The Fun Side of Picking a Disney Vacation Club Home Resort

In last week’s Blog, we discussed all the practical reasons to choose one DVC home resort over another; think initial investment, length of ownership, annual dues.   This week is for all those driven by fun, ambiance, personality, and what speaks to their soul when they think, “Vacation!”  Long term planners or those simply aiming to please their other half, it’s time to pay attention.

So much more can be said about each of the 14 DVC Collection Resorts but these are the nuances I’ve gathered over the years that endear these properties to their loyal homeowners, in no particular order:

Disney’s Boardwalk Villas – if you’ve always wanted to visit Atlantic City’s Coney Island at the peak of its popularity or just love fairs and carnival games, this is the resort for you.  I think of it as the hustle and bustle resort where there is always some form of entertainment to be had in and around the literal wooden boardwalk. From carnival games to the 4 person family bikes to the ESPN Sports Bar, the Wyland Gallery or the Flying Fish gourmet restaurant, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. The Luna pool has a fun clown slide that also looks like a wooden roller coaster. Last but not least, you are within a short walk to Epcot and slightly longer to the Hollywood Studios. For the non-stop commando style vacation, I highly recommend this property.

Disney’s Old Key West – with vibrant coral colors this lovely, spread out property is known for its large rooms and convenient parking.  The two-bedroom that sleeps 8 is larger than most people’s homes and the grand villa is perfect for a family reunion.  The vibe is pure Florida relaxation. You’ll hear Jimmy Buffet or Bob Marley playing in the background, imagine you are down in the Keys and swear there is the hint of salt water smell in the air. Ahhhhh.  The Gurgling Suitcase provides tropical drinks and a volleyball court beckons those who want a literal feel of sand between their toes. For anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle, this resort is heavenly.

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, Spa & Treehouses– for the shoppers, spa fans and fitness-on-vacation crowd this property can’t be beat.  The equestrian theme draws from Saratoga, NY during the Victorian era.  You can start your trip with a jaunt over to Disney Springs in the evening and indulge at the newest Wine Bar George or grab a cupcake at Sprinkles and walk it off on your way back home. The largest DVC resort has 5 pools to choose from and a lengthy jogging trail.  After your workout, the Spa offers a plethora of delightful treatments to immerse yourself in the luxury of being pampered by top aestheticians and massage therapists. Head back over to Disney Springs for some upscale shopping, dining and a movie or even bowling to complete the day. One of the most unique and often forgotten gems of this property are its Treehouses.  Suspended amongst the forest trees, its a cross between glamping and Tom Sawyer’s island, depending on what fancies your imagination most.

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows – welcome to a world of lush tropical vegetation, waterfalls, grass skirts, surfboards and Polynesian drums. The atmosphere at one of the original hotels designed by Walt Disney is unparalleled. You literally feel like you’ve been transported to the islands and want to absorb all the culture you possibly can. Stitch and Moana are, of course, included in said culture. The waterfront Bungalows, the smell of coconuts (probably sunscreen) and the beautiful people only enhance this delightful paradise.

Disney’s Aulani Resort & Spa – Aloha! It’s Hawaii.  Need I say more?  Seriously, just combine the description from the Polynesian with the fact that this property is the real deal and what more can be said? For most people, Hawaii is on their bucket list for good reason.  For West Coast DVCers, the convenience of a tropical getaway with a reasonable flight price means many choose this heavenly home away from home without hesitation. Mahalo!

Disney’s Grand Californian – speaking of the West Coast, the premier luxury DVC resort at Disney’s original CA park has incredibly high demand.  It’s beautiful, truly grand and it’s convenient thanks to a private park entrance.  Toss in a little nostalgia with a dash of convenience and choosing this home resort is a no-brainer, especially if you are in the vicinity of CA. This is one property I warn non-Californian owners not to expect too much availability at the 7 month window.  Supply is low and demand is high.  You almost must become a long term planner to enjoy this resort on your trip to Disneyland.

Disney’s Hilton Head Island – this South Carolina DVC property gives all the Southern charm you would expect right in the middle of the Carolina’s golf mecca.  Waterfront views of the marina or the marsh allow endless exploration opportunities while the beachfront recreation building offers the choice of poolside lounging or walks on the beach with your sweetheart. A great summertime locale where drinking tea in rocking chairs has it’s own appeal almost as much as hitting the links with friends.  Free entertainment for the kids is provided by the Big Dipper pool slide, for hours on end.

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort – DVC’s other east coast resort offers beachfront convenience only a couple of hours from it’s Orlando parks. A beautifully kept treasure among a heritage of shipwrecks explored by divers in the area, Vero Beach is one of a kind.  The kids have the Tiger Lily poolside play area while even the adults jump on the main pool slide. Miniature golf and lawn games coupled with planned Disney entertainment allows for plenty of family recreation. The highlight for many, however,  is the turtle viewing and education provided by the Cast Members.  Regardless of your affection for nature, the ability to relax hearing the ocean from your balcony or taking long walks with your toes being kissed by the incoming tide means this property has more home resort fanciers than some park lovers would believe.

Disney’s Beach Club Villas – location, location, location! Probably one of the most popular resorts built, the Beach Club offers the famous Stormalong Bay pool, a short walk to Epcot and access to all of the features along the Boardwalk as well! It’s all-you-can-eat crab leg buffet at Cape May Cafe plus Beaches and Cream Ice Cream shop draw in audiences from all over WDW property. It’s delightful New England beachside feel is the icing on the cake of this lovely resort that invites you to stroll outside and watch a movie on the beach or just catch the sunset over Crescent Lake in one of the swings. 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – cue the Lion King music!  For the animal lover in you or anyone in your family, you can’t beat this fabulous resort designed to immerse you in African culture while surrounding and educating you about wildlife on the Savanna.  Start the day with coffee on the balcony and a visit from a resident giraffe or ostrich. Get out of your normal foodie comfort zone at Sanaa, Jiko or Boma where the unusual (to most of us) has been prepared by chefs to be irresistible.  With two houses, Jambo and Kidani, this resort is notably a little darker than most, but it has deep rich red tones and incredible African inspired artistry throughout. The thatched roofs alone are somewhat mesmerizing and I once spent half a day exploring all the artifacts on display.  It’s got places to hide and relax, like the rocking chairs adjacent to the main lobby. Head outside to the fire pit to meet Cast Members ready to share their knowledge of the animals and answer any questions about their care and nutrition.  If you like a little extra snacks and TLC, they have the Concierge level that offers delectable munchies and drinks throughout the day. The theming at this resort is incredible and worth experiencing at least once, even if it isn’t your home resort.

Disney’s Bay Lake Tower – connected to the Contemporary Resort with its own hovering walkway, this modern resort has everything you could ask for in a DVC home.  You can literally walk across the street to the Magic Kingdom.  Views of Walt’s original Florida park or the gorgeous Bay Lake entice, while the monorail access spoils you in making your way around WDW and the stylish decor is as trendy and cool as anyone could ever ask for. But wait, there’s more! The Top of the World Lounge provides gorgeous views day or night but when the fireworks show at the Magic Kingdom begins, you truly feel like you are the VIP family of the year (along with a few other DVC family Members, of course). Water sports are in your proverbial backyard.  All the other basics like a Mickey Mouse themed pool, full service restaurants like the Wave and shopping within the Contemporary make this resort another Home Resort favorite for many DVC Members.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge,  Boulder Ridge and Copper Creek Cabins – for the Winter, this property is my absolute favorite! The enormous fireplace is the focal point of the lobby with rocking chairs and hot cocoa inviting one to sit down, relax and think cozy thoughts like, “It’s good to be on vacation.”  The rustic Pacific Northwest theming has everything from babbling brooks and bridges, to large boulders and pine trees.  The Disney themed totem poles cultivate the perfect balance of Native American meets Disney magic. The newest addition to the DVC family, its Copper Creek Homes directly on the water add a unique, inviting, home away from home feel and are perfect for larger families or reunions. With all the usual amenities of a DVC property, boat access to the Magic Kingdom is one of this resorts often overlooked bonus items.

Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – for many, this waterfront resort is considered the crème de la crème of all the Disney properties. Home to the world famous Victoria & Albert’s dining experience, Narcoosee’s lakefront seafood venue, a first-class spa & health club, it’s own marina and poolside cabanas, this elegant and sophisticated Victorian themed resort exudes class. Only one stop away from the Magic Kingdom via the monorail makes it incredibly convenient on top of other prevalent indulgences. Host of some of the most beautiful weddings in the world, jazz in the atrium and of course, high tea, many feel that the Floridian is the only place they ever want to call their DVC home.

For more pictures, visit our resort pages featuring photographers Len Yokoyama, Eddison Esteban and Pat Saizan.  For specific details on restaurants, amenities and more, visit the Disney Vacation Club’s official website, DVCmember.com

Thanks for reading!