By Dr. Jenna Liphart Rhoads
Staying on WDW property during your magical vacation is not only a convenient way to stay in the magic, but you also have access to some of the best pools around! For first time guests, understanding the ins and outs of the Walt Disney World Resort pools can be a little confusing because there are some common pieces of misinformation floating around on the internet. We are here to provide you with all of the information you need to make the most of your pool time in vacation.
What to expect
When staying at a Walt Disney World Resort, you can expect to thoroughly enjoy your pool time. The resorts have high safety and cleanliness standards which elevate the already magical pools. Each pool provides high quality life jackets (vests) for kids of all sizes, so there is not a need to bring your own. Additionally, life guards can be found at all of the “main” pools or “feature” pools (some resorts have more than one pool). All of the pools are heated which keeps the pools inviting even during the cooler winter months. The pools are not open 24-hours a day, but are usually open for 12-14 hours a day. Make sure to check hours of operation of the pools at your resort. Each resort also provides complimentary towels poolside, so there is no need to bring your own or bring towels down from your room. Some pools do require guests to show their proof of stay at their resort to use the pool, and some resorts (like the Yacht and Beach Club) require guests to wear wrist bands provided by the resort. Kids can also look forward to staff-led poolside activities in the afternoons which include relays, games, music, and sometimes even prizes!
Do’s and Don’ts
Don’ts: Just like any pool, there are rules and safety regulations to ensure everyone has a magical time! Bringing anything made of glass or bringing food or drinks in the water is not allowed. Personal flotation devices or inflatables are also not allowed in Walt Disney World Resort pools. Additionally, guests are not allowed to “pool hop” (use the pools at resorts where they are not a registered guest) or bring non-registered people with them to the pools. Pool hopping may occasionally be sanctioned by a resort when a pool is closed for refurbishment and guests will be complimentary shuttled to a different pool to enjoy.
Do’s: While inflatable toys are not allowed in the pools, other toys such as diving rings or small balls are able to be enjoyed. Make sure to also bring adequate sunscreen to guard against the intense Florida sun. Most importantly of all, make sure to have fun!
Not all pools are created equal
One of major differences between resort categories (value, moderate, deluxe) at Walt Disney World Resorts is the pool experience. Value resorts generally have one large (but very cool!) pool and do not have hot tubs. Moderate category resort pools have slides and hot tubs to be enjoyed by guests. Deluxe resorts not only have pools with slides and hot tubs, but they also have poolside beverage and food service (wait staff comes around to take orders and deliver food and drinks) and more comfortable and upscale lounge furniture. All of the pools at the Walt Disney World resorts are fun and magical, but these distinctions may make a difference when choosing a resort.
Other tips and information
- There are no indoor pools. All pools are outside and subject to weather condition closures.
- There are no diving boards at the pools and diving from the side is not permitted. None of the pools are deep enough for safe diving.
- The pools are open year round and generally heated to 82 degrees fahrenheit.
- There are no lifeguards on duty at the “quiet” pools. These pools do not have special water features.
- All of the pools are fenced in and have an entry/exit gate with a childproof lock for safety.
- Some of the pools have a “zero entry” which is great for those with mobility issues and small children. Check with your travel agent if a resort with a “zero entry” pool would make your vacation even more enjoyable.
- Children who are not toilet trained are required to wear swim diapers.
Now that you are familiar with the pools at Walt Disney World Resort, you can make the most of your magical vacation!
For more on-site tips to make your Disney vacation the most magical it can be, please contact us at Royal Carriage Vacations about planning your magical Disney vacation!
