Complete Guide to the Best Disney Resort Pools

Complete Guide to the Best Disney Resort Pools

Complete Guide to the Best Disney Resort Pools

This post is your ultimate guide to the best pools at Disney World! Down in Florida, it can get pretty warm, even during the winter months. Walt Disney World is full of unique and fun pools that will be sure to keep you cool and relaxed. With so many options, it may be hard to choose which ones you’ll be enjoying during your next trip. For us, it is difficult to pick the Disney hotel with the best pool, since there are so many we love. But, looking through our guide, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect pool for your family.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list that breaks down the best Disney World resort pools that will make you feel like you’re swimming in a whole new world! As Disney resort experts, we have crowned the Polynesian Lava Pool as the best Disney resort pool! But, there are many other pools that have made our list for the best slides, poolside treats, and more.

Planning a family vacation to Walt Disney World? Let our Disney travel experts plan a hassle-free vacation for you with a no-obligation quote. Guests can also opt into our concierge service with any discount Disney World ticket order purchased through our small business which includes custom Disney park plans to save up to three hours each day, dining recommendations, and price monitoring to ensure you get the best deal. Start your magical journey with us today! 

So if you’re ready to read about the best Walt Disney World pools read on!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Disney World in check out our Disney Crowd Calendar!

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Best Pools at Disney World

Walt Disney World has always been known for its amazing entertainment in the four Disney World theme parks but one of the hidden gems we have always loved about Disney are the amazing themed swimming pools. Now that the 50th Anniversary Celebration is underway, resort days are wonderful ways to break away from the theme parks, which are very are expected to be busy throughout the year. That’s why knowing the best pools at Disney World will give you one step up on having the perfect resort day!

What are the best pools at Disney World? 

• Big Blue Pool
• Copper Creek Springs Pool
• Uzima Pool
• Samawati Springs Pool
• Fuentes del Moro Pool
• Oasis Pool
• Cozy Cone Pool
• The Lost City of Cibola Pool
• Beach Pool
• Lava Pool
• Stormalong Bay

Before we dive into the details of each pool, let’s answer some questions you might have when booking your stay at a resort with the best pools at Walt Disney World. So, in this next section, we are going to rank all of the best pools at Disney World.

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Big Blue Pool – Best Disney Pool #10

Disney Pool Location: Art of Animation Resort

Overview: Swim with the fishes at this Finding Nemo-themed pool. Nemo, Dory, Marlin, and other characters greet you throughout this large pool. You’ll also get to dance (or swim) to underwater music. Although it draws large crowds due to its size, it’s a fun entertainment center, making it one of the best Disney pools for families.

Dining options: The Drop Off Pool Bar – Located near the main pool area, The Drop Off Pool Bar is a great spot to grab a refreshing beverage, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. While it may not offer full meals, you can find snacks and light bites to enjoy by the pool.

Tips and tricks: Try to visit the pool during non-peak hours to avoid crowds. Early mornings or late evenings can be quieter times to enjoy the pool. Adjacent to the Big Blue Pool, there is a water play area called Squirt’s Righteous Reef. This area is especially enjoyable for younger children. Take some time to explore and let the kids have a blast. It’s truly one of the best Disney resort pools for kids.

Related post: The Complete Guide to the Best Disney Value Resorts

Oasis Pool – Best Disney Pool #9

Disney Pool Location: Polynesian Village Resort

Overview: Speaking of Oasis, this Disney Polynesian pool is smaller in size but will make you feel quite enchanting. It’s nestled within a lush garden and located among Samoa, Hawaii, and Tokelau, which are the tropical themes of the resort. It features a zero-entry edge, a hot tub, a bar, and a grill with interesting dishes. This pool promises a more tranquil swim for those looking to relax and unwind, making it one of the best Disney pools for adults.

Dining options: Barefoot Bar – Barefoot Pool Bar is a tropical-themed bar located near the Oasis Pool at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, offering a relaxed atmosphere where guests can enjoy refreshing drinks and light bites while lounging by the pool.

Tips and tricks: Consider renting a private cabana near the Oasis Pool. These cabanas provide additional comfort and privacy, and often come with amenities like a mini-fridge, TV, and personalized service. Cabana rentals can be made through the resort’s front desk or concierge. The Oasis Pool has nearby dining options where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing beverage. Check out Barefoot Pool Bar, conveniently located next to the pool, which offers snacks, light meals, and a selection of tropical drinks.

Related post: The Complete List of Disney World Resorts

The Lost City of Cibola Pool – Best Disney Pool #8

Disney Pool Location: Coronado Springs Resort

Overview: The Mayan-ruins-themed pool is located at the Dig Site, making it an intriguing spot for both kids and adults. Your eye will immediately catch the 50-foot pyramid and the flowing water coming from its stone steps. For those looking for a thrill, the 123-foot water slide featuring a spitting jaguar makes for one of the best Disney hotel water slides. Adults can enjoy the largest hot tub on Walt Disney World resort property and the Siesta Pool Bar. If kids need a break from the excitement of the water, there’s also a nearby play area, an arcade, and a white-sand volleyball court.

Dining options: Siestas Cantina – A quick-service dining option where you can grab snacks, light meals, and refreshing beverages

Tips and tricks: The Lost City of Cibola Pool has hot tubs nearby, providing a relaxing and soothing experience. If you’re looking to unwind, spend some time in the hot tubs and enjoy the warm water.

Related post: The Complete Guide to Coronado Springs Resort

Samawati Springs Pool – Best Disney Pool #7

Disney Pool Location: Animal Kingdom Lodge

Overview: It’s pretty clear that the Animal Kingdom Lodge has some of the best Disney World pools, as there are a couple on this list! This 4,700-square-foot pool is located at the Kidani Villas, featuring a 128-foot waterslide and zero-depth entry. Plus, it includes the Uwanja Camp, a water playground with 3 distinct zones meant for kids of all ages. There’s an Observation Station for children ages 4 and younger, Departure Zone for ages 5 to 7, and Base Camp for ages 8 and up.

Dining Options: Uzima Springs Pool Bar – Offers a variety of snacks, cocktails, mocktails, and quick bites.

Tips and tricks: The Samawati Springs Pool features a water play area called Uwanja Camp. This area is especially enjoyable for children, with water cannons, slides, and other interactive elements. Kiddos will love this area and it’s why we think that Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of the best Disney Resorts to stay at for families!

Related post: Ranking the Best Restaurants in Animal Kingdom

Copper Creek Springs Pool – Best Disney Pool #6

Disney Pool Location: Wilderness Lodge

Overview: Did someone say Hakuna Matata? Because there will be no worries in this pool surrounded by luscious greens, realistic boulders, and a calming waterfall. This is the main pool at Wilderness Lodge. Swimming here will make you feel like you are in a secluded area, relaxing in the jungle, with the inclusion of the hotel’s geyser and Bay Lake in view. For the kids (and the young at heart), there’s a 67-foot water slide built into the rocks as well as hot and cold whirlpool spas, and a water play area.

Dining options: Geyser Point Bar and Grill – Offers Pacific Northwest flavors for delicious meals or drinks with incredible views of Bay Lake.

Tips and tricks: The Copper Creek Springs Pool takes on a different ambiance in the evening. The pool area is beautifully lit, creating a magical atmosphere. Take some time to enjoy a swim or relax by the pool under the enchanting night lights. The Copper Creek Springs Pool features a stunning waterfall that adds to the natural beauty of the surroundings. Take a moment to appreciate the sight and capture some memorable photos.

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Uzima Pool – Best Disney Pool #5

Disney Pool Location: Animal Kingdom Lodge

Overview: Located in the Jambo House, this is one of the largest and best Disney World pools. Containing 234,980 gallons of water, this Animal Kingdom Lodge pool is known for its sparkling, tropical oasis. To make things wild, there are animal viewing areas where you can view the animals at the Lodge, including the flamingos. They also offer a 67-foot-long water slide. For the adults; enjoy the pool bar and the hot tubs.

Dining options: Uzima Springs Pool Bar – offers a variety of refreshing beverages, including specialty cocktails, mocktails, and soft drinks. Treat yourself to a tropical drink and enjoy the poolside atmosphere.

Tips and tricks: Keep an eye out for any scheduled African drumming circle events near the pool. The resort occasionally offers interactive drumming experiences, where guests can participate and learn traditional African rhythms. It’s a unique and engaging way to connect with the resort’s African theme. Animal Kingdom Lodge is known for its wildlife-rich surroundings. While at the Uzima Pool, keep an eye out for wildlife that may be visible from the pool area, such as birds, giraffes, zebras, or antelopes. It’s a unique opportunity to observe animals while enjoying the pool.

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Fuentes del Moro Pool – Best Disney Pool #4

Disney Pool Location: Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Unleash your inner Captain Jack Sparrow at this Spanish colonial fortress-style pool. To feel even more as if you’re in Pirates of the Caribbean, water cannons are included. This very kid-friendly Disney hotel pool is made up of Forts, with one including a staircase leading up to two waterslides. There’s a Shipwreck Play Area, which, of course, maintains a pirate-ship-themed splash pad for the youngest of pirates.  It also has two secluded hot tubs and a pool bar for the adults. Plus, it’s close to Banana Cabana and Centertown Market.

Dining options: Banana Cabana – Offers a variety of specialty drinks, including Caribbean-inspired cocktails and mocktails.

Tips and tricks: Fuentes del Morro Pool occasionally features live music performances. Check the resort’s schedule or inquire with the front desk to see if there are any live music events happening during your stay. Enjoy the tropical tunes while lounging by the pool.

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Cozy Cone Pool – Best Disney Pool #3

Disney Pool Location: Art of Animation Resort

Overview: Guests staying at the Cars Suite at Disney’s Art of Animation will feel like they’re in the movie. The cabanas are available for free on a first-come, first-serve basis (and yes, they’re in the shape of cones). This is one of the best pools at Disney hotels because these cabanas provide lots of shade and comfort for those looking to spend an entire day at the pool. For the adults asking, “Does Art of Animation have a hot tub?” The answer is they do not, but that makes this resort one of the best Disney pools for families

Dining options: Cozy Cone Pool Bar – Cozy Cone Pool Bar offers a variety of refreshing beverages, including cocktails, mocktails, and soft drinks.

Tips and tricks: Look out for cone-themed pool activities organized by the resort’s Cast Members. They may offer special games or contests inspired by the iconic cone shapes found throughout the resort. We love how far they take the “Cone” theme, which kiddos will love, especially those who love the movie Cars!

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Grand Floridian Beach Pool – Best Disney Pool #2

Disney Pool Location: Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Overview: You get to relax your troubles away at the Grand Floridian pool in Disney, containing 111,261 gallons of water, overlooking Seven Seas Lagoon and the Magic Kingdom. The natural springs will keep you tranquil (and the poolside bar helps too). There’s also a 181-foot-long water slide, many waterfalls, a walking bridge, and zero-depth beach entry, making the Grand Floridian beach pool the best of both worlds. For the kids, there’s an Alice in Wonderland water play area. Truly, this is one of the best Disney pools for adults, because of the peaceful upbringing and secluded location.

Dining options: Sandy Cove Pool Bar – Simple bar that offers a variety of beverages from cocktails to mocktails and more! Narcoossee’s restaurant is also only a short walk away if you’re looking for a fancier meal option after you swim!

Tips and tricks: Consider renting a poolside cabana for a luxurious and private experience. These cabanas offer amenities such as comfortable seating, a mini-fridge, a television, and personalized service. Adjacent to the pool, you’ll find a sandy beach area overlooking Seven Seas Lagoon. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoy the views, or simply relax on a beach chair and soak up the sun. It’s a serene and peaceful spot away from the pool’s hustle and bustle.

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Lava Pool – Best Disney Pool #1

Disney Pool Location: Polynesian Village Resort

Overview: Once called the Nanea Volcano Pool, it has now changed its name. The Disney Polynesian Resort pool is located in the center of the resort. This main pool is known for its iconic feature; the lava ruins slide, running at about 142 feet. Similar to the Beach Pool, there are also stunning views of the Seven Seas Lagoon, which contains a nice poolside bar, and has a semi-secluded hot tub.  Located between the beaches of the resort, you’ll feel like you’re in your own little oasis.

Dining options: Oasis Bar & Grill – Offers a tropical oasis where guests can enjoy refreshing beverages and delicious bites inspired by Polynesian flavors

Tips and tricks: The Lava Pool features a thrilling volcano-themed water slide. As you slide down, you’ll pass through the volcano’s interior, complete with special effects and the sound of erupting lava. It’s a must-try experience that adds an extra element of excitement to your pool time. In the evenings, don’t miss the Tiki Torch Lighting Ceremony that takes place near the Lava Pool.

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Stormalong Bay – Best Disney Pool Bonus!!

Disney Pool Location: Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts

So you might be wondering, why is Stormalong Bay not number one on your list of the best Disney World Pools? Well that’s because we actually consider this to be half pool and half beach! Yep, that’s right Stormalong Bay is the only Disney World pool to include a sand bottom for guests to enjoy.

And that’s why Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Beach Club is simply one of our favorite pools in the world not only at Disney World! And as discussed the reason for being one of the best pools at Disney World is because the complex is 3 acres in size. Plus, it features sand at the bottom along with a lazy river, making you feel as if you got shipwrecked on a tropical island. Speaking of shipwrecked, the theme comes into play on their waterslide, which is 230 feet. The Bay also features heaps of bridges and adventurous areas to explore (and of course, the poolside bar). This unique Disney resort pool is sure a show-stopper and one that will make a lot of memories. Not to mention this resort is just a short walk to all of the EPCOT special events held throughout the year.

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Best Pools at Disney World for Adults

For those of you who have checked out our complete guide to adults visiting Disney World, you already know there are plenty of adult activities for guests to do. But what about the best pools at Disney for adults? Here at The Park Prodigy we have visited almost every single pool in Disney and here is our list of the best Disney resort pools for adults:

• The Beach Pool at the Disney Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
• The Oasis pool at the Polynesian Resort
• Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts

Related post: Best Disney World Hotels for Adults

How Late Are Pools Open at Disney Resorts?

All Disney pools are open all year round. Depending on the time of year, those hours can vary. You can expect most pools to be open by the time you are done with your breakfast since pools typically open around 9AM. However, the bigger and more central pools could also open at 7AM the earliest. The closing time can also vary from 9PM to 11PM. Due to Disney’s instated policy in 2013; the main feature pool at each resort will only be open when lifeguards are on duty. The Disney pools are staffed with several lifeguards year-round from open until close. There will also be guards posted at the bottom of slide areas and at multiple points around the perimeter of the feature pool. It’s best to check with the Guest Services at the resorts, but there will be lots of signage around each pool telling you their hours.

Can You Visit Other Disney Resort Pools?

Resorts will have various pools throughout their location, so you are free to use any of the pools at your resort. For example, guests of Port Orleans Riverside may use the pools at the Port Orleans French Quarter, and vice versa. Also, members of the Disney Vacation Club can hop to the pools located in other parts of the resort.

However, “pool-hopping” is not allowed from resort to resort. If you’re planning to tour the best pools at Walt Disney World, you will have to have a separate reservation at each. Typically, the pools are gated and you may need your Magic Band to get in. This is especially true at the Disney Beach and Yacht Club resort which is home to one of the most popular Disney resort pools on property. Guests will be asked to show their Magic Band every time they leave the pool area or receive a bracelet.

But don’t fret; any resort you stay at will have one of the best Disney pools.

Are Disney Pools Heated?

You can feel confident that no matter which Disney pool you choose you’ll be enjoying a nice 82-degree Fahrenheit temperature. This temperature is perfect for a cool down in the pool during the summer, but it’s also perfect to warm you up on a “chillier” winter day. This way, the best Disney World hotel pools can be enjoyed all year long.

Now that we have covered the basics let’s jump into the best Disney World resort pools for your next trip!

Which Are The Worst Pools at Disney?

While you can’t really go wrong at Disney, there are a few pools we believe could be improved. While there are many, many of the best pools at Disney World, there really are only a handful of pools we are indifferent about. These pools are the Riviera Resort Pool and the Luna Park Pool at Boardwalk Resort. The reason for choosing these pools includes things like an outdated theme, lacking amenities, and the size of the pools. They may not be bad, but they’re certainly not the best.

The Riviera Resort is gorgeous, and though the pool is pretty, it leaves a lot to be desired. Especially in comparison to other deluxe resorts. The Luna Park Pool is just a little… unsettling. We’ve all seen the interesting theming at the Boardwalk Inn, but the Luna Park Pool takes it to another level. The pool has a 200-foot water slide that’s made to look like a wooden roller coaster, which sounds odd enough, right? Well, the exit to this slide is actually a giant clown’s mouth. It’s a shame because the pool area is pretty nice, but the clown makes this pool not an option if – like many people, both kids and adults – someone in your party is afraid of clowns.

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The Best Walt Disney World Pools FAQ

Q: Do Disney pools close in winter?

As a general rule, Disney World pools will not close in the winter and all of the water in Disney is always heated for that reason. Guests have been known to take advantage of the best Disney World pools throughout all months of the year including December, January, and February, and still have an amazing time on their vacation even with the colder weather outside.

Q: Which Disney Resort has the best water slide?

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Disney World Trip?

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Disney World Deals and Discounts 

Don’t forget to join our Disney community to learn about any additional deals and promotions on discounted Disney World tickets. All community members are always guaranteed to save vs. buying their tickets directly. Plus, you can opt into our concierge service, which includes custom Disney park plans to save up to three hours each day, dining recommendations, and price monitoring to ensure you always get the best Disney World deal!

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