Everything we know about the upcoming Polynesian Island Tower opening at Walt Disney World this December

If you believe, like I do, that a stay at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort at Walt Disney World is the ultimate vacation experience, I have exciting news for you.

Reservations are now open for the new Island Tower at Disney's Polynesian, located near Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, with stays starting December 17, 2024.

Alongside Tiana's Bayou Adventure and the new cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort debuting this summer, the Island Tower is among the year's most significant additions to Walt Disney World.

Like all DVC resorts, you have the option to book your stay with cash instead of using your owned (or rented) DVC points, just as you would at Disney's other resort hotels. Interestingly, at least initially, only cash reservations will be available for both DVC members and non-members.

This new 10-story tower will not only increase the number of rooms available at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, but it will also introduce some new room types and sizes for the first time. In line with other recent DVC expansions, such as The Villas at Disneyland Hotel and Disney's Riviera Resort, the new tower will feature compact duo studios for two guests, deluxe studios (comparable in size to the current rooms), one-bedroom villas, two-bedroom villas, and spacious two-bedroom penthouse villas that accommodate up to nine guests.

Disney's Polynesian Village Resort will still provide two-bedroom overwater bungalows that can be booked with either a substantial amount of cash or DVC points.

What are the costs for staying at Disney's new Polynesian Island Tower?

While pricing for DVC points has not been released yet, initial cash rates for bookings at Disney's new Polynesian Island Tower have been announced.

Currently, the duo studio for two guests starts at approximately $500 per night, the deluxe studio for up to four begins at around $700 per night, the one-bedroom villa starts at about $1,100 per night, and the two-bedroom villa starts at roughly $1,650 per night.

During peak nights, rates can skyrocket, with the least expensive deluxe studio for four starting at $1,100 per night on the opening day, December 17.

For assistance with your trip planning, reach out to TPG's Disney booking partner, Mouse Counselors.

Experiencing Disney's new Polynesian Island Tower

In terms of design, the new tower showcases a noticeably different aesthetic compared to the existing Polynesian buildings. Unlike the traditional multiple smaller longhouses, this new addition is a single large hotel structure.

Additionally, Disney revealed that the architecture takes cues from the property's original concept art; the design and atmosphere of the resort evoke the excitement of adventure and the splendor of the natural environment.

Specifically, the lobby of the tower showcases a ceiling art piece inspired by the South Pacific islands, featuring a variety of native animals. Each creature represents a link to the islands and reflects the values cherished by the local communities.

Disney has embraced the Polynesian art of wayfinding, drawing inspiration from the elemental forces of water, earth, wind, and fire in the design of the new tower. It will showcase artworks from contemporary Polynesian artists, alongside pieces that subtly reference both 'Moana'—as seen in the current Polynesian rooms—and the iconic artist Mary Blair, whose designs are featured prominently in the lobby mural of Disney's Contemporary Resort.

In relation to Moana, the hotel's new splash pad will center around her, featuring her life-sized canoe. The Polynesian Island Tower will also boast a zero-entry pool named the Cove Pool.

The Polynesian Island Tower will introduce a new dining venue: Wailulu Bar & Grill. This laid-back restaurant will offer a walk-up pool bar and grill, featuring a menu for lunch and dinner, along with specialty coffees and grab-and-go pastries available in the morning.

Fans of the traditional architecture at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort may feel a bit nostalgic about the recent design changes. Nevertheless, many will likely appreciate the variety of room sizes available and the chance to reserve modern, newly designed accommodations at one of the most sought-after monorail resorts in Walt Disney World.