More operational adjustments are continuing to roll out across Walt Disney World Resort in 2026, with Disney alerting guests to upcoming amenity closures at two well-known hotels.
Per reports, Advance notices have been sent to travelers booked at Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Old Key West Resort, outlining temporary changes that could influence how guests plan their stays. While the updates stop short of major disruptions, they underscore how refurbishment schedules can affect vacations that rely heavily on resort recreation.
At Disney’s Beach Club Resort, the most notable update centers on one of the hotel’s secondary leisure pools. Disney has confirmed that the Tidal Pool will close beginning in mid-January 2026, with reopening expected in early May. During this time, the pool will be unavailable to guests, though the resort’s signature Stormalong Bay complex will remain open. Shared with Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Stormalong Bay features a sand-bottom pool, lazy river, and multiple water play areas, continuing to serve as the primary aquatic offering for guests.
Still, travelers who prefer having quieter pool alternatives may want to factor the closure into their plans. The timing also overlaps with scheduled Disney Skyliner maintenance, which could affect transportation routes between EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. While Disney has not indicated full shutdowns of the system, any reduced service may add extra steps for guests navigating between parks and resorts during this window.
Meanwhile, Disney’s Old Key West Resort is also seeing temporary changes, specifically within its Turtle Pond section. Disney has informed guests that the Turtle Pond Pool, spa, playground, and BBQ picnic area will all be closed through early February 2026. These closures are localized to one area of the resort, and Disney has emphasized that other amenities will remain accessible throughout the refurbishment period.
Guests staying at Old Key West will still be able to use the Sandcastle Pool, South Point Pool, and Miller’s Road Pool, each offering full recreational features during the maintenance timeframe. Transportation, dining, and lodging operations across the resort are expected to continue as normal.
Together, these notices highlight Disney’s continued effort to communicate changes ahead of time, allowing guests to adjust expectations and itineraries. For some, the closures may go largely unnoticed, while others may choose to plan park-heavy days around the affected amenities.
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