Polynesian v. Beach Club
This Walt Disney World hotel showdown compares the best of the best: Beach Club and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. The ultimate hotel near Magic Kingdom versus the ultimate hotel near Epcot. Arguably two very different hotels that will appeal to different demographics…but we’re going to have them battle anyway!
Think of this as a follow-up to our Beach Club v. BoardWalk Inn and Polynesian v. Grand Floridian match-ups. Beach Club won the former (and secured a decisive 65% of the reader vote) while Polynesian won the latter (and scored a whopping 74% of the reader vote). If this were March Madness, those previous posts would’ve been the Elite Eight with the current match-up being a Final Four game. (The other side of the bracket would have our Wilderness Lodge v. Animal Kingdom Lodge face-off in the Final Four after both routed the competition so badly in the Elite Eight that those match-ups don’t even merit blog posts. 😉 )
This one is going to be tough and, like many of the comparisons, will ultimately hinge in large part on personal preference. Still, we’re hoping to help the undecided to decide, with a comparison that strives for some degree of objectivity. Both rank highly in our Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts Rankings, and both are some of the ultimate in theme and luxury at Walt Disney World. Really, you cannot go wrong either way here.
As with all posts in this ‘versus’ series of Walt Disney World hotel comparisons, we use 6 elements of two different resorts to determine which is “the best.” It’s time to compare and contrast…
Theme: Polynesian – Beach Club lost its thematic showdown with BoardWalk Inn primarily because the latter conveyed a more distinct theme in the similar concept both encapsulated. While we also give the Poly an edge over Beach Club, it’s not a decisive victory. Beach Club’s presentation of an idealized version of Newport (New England, not California) is pretty effective when not judged against other Crescent Lake resorts.
However, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort does a better job of capturing the imagination, making you feel like you’re at a tropical resort. From the lush grounds to the South Seas vibe throughout the resort, it’s the perfect confluence of 20th century tiki culture and authentic island paradise. The result is something that doesn’t exist in the real world, but (like so many of Disney’s finest creations) gets you to suspend disbelief. Actually, that could probably be said about both of these results.
Consequently, and as we’ve said before, this is going to come down to how guests digest each theme–how a particular theme makes them feel. We were really surprised by the number of people who indicated that they didn’t like the Polynesian’s theme. (Point of clarification: the Poly is a twist on tiki culture popularized in the 1950s; it is not meant to be an authentic representation of past or present Polynesia. If you’re looking for authentic culture, try Aulani.) When it comes down to the feeling we get from a theme, Disney’s Beach Club Resort rates highly–for us, at least.
Rooms: Polynesian – In its previous ‘battle’, Beach Club lost to BoardWalk Inn, on the basis that it is difficult to distinguish Beach Club’s rooms from a trendy, modern day hotel at the beach. These rooms do not balance theme and luxury well, and feel like they could be found at any ole upscale hotel. Don’t get us wrong: they’re nice, but they’re nothing special. And for the prices Walt Disney World charges, we’re looking for something special.
The rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort offer that something special. These rooms are spacious and luxurious, while also conveying a sense of tiki-culture kitsch. These rooms simultaneously feel luxurious and “light” which is a real accomplishment. (Even if you didn’t care at all about theme, the Poly’s rooms are nicer.)
Dining: Polynesian – This is a tricky one. When approaching this, I wondered whether I should be consistent with previous ‘versus’ showdowns and only consider dining at a particular resort, or expand that to the entire region. I’ve decided to adopt the latter approach, as I feel the previous resort comparisons were narrower, whereas this is a hybrid individual resort comparison and ‘resort district’ comparison. However, for the sake of being equitable, I’ll limit each resort to what’s within walking distance.
If you look at the table service lineup in the vicinity of each (again, by foot), you have some of the heaviest hitters in all of Walt Disney World. It’s hard to declare a victor in that regard, as each is stacked, offering something for every budget and taste preference, with some really high quality options. The decision becomes much easier–a no brainer, really–once we turn to counter service options. The counter service selection at the Crescent Lake resorts is pitiful. BoardWalk Bakery is the highlight, and that’s best considered a bakery, not a restaurant or food court. The Poly, on the other hand, has Captain Cook’s and the newly revamped Gasparilla Island Grill (plus poolside options), both of which are exceptional.
Transportation/Location: Polynesian – It would be really easy to call this one a push, given that both have really prime locations and you can get to two parks from each without taking a bus. I know some people who prefer Magic Kingdom area resorts, and people who prefer Epcot area resorts. Our preference varies from trip to trip, in fact.
However, when trying to look at this objectively, there’s one reason why I think calling this a push would be a cop-out: one of the parks Beach Club is within walking distance of is Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Things will be different once Star Wars Land opens, but right now, we barely recommend visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios in the first place. For the vast majority of people, being a monorail ride to Magic Kingdom and Epcot is going to beat being within walking distance/boat of Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Pools: Beach Club – Nothing has changed since the last time we wrote about Storm-Along Bay. It’s still the #1 resort pool at Walt Disney World, and still the gold standard. This isn’t “just a pool,” it’s more like a “water park lite” (very light–it’s definitely no Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon) that is 3 acres in size with sand at the bottom, slides, overlooks, and a lazy river. The layout of the pool is also very cool, with ample lounging space and an engaging environment that makes it fun to explore. This will stick with many kids as the highlight of their trip to Walt Disney World (seriously, we hear from so many people who say their kids care more about the pools than anything else). Moreover, Storm-Along Bay rivals Animal Kingdom Lodge’s savanna is the single most compelling amenity in all of Walt Disney World.
The newly reimagined Lava Pool is imaginative and immersive, with coves to explore (and hide from the sun) and a fun place for kids to explore, but it still doesn’t hold a candle to Storm-Along Bay. Nor do the quiet or secondary pools. The retro style of Polynesian’s Oasis Pool (complete with shade structures that act as quasi-cabanas) is nice, but it also isn’t enough to overcome the powerhouse that is Storm-Along Bay.
Cost: Beach Club – These both have rack rates that are $500+ per night most of the year. The difference, though, is that most of the time, Beach Club stays in that $500 range (sometimes in the $400 range) for a standard room. By contrast, the Poly hits $600 and even eclipses $700/night during some seasons.
While they are both among the most expensive resorts in all of Walt Disney World, the $100/night (or so) gap between the two is pretty significant. Moreover, the gap only grows if you want a nicer view. If you want something with a view of Cinderella Castle at the Poly, expect to pay nearly double the standard room rate at Beach Club (or $200-$300 more than their highest view tier–Beach Club doesn’t have a theme park view category, so it’s not a totally fair comparison).
Verdict: Polynesian – For us, this verdict ultimately comes down to the Poly’s well-rounded, high-level of quality across the board. We can’t think of a single, glaring weakness it has; by contrast, Beach Club has a couple. These weaknesses may or may not matter to you, just as the strengths of each may or may not matter, but they’re the basis for the Poly’s victory.
Long-time Walt Disney World fans probably already have a favorite, with many already being on Team Crescent Lake Resort or Team Monorail Resort. For us on a personal level, it’s a close call that probably depends upon the weather and nature of the trip. For objective advice to first-timers, it’s a little clearer. Even if you grade on a slight curve due to the price difference, the Poly still has a location that’s going to be more convenient for most Walt Disney World guests, dining options that make more sense, and nicer rooms.
We mention first-timers, specifically, because it’s likely many other Walt Disney World fans have already formed their “alliances.” Even first-timers should use some degree of discretion, considering how much factors like being on the monorail and having good counter service dining at the Poly, or the–potentially ultimate–factor of access to Storm-Along Bay pool at Beach Club.
Now, I’m curious as to what everyone else thinks. As has become a fun “tradition” with these versus posts, here’s a poll so you can vote for your favorite of the two:
Considering location, pools, theme, rooms, dining, price & other factors, which of these two Walt Disney World hotels do you prefer:
– Disney Tourist Blog (@DisTouristBlog) February 6, 2017
Remember, with great power comes great responsibility, so give this vote the proper consideration it deserves… 😉 Last week’s poll for Saratoga Springs v. Old Key West went pretty much how we expected, 59% in favor of Old Key West (by the way, we stopped by there at dusk last night, and it only reinforced my opinion there–I could sit for hours by the dock just listening to that background music!) I almost don’t want to make prediction on this poll for fear of being way off. Even though these are two resorts that are really popular with Disney fans, I think the Poly will be the favorite, by around 55/45.
Now that we’ve shared our take, we want to know your preference. Is Storm-Along Bay the deciding factor for you? Is being on the monorail loop a better location for you, or would you rather be at Crescent Lake? Are we missing a key variable that could, potentially give one the edge? Please give your feedback via the poll and comments below. While we hope this post is helpful in offering a head-to-head comparison of the most crucial elements of each Walt Disney World resort experience, we know it’s not definitive or the final word for every guest. In addition to reading the comments before making your own decision, we suggest supplementing this with our full review of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and our Disney’s Beach Club Resort Review (the latter is a bit outdated). With that said, what do you think…did we make the right choice here?
We have stayed at both and for us BC wins every time. The rooms at Poly are dark, pool does not compare to Storm along bay and we enjoy being able to walk to two parks – which you cannot do from the Poly. We also love all the restaurants within walking distance to BC – including Flying Fish AND all the Epcot restaurants. Sorry Poly…
My vote goes to the Beach Club. Number one reason is Stormalong Bay- you can’t beat that at any other of the Disney Hotels! Then the close proximity to Epcot & a short boat ride to Hollywood Studios is wonderful. Restaurants are great- the quick service does need to be moved & be on its own. Love the beachy colors and decor – very calming effect. I like the Polynesian too, enjoyed being able to hotel hop on the monorail- but with the added security at each hotel, it’s not as easy- (I do understand it’s for our safety). Love Trader Sam’s! And of course they get a point having Dole Whip’s there! The Poly has improved over the years, but overall, it’s the Beach Club!
I’ve always loved BC and the pool is my main go to. During Christmas it’s great to be able to walk to Epcot, or during F&W. However, I just stayed at Polynesian for the first time and like my view of the garden and the ambience, especially at night with the music and torches. I found more eating options around the monorail. There are more places to sit and unwind at BC if you can’t get to your room and it’s raining. Also you don’t feel cooped up at BC since you don’t have to be exposed to the elements to get from your room to the lobby.
The Poly and Beach Club are our two favorite resorts and we often do split stays between them. Having said that, the Poly rooms are dated and just feel much “darker” and not nearly as clean as the Beach Club rooms. We prefer the dining at the BC, within walking distance to all of Epcot’s quick service. Beach Club is also much more peaceful than the Poly.
Just stayed at the Poly. Loved the theme and the plant life. The room on the another hand had much to be desired. It was run down with numerous carpet stains. Trash left in the room. Hallway had a section of the ceiling that had collapsed. Hallway carpet was trashed. not what you would expect from this caliber of hotel. Would highly recommend staying at the Beach Club. The pool is worth it.
We are new DVC owners and had our first trip, as such, in Dec. 2016. I really liked the newly remodeled rooms at the Poly but was very disappointed that the hallways and lobby of our building was not remodeled, very run down look. Any news that remodel to these areas may still take place?
My main issue with DVC at the Polynesian is the Pago Pago building. The poor people who get stuck with rooms on the Parking Lot side – it’s like you are staying at the TTC and not a lush South Seas resort. Rooms with this view are so terrible they should have their own points category. We were lucky and were issued rooms on the quiet side of Pago Pago (i.e. the side that reminds you that you are actually staying at the Polynesian), but the thought of even getting a room on the TTC side of Pago Pago makes me hesitant to book the Polynesian again.
It’s really a hard one for me! I want to stay at the Poly to try to get that Aulani feel (I know that it will not really be the same) but I also want to stay at the Beach Club because of the pool. I have decided that we will need to do a split stay. That’s all there is to it! I have stayed at the GF several times & love it.
I also plan to buy resale so that’s really what I need to decide on – where to buy? To book the BC, Poly or GF, you really need to have that 11 month advantage… decisions, decisions…. Do you have any insight on that Tom or Sarah?
The Beach Club is beautiful. And yes, they have a great pool. But overall? No contest. Polynesian wins hands down. It was the first Disney resort I ever stayed in, and grew up going to. It’s home to me. The theme, the ambience, the location, the pool, Captain Cook’s…. everything is fantastic. I have such a deep, devoted love for the Poly that I got a hibiscus tattoo in 2016, in its honor! Love, love, love the Poly!
Thanks for this, and timely too! I’m staying at BVC Friday night and Poly Saturday and Sunday!
Poly and Beach Club are both our favorite resorts! Which one to choose depends on what type of vacation we feel like having… And the age of the kids. If I have to vote, Poly wins by a hair.
I have stayed at the Beach Club twice and the Polynesian twice, and even though I love everything Hawaii, I like them both about the same and both have good and just ok points to them.
Theming – I love the Beach & Hawaii-so tie
Food options- Polynesian
Pools- Tie
Location- I have to say Beach Club because walk to Epcot, & walk thru Epcot to monorail.
But my all time favorite-except for pool is The Contemporary. I would love to be able to stay at the new Villas at Polynesian.
I was waiting for this comparison and hoping it would help me more. I have a deluxe studio villa booked at both of these resorts for our upcoming trip because I can’t decide between them. We stayed at the Poly on our trip last October and LOVED it. My daughter really liked the lava pool. I think she would love Storm-Along Bay even more though. The decor at Beach Club seems a bit boring and the deluxe studio is definitely smaller. The price difference for 8 days is only $420 more for Poly. Decisions, decisions! If it were the regular rooms at the Poly it would be no contest. I abhor the decor of those rooms, but the villa’s decor is great.
Why not do a split stay? You’d get the best of both worlds–could do a pool day and Epcot/DHS days while at Beach Club, then switch the Poly for MK/whatever else.
Lynn
June 30,2020
Beach club hands down is the best resort for your money if staying deluxe. Pool is great, ice cream shop is an awesome touch, and the boardwalk offers activities,entertainment, and more dining options. Walking paths are also convenient and bus transportation is efficient. I have never waited more than 15 minutes to go to any location. Polynesian although very nicely themed is always overly busy making even dining availability difficult. It is also extremely over priced.
Thanks for running this battle!
I have great childhood memories of the Poly, but my one adult-life stay at WDW was a great one at the Beach Club. I am torn as to which I prefer.