DVC Villas at the Polynesian Island Tower vs. Original Longhouses – Which is Right for You?

When it comes to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort—a fan-favorite since its opening day—choosing between the original Longhouses and the newer DVC Villas at the Island Tower might just be one of the hardest decisions for a Disney Vacation Club member or Polynesian enthusiast. Both options offer luxurious accommodations inspired by the South Pacific, but with unique features catering to different vacation styles and preferences. Whether you’re a traditionalist who loves the nostalgia of the Longhouses or a modern adventurer drawn to the fresh elegance of the Island Tower, there’s something for everyone.

To help you decide where to stay on your next magical getaway, here’s an in-depth comparison of the two accommodations.

Original Longhouses – A Classic Polynesian Experience

The Longhouses are where it all began, delivering the iconic Polynesian charm that has defined the resort for decades. Updated and maintained over the years, they remain a top choice for DVC members seeking a more traditional Disney vacation.

Pros of the Longhouses & Bungalows

• Spacious Studios and Bucket-List Bungalows

The Deluxe Studios in the Longhouses are among the largest across all Disney Vacation Club resorts, ensuring plenty of room for families. These rooms can sleep up to five guests and feature split bathrooms—a godsend for families trying to get ready in the mornings. On the upper end, the indulgent overwater bungalows offer unmatched luxury with dreamy views of Seven Seas Lagoon and front-row Magic Kingdom fireworks.

• Quintessential Polynesian Atmosphere

Staying in the Longhouses feels like stepping into classic Disney history. For fans of the Polynesian Resort’s original design and ambiance, the Longhouses are the ultimate nostalgic escape.

• Convenient Access to the Transportation & Ticket Center (TTC)

Many Longhouses are located within a short walk to the TTC, making it easy to hop on the monorail or ferryboat and head to the parks without hassle.

• Enchanted Views

Most standard-view rooms offer picturesque looks at tiki torches, lush resort greenery, and a serene tropical vibe.

Cons of the Longhouses

• Limited Room Types

The Longhouses currently only offer Deluxe Studios and the extravagant (but expensive) two-bedroom bungalows. There are no one- or three-bedroom villa options, which can make them less appealing to larger families or groups.

• Older Accommodations

While they’ve undergone soft refurbishments, the Longhouses are older than their Island Tower counterpart. For guests craving something ultra-modern, this may be a drawback.

• Outdoor Dining Access

All dining options—like Ohana, Kona Cafe, and Captain Cook’s—require a walk through the resort grounds. Not ideal for those rainy days!

• No Guaranteed Theme Park Views for studios

While some preferred-view rooms face the Seven Seas Lagoon and offer glimpses of the fireworks, others may not be as lucky, facing ground-level areas or bungalows instead.

Who Should Stay in the Longhouses?

If you’re a Disney traditionalist or someone enchanted by the historic Polynesian vibe, the Longhouses are a perfect choice. They’re also ideal for easy access to the TTC or if you’re dreaming of an epic stay in the bungalows.

Island Tower – A Modern Oasis

The Island Tower brings a fresh take on Polynesian luxury. Its sleek, modern design balances beautifully with subtle nods to Polynesian culture, making it a stunning addition to the resort.

Pros of the Island Tower

• Gorgeous, Brand-New Accommodations

The Island Tower is the newest addition to the Polynesian Resort, and it shows. The rooms are pristine, with a design inspired by Disney’s Aulani. The balconies are some of the largest offered in DVC, creating the perfect spot to enjoy a sunrise coffee or evening wine.

• Diverse Room Options

From cozy Duo Studios to spacious Two-Bedroom Villas and even luxurious Two-Bedroom Penthouses, the Tower caters to families, couples, and groups of all sizes.

• Stunning Theme Park Views

Unlike the Longhouses, the Tower offers official Theme Park View categories. Imagine sitting on your private balcony, watching the fireworks illuminate Cinderella Castle each night—pure magic.

• Dining Made Easy

The Tower boasts Wailulu Bar & Grill, a convenient dining option that doesn’t require stepping outside. This feature is a big win for rainy days or when you just want to grab a quick bite.

• Beautiful Lobby Space and Common Area

The Tower’s lobby offers a spacious and stylish common area, perfect for relaxing, socializing, or soaking in the Tower’s artistic touches. Speaking of art, some pieces will soon be available for purchase through an Art Kiosk. Additionally, the new Terrance Gardens offer beautiful indoor/outdoor common spaces exclusively for tower guests to enjoy.

• Closer to Daily Essentials

The Tower is situated near the Great Ceremonial House and the walking path to the Grand Floridian, making it convenient for dining, gatherings, and transportation.

• Dedicated Parking Lot

Drivers will appreciate the Tower’s exclusive parking lot, providing quick and easy access.

Cons of the Island Tower

• Risky Standard Views

While Theme Park Views are stunning, Standard Views in the Tower can overlook the parking lot or even ongoing construction.

• Sun Exposure

Tower guests should be prepared for intense sun in the late afternoons and evenings, as the front of the building faces directly west.

• No Grand Villas

Large families or groups looking for a three-bedroom option may need to explore other DVC accommodations.

• Distance from the TTC

Unlike the Longhouses, the Tower’s location makes the walk to the TTC feel a bit longer.

• Impact on the Resort’s Aesthetics

While undeniably beautiful, the Tower’s modern design has sparked mixed opinions among long-time Polynesian fans, as some feel it disrupts the original ambiance.

Who Should Stay in the Island Tower?

If you’re looking for brand-new accommodations, flexible room options, and easy access to dining and luxurious views, the Island Tower is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those who want a blend of Polynesian charm and modern comforts.

Which Should You Choose?

Ultimately, your decision will depend on what matters most to you:

• Choose the Longhouses if:
• You’re a traditionalist who loves the historic vibe of the Polynesian Resort.
• Proximity to the TTC is a priority.
• You’re dreaming of a bucket-list stay in an overwater bungalow.
• Choose the Island Tower if:
• You prefer new, sleek designs and modern amenities.
• Stunning theme park-view rooms are a must.
• You want diverse room layouts and easy access to dining without going outside.

Both the Longhouses and the Island Tower deliver exceptional experiences, each with unique perks and considerations. Whether you lean toward the rich history of the Longhouses or the contemporary elegance of the Tower, one thing’s for sure—you can’t go wrong at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.

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