From a distance, the Polynesian Island Tower stands out among the longhouses of the Polynesian Village Resort and the original parts of the Polynesian Villas & Bungalows. The 10-story tower is taller, more modern, and brighter than the longhouses. Despite its stark contrast, the tower feels like the perfect complement to the original Polynesian longhouses.
Expanded Room Types
Perhaps the greatest benefit of adding the Polynesian Island Tower is the wider variety of rooms. With the addition of Duo Studios, One Bedroom Villas, Two Bedroom Villas, and the Penthouse Villas, the Polynesian is better able to accommodate parties of different sizes–without the need to splurge on a Bora Bora Bungalow. Moreover, the addition of the new villa types did not alter the point values of existing studios and bungalows as was once speculated.
Brighter Decor
Even with their latest soft goods refurbishment that has pops of teal, the original Deluxe Studios at the Polynesian Villas & Bungalows feel rather dark with their dark wood floors and sliding doors. They almost feel as dark as the villas at Animal Kingdom Lodge. By contrast, the rooms at the Island Tower are lighter and brighter with shades of beige and pops of color from the beautiful artwork.
Quieter Atmosphere
One of the frequent complaints about staying at the Polynesian is how crowded the common areas can get. The Great Ceremonial House seems to be filled with people no matter what time of day you pass through. Besides hosting resort guests, the Polynesian is a popular spot for people to visit even when they aren’t staying at the hotel thanks to ‘Ohana, Trader Sam’s, Capt. Cook’s, and the fireworks views along the beach.
However, once you walk towards the Island Tower, things are much more peaceful. With its high ceilings, the lobby feels spacious, and it is never crowded. There are plenty of empty couches, tables, chairs, and even outlets to recharge.
Beyond the lobby and beachfront, the Island Tower’s terrace gardens offer relaxing, quiet spaces. Two of the four terrace gardens face the Seven Seas Lagoon and can be great spots to watch Happily Ever After without feeling overcrowded.
Less of a Caricature of Hawaii
For those who think that the Polynesian feels like a caricature of Hawaii, the Island Tower offers a more understated and elegant aesthetic instead of the tiki theming found in the older sections of the resort. Some have even compared the Island Tower to Aulani. As shared on several of DVC’s promotional videos, much care and attention to detail went into the design of the tower. The art and decor are inspired by Polynesian wayfinders and the natural elements, such as the four columns in the lobby that represent earth, wind, water, and fire.
Additional Amenities
The Polynesian Island Tower also provides additional amenities that complete what the resort has to offer. For years, guests who wanted to workout had to go to the Grand Floridian since the Polynesian did not have a fitness center. Now with the Island Tower, the Polynesian has a fitness center of its own.
While the Polynesian already had some great restaurants with ‘Ohana, Kona Cafe, and Capt. Cook’s, Wailulu Bar & Grill is a welcome addition to the resort’s dining scene. Wailulu’s menu offers different dishes from any of the other Polynesian restaurants, including some lighter fare such as poke bowls, ahi tuna crisps, and chow mein salads. Wailulu feels more relaxed with its indoor and outdoor spaces and beautiful fireworks views of the Seven Seas Lagoon. It’s also wonderful to have a last minute dining option since it does not require reservations.
Have you had a chance to stay at the Island Tower? If so, did you think it was a good addition to the Polynesian?
