If you’re dreaming of palm trees, turquoise waters, and a dash of Disney magic, two resorts probably top your list: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Both bring island vibes to Central Florida, but they offer very different experiences in terms of price, amenities, transportation, and atmosphere. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Mouseketeer, here’s how they compare.

Theme & Atmosphere

Polynesian Village Resort
Step into a South Pacific paradise. With tiki torches, lush landscaping, and traditional Polynesian architecture, this deluxe resort has a warm, welcoming vibe. Think: Hawaiian luau meets retro-chic luxury. The iconic longhouses and views of the Magic Kingdom make this resort a fan favorite for those who want that nostalgic “original Walt Disney World” feel (it opened in 1971!).

Caribbean Beach Resort
Inspired by the vibrant islands of the Caribbean, this moderate resort is bursting with color. The resort is divided into six villages named after real islands—Aruba, Barbados, Jamaica, Martinique, Trinidad, and Barbados—each with its own pool and charm. Expect pastel buildings, swaying hammocks, and a sprawling layout surrounding a central lagoon.

✅ Winner: Tie. Both offer immersive, transportive environments—it depends on whether you prefer Polynesian elegance or laid-back island color.

Rooms & Price

Polynesian Village Resort
As a deluxe resort, the newly upgraded rooms are larger and more upscale, with amenities like luxurious bedding, rainfall showers, and balconies or patios. Plus, some rooms offer theme park views, including views of Cinderella Castle and nightly fireworks. Prices reflect this—expect to pay $700–$1,200+ per night.

Caribbean Beach Resort
A moderate resort means more modest accommodations, but still comfortable and family-friendly. Pirate-themed rooms are fun for kids, and the resort has recently been refreshed. Rooms typically cost $250–$400 per night, making it a more budget-friendly option for families.

✅ Winner: Caribbean Beach for value, Polynesian for luxury.

Dining

Polynesian Village Resort
Foodies, rejoice. This resort has some of the best dining options on Disney property. ‘Ohana (all-you-care-to-enjoy Polynesian BBQ), Kona Café (famous for Tonga Toast), and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto (an immersive tiki bar) are all highlights. Plus, you can grab a Disney-famous Dole Whip at Pineapple Lanai without even entering the parks.

Caribbean Beach Resort
Centertown Market is the main food court, offering Caribbean-inspired meals, with Spyglass Grill and Banana Cabana Pool Bar rounding out the offerings. The food is decent and fun, but you won’t find signature dining or anything comparable to ‘Ohana.

✅ Winner: Polynesian. No contest.

Polynesian vs Caribbean Beach Transportation

Polynesian Village Resort
This resort shines in accessibility. Located on the Monorail loop, you can zip to Magic Kingdom in minutes, and transfer to Epcot via the Transportation and Ticket Center (right next door). Water taxis and buses are also available.

Caribbean Beach Resort
Caribbean Beach is the hub of the Disney Skyliner, a gondola system that provides quick, scenic access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Buses are available to the rest of the parks, but the resort’s large footprint can make internal transportation a bit cumbersome.

✅ Winner: Tie. Polynesian is better for Magic Kingdom-goers, Caribbean Beach wins for Skyliner fans.

Pools & Recreation

Polynesian Village Resort
The Lava Pool has a volcano, a waterfall, and a water slide—plus stunning views of Seven Seas Lagoon. A second, quieter pool offers a more relaxing experience.

Caribbean Beach Resort
The Fuentes del Morro pool is themed like a Spanish fort and has two water slides and a shipwreck splash area for kids. Each village also has a quiet pool, giving guests lots of options.

✅ Winner: Caribbean Beach. It offers more variety and great theming at the main pool.

Extras & Experience

Polynesian Village Resort
This resort oozes nostalgia and is a favorite for special occasions. You’ll often see guests dressed up for anniversary dinners or watching fireworks from the beach. With luxurious details and a small-scale layout, the overall experience feels intimate and premium.

Caribbean Beach Resort
While more spread out, Caribbean Beach has charm and energy. Walking around Barefoot Bay at sunset, sipping a drink at Banana Cabana, or catching a gondola ride under the stars—these small moments add up to a magical experience, even at a lower price point.

✅ Winner: Polynesian for premium feel, Caribbean Beach for affordability with ambiance.

Polynesian vs Caribbean Beach: Final Verdict

Bottom Line

Choose Polynesian Village Resort if:

• You want deluxe accommodations and dining.
• You’re prioritizing proximity to Magic Kingdom.
• You’re celebrating a special occasion.

Choose Caribbean Beach Resort if:

• You want tropical theming without the deluxe price tag.
• You’re planning to visit Epcot and Hollywood Studios often.
• You want a great pool and family-friendly layout.

Looking for other Disney hotel comparisons? Check out Disney’s Grand Floridian vs Beach Club: A Complete Comparison.