The Pools at Disney’s Polynesian Resort
The pools at Disney’s Polynesian are both relaxing spots to spend a sunny afternoon during your Disney vacation. Disney’s Polynesian Resort has two pools for guests to use when staying at the tropical hotel.
Not only that, but the resort provides a fun water play area for children. There’s also a divine white sand beach that sits behind the feature pool.
For those wanting to get in on all the recreation activities at the Poly, you’ll want to plan at least one (maybe more) resort day at the famous Lava Pool. Meanwhile, anyone wanting a more casual vibe will probably prefer the Oasis Pool.
The Oasis Pool is considered the quieter of the two pools at the resort.
Let’s take a closer look at both pools at Disney’s Polynesian. Then we’ll discuss what you don’t want to miss when staying here.
Yes, this would be the appropriate time to grab a tall glass of ice water, throw in some fruit, and stick a tiny umbrella in it! (I went with a splash of lime.)
The Lava Pool is the feature pool at Disney’s Polynesian. This pool area was formerly called the Volcano Pool until its last refurbishment a few years ago.
Pool hours for the Polynesian usually run between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. However, these hours vary based on the season. For instance, you might visit in the summer, and the pool could be open from 8:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.
Related: FAQs for Disney World Pools
Polynesian’s Lava Pool has a waterfall that overflows from the volcano. One side of the pool is zero-entry.
There is a cave you can walk through to get from one side of the pool to the other.
In the middle of the cave is where you’ll find the restrooms and changing areas.
There is a large stall in the back of the ladies’ restroom that has a full shower with toiletries. In addition, towels and a hairdryer are usually available.
This is nice if you have a day where you have a late flight out and want to spend some time at the pool. Since you’ve already checked out, you can pack a change of clothes in your pool bag and use the facilities before heading to the airport.
Another fun thing at the lava pool is the waterslide. The slide is 142′ (feet) long and seems to be where all the cool kids (or pool kids) want to hang out.
Related: Disney Resorts with Water Slides
There is a staircase that leads up to the water slide. At the top, you’ll find a red and green light. Wait until the light turns green, and then it will be your turn.
The Lava Pool also has an extremely nice hot tub with an infinity edge that looks out to Seven Seas Lagoon.
Kiki Tikis splash and water play area has recently been refurbished and is available for younger guests. The aquatic play area sits adjacent to the Lava Pool.
Here is a photo of what the play area looks like.
While at the Lave Pool, you might want to enjoy the Barefoot Pool Bar.
The bar has a cocktail menu along with food items. Their menu is available here on Disney’s site if you want to look over it.
Most of the lounges and pool bars at Disney offer the same menu. However, some do have a few specialty items. For instance, on one visit, I had a Dole Whip margarita.
If you want to enjoy a unique drink at the pool, let me make a suggestion. Order a drink from Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace at their walk-up window, and take it to the pool.
The resort has three signature drinks. These might not be available on the Polynesian’s pool bar menu, but you should be able to order them from any bar at the resort.
Additionally, Captain Cook’s quick service is located directly behind the Lava Pool. If something on the Barefoot Pool Bar doesn’t strike your fancy, mobile order from Capt. Cooks. It’s so simple.
Those wanting to enjoy a quieter space to relax will probably want to hang out at the Polynesian’s Oasis Pool. While the Poly doesn’t really have a true quiet pool, the Oasis should be quieter due to not having all the poolside activities or water play areas.
The Oasis Pool hours were between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. on my last visit.
If you were to ask me, the Oasis Pool Bar offers the better of the two menus at the Polynesian’s pools. You can preview their menu here on Disney’s site. They have several salads, wraps, and fish tacos on the kid’s menu.
Additionally, the Oasis has a cabana offering for daily rentals that we’ve seen at other popular Disney pools. Here at the Polynesian, they are called Oasis Patios. If you would like more information about reserving one in advance, you can find that here.
Related: Our Experience Renting a Cabana at Disney World
Lastly, guests can enjoy the beach area at the resort. The white sand beaches have a variety of loungers, including Adirondack chairs perfectly positioned to enjoy views of the lagoon.
If you have ever visited the Polynesian, you probably know there is a decent amount of activity on the water. You can watch the Magic Kingdom Ferry boats and resort watercraft drift across the lagoon to the most magical place on earth every few minutes. In addition, guests can rent motorized boats and Sea Raycers to enjoy Bay Lake.
It’s always nice to sit on the shore and take in the different comings and goings.
Children can play in the sand or might enjoy a game of volleyball. There are speakers out on the beach that play Hawaiian tunes in the background.
For more information about this Walt Disney World Resort, you might enjoy our resort guide:
You might also like to browse our entire list of Disney World Hotel Reviews or these individual articles:
- Disney’s Polynesian Resort Review
- Restaurants at Disney’s Polynesian
- ‘Ohana Character Breakfast at the Polynesian
- Tour a Deluxe Studio at Disney’s Polynesian
Additionally, you might like to browse our Disney Hotel Restaurants Guide or learn more about Disney Signature Dining or Character Dining at Disney.
In the Comments
What are your thoughts on the pools at Disney’s Polynesian Resort? Have you stayed here before? Do you prefer the Lava Pool or the Oasis Pool?
