For over 50 years, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort has welcomed guests with its tropical setting, vibrant theming, and direct monorail service to Magic Kingdom Park. And while the resort holds a treasured spot in Disney history, it continues to evolve with new additions and upgrades designed to enhance the guest experience.
The latest chapter in that evolution arrived in December 2024 with the debut of the Island Tower—a 10-story Disney Vacation Club expansion located along the Seven Seas Lagoon. This new building was influenced by early planning concepts from the 1960s and ’70s and brings 260 rooms to the resort. These include Duo Studios, Deluxe Studios, 1- and 2-bedroom villas, and spacious 2-bedroom penthouses. Each space includes kitchen amenities, patios, and artwork inspired by Disney’s Moana.
Amenities exclusive to the Island Tower include the Cove Pool, four themed terrace gardens perfect for quiet moments or fireworks viewing, and the Wailulu Bar & Grill, which features a fully electric kitchen and a menu rooted in Polynesian culinary traditions.
In keeping with Disney’s environmental goals, the project incorporates energy-efficient systems, recycled materials, and the preservation of mature trees already on the site. These features help the expansion blend with both the resort’s aesthetic and its natural surroundings.
While Island Tower guests can now enjoy these new offerings, more work is happening throughout the Polynesian Village Resort. One of the most visible projects is the reconfiguration of the resort’s front entrance and bus area, which began in June. The current entryway is under construction, with paving work and landscaping progressing behind dark scrim, per updates from WDWNT. Once completed, the area will support the Disney World Transportation System’s bus route and offer smoother access to the resort.
The official Walt Disney World Resort site explains: “Some areas of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows are being refurbished through 2026. Guests may see and hear some daytime construction, starting at 9:00 a.m. Additionally, some views of the theme parks and other surrounding areas may be impacted.”
Guests should also be aware of Disney’s prior notice: “From May 2025 through 2026, some areas of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows are being refurbished. This work includes the reconfiguration of the front entrance roadway and bus area,” the longer warning reads. “While construction activity will be noticeable during daytime hours, efforts will be made to minimize disruptions. All Resort dining, pools, and amenities will remain available. Additionally, some views of the theme parks and other surrounding areas may be impacted. Please allow for extra travel time when arriving at or leaving the Resort.”
These updates are part of the broader transformation taking place across Walt Disney World Resort. Whether guests are exploring the refreshed Island Tower or navigating enhancements elsewhere, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort continues to offer its signature hospitality—even amid change.
Have thoughts on the new updates or planning to visit soon? Let us know how the current enhancements are shaping your plans.
