, and Disney Springs is shared with other EPCOT resorts

Our stay at Yacht Club was great. Room was good sized, as well as nicely designed and decorated. Without exception, all cast members encountered displayed helpful, courteous and friendly attitudes.

Our stay at Yacht Club was great. Room was good sized, as well as nicely designed and decorated. Without exception, all cast members encountered displayed...

April 7, 2021

We chose to stay at Yacht Club and couldn't have been happier.

May 5, 2018

Rooms at Yacht Club are lovely. The laminate floors are not noisy at all (if we had neighbors above us, we never heard them). Soundproofing on the balcony is good. Lots of USB ports.

Rooms at Yacht Club are lovely. The laminate floors are not noisy at all (if we had neighbors above us, we never heard them). Soundproofing on the balcony is...

October 10, 2017

We love the Yacht Club! We picked it the first time based on details - distance to the parks, reviews, etc - were not disappointed.

November 27, 2016

The Yacht Club's rooms are decorated in white with blue and brass accents. The most recent update also replaced carpeting with vinyl "hardwood" floors, freshening the rooms' look.

Room with Queen Bed(s) and en-suite bathroom
Balcony or patio
Dresser with drawers
Full-length mirror
Wireless Internet (Wi-Fi)
Flat-panel TV
Coffee maker and starter supply of coffee pods
Ironing board and iron
Digital thermostat
In-room safe
Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and bar soap

Most rooms are 381 square feet and have two queen-size beds. All upper-floor rooms have full balconies, while ground-floor rooms have patios.

Yacht Club Standard Room

Yacht Club Dresser and TV

Yacht Club Fold Down Bed

Yacht Club Desk and Chair

Yacht Club Closet and Storage

Yacht Club Fridge and Coffe Maker

Yacht Club Standard Room Bathroom

Yacht Club Room 4073 View

We’ve mapped and taken photographs of the views from every single room on Walt Disney World property! Our Room Finder helps you find the perfect room for you and then request that room from Disney.

Dining isn't a strength at Yacht Club, but tons of options are short walk away at EPCOT or the four other resorts.

Ale & Compass Restaurant The cuisine is advertised as “New England comfort food.” Reader ratings have improved substantially over the years, without compromising the diversity of the menu.

Yachtsman Steakhouse Open for dinner only, Yachtsman Steakhouse serves up steak, seafood, and sides. This is a signature restaurant that tries to create an atmosphere, so expect high prices and to adhere to a minimal dress code.

Market at Ale and Compass A small spot carved out of the gift shop, the Market has coffee, pastries, and other small items.

Ale and Compass Lounge Ale & Compass is a competent restaurant, the kind of place you'll be happy to find at dinnertime if it's raining and you don't want to go outside; or everyone is starving and you need to eat right now. Ale and Compass is a better choice for breakfast. You'll find something for everyone in various combinations of eggs, potatoes, bacon, tofu, French toast, and so on, with a la carte options if you just want a quick bite.

Crew's Cup Lounge The Crew’s Cup Lounge is one of the better bars in Walt Disney World, although the reason for that statement is hard to explain. The entire room just feels...well, cool. It starts when you approach the door, which is found in the Yacht Club’s hallway, heading towards the Beach Club Resort. One of the things that makes Crew’s Cup cool is the understated sign hanging in the hall, a few steps up, as well as a plain door. The facade is easily overshadowed by the Yachtsman Steakhouse, but that secret, speakeasy style entry makes it a little hard to find, and we all know that the coolest places don’t need to advertise. Walking in you immediately notice the theme, which is rowing, but are not overwhelmed by it. There are a few images of rowers here and there and a few oars along the walls, but it is mostly just a quaint, slightly dark, overwhelmingly wood-paneled lounge. The rowing theme obviously fits in with the Yacht Club Resort and the Crew’s Cup looks as if it would be a place that a crew team would hang out after practice. While many Americans do not think of crew or rowing as major sports, it certainly has a long history in the United States. It began as soon as the English landed, having been popular there several centuries prior. Yale University boast the oldest American college crew club, started in 1843, and the Harvard versus Yale regatta is the oldest intercollegiate sport in the U.S. It is so old in fact (started in 1852), that it had to be paused during the American Civil War! The entire Crew’s Cup Lounge hints toward this history. The shell (or boat to you landlubbers) hanging from the ceiling is a common place for storage when there are no racks. The oars along the walls are each painted differently, which is how a team identifies itself (although these oars match no teams that we could find). Even just the exposed rafters and craftsman touches point toward a New England style around the year 1900. For those interested in what goes on in a kitchen, there is a window that looks into a section of the Yachtsman Steakhouse’s back of house. Often during dinner time you will see a prep chef getting ready for the mealtime rush. Once you decide to have a seat, there are a few different options, with seats at the bar, a handful of booths, a few tables and chairs, and also a few couches. Whether you are there for dinner, relaxation, or to watch the television, you will find a seat to match. Speaking of dinner, there is both food and drink aplenty, although the drink list is our one big knock on The Crew’s Cup as it follows the standard Disney drink menu. The food here is above average and consists of hearty appetizers, burgers, and chicken tenders. Nothing fancy, but good quality and decently priced (for Walt Disney World). The Crew’s Cup Lounge is not often mentioned as a favorite spot, and we will hope it stays that way because that just means more room for us. After all, if everyone knows it might stop being so cool.

Fittings & Farings Fittings & Farings is Yacht Club's souvenir shop. A small selection of snacks, drinks, and other groceries are available.

Refillable Mugs Allows guest self-service soft drink refills from quick-service locations in hotels ( NOT in theme parks ) for $21.99 for the length of stay.

SWIPE TO EXPLORE

Yacht Club has Disney World's best pool - Stormalong Bay with a lazy river, fabulous water slide, and acres of water fun. Three other pools are available across Yacht Club and Beach Club resorts, for use by both Beach and Yacht Club guests.

Lafferty Place Arcade arcade is near Stormalong Bay between the Yacht and Beach resorts. It features relatively recent video games of all kinds.

Free Disney Movies Under the Stars are shown most evenings, weather-permitting, either at the Beach Club Beach, or in the Solarium.

The Ship Shape Fitness Center has weights, treadmills, and other equipment for your workout. Hours are typically 6 AM to 9 PM. Joggers will enjoy the 0.8-mile loop around Crescent Lake too.

The Beach Club Beach hosts marshmallow roasts around 5:30 PM nightly. It's really great during the cooler months of the year.

Disney resort guests get into each theme park 30 minutes earlier than off-site guests, every day.

Those staying at Disney's Deluxe and Deluxe Villa hotels can buy Lightning Lane via Individual Purchase at 7:00 a.m. each day. Others cannot make that purchase until the official park opening time.

Disney's Deluxe and DVC resort guests get two extra hours in select theme parks on certain days of the week. The schedule changes, so check with the front desk.

Practical Matters

Check-in is 4:00pm Check-out is 11:00am

All Disney resorts participate in Disney’s Online Check-In program. If you’ve checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.

These rubber and plastic wrist bands can function as your room key, park admission, charge card, and more! MagicBands cost money, but if you'd like a free option you can use the official Disney World app on your phone or request an RFID-embedded card at the front desk.

Park tickets are best purchased online in advance either directly through Disney or via our Least Expensive Ticket Calculator . However, if you arrive without park tickets, head to the concierge desk in the hotel lobby.

Dining reservation are best made online in advance or on your phone or tablet during your visit. You can also use our Disney World Reservation Finder .

Washers and dryers are availabile in laundry facilities at each Disney World hotel. Cost is $3 per wash, and another $3 per dry cycle. A small selection of soap, fabric softener, and dryer sheets are also sold, for around $1 each. Only credit/debit cards can be used for payment. For more information, see our Disney World Laundry Facilities page.

If you lose something in a theme park or during your stay at a Disney-operated hotel, visit Disney's Lost and Found website or call (407) 824-4245.

Disney hotels have gifts shops near their lobbies with a decent collection of Disney-branded souvenirs. You will also find basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, aspirin, allergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the like. Resort hotels with Deluxe Villa rooms offer an assortment of groceries, as well.

Disney recommends a third party company, Kid's Nite Out , to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney World Child Care page for more information.

The Yacht Club is located in the EPCOT Resort Area. All modern GPS apps, and Google Maps, will have clear driving directions to it. As a backup, look for Disney road signs directing you toward the EPCOT resorts (not EPCOT) once you're on property, and then look for signs for the Yacht Club once you're close.

Boat	Bus	Car	Walk
–	25 min	36 min	–
12 min	–	16 min	9 min
14 min	–	14 min	22 min
–	25 min	17 min	–
–	26 min	10 min	–

Disney Skyliner gondola system has a station at EPCOT's International Gateway entrance. The ride to Hollywood Studios is about 12 minutes (plus waiting time in line).

Disney provides free bus service to the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs from the bus stop at the front of the resort. Buses run about every 20 minutes. For all destinations except the Magic Kingdom, it's probably faster to drive or walk.

If you have your own car , it's faster to drive yourself to Disney's Animal Kingdom, the Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, and Disney Springs. Disney's transportation system is faster to the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney's Hollywood Studios.

EPCOT is a short walk from the Yacht Club, and the walk to Hollywood Studios is just a little longer.

Disney provides free boat service to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios from the resort.

You can walk between the Beach Club, Yacht Club, BoardWalk, Swan, Swan Reserve, and Dolphin. Boat service is available to all of those, too, except the Swan Reserve. The Skyliner at EPCOT's International Gateway can take you to Caribbean Beach, Riviera, Pop Century, and Art of Animation. For all other resort destinations, the fastest option is an Uber, Lyft, or taxi. Disney's bus service is free but slow, and will probably require you to use an intermediate destination like Disney Springs, to get to your destination. And that can take a couple of hours each way if you're unluckly.

if you have a car, the easiest way to get to Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, and other tourist destinations is to drive. Alternatively, Mears Transportation operates shuttle services between the Disney hotels and other theme parks.

tabs#change">Driving to the Resort

tabs#change">Getting to the Parks and Disney Springs

tabs#change">Getting to Another Hotel from Yacht Club

tabs#change">Getting to Universal Orlando

Disney Dish with Jim Hill Podcast

Learn more about the latest doings at Disney with Len Testa of TouringPlans & Jim Hill of JimHillMedia.com

Learn more about the latest doings at Disney with TouringPlan's Len Testa & Jim Hill of JimHillMedia.com

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Review (Is it worth it?)

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is one of the most beautiful and convenient hotels in all of Walt Disney World. With its classy design, enormous pool, and prime location, it’s easy to see why the Yacht Club at Disney World is such a highly sought after place to stay.

My family and I have visited numerous hotels on Disney property, but the Yacht Club always keeps us coming back for more. We love the close proximity to Disney’s Boardwalk, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios.

The multiple transportation options are a huge plus, especially for those who don’t like to solely rely on Disney buses. And of course we have to mention the Yacht Club’s pool, Stormalong Bay. This elaborate resort swimming area is arguably the best pool at the Walt Disney World Resort!

If you’re still not quite sold on the Yacht Club at Disney World or if you would like more information, continue reading below. In this post, we will cover everything you need to know about this deluxe Disney resort , including the activities, restaurants, and rooms available at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.

(This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small compensation at no extra cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy at the bottom of this page for more details.)

Yacht Club Restaurants

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is full of all different types of restaurants. Since this hotel shares dining options with its sister resorts, you’ll find even more places to eat within a short walk of your room.

blue walls and club chairs with sign reading Ale and Compass Lounge

These are the Yacht Club restaurants you will find just a short stroll away:

Ale and Compass – sit-down restaurant in the Yacht Club that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner (also available to-go)
The Market at Ale and Compass – quick service restaurant at Yacht Club with to-go items and menu options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Yachtsman Steakhouse – fine dining restaurant at the Yacht Club that is open for dinner
Crew’s Cup Lounge – bar at the Yacht Club that features a small dinner menu and full bar
Cape May Cafe – offers a character meal breakfast buffet and sit-down dinner with no characters
Beach Club Marketplace – features to-go items and menu options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Beaches and Cream – available for lunch and dinner with reservations highly recommended
Martha’s Vineyard – offers appetizers and full bar
Hurricane Hanna’s Waterside Bar and Grill – pool restaurant with full bar and lunch/dinner options

Furthermore, the Yacht Club is located just a short walk away from Disney’s Boardwalk , where you’ll find additional restaurants and bars.

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is home to the most popular pool on Disney property. It’s such a hit that you’ll find cast members handing out wristbands at the entrance so that only hotel guests can enter.

The main pool, Stormalong Bay, features a large sand bottom swimming area that’s super shallow and great for toddlers and little kids. There’s also a lazy river that’s a fan favorite in my household.

Guests can also enjoy other large swimming areas at Stormalong Bay, including an activities section where you’ll find games like pool volleyball. Stormalong Bay offers a large waterslide as well as a smaller slide that empties into a shallow pool.

In addition to Stormalong Bay, the Yacht Club in Disney World features a “quiet” pool that is seldom busy. This is a great spot to relax or swim laps.

Rooms

My family and I love the nautical decor and ambience of the Yacht Club guest rooms. Additionally, we appreciate that the rooms offer full balconies. In our post on Disney’s Beach Club vs Yacht Club , you’ll read about why these balconies are a major pro for Yacht Club compared to its sister resort.

Disney’s Yacht Club features standard rooms and club level rooms. If you book a room with Club Level benefits, you get access to the Regatta Club. Here, you’ll find food and beverages offered at certain times throughout the day.

Guest rooms at the Yacht Club come with views of the lake, pool, garden, or hotel rooftop/parking lot. These rooms typically feature 1 king bed or 2 queens. Some of them also offer a daybed. This means that if you book a room with 2 queens plus a daybed, you can sleep a family of five!

Prices at Yacht Club

Since Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is classified as a deluxe hotel at Disney World, you’ll notice that the prices are higher than at some of the other hotels. This is because the Yacht Club offers deluxe room space, extra amenities, and a prime location.

We will explain all the significance of all of these perks in more detail below, but it’s important to note that Disney’s Yacht Club truly offers a deluxe experience. The updated guest rooms feature plenty of space, including private balconies. Plus, the hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of other Disney hotels, restaurants, theme parks, and more.

If you would really like to experience the location, amenities, and entertainment at the Yacht Club without the hefty price tag, we suggest booking a room at the sister hotel through David’s Vacation Club Rentals. You will be blown away by the cost savings on David’s DVC rental site! We usually save hundreds of dollars per night by using this method to book a room at a deluxe resort.

Just use the cost calculator to see exactly how much a room costs at Yacht Club’s sister resort, Disney’s Beach Club Villas. These villas are located just a short walk away from the Yacht Club hotel, and they both share restaurants, pools, and activities. While you can reserve one of the villas on the official Disney website, we prefer to book through David’s DVC rental website . We have used this reputable company for years to rent timeshare points at Disney villas.

Things to Do at Disney’s Yacht Club

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort sits on the same property as two sister resorts: Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Villas. These three hotels share restaurants, activities, amenities, and entertainment options with each other.

sand bottom pool with Disney's Yacht Club in background

One of my family’s favorite things about the Yacht Club is that you don’t need to leave the property to have fun. So, if you’re looking for activities at Disney outside of the theme parks, the Yacht Club offers lots of great options. These are our favorite things to do at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort when enjoying a relaxing day at Disney:

See Epcot Fireworks

We recommend walking to the bridge that connects the Disney Boardwalk to the Yacht and Beach Club Resort to enjoy the nightly Epcot fireworks show. You can even grab some ice cream to enjoy during the presentation.

Take a Ride on the Skyliner

Since the Disney Skyliner sits just outside of Epcot’s International Gateway entrance, you can easily access it from the Yacht Club Resort. Just take the short (less than ten minutes) walk toward Epcot and hop on the Skyliner for free!

Book a fishing excursion on Crescent Lake for a truly unique experience while staying at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.

Eat Ice Cream

Disney’s Yacht Club is home to one of our favorite WDW restaurants, Beaches and Cream . While reservations can be difficult to snag at this popular dining spot, you can access the walk-up window to order shakes and ice cream to-go.

Dine with Characters

Check out Cape May Cafe during breakfast/brunch when it becomes Minnie’s Beach Bash. Guests can meet Goofy, Minnie, and Donald while they dine at the breakfast buffet.

Float along the Lazy River

The Beach Club’s main pool, Stormalong Bay, offers many fun features. One of our favorite things to do at the pool is to grab (free) tubes to float along the lazy river.

Play Games in the Arcade

Lafferty Place Arcade offers lots of fun games for kids and adults to enjoy. This is a particularly great place to spend time at Disney World when it’s raining.

Ride the Friendship Boats

The Disney water taxi picks up visitors near the Yacht Club. You can ride this free boat to the Disney Boardwalk, Swan and Dolphin Resorts, Epcot entrance, and Hollywood Studios entrance.

Build Sandcastles

Did you know that Stormalong Bay features a shallow, sand bottom pool and beach area? Kids love digging in the sand and splashing around in this section of the pool.

Make S’mores

Visit the nightly campfire to roast marshmallows during your visit. You can even purchase S’mores Kits for a few dollars.

Rent a Boat

Spend time on Crescent Lake on your own private pontoon boat. Guests can rent boats from the marina near the Yacht Club.

Disney’s Yacht Club offers a large fitness center for guests to use during their stay. Ship Shape Health Club is even open 24 hours a day, so you can squeeze in a workout at any time.

Stroll along the Disney Boardwalk

The Disney Boardwalk is full of amazing activities and entertainment options and is just a short walk away from the Yacht Club.

Play Volleyball

As you walk along the boardwalk in front of the Beach Club, you’ll notice a sand volleyball court. This is a great spot to pick up a game with friends or family. You can also often join a game of volleyball at Stormalong Bay Pool.

Enjoy an Evening Movie

Each evening, Disney Yacht Club guests can watch a movie under the stars. These family friendly movies are a great way to unwind after a long day.

Play Mini Golf

Stroll over to Fantasia Gardens and Miniature Golf Course where you’ll find two 18-hole courses. This fun spot is located near the Dolphin and Swan Resorts.

Swim Some Laps

If you’re looking for a quieter poolside experience to swim laps or relax, check out the leisure pool at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. You’ll also have access to the quiet pools at Beach Club and Beach Club Villas.

If you’re not into running or jogging on vacation, you can spend time strolling along the jogging paths at the Yacht Club. You’ll find lots of great spots to take pictures and may even catch some surprises along the way.

Join a Kid Friendly Party at the Pool

Each afternoon, Stormalong Bay hosts fun poolside activities like hula hoop competitions and limbo.

Play Tennis

Guests can find tennis courts near the Yacht Club’s quiet pool.

Zoom Down Waterslides

Stormalong Bay features two separate water slides for guests to enjoy. The main waterslide stretches from the pirate ship and across the Beach Club boardwalk to the main pool.

You’ll also find a smaller slide that’s perfect for toddlers and small kids at the entrance to the main water slide.

Book a Fireworks Cruise

Take in the sights and sounds of the Epcot fireworks show from your pontoon boat on Crescent Lake.

Transportation

As mentioned above, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort sits in a prime location in the center of all the magic at WDW. If you’re planning to visit one of the theme parks, you’ll be happy to know that several of them are just a super short walk or ride away.

These are our preferred ways to get from Disney’s Yacht Club to other places in Walt Disney World:

To Magic Kingdom – You can access the Disney buses in front of the hotel. The ride to Magic Kingdom should take 15-20 minutes.
To Epcot – Exit the back of Yacht Club (toward Crescent Lake) and turn left. Epcot sits just under a ten minute walk away!
To Hollywood Studios – You have several options for getting to Hollywood Studios. We find the quickest option *usually* is walking. Hollywood Studios sits just a 15 minute walk away from the Yacht Club. You can also ride a Friendship Boat to Hollywood Studios. However, by the time you wait on the boat to make stops, this method can take longer than walking. You could also walk toward Epcot to catch the Disney Skyliner. With this method, you should be able to reach Hollywood Studios in around 25 minutes.
To Animal Kingdom – You can hop on one of the Disney buses to get to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. This is roughly a ten-minute ride.
To Disney’s Boardwalk – You can make the five-minute walk around Crescent Lake to easily reach the Disney Boardwalk. Guests can also take the Friendship Boat from the Yacht Club lighthouse and ride across the lake to the Boardwalk.
To Disney Springs – You can take a bus to Disney Springs, which typically takes 15-20 minutes.

Is Disney’s Yacht Club Worth It?

Since Disney’s Yacht Club may be my personal favorite resort in all of WDW , I would definitely say it’s worth the cost! I love the classy guest rooms and bathrooms with their nautical decor.

The lobby seems to be quieter and calmer than that at other resorts, and the cast members are super friendly and helpful. My family and I enjoy the food at all the restaurants on site, and we appreciate the ability to easily walk from the Yacht Club to the Beach Club’s dining options.

The close proximity to Epcot makes the Yacht Club an ideal place to stay since there’s no rush to get to the park in the morning or back “home” at the end of a long day. Plus, you enter and exit through the International Gateway entrance to Epcot (near World Showcase), so the lines to enter are basically nonexistent.

Additionally, Disney’s Hollywood Studios is just a short walk, boat ride, or Skyliner ride away. And if you feel like venturing out, you can take the scenic stroll around Crescent Lake to the Disney Boardwalk.

Overall, we highly recommend the beautiful Yacht Club Resort! For additional information on Disney resorts, join the conversation on our Facebook page: Mom’s Guide to Disney Resorts ! Do you have a review of Disney’s Yacht Club Resort? Comment below to share your thoughts with us!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

Staying in a Polynesian Deluxe Studio Standard View

Disney’s Beach Club Villas Review (with Tips)

Disney bag policy: what to bring into the parks.

14 FUN Things to Do at the Polynesian Resort

Best rides at disney world in every park.

Disney’s Polynesian Resort (Honest Review)

DVC Swimming Pool Spotlight: Stormalong Bay

It’s no secret among DVC Fans that Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Beach & Yacht Club Resort is one of the best pools on Disney World property which adds to the many reasons Beach Club Villas is such a well-loved Disney Vacation Club resort. Stormalong Bay is the main resort pool, but it’s more like a mini waterpark than a pool. Since we normally do resort and room reviews, I thought it would be fun for DVC Fan to do some pool reviews because who doesn’t love swimming in the Florida sun?

Before I give my opinions, I checked out Disney’s website and found these fun facts about Stormalong Bay.

Stormalong Bay is three acres in size!
The water slides sit atop a life-sized shipwreck replica.
The Flying Jib slide is one of the highest hotel slides at Disney and is 230 feet long.
The pool compex holds approximately 795,000 gallons of water!

Some other cool features about Stormalong Bay include a sandy bottom, lazy river, a sandy beach area, three whirlpool spas, and lots of unique areas from calm waters, to waterfalls, to areas where the water swirls around you.

Even though we don’t own there, we have been lucky enough to stay at Disney’s Beach Club Villas three times. I do want to make note that for all three of these trips, we have had the rarity of never experiencing a busy Stormalong Bay. Our first stay was during Hurricane Dorian in September 2019 , our second was in December of 2019 when it was too cold for most people to swim, and our third was just last month (October of 2020) with the hotel side of Beach Club closed. Those factors contributed to us never fully experiencing what a crowded Stormalong Bay might be like.

With that being said, Stormalong Bay is amazing. I really wish there were more resort pool complexes like this at Disney. It has something for everyone. The sandy beach area is great for children, the lazy river is a great place to float around and unwind, the overall size offers lots of little spots to hang out, and there are tons of ledges to sit along the pool and lounge chairs outside the pool. Stormalong Bay is only available to guests staying at Yacht or Beach Club. At the entrance, a cast member will scan your Magic Band and give you a wristband so it feels very exclusive to be there. At night, the pool area lights come on and create a beautiful setting. While I know it can get crowded during the day, arriving first thing in the morning or swimming later in the evening is usually a great way to avoid crowds. We have had a fantastic time every chance we have gotten to swim at Stormalong Bay. We usually arrive early in the morning and have oftentimes felt like we had the lazy river to ourselves. There are a lot of food options easily accessible from the pool as well. We have grabbed snacks from both Hurricane Hanna’s and The Market at Ale & Compass. You could also grab some to-go from the Beach Club Marketplace, Ale & Compass , or get a sweet treat from the Beaches & Cream walk-up window.

If there are any downsides to Stormalong Bay, there are very few. I know during peak times when we aren’t in the middle of a pandemic, it can get busy. Also, the place is a maze. It can be challenging (but fun) to try to figure out your way around. I did find the Flying Jib slide to be a little on the rough side, but it was still enjoyable. Those things are minor compared to all that Stormalong Bay has to offer. It’s hard not to love this pool and it’s a huge draw to choosing Beach Club Villas if you are lucky enough to find availability. As a DVC owner, we are looking to many more great adventures at Stormalong Bay.

We would love to know your thoughts on Disney’s Stormalong Bay Pool! Drop us a comment below and let us know what you think.

Amy Krieger

Amy loves Disney theme parks, resorts, and the beloved films. She and her husband, Paul, are originally from West Virginia (near Pittsburgh, PA). They now live in Central Florida with their Spanish galgos, Hermes, Cinders, and Emerson. As DVC members and WDW Annual Passholders, they visit Disney properties as often as possible. Amy is the Manager of Loan Origination for Monera Financial, a World of DVC company, where she helps buyers finance DVC contracts. Amy and Paul own DVC at some of their favorite resorts: BoardWalk, Grand Floridian, Animal Kingdom, Polynesian, and Grand Californian. Another passion for them is cruising. They love both Disney and Royal Caribbean cruises. It's a great way to travel and see parts of the world.

5 thoughts on “ DVC Swimming Pool Spotlight: Stormalong Bay ”

Always loved stormalong bay as a kid, but I will admit that the slide could be rough on your back if ridden multiple times in a row.

I finally experienced staying at the Beach Club Villas last month. And as a big-time pool guy, I can definitely confirm Stormalong Bay is far superior than to everything else on Walt Disney property. I’d still take Aulani’s pool complex in Hawaii. (that lazy river is ridiculously awesome), but nothing else in Disney’s Pool World comes close to Stormalong Bay. Thanks for bringing back great memories.

We own at BCV because we fell in love with SAB. Although SAB can get busy, we’ve never found it to be too crowded. It’s like Epcot: it’s so big that you can always find room to spread out! It can be hard a pool chair if you’re very particular about where you sit. If you’re not, you can always find a few chairs together, especially if you look upstairs. The only other issue is that it’s so big, you have to keep a close watch if your kids are little and not swimming yet. However, if you’re not picky about where you sit and your kids are old enough to be independent at the pool, SAB is the best pool at Disney, and we’ve never regretted our decision to buy at BCV because of it.

It’s a great pool, if you can find a chair. Stayed at the Beach Club twice for 10 days each trip ( both in August). Unless we went to the pool early in the morning or in the evening, it was EXTREMELY difficult to find more than one lounge chair. We won’t stay there again because of this, even the quiet pools were crowded. We prefer Bay Lake Tower or Copper Creek/Boulder Ridge. Again, a great pool if it’s not crowded, otherwise it’s people on top of each other both in the pool and on the pool deck.

We own all our contracts at BCV and stay there almost every time. As long as it’s warm and sunny, we’re at SAB at some point every day. My wife made me buy the contract, but she was right… as usual. 🙂

Comments are closed.

Discover more from DVC Fan

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Skip to right header navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar

Plan Your Dream Trip To Disney!

Visiting Disney World in 2025: What to Know Before You Go!!

August 23, 2024 // by Brandi Lyons

If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World in 2025, then there are some things you need to know! There have been so many announcements, updates, and renovations that will change how your trip may look. Disney World is forever in a state of change like Walt wanted, and 2025 is bringing lots of change!

Keep reading to find out how the changes to the hotels and attractions may affect your trip, and to see how some of the changes will even affect how you plan your rides during the day! We have exactly what you need to know when planning a trip to Disney in 2025.

large grey, pink and blue castle against a blue sky with people walking in front of it disney world in 2025

There are so many changes coming to Disney World, and some of them have already started! We are going to break down these Disney changes in 2025 by category so that you can be better prepared for your upcoming trip.

New Themed Areas and Attractions

Even though we already knew some of the changes coming to Disney World in 2025, the announcements at the recent D23 convention added tons more to that list! Disney World will be updating A LOT over the next few years and here’s what will change the most in 2025:

Dinoland U.S.A. will be extinct

Pun intended here, but it’s true: Dinoland U.S.A. at Animal Kingdom will be demolished sometime between the Fall of 2024 and throughout 2025. Disney announced that area will be becoming a new themed area called “Tropical Americas,” which will showcase “Encanto,” a new carousel, and “Indiana Jones.” In fact, “Indiana Jones” will be replacing the DINOSAUR ride.

giant green dinosaur statue in front of a beige building and flowers changes for Disney World in 2025

Zootopia takes over “It’s Tough to be a Bug”

In Winter of 2025, “Zootopia” will be taking over the theater underneath of the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom. “It’s Tough to be a Bug” will be leaving. The new show will be called “Zooptopia: Better Zoogether!” and hopefully it won’t terrify children the way it’s predecessor did.

Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America closing

One of the announcements made at D23 was the expansion of Frontierland at Magic Kingdom, and the inclusion of “Cars” and their world of Radiator Springs. This does mean that Tom Sawyer Island, Rivers of America, and the Liberty Belle Riverboat will be demolished at some point during 2025.

We don’t have an exact date, but we know this entire area will be closing during 2025. If you’re used to escaping the crowds on Tom Sawyer Island, that won’t be an option for much longer!

Reimagined Test Track will Open

In 2024, Test Track went down for refurbishment and reimagining. The “new” Test Track will be opening during 2025 – no exact date yet. What we do know is that new scenes will be added, and the reimagined ride will take into account technology of the past, present, and future. We know everyone will be happy for this exhilarating ride to be back though!

blue and black sign that reads test track in front of metal scaffolding changes to Disney World in 2025

Nighttime Parade Coming to Magic Kingdom

Summer of 2025 will be bringing a nighttime parade to the Magic Kingdom! I know I have missed the Main Street Electrical Parade and will be happy for a new parade! The Starlight Parade will be debuting sometime in Summer, and this will be a great reason to plan your trip for later in the year. This is one of the Disney World changes in 2025 that can definitely affect when you want to visit.

New Lounges Coming to Disney World

Both Magic Kingdom and EPCOT will be getting new lounges! Disney in 2025 will definitely look a lot more adult friendly with these two lounges being added.

Magic Kingdom will be getting a “Pirates of the Caribbean” tavern, and will offer pirate treats and drinks for both adults and children – but we definitely think this will be a great place for adults looking to relax.

EPCOT will be getting a Spaceship Earth themed lounge, and both the D23 announcement and concept art for this lounge leads us to believe it will be elegant, relaxing, and even have a place to watch the fireworks!

large silver geometric sphere against a cloudy sky and palm tree

Hotel Renovations and Perks

Disney World in 2025 won’t just look different in the parks, the hotels will also have changes and updates, so that guests will be more comfortable and have even more places to stay when visiting!

Bay Lake Tower Being Refurbished

Bay Lake Tower, the sister DVC hotel to the Contemporary Resort, will be undergoing a major refurbishment from September 2024 – September 2025. This will definitely change the number of available rooms, the noise levels, and accessibility of this hotel. This tends to be a more affordable way to stay at the Contemporary, and we don’t think this will be a great choice of resort until the refurbishments are over.

Stormalong Bay and Shipwreck Pool Undergo Maintenance

Stormalong Bay at the Yacht Club/Beach Club is the best pool in Disney World, and unfortunately won’t be available from January 2025 – June 2025. The lazy river, sand bottom pool, and adjoining Shipwreck Pool area will be closed, and honestly, this is a reason not to skip staying at Yacht Club or Beach Club for the first half of 2025.

Proximity to EPCOT is great, but not having the amazing pool makes the value not great for these hotels. There are some other great pools at Disney World that will be open, and maybe check them out for your Disney World in 2025 trip! We have our favorites here !

woman in inner tube in large blue pool with white and gray buildings behind her

Island Tower at Polynesian Will Be Open

Opening December 17, 2024, the new Island Tower section of the Polynesian Villas & Bungalows will finally be open! This means you are able to book these brand new rooms for 2025, and it gives us another DVC (Disney Vacation Club) option for Disney World.

These rooms can sleep up to 9, and will allow both DVC and non-DVC members to stay surrounded by the beauty of Polynesia.

New Cabins at Fort Wilderness

The updated cabins at Fort Wilderness opened Summer 2024, which means they will be available for Disney World stays in 2025. They are more modern and brighter, but still have the rustic feel lovers of the Fort are used to. These are still a great choice for those looking for a little more space and an upscale camping experience at Disney.

Fantasia Pool Being Refurbished

The large Fantasia Pool at All-Star Movies Resort will be under refurbishment from January 2025 – April 2025. If you’re staying there, and have kiddos who love the pool, just know this large pool won’t be available. You will still be able to use the Duck Pond Pool, but it’s not as large or as close to the preferred rooms.

Extended Park Hours will Stay!

On-site guests at the Disney Resorts will continue to get Early Theme Park Entry, being able to enter the parks in the morning earlier than non-resort guests. Deluxe Resort and Deluxe Villa Resort guests will also still get to enjoy Extended Evening Theme Park Hours throughout 2025 as well! These are great reasons to stay on Disney property during 2025, and we have our other reasons why here !

Complimentary Water Park Ticket

One of the biggest announcements and changes that will affect your Disney in 2025 planning is the complimentary water park ticket for resort guests! Resort guests will receive a complimentary water park ticket for each member of their group for their check-in day.

This will definitely encourage guests to get to their hotel as early as possible, and is a great way to keep guests from trying to check-in early to be honest. Disney is giving them tickets to go somewhere, and letting them enjoy the water parks for free.

DVC members, Annual Passholders, and Cast Members can take advantage of this offer as well! Also, keep in mind that typically only one of the water parks is open at a time, so the one you’ll be visiting will be based on which is open at the time. You can check out our water park thoughts here too!

people in bathing suits in wave pool in from of blue sky and rock work

Transportation Options are Crucial for Your Stay

Planning where to stay based off the transportation options is always important, but will be even more important for Disney World in 2025. There are more rides, more areas, and Disney World is forever growing. This means more time in the park, more walking, and needing to make smarter transportation options.

Disney resorts offer varying levels of access to the parks, and varying types of transportation. We definitely think it’s better to choose the resorts that offer multiple options to get to and from the parks, especially for those will little ones and accessibility needs. Being able to walk or take a boat, Skyliner, or Monorail over the Disney busses will greatly enhance your Disney World experience.

Also, just a note: though no announcements have been made, the Skyliner tends to go under annual maintenance at the end of every January. It’s best not to stay at one of the Skyliner resorts at this time, becasue you won’t be able to use this helpful form of transportation.

teal and yellow gondolas for disney skyliner disney world in 2025

New Lightning Lane Pass System

We aren’t surprised that the Genie+ system had a short life, and it has already been replaced! For your trip in 2025, you’ll be using the new Lightning Lane pass system. We are still using the single Lightning Lanes we are used to, but Disney has added the Lightning Lane Multipass.

Guests will be able to purchase this in advance to their trip, and are able to choose attractions and arrival windows before they purchase to be sure that it’s worth the money for them. You will also be able to make plans for multiple days at one time.

For Multipass you are able to choose 3 experiences and arrival windows in a theme park in advance. And for the high demand rides that aren’t available on Mulitpass, you can still buy up to 2 single Lightning Lanes per pass per day.

You’ll also still receive ride photos and videos, and have access to the PhotoPass lenses with the purchase of Lightning Lanes.

sign with time and "lightning lane" written on it disney world in 2025 changes

Disney Room Cancellation Policy Changes

The last big change that might affect your Disney World in 2025 trip would be the changes to the room cancellation policy. Beginning January 1, 2025, if you have booked a room-only reservation (not a package), you will have less days to cancel your reservation.

Instead of the 5 days before your trip, you will have to cancel at least 8 days before your trip to receive a full refund with no penalty. This means you’ll have to be very sure you are going when you book, and if you need to cancel, then make sure you do it earlier now to avoid any penalties.

blue and white bed in hotel room with beige carpet, blue walls, and a table and chair set

We hope that the tips and information here help you plan your Disney World in 2025 trip a little better! We know it can be stressful and confusing, and there’s a lot of information to keep track of, but knowing the changes in advance can help you better plan and pick the best resort, rides, and theme parks to visit in 2025!

A girl and her friend pose at the jaws shark after asking someone to take a photo for them: this helped them save money at Universal Orlando because they opted out of the expensive photo pass.

The 17 best Disney World hotels for your 2024 stay

Things have certainly changed since Walt Disney World opened more than 50 years ago . There used to be just a handful of hotels and one theme park. Now, you have the magic — and the challenge — of choice. There are more than 25 hotels to choose from and multiple parks to visit when you embark on a Disney vacation.

Related: The best travel credit cards

Choosing the best Disney hotel is a fun challenge, but a challenge nonetheless. The resorts at Walt Disney World range from those with views of live zebras and giraffes to treehouse villas and even log cabins in the woods.

When you choose a Disney World hotel, you not only stay in the "Disney bubble" but also gain access to the parks 30 minutes early each morning. Additionally, you can purchase Lightning Lane passes for newer rides — like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Tron / Lightcycle Run — before non-resort guests, starting up to seven days before you check in. This means you'll have a better chance of snagging those coveted ride passes.

Related: 14 reasons to stay at a Walt Disney World Resort property

Still, not all Disney resorts are created equal. Fortunately, TPG is here to help sort through the best hotel options at Walt Disney World. We've tried dozens of Disney-area hotels and carefully considered the best (and less-than-stellar) features of nearly every on-property resort to bring you this list.

Whether you're looking to be treated like a fairy tale princess or a grown-up who happens to be staying near a theme park, Disney World has you covered.

Here are our top picks:

Best Deluxe Disney World resorts: Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge , Disney's Contemporary Resort , Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney's Wilderness Lodge
Best Moderate Disney World resorts: Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter , The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Gran Destino Tower at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
Best Value Disney World resorts: Disney's Art of Animation Resort and Disney's Pop Century Resort
Best Disney World resort pools: Disney's Yacht Club Resort and Disney's Beach Club Resort , Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
Best Disney World resorts for large families: Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa , Disney's All-Star Music Resort
Best Disney World resorts for adults: Disney's BoardWalk Inn , Disney's Riviera Resort

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

Best Deluxe Disney World resorts

The cream of the crop among Disney World hotels in terms of amenities, quality and price are the Deluxe resorts. These resorts have multiple on-site full-service restaurants and extensive pool areas with waterslides. Some are within walking or monorail distance of the theme parks.

All of this comes at a cost, though. Deluxe Disney resorts can range from $400 to $800 per night for a standard room. Renting Disney Vacation Club points can help bring this cost down at times, but a Deluxe resort stay will be an investment compared to the other tiers of Disney hotels.

As mentioned, Deluxe resorts are the most expensive of Disney's hotels.

While some offer luxury amenities like spas and fine dining venues, others emphasize great themes and proximity to the parks. You also get access to select parks two hours later than everyone else when staying in a Deluxe resort on eligible nights.

A true safari involves incredibly long flights and the possibility of malaria pills. For a safari-style vacation closer to home, there's Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge .

Offering an unforgettable wildlife experience within U.S. borders, Animal Kingdom Lodge is its own ecosystem away from the hustle and bustle of most of the Disney World complex.

The soaring ceilings at Jambo House are adorned with traditional decor. If you want to see giraffes, zebras, ostriches and a host of other animals, all you have to do is merely walk past the lobby's expansive windows.

Dining at this Deluxe resort is another highlight of a stay here. Boma and Jiko are excellent choices if you want to experience an authentic African meal at the resort.

Look into the nighttime Starlight Safari , which comes with loaner night vision devices, for a unique experience.

The property is an example of an excellent time to rent DVC points, especially if your family wants more space while saving money. During low seasons, rooms start at just 7 points per night, with DVC points typically available to rent from David's Vacation Club for $20 to $25 per point.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge average around $485 per night.

Disney's Contemporary Resort is another original Disney World resort from the 1971 opening. It's about as close as you can get to The Magic Kingdom without pitching a tent inside the gates (and subsequently getting kicked out by security).

It may have been built over five decades ago, but its amenities have recently been updated and the rooms now sport an "incredible" new look. While the theme and renovations are a big step up, the main draw of this property is undoubtedly its monorail design and Magic Kingdom-adjacent location.

We prefer tower rooms over garden-wing options as they are more centrally located to the amenities and monorail, and many offer superb views of The Magic Kingdom's nightly fireworks.

When you've worked up an appetite, you'll find a few of our favorite Disney World restaurants on-site, including Chef Mickey's. At this popular eatery, you can dine with characters like Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and Pluto. For something more upscale, there's California Grill. If you time it right, it has some of the best views of The Magic Kingdom fireworks around.

Related: The 5 best Disney World character meals you've never heard of — and how to book them

If you're ready for a splurge-level stay at the Contemporary, there is also a club level where bites and beverages from the aforementioned restaurants are included.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Contemporary Resort average around $575 per night.

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is arguably the most traditional and iconic of Disney World's high-end hotels. You won't find many bright, in-your-face character themes here, but you will have access to some of Disney's most upscale amenities, including a spa and the fanciest (and priciest) restaurant at Disney.

It's one of Disney World's most expensive resorts thanks to its proximity to The Magic Kingdom, top-notch facilities, and over-the-top Christmas displays, including a gingerbread house in the lobby.

Fortunately, the Grand Floridian is undergoing a resort-wide renovation involving converting one of the hotel buildings into beautiful DVC studios. So, there's now one more reason to visit.

Dining is another highlight here. The acclaimed Victoria & Albert's experience is unparalleled, with a dress code and a no-little-kids policy to match. For an equally excellent but more affordable option, grab a cocktail or mocktail at the "Beauty and the Beast"-inspired Enchanted Rose bar on the second floor of the Grand Floridian's lobby.

Related: More rides and fewer crowds: What to expect at Disney After Hours

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa average around $750 per night.

A short drive or boat ride away from The Magic Kingdom, Disney's Wilderness Lodge is equal parts Great Wolf Lodge , Yellowstone National Park and Disney magic. There are great attractions and restaurants on-site, including a water feature that starts in the lobby and becomes a creek that feeds into one of two outdoor pools.

For a fun, reasonably priced family dining experience, try Whispering Canyon Cafe — and be aware that if you ask for ketchup, you may get a lot of ketchup. If rare Disney characters are more your jam, enjoy dinner with the Evil Queen at Story Book Dining at Artist Point .

Those who want more space and ambience than a standard hotel room should reserve one of the Copper Creek Cabins in the woods adjacent to the Wilderness Lodge or the truly spectacular two-bedroom Yosemite Suite . Both are pricey, but we promise you'll love staying in either option.

If you do opt for standard rooms (or even club-level rooms ), the good news is that Disney's Wilderness Lodge is generally one of the more affordable of the Deluxe Disney resorts. So, you can rest easy knowing you're paying a little less than average for Disney's high-end properties.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Wilderness Lodge average around $500 per night.

Best Moderate Disney World resorts

If you want a balance of price and amenities, the Moderate category of Disney resorts can be a sweet spot. At Moderate Disney resorts, there are some full-service restaurants, more on-site amenities, waterslides at the pools, and a great variety of themes and locations to choose from.

Expect rates at these hotels to range from $250 to $400 on most nights for a standard room.

One of the best Moderate resorts at Disney World is Port Orleans. We're especially partial to the French Quarter side, with its charming wrought-iron railings, bubbling fountains and an eatery serving tasty Mickey-shaped beignets.

This property is much more compact than other Moderate resorts like Disney's Coronado Springs Resort and Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. This makes everything from parking and catching a Disney bus to grabbing dinner that much easier.

It isn't the newest or fanciest option in Disney's resort portfolio, but it is a calm and lovely balance of theming and easily accessible amenities. Although you'll need a bus or car to get from this resort to any of the Disney World theme parks, you can catch the free boat to Disney Springs for shopping and dining.

In addition to the property's relaxing vibe and manageable size, the greatest asset of Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is the price.

Rooms here are often more affordable than what you'll find at other Moderate properties, most likely because it's not connected to the theme parks by anything other than ground transportation (and Minnie Vans ).

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter average around $300 per night.

One of Disney World's lesser-known Moderate resorts is also one of its most entertaining.

Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort has plenty of campsites for tents and spots for recreational vehicles .

However, if you're not interested in either, The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort are an excellent choice. It gives you the best of many worlds regarding space, price and resort activities — especially if you're not planning to spend all your time at the theme parks. The cabins sleep up to six and offer a queen-size bed, a set of bunk beds and a relatively comfortable pullout sofa bed. And soon, Disney will replace the current cabins with 350 all-new cabins .

Trust us, there is one essential Fort Wilderness expense you'll want to budget for — golf carts .

It costs $65 to $84 per day to rent one. However, it makes it much easier to travel to the Meadow Trading Post for snacks, the docks for transportation to The Magic Kingdom, and other parts of the 700-acre property. Lock in your golf cart reservation as far in advance as possible since they're known to sell out.

Fort Wilderness has a nonstop list of activities you probably didn't know you could do at Disney World, including pony rides, archery, fishing, and rides in wagons and horse-drawn carriages.

When the day winds down, you can also check out the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue , a lively performance full of dancing, singing and comedic moments.

Rates for standard cabins at The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Lodge average around $460 per night.

Disney's Coronado Springs Resort is the poster child of a Moderate Disney property. It's an older resort with two-story buildings spread across a large area.

Complimentary theme park transportation is limited to buses, and on-site dining venues are mostly quick-service options, given the resort's large convention clientele. Additionally, the rooms are on the smaller side, though they were recently renovated.

But one thing changed a couple of years ago that catapulted part of this property onto our favorites list: the new Gran Destino Tower .

This "hotel within a hotel" has a stunning lobby and an equally snazzy lobby bar. If you're looking for a completely different perspective, let an elevator whisk you up to the 16th floor, where the rooftop Dahlia Lounge awaits — along with an award-winning wine list. Gran Destino Tower is light on a Disney theme, but otherwise, its accommodations are on par with many Deluxe resorts.

Gran Destino is also the only Moderate option at Disney World that has a club lounge, should you prefer an exclusive space to visit and grab refreshments throughout your stay.

Rates for standard rooms at the Gran Destino Tower at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort average around $400 per night.

Best Value Disney World resorts

Value Disney resorts are the most affordable Disney World hotels.

Nightly rates start around $125 and increase to about $300 on peak dates. None of these hotels are walkable from the theme parks, but some are close to the Skyliner. Others require bus transportation.

Value Disney hotels don't have full-service restaurants or fun extras like waterslides, but they do offer grab-and-go food outlets, lively pools and colorful themes.

Disney's Art of Animation Resort is the king of Value resorts at Disney World.

The resort features bright colors and memorable Disney cartoon characters. It's also accessible from both Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios thanks to the Disney Skyliner gondola system .

Art of Animation really shines with its family suites, which provide a lot more room and have three beds in each suite (one traditional bed, one Murphy bed and a pullout sofa bed). The family suites have your choice of "The Lion King," "Cars" and "Finding Nemo" themes, while standard rooms feature decor inspired by "The Little Mermaid."

When it comes to pools, the Big Blue Pool at Art of Animation is actually the largest option available at any Disney World resort.

While the food here won't blow you away, Landscape of Flavors is a reliable cafeteria-style venue that can be a nice, easy option for families.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort average around $240 per night.

Disney's Pop Century Resort is across from Art of Animation. While it doesn't have our favorite theme (it's themed to bygone decades), it is usually the lowest-priced Disney resort that isn't one of the All-Star properties.

We generally prefer it to the All-Star resorts, as Pop Century is a stand-alone property that doesn't have to share a bus service. It's less likely to be packed with thousands of cheerleaders and children's sports groups. In addition to the included bus service to the parks, it also sits on the Skyliner route, so you can soar in a gondola to various parks and resorts.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Pop Century Resort average around $200 per night.

Best Disney World resort pools

Nothing beats an afternoon dip in your hotel's pool, so if you want to know which Disney resort hotels have the best pools, here are our top picks.

Disney's Beach Club Resort and its sister property, Disney's Yacht Club Resort , share access to Stormalong Bay, which offers top-notch poolside fun for the whole family.

Both resorts have the distinct feel of a beach in an otherwise landlocked resort thanks to sand-bottomed pools, a lazy river, a pirate ship and a wicked waterslide, among other amenities that will keep young swimmers entertained for hours.

Related: The best pools at Walt Disney World

The Yacht Club is marginally more convenient to the large pool complex, but the Beach Club is a little closer to Epcot. Choose accordingly. No matter which property you pick, don't miss the huge sundaes at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop, steps from the pool.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Yacht and Beach Clubs average around $540 per night.

Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort is one of Disney's Moderate resorts and one of the largest. Because the resort is so spread out, there are multiple pools across the property — six in total. The main Fuentes del Morro Pool is themed to resemble a Spanish fortress, with two waterslides, a zero-entry area, a 12-person hot tub and a pirate-themed splash area for kids.

The resort has a colorful island style, and some guest rooms recently received a Little Mermaid makeover. Despite the resort's size, it does offer convenient transportation options, including bus service and a Disney Skyliner station that can take you to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

Rates at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort average around $300 per night.

One of the original Disney World resort hotels inspired by Walt Disney himself, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort sits on the monorail only a few minutes from The Magic Kingdom. Yet, it transports you to a lush Pacific island the moment you enter. It's such a great property we almost warn against staying at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort because it will set the bar pretty high for future Disney resort stays.

At "the Poly," you'll find a couple of our favorite Disney restaurants. Notably, there's Ohana — a Polynesian-inspired dining venue within the resort's main building that serves delectable noodles and a mouthwatering bread pudding — among other options on the family-style, all-you-care-to-enjoy menu.

There are plenty of activities and amenities on the grounds, such as free outdoor movies at night and a 142-foot waterslide that drops riders into the main Lava Pool (there is a secondary quiet pool, as well). There's also a large splash area with several smaller waterslides for younger guests, a zero-entry section, a separate quiet pool and a nearby stand to grab Dole Whip. The icing on the on-site Dole Whip is being able to watch The Magic Kingdom fireworks from the pool in the evenings as the perfectly timed music pipes in.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort average around $640 per night.

Best Disney World resorts for large families

Large families and groups can really rack up a bill when visiting Disney World since most on-property rooms are designed for no more than four or five people. As a result, your choices tend to be limited if you have at least five or six people in your group. Fortunately, a few resorts offer plenty of space for larger families.

Related: The best Orlando hotels for large families

Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is another DVC property, with room sizes ranging from studio suites to one-, two- and three-bedroom villas. Deluxe studio rooms have a kitchenette and a balcony or patio, and villas have separate bedrooms, a full kitchen, in-room laundry and a balcony or patio.

The resort also has multiple pools, bike rentals, tennis and basketball courts, and a Community Hall with movies, video games and daily activities like crafts and games.

In the woods behind Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa are several Treehouse Villas that sleep up to nine people. Offering three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a kitchen, these spacious accommodations can easily fit an extended family.

Rates for Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa average around $500 per night, while the Treehouse Villas average around $1,300 per night.

Best Disney World resorts for adults

We love Disney, but we're not afraid to admit that having a brief break from its intensity is sometimes nice. Luckily, a couple of options are ideal for those who want to stay near the magic without living with Mickey and his friends 24 hours a day.

Disney World's newest stand-alone hotel is easily one of the larger resort's best options for adults who want to balance a Disney trip with some less in-your-face Disney elements.

On the Disney Skyliner route, Disney's Riviera Resort offers easy access to Disney's Hollywood Studios and Epcot without placing you right in the heart of all the theme park action.

The real highlight of this easygoing property, though, is its Mediterranean vibe. The blue-and-white decor, music and cuisine will transport you to the Mediterranean coast.

You'll find all the usual Disney amenities at this Deluxe resort, but it's just a touch more refined and grown-up without being stuffy.

We're serious Riviera fans thanks in part to its design, which includes everything from "Tangled"- and "Peter Pan"-inspired mosaics to marble bathrooms that may be the nicest in all of Disney.

Don't worry if you want to bring the kids, though. There's plenty for them to enjoy, including poolside gelato, a waterslide and our favorite toddler splash area at Disney World.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Riviera Resort average around $500 per night.

Disney's BoardWalk Inn is a DVC resort along Disney's BoardWalk in the Epcot resort area. That means you can easily walk to Epcot to eat and drink global cuisine around the World Showcase or to Disney's Hollywood Studios to fly the Millennium Falcon at Galaxy's Edge. The resort also offers water taxi and bus service around Disney World.

Related: Is a Disney annual pass worth it?

Guest rooms range from standard rooms to multi-bedroom villas, and the resort has three pools. You can splash and slide at the Luna Park Pool (or soak in the hot tub) or head for one of the quieter leisure pools.

This resort is all about location. In addition to being close to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, Disney's BoardWalk Inn is close to the dining, shopping and nightlife that line Disney's BoardWalk area. When you are done visiting the parks, you can visit Abracadabar, a magic-themed cocktail lounge, or Jellyrolls, a dueling piano bar.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's BoardWalk Inn average around $600 per night.

Bottom line

Choosing the best resort hotel at Disney World gets easier once you identify your budget and priorities.

Do you want a great pool, more space, proximity to the parks or perhaps an immersive theme? No matter what is most important to you, you'll find a Disney property that will likely satisfy your needs.

Whether you're itching to splash around in the Stormalong Bay pool complex at Disney's Yacht Club and Beach Club resorts, stretch your budget at Disney's Pop Century Resort, retreat to a cabin at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort or get an iconic eyeful of the monorail coming through Disney's Contemporary Resort, there's a Disney resort that will have every member of your family excited to be on vacation at Walt Disney World.

19 Disney World secrets that can add 'pixie dust' to your vacation
Tips for visiting Disney World in 2023: 18 ways to save money and have more fun
Does Disney Genie+ have enough magic to make it worth the added cost?
9 things you should never, ever do at Disney

Close 

Does the disney palace hotel have the lazy river pool? ”

Useful 1 Useful Please Log In to mark this question useful.
Save Answer Please Log In to view your saved answers.
 Pinterest
 Facebook
 Email

Meet the Panelist: Alison, Louisiana

Thank a Panelist

Share a message of thanks with the knowledgeable panelist who provided a personalized answer to your disney vacation question..

256 Characters Remaining

Please do not include personal information such as full names and reservation numbers in your message.

Whom do you want to thank?
Close Submit

Thanks for submitting your comment!

Didn't find what you were looking for click the ask a question button to open the ask a question dialogue box. if you are not logged in a dialogue box will appear to signin in order to ask a question., to submit your question, please log in now if you have not already done so., ask plandisney, discover the magic of a disney parks family vacation from one of our knowledgeable online panelists..

Please do not include personal information such as full names and reservation numbers in your question.

Relevant Tags Please select at least one tag related to your question from the choices below.

RadDatePicker

Title and navigation
Title and navigation
		August 2024

August 2024
	S	M	T	W	T	F	S
31
32
33
34
35
36

The menu below has been automatically set to the panelist you were reviewing, however, you can ask anyone on our panel.

Close Ask a Question Opens the Ask a Question dialog box.

Thanks for submitting your question!

You'll receive an email if your question is answered., please note.

Email communication is the only way we can notify you when your question has been answered. If you choose to opt-out of receiving emails, you will need to return to the site to check if your question has been answered.

Update Browser

For a better experience browsing this website, please download an updated version of Internet Explorer .

Or you can continue browsing without updating.

13 of the Best Hotels in Orlando for Kids

I f you travel with kids, chances are, you’ll be planning a trip to Orlando, Florida at some point. Orlando offers so many things for the entire family, including Walt Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove, and Universal Studios.

Regardless of your budget, there are so many great options for kid-friendly hotels in Orlando, Florida. Here are some of our favorites among the best Orlando resorts. We’ve only included hotels that we’ve actually stayed in on this list, so there are many other hotels in Orlando that could absolutely be appropriate for your vacation.

Disclosure: Over the years, I’ve been hosted at some, but not all, of these best family hotels. This post contains affiliate links and a click-through/purchase from one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no cost to you. I used to be a member of the Disney Parks Moms Panel, but all opinions are my own.

The Best Hotels in Orlando for Kids

Hyatt orlando international airport.

I’d always wanted to stay in a hotel in an airport, and have enjoyed several stays at the Hyatt Orlando International Airport. This hotel, which is located right in the airport terminal, is perfect for a pre-or post-cruise stay. It’s so convenient and offers an outdoor pool and several restaurants.

You’ll also have access to the restaurants in the pre-security area of the airport. Despite the location in the airport, the rooms are actually very comfortable and quiet. I always enjoy my stay there.

In addition to regular stays, the Hyatt Orlando International Airport also offers day stays. If you arrive early at the airport, or have a delayed flight, you’ll be able to pay a day rate to get access to a room for a day. In addition to the room, you’ll also have access to all of the amenities of the hotel. It’s a great way to relax.

Benefits and Features of the Hyatt Orlando International Airport

Location inside the airport
Convenient for cruises departing from Port Canaveral
Day stay rooms available
Outdoor pool

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotels Orlando Airport

If you’d like to stay by the airport but don’t want to stay IN the airport, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotels Orlando Airport is a great option. This hotel offers the great DoubleTree benefits (like complimentary chocolate chip cookies!), in a convenient location at a great price.

It’s located about 10 minutes from Orlando International Airport and 20 minutes from the Orlando theme parks. The hotel also offers an outdoor pool and has a 24-hour complimentary airport shuttle.

I wouldn’t necessarily stay at the DoubleTree for a full vacation (although you definitely could). It is a great spot if you want to be near the airport, however.

Benefits and Features DoubleTree by Hilton Hotels Orlando Airport

Very close to the airport
Shuttle to the airport
Hilton Honors and DoubleTree benefits

Disney Swan and Dolphin Resorts

Located on Disney property, but not owned by Disney, these sister resorts have many of the same benefits that on-property Disney resorts off. These resorts can often have better prices than similar-rated Disney properties, although they do have more of a business-hotel feel.

You’ll have complimentary access to transportation to all of the Disney theme parks. From this resort, you can walk to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Epcot, and the Boardwalk.

You could definitely spend an entire vacation at these hotels. There’s so much to do and there are some great amenities, including a gorgeous pool area.

Benefits and Features of the Swan and Dolphin Hotels

Complimentary Disney transportation
Located right on Disney property
Comfortable rooms
Outdoor pool complex

Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club

If you are looking for an on-property Disney resort that’s conveniently located, you may want to look at Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club. These sister resorts are located near Epcot’s World Showcase entrance and are a quick walk or boat ride away from Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and the Boardwalk.

There’s also a three-acre pool area called Stormalong Bay, which offers a water slide, lazy river, and sandy bottom pool. It’s definitely one of the best hotel pools in Orlando. These two resorts are considered deluxe Disney resorts and are among some of the most expensive resorts on property.

Other amenities include a fitness center, and arcade, tennis courts, and a salon. There are also several restaurants. Walt Disney World resort hotels also offer free parking at the hotels.

I find the Beach and Yacht Club to be one of the most convenient hotels, because of the walking access to two separate theme parks. But you may also want to plan a free day just to spend some time at the resort because the pool is so fantastic.

Benefits and Features of the Disney Beach and Yacht Club

Walkable to Hollywood Studios and EPCOT
Amazing outdoor pool area
Access to lots of restaurants
Beautiful Disney theming

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

This recently renovated resort is one of the best Disney properties for young families. It’s located on the monorail loop, so you can take a monorail to the Magic Kingdom right from the resort. The adjacent Ticket and Transportation Center offers a monorail to EPCOT and a bus service to the Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios .

The Polynesian has multiple swimming pools, several delicious restaurants, and so much more. It’s a big resort, so definitely call to make a request if you have a specific building in mind. Like some of the other Disney Resorts, you could easily spend a full day just at the resort enjoying the pool area.

Benefits and Features of the Disney Polynesian Village Resort

Located on the monorail on Disney World property
Easy access to some great Disney restaurants
Fun theme the whole family will love
Fantastic outdoor pool area

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

This Disney Value resort is one of the newest hotels on the property. The theme at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is so kid-friendly, with areas themed after the Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, Cars, and the Lion King.

Although it’s a value resort, only one of the sections, the Little Mermaid, has standard hotel rooms. The rest of the resort has some really nice family suites, with a living area, a master bedroom, and a small kitchenette. They offer a lot more space for a family.

Benefits and Features of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Fun Finding Nemo-themed pool
Family suites throughout much of the resort
Realistic kid-friendly themes
Disney Skyliner access to Hollywood Studios and EPCOT

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

In my opinion, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of the most kid-friendly hotels in Orlando. If you stay here, I’d definitely recommend getting a Savannah-view room, which is a bit more expensive. However, you’ll be able to see animals right from your hotel room’s balcony.

We first stayed there when my kids were little, and they absolutely loved all of the animals. It’s definitely one of my favorite hotels.

Guests staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge have to take bus transportation to the four theme parks, Disney Springs, and the two water parks. However, it’s worth it because it’s such a unique, beautiful resort.

Benefits and Features of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Unique animal viewing experience (get a savanna view room if you can)
Deluxe resort amenities
Great restaurants

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Another incredibly convenient hotel for a Walt Disney World vacation is Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This modern resort, located on the monorail loop, is adjacent to the Magic Kingdom, making it a great place to stay if you are planning on spending a lot of time at that park.

The Contemporary has several buildings, including the main tower, the garden wing, and Bay Lake Tower , a Disney Vacation Club property. There are loads of amenities on the property for guests, including pools, an arcade, and multiple restaurants.

Guests are able to take a short walk from the resort right to the Magic Kingdom. This is especially helpful at the end of the night when you’ll be able to go right to your hotel after a long day at the park.

Benefits and Features of Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Walkable to the Magic Kingdom
Fun theme with the monorail running right through the center of the main tower
Monorail access to EPCOT
Great nearby restaurants and dining options

JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes

This beautiful property is perfect for a luxury Orlando vacation. The JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, and the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes are sister resorts that share amenities, which include a Greg Norman Signature Golf Course, a Ritz-Carlton spa, a Lazy River, and many fabulous restaurants.

The property sits at the foot of the headwaters of the Florida Everglades, and guests can book a kayaking eco-tour through these tranquil and beautiful waters. My favorite amenity is the lazy river – it’s both peaceful and fun.

Because of the location on the headwaters of the Everglades, it really doesn’t feel like an Orlando hotel. Instead, it feels much more remote. Definitely plan to spend some time relaxing there.

Benefits and Features of the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes

Beautiful luxury hotel
Location right near the headwaters of the Florida Everglades
Fun pool complex
Fantastic service

Gaylord Palms

I’m a big fan of the Gaylord resort chain and have stayed at four of their current properties. The Gaylord Palms is a beautiful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the Orlando theme parks.

It’s got a small family water park, a space, several restaurants, and a game room, in a family-friendly, relaxing environment. Like the other Gaylord properties, everything is located in a gorgeous atrium, filled with plants.

Benefits and Features of the Gaylord Palms

Cypress Springs Water Park
Unique atrium hotel
Feels like a theme park
Lots of restaurant options

Orlando World Center Marriott

This resort is the largest Marriott-branded hotel in the world and one of the busiest hotels that I’ve ever stayed in. However, it doesn’t seem too overwhelming or crowded.

There’s a gorgeous pool area that you could spend a whole day at, with an outdoor swimming pool, water slides, and more. In addition, there are 11 different on-site restaurants including a grab-and-go market, an arcade, a spa, and much, much more. It feels like a small city and is a fun place to stay.

Benefits and Features of the Orlando World Center Marriott

Huge hotel with lots of amenities
Great water park
Fun activities
Marriott Bonvoy benefits

Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld

If your travel plans include Discovery Cove and/or SeaWorld, this resort is extremely convenient. SeaWorld is located right across the street, so you don’t need to drive or take a shuttle. The resort is very comfortable and offers nice-sized rooms (some with views of SeaWorld). There is also a pool area/water park for kids, an arcade, several restaurants, and a spa.

Benefits and Features of the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld

Across the street from SeaWorld
Beautiful lobby and atrium

Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek

We stayed at the Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek resort over Thanksgiving and absolutely loved our stay. I opted to upgrade to a Walt Disney World fireworks view room, so we were able to see the fireworks right from our room. The resort is convenient for a Disney stay.

Although it isn’t a Disney property, it’s located within the gates of Walt Disney World. Amenities include a shuttle right to the Walt Disney World theme parks, as well as a beautiful pool area with a lazy river. The Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek is located adjacent to the Waldorf Astoria Orlando.

Benefits and Features of the Signia by Hilton Bonnet Creek Resort

Located within the Disney World gates
Pool complex with lazy river
Located adjacent to the Waldorf with access to the spa
Lots of great restaurants and bars

The post 13 of the Best Hotels in Orlando for Kids appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

If you travel with kids, chances are, you’ll be planning a trip to Orlando, Florida at some point. Orlando offers so many things for the entire family, including Walt Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove, and Universal Studios. Regardless of your budget, there are so many great options for kid-friendly hotels in Orlando, Florida. Here …

IMAGES

Stormalong Bay Lazy River
Disney Yacht Club Resort
Disney Yacht Club Resort
Disney World Hotels with Lazy River
Disney Yacht Club Resort
Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resort Stormalong Bay POV Pool Tour Including Slide, Lazy River

COMMENTS

Pools at Disney's Yacht Club Resort
Hours and lifeguard availability vary by pool and are subject to change. For assistance with your Walt Disney World vacation, including resort/package bookings and tickets, please call (407) 939-5277. For Walt Disney World dining, please book your reservation online. 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM Eastern Time. Guests under 18 years of age must have ...
Which Disney Hotel has a Lazy River?
The only Walt Disney World Resort hotels with a lazy river are Disney's Beach Club Resort and Disney's Yacht Club Resort. There are lazy rivers at Disney's water parks, non-Disney hotels, and several more in the Orlando area. Here's what you need to know about which hotels have a lazy river at Disney World.
Pools at Disney's Beach Club Resort
Float down the lazy river on an inner tube, unwind in one of 3 whirlpool spas or simply relax on the elevated tanning deck. ... Disney's Yacht Club Resort pool—the 54,000-gallon Admiral pool—can be found in its own quiet garden area. A third pool—the 55,350-gallon Dunes Cove pool—is privately located at Disney's Beach Club Villas ...
The Resorts Gal Guide to Disney's Stormalong Bay (With Photos)
Pool Hours. Stormalong Bay is open daily from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. during the busier times of the year. Guests of either Disney's Yacht or Beach Club can access the pool during regular operating hours. Wristbands are provided at the gate, allowing guests to come and go from the pool.
5 Things to Know About Stormalong Bay at Walt Disney World's Yacht and
5 Things to Know About Stormalong Bay at Walt Disney World's Yacht and Beach Club. Walt Disney World, Walt Disney World Resorts | 0 comments. Share on Facebook Share. Share on Twitter Tweet. Share ... Be advised that the lazy river is deep at 8 feet so be sure to use a complementary life vest. The biggest surprise of all - spoiler alert ...
Get to Know Stormalong Bay: The Yacht & Beach Club Pool Area
Stormalong Bay, the pool complex shared by the Yacht & Beach Club, is 3+ areas of fun, nearly a waterpark unto itself. If you've got water lovers in your party, Stormalong Bay may be reason enough to make the Yacht or Beach Club your Disney resort of choice. Here's a tour. As a first step, take a look at our general guide to the Disney ...
Lazy River Pool at Disney Yacht and Beach Club
Check out the lazy river and whirlpool. The Disney Beach and Yacht Club Resort pool is the best we've ever experienced.-----...
Disney's Yacht Club Resort
For assistance with your Walt Disney World vacation, including resort/package bookings and tickets, please call (407) 939-5277. For Walt Disney World dining, please book your reservation online. 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM Eastern Time. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.
Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resort Stormalong Bay POV Pool Tour
Visit http://www.JeffLangeDVD.com or http://www.MouseSteps.com for more information.This is a swimmers POV pool tour of Stormalong Bay at Disney's Beach Club...
Disney's Yacht Club Resort
Yacht Club has Disney World's best pool - Stormalong Bay with a lazy river, fabulous water slide, and acres of water fun. Three other pools are available across Yacht Club and Beach Club resorts, for use by both Beach and Yacht Club guests.
Hotel with the best pool complex at Disney World: Review of Disney's
Disney's Yacht Club (1990) ... Dubbed Stormalong Bay, this pool complex has everything from a 230-foot waterslide to a lazy river, whirlpool, shallow splash area, toddler slide, hot tubs and more. It even has a sandy bottom in some of the areas, which feels so much nicer on your tired Disney feet than a hard surface. ...
Disney's Yacht Club Resort Review (Is it worth it?)
Float along the Lazy River. The Beach Club's main pool, Stormalong Bay, offers many fun features. One of our favorite things to do at the pool is to grab (free) tubes to float along the lazy river. ... Each evening, Disney Yacht Club guests can watch a movie under the stars. These family friendly movies are a great way to unwind after a long day.
Disney Yacht Club Resort at Disney World in Orlando Fl
Disney Yacht Club Resort, Deluxe Rooms, New England style on Crescent Lake, 3-acre Water Park style area and 230 foot water slide, lazy river
7 Reasons Why Stormalong Bay is the Best Disney World Feature Pool
Stormalong Bay is Really, Really Big. Stormalong Bay features 3 acres of aquatic activities! To give you an idea of how big that is, a football field is about 1.3 acres! Close to 800,000 gallons of water fill the entire area. That is a lot of water and a lot of fun! And this isn't just 3 acres of a boring swimming pool.
What Disney resorts have pools with lazy rivers
All of the pools are open to Guests of both the Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, and feature whirlpool spas. You can also find an AWESOME lazy river at Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park . Cross Country Creek is a 3000-foot-long lazy river that winds all around the park, through caves, under bridges, and past a forest.
Haven't Visited Disney's Stormalong Bay Yet? Here's What You're Missing
Further round the pool area, towards Disney's Yacht Club, take a plunge in one of the jacuzzis, whilst taking in the stunning views over Stormalong Bay and out towards Crescent Lake. There's also plenty of space to swim, in the quieter areas of the water park. If you really want to relax, then grab a tube and float along the lazy river.
Disney's Yacht Club Resort
Climb the mast of a life-size shipwreck and zip down one of the highest hotel waterslide at Walt Disney World Resort. Float down a lazy river, unwind in one of 3 whirlpool spas and soak up the sun on the elevated tanning deck. ... Disney's Yacht Club Resort pool—the 54,000-gallon Admiral pool—can be found in its own quiet garden area. A ...
DVC Swimming Pool Spotlight: Stormalong Bay
Stormalong Bay is three acres in size! The water slides sit atop a life-sized shipwreck replica. The Flying Jib slide is one of the highest hotel slides at Disney and is 230 feet long. The pool compex holds approximately 795,000 gallons of water! Some other cool features about Stormalong Bay include a sandy bottom, lazy river, a sandy beach ...
Disney Yacht Club Resort Recreation
Disney Yacht Club Resort Recreation, Stormalong Bay Water Park, water slide, lagoon-style pools, lazy river, bikes, movies under the stars
Disney Yacht Club Resort
Disney Yacht Club Resort Pool, 3-acre water park, three pools, Shipwreck-themed 230-foot water slide, a lazy river, multiple hot tubs
Visiting Disney World in 2025: What to Know Before You Go!!
Stormalong Bay at the Yacht Club/Beach Club is the best pool in Disney World, and unfortunately won't be available from January 2025 - June 2025. The lazy river, sand bottom pool, and adjoining Shipwreck Pool area will be closed, and honestly, this is a reason not to skip staying at Yacht Club or Beach Club for the first half of 2025.
Pools at Disney's Beach Club Resort
Float down the lazy river on an inner tube, unwind in one of 3 whirlpool spas or simply relax on the elevated tanning deck. ... Disney's Yacht Club Resort pool—the 54,000-gallon Admiral pool—can be found in its own quiet garden area. A third pool—the 55,350-gallon Dunes Cove pool—is privately located at Disney's Beach Club Villas ...
These are the 17 best Disney hotels in 2024
Disney's Beach Club Resort and its sister property, Disney's Yacht Club Resort, share access to Stormalong Bay, which offers top-notch poolside fun for the whole family. Both resorts have the distinct feel of a beach in an otherwise landlocked resort thanks to sand-bottomed pools, a lazy river, a pirate ship and a wicked waterslide, among other ...
Does the disney palace hotel have the lazy river pool?
Debra, the only Disney Resort hotel that has a lazy river is Disney's Beach Club Resort and Disney's Yacht Club Resort. The lazy river is housed at Stormalong Bay, which is shared by the two resort hotels. This aquatic area is also home to a waterslide and a sand-bottom pool.
13 of the Best Hotels in Orlando for Kids
Disney's Beach and Yacht Club. ... There's also a three-acre pool area called Stormalong Bay, which offers a water slide, lazy river, and sandy bottom pool. It's definitely one of the best ...
Billionaire sparks pushback to proposed lazy river at
The biggest change is a new pool facility, which includes a 3,557-square-foot pool with a beach area, as well as winding, 9,716-square-foot lazy river-style waterway, complete with beaches and a ...
Disney World Resorts with Lazy River and Water Slides
Disney World Resorts with Lazy River and Water Slides, Deluxe Beach Club, Yacht Club, Stormalong Bay, 3 Acre Water Parks, Water Slide

Which Disney Hotel has a Lazy River?

Where to Find Lazy Rivers in and around Walt Disney World and Orlando

Lazy Rivers at Disney World Resort Hotels

2. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

Lazy Rivers at Disney World’s Water Parks

Castaway Creek at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

Other Lazy Rivers in the Orlando Area

Lazy Rivers at Orlando Area Hotels

Lazy Rivers at Other Orlando Theme Parks

Related Posts:

Share This Page: Choose Your Platform!

Related Posts

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

The Resorts Gal Guide to Disney’s Stormalong Bay (With Photos)

Pool Details for Planning a Day at Stormalong Bay

The Sand Bottom Pool

The Lazy River

Stormalong Bay Water Slide (The Flying Jib)

Kiddie Pool (The Shipwreck Pool)

Cabanas at Stormalong Bay

Towels, Lockers, and Changing Areas at Stormalong Bay

Stormalong Bay Video

Disney’s Stormalong Bay Photos

Final Thoughts

Disney’s Beach Club Resort Review (The 2 Reasons This Resort is Our Favorite)

Disney’s Boardwalk Inn Review (By Resorts Gal)

Walt Disney World Swan Reserve Review (Why We Adore This Upscale Hotel)

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Review (Why We Love This Nautical-Themed Hotel)

Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Resort Review

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

5 Things to Know About Stormalong Bay at Walt Disney World’s Yacht and Beach Club

Ready to start planning your getaway?

Recent Posts

Recent Comments

Disney's Yacht Club Resort

What Makes This Resort Hotel Unique

Disney Skyliner Transportation

Outdoor Water Recreation Area

Yachtsman Steakhouse

Ship Shape Health Club

Dog-Friendly Accommodations

Need More Room?

More Magic for Your Stay

A More Magical Stay Starts with "Hey Disney!”

Disney Signature Services

Enhance Your Stay with the My Disney Experience App

Lightning Lane Passes

View Rooms and Prices

Hotel Address

Check Availability

Not on the Phone with a Cast Member?

TouringPlans

Disney's Yacht Club Resort

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Review (Is it worth it?)

Yacht Club Restaurants

Rooms

Prices at Yacht Club

Things to Do at Disney’s Yacht Club

See Epcot Fireworks

Take a Ride on the Skyliner

Eat Ice Cream

Dine with Characters

Float along the Lazy River

Play Games in the Arcade

Ride the Friendship Boats

Build Sandcastles

Make S’mores

Rent a Boat

Stroll along the Disney Boardwalk

Play Volleyball

Enjoy an Evening Movie

Play Mini Golf

Swim Some Laps

Join a Kid Friendly Party at the Pool

Play Tennis

Zoom Down Waterslides

Book a Fireworks Cruise

Transportation

Is Disney’s Yacht Club Worth It?

Similar Posts