The Island Tower Disney Polynesian Resort redefines Disney resort luxury with stunning rooms, lush design, and Polynesian flair.
Located along the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon, the Island Tower Disney Polynesian invites guests to embrace modern luxury with laid-back island charm. With just 268 rooms, this intimate tower is the latest addition to one of Disney’s most popular resorts. Still, how does it compare to the original Disney’s Polynesian Resort experience?
This resource seeks to break it all down for the readers. Is the Island Tower Disney Polynesian Resort right for your nest visit to Walt Disney World?
A Vibe All Its Own
The Island Tower Disney Polynesian Resort doesn’t try to recreate the original Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Instead, it complements it. If the Great Ceremonial House is where the party is, Island Tower is where you go to relax. It has the same warm Polynesian feel, but with a modern, elegant twist. We suggest guests think of the Grand Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort as a Hawaiian experience.
The Island Tower lobby is quiet, the hallways are serene, and the whole space feels like a tucked-away retreat designed for Disney Vacation Club members and guests seeking a calmer stay. The theming is stunning yet subtle, with Polynesian tattoo-inspired art, living moss walls, and pieces by renowned Hawaiian artists. It’s modern Hawaii, while the original Disney’s Polynesian Resort captures nostalgia for old Hawaii.
Room Rundown: From Duo Studios to Penthouse Villas
The Island Tower Disney Polynesian Resort offers a variety of accommodations designed for every type of traveler:
- Duo Studios: Sleep 2 guests with a pull-down Murphy bed, kitchenette, and spacious bath—perfect for couples or solo travelers.
- Deluxe Studios: Sleep 4 with both fixed and Murphy beds, featuring a streamlined single-bathroom layout.
- One Bedroom Villas: Sleep 5 with a full kitchen, living area, washer/dryer, and two full bathrooms.
- Two Bedroom Villas & Lock-Offs: Sleep up to 9 with either a dedicated or lock-off configuration.
- Penthouse Villas: Sleep 8 and feature premium finishes, panoramic views, and exclusive design touches.
When we stayed at a one-bedroom villa, we were impressed. The open layout, streamlined kitchen, and dual full bathrooms, including a soaking tub and rainfall shower, make it ideal for families or friend groups.
Island Tower Disney Polynesian Resort: Balconies, Views & Room Categories
Many rooms at the Island Tower Disney Polynesian Resort feature spacious balconies with seating for four and dual access from both the living room and bedroom. Guests can book rooms by category based on the view:
- Standard View: Resort grounds or parking
- Preferred View: Pool, gardens, or golf course edges
- Premium View: Partial Lagoon
- Theme Park View: Magic Kingdom and fireworks over Seven Seas Lagoon
Exclusive Extras: Garden Terraces & Pools
One of the most unique features of the Island Tower Disney Polynesian Resort is its collection of four outdoor garden terraces, each designed for quiet relaxation or fireworks viewing. Only tower guests can access these spaces, adding to the exclusive feel. The pool area continues the relaxed luxury vibe, featuring a zero-entry pool, hot tub, Moana-themed splash zone, and ample shaded loungers, reserved solely for Island Tower guests.
Dining at Wailulu Bar & Grill
Wailulu Bar & Grill is quickly becoming a hidden gem at the Island Tower Disney Polynesian Resort. With Polynesian-inspired bites, an outdoor patio, and perfect fireworks views, it’s one of the best new lounges at Walt Disney World.
Wailulu Bar & Grill offers a casual dining experience with stunning views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom. The name, meaning “calm water” in Hawaiian, reflects the restaurant’s tranquil atmosphere, which features both indoor and outdoor seating adorned with Polynesian-inspired artwork.
The menu draws inspiration from the flavors of the South Pacific islands, serving an all-day selection of lunch and dinner items. Popular dishes include the Ahi Tuna Crisps, Musubi, and the Wayfinder Burger. For breakfast, guests can find convenient grab-and-go options.
The restaurant is also a prime spot for watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks, with synchronized music enhancing the experience. Wailulu Bar & Grill operates on a walk-up basis, so reservations are not required, making it a flexible option for visitors. Additionally, at the present time (subject to change), after 2:00 p.m., guests dining at Wailulu Bar & Grill can park at Disney’s Polynesian Resort. That qualifies as a rare perk.
Island Tower Disney Polynesian Resort: Amenities & Convenience
The Island Tower area offers a fitness center for guests staying there to exercise. Next to the fitness center, guests will find Coke Freestyle machines and a mug-washing station. We felt the addition of caffeine-free root beer and other unique options made this a fun bonus.
While the Island Tower Disney Polynesian Resort is part of the larger Disney’s Polynesian Resort, guests must walk to the Great Ceremonial House to access the monorail for Magic Kingdom or the Transportation & Ticket Center for a trip to Epcot. Buses for other parks depart from the main Polynesian stop, which is a noticeable walk from the Island Tower rooms. A dedicated tower bus stop would be a welcome future addition.
Island Tower Disney Polynesian Resort: Rates & Booking Tips
Cash rates for the Island Tower Disney Polynesian Resort vary by season:
- Value Season: Duo Studios start around $550–590/night; One Bedrooms at $1,000–$1,200+
- Holiday Season: Duo Studios range from $770–$990/night; One Bedrooms from $1,400+
- Penthouse Villas: Start around $4,000–$5,000 per night
Booking through Disney Vacation Club points or a travel advisor can often lead to major savings. Just to let you know, since this section of Disney’s Polynesian Resort opened in late 2025, the demand is high.
Final Thoughts: Old Poly vs. New Tower
If it’s your first-ever Disney’s Polynesian Resort stay and you want that nostalgic vibe, the original side of the resort still shines. However, if you’re seeking a calm, modern, and immersive Disney Vacation Club experience, the Island Tower Disney Polynesian Resort is a home run.
Based on our experiences, the Island Tower feels like home, it looks like luxury, and it truly lives up to the Polynesian name. Of course, it comes with a fresh, elevated twist. Still, if nothing else, stop by for the Wayfinder Burger at Wailulu Bar & Grill… Trust us.
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