When staying at the Polynesian Island Tower for the first time in June, I found that one of my favorite features of the tower were the terrace gardens. These common areas, inspired by the islands of Bora Bora, Hawaii, Samoa, and Fiji, are great spots for relaxing. While each has a slightly different tropical decor and vibe, all of them have comfy seating, colorful artwork themed to the specific terrace, and peaceful views. (My toddler especially loved the rocking chairs at the Wave Break Terrace Garden.)
Here’s a brief overview of the Polynesian Island Tower terrace gardens, including where to find them, what views they offer, and tips for fireworks viewing.
Where Are the Terrace Gardens Located?
There are four different terrace gardens. You’ll find them on the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth floors of the Polynesian Island Tower:
- 3rd Floor: Bamboo Terrace Garden
- 4th Floor: Lava Rock Terrace Garden
- 5th Floor: Wave Break Terrace Garden
- 6th Floor: Lagoon Reef Terrace Garden
How Do You Access the Terrace Gardens?
The terrace gardens are exclusive to guests who are staying at the Polynesian Island Tower. Even if you are a guest at the Polynesian DVC longhouses (Moorea, Tokelau, and Pago Pago), you won’t have access to the elevator in the Island Tower. Unlike most other Disney resort elevators, you will need to scan your magic band or key to the world card in order to use the elevators before selecting the floor.
What Are the Views from Each Terrace Garden?
Among the four terrace gardens, two of them face the Seven Seas Lagoon, and two face the front of the resort. The Lava Rock Terrace Garden and Lagoon Reef Terrace Garden overlook the parking lot but have views of the golf course. You can also catch the resort line monorail cruising by!
The Bamboo Terrace Garden and Wave Break Terrace Garden have views of the Seven Seas Lagoon. Beyond seeing the rest of the Polynesian, you can see the Contemporary, Grand Floridian, and of course the Magic Kingdom with Cinderella Castle, Space Mountain, and TRON visible in the distance.
Fireworks Viewing Tips
- The Bamboo Terrace Garden and Wave Break Terrace Garden have fireworks views. In my opinion, the Wave Break Terrace Garden has a slightly better view. Due to its higher vantage point and its location within the Island Tower, the Wave Break Terrace view is angled more towards Cinderella Castle than the Bamboo Terrace Garden.
- During the daytime, the terrace gardens are very quiet. You may be lulled into thinking that they aren’t used much. However, for fireworks viewing the terraces can fill up. Given the limited number of seats, you may need to stand. Luckily for little ones, the balcony railing is mainly made up of glass panels, so they can still see while standing.
- If you want to catch fireworks from one of the terrace gardens, it helps to arrive at least 20 minutes prior to the start of Happily Ever After.
Whether you are looking for a little respite, a nice spot to quietly get some work done, or a picturesque fireworks viewing area, the terrace gardens are worth a visit during your next stay at the Polynesian Island Tower.
