Island Tower at Disney's Polynesian Resort: Latest Construction Updates as Terrace Gardens Take Shape

Gallery / 15 Photos
Island Tower at Disney's Polynesian Villas and Bungalows construction - September 13 2024

See all 15

Posted: Friday September 13, 2024 11:07am ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

Here's the latest update on construction progress at the Island Tower, part of Disney's Polynesian Resort in Walt Disney World.

Island Tower at Disney's Polynesian Villas and Bungalows construction - September 13 2024

One of the four terrace gardens has begun to take shape, with visible landscaping now in place. The themed seating areas, inspired by the islands of Bora Bora, Hawai'i, Samoa, and Fiji, are designed to provide families with a serene and relaxing space to gather. Disney has revealed that guests will be able to explore vibrant artwork and lush greenery throughout the gardens, creating a distinct sense of place in each terrace.

Island Tower at Disney's Polynesian Villas and Bungalows construction - September 13 2024

Hawai'i Terrace Garden

At Moana's Voyage splash area, her iconic outrigger canoe is now in position, and construction continues on the surrounding pool area and hot tub.

Island Tower at Disney's Polynesian Villas and Bungalows construction - September 13 2024

Moana's Voyage splash area

The new Island Tower at Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is scheduled to open on December 17, 2024, with reservations now available.

Opening week rates for a December 18 arrival start at $826 per night for a Duo Studio with a Standard View and go up to $5,016 per night for a 2-Bedroom Penthouse with a Theme Park View. Discounts may be available for Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Florida Residents.

Island Tower at Disney's Polynesian Villas and Bungalows concept art

Discuss on the Forums

Get Walt Disney World News Delivered to Your Inbox

Chef idea Mickey`=May 20, 2025

For that price I'll do a Disney Buffet than one entree!

MisterPenguinMay 17, 2025

I always appreciate a $60 table service gourmet meal within a ten minute walk from my tent.

Chef idea Mickey`=May 17, 2025

Restaurants for sure

peter11435May 17, 2025

There will be a few new dining venues as part of Lakeside Lodge.

Chef idea Mickey`=May 17, 2025

This begs to question how the new Lakeside Lodge will effect Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness etc.. it seems Disney is only implementing a new quick service when the new DVC resort is a stand alone new DVC resort. None of additions to existing resorts has received a new additional quick service offering. Does it not matter for Grand Floridian Villas and Bay Lake Tower? so ironically Polynesian doesn't need one either and maybe so with Lakeside Lodge if that thing is just an addition of..

BocabearMay 16, 2025

This was after the new building opened...in April....Captain Cooks Looked much busier than I ever remember it... We had dinner at the new place in the tower...they were also very crowded...there was an hour plus wait for the outdoor seating... We all agreed it looked nice but didn't feel like the Polynesian... Not a total pan...there are some nice elements here and there, but as an addition to a very beloved and well known resort, it missed the mark.

easyrowrdwMay 16, 2025

Was this after the new building opened? We’ve stayed many times and though Cooks is almost always busy the waits have typically felt reasonable to us. It would be disappointing if the new addition has changed that. Like the other poster said, Poly seems to attract a lot of outside guests so Disney should account for that

Chef idea Mickey`=May 16, 2025

Mes Oui! 😉 Bravo a Vous! Geniale! 👏🇫🇷 💯

Chef idea Mickey`=May 16, 2025

If Polynesian had one it would end up falling in the same standards as California Grill. I'm not for sure it's for a beginning grand opening period but this tower you only access the elevators if you happen to have a room. California Grill you need to ask, check in and be escorted with someone or permission to go on the elevator even say if you went there for the bar. Riviera you do not and runs just like Gran Destino Tower, both have amazing views but the views themselves aren't the signature view that certain Dreamer's would say is a dream about California Grill or The Polynesian would bring. I'm not even sure if anyone can go visit one of the boxed terraces at the tower just by asking.

MisterPenguinMay 16, 2025

prix fixe 🇫🇷🥐🍟🥖👨‍🍳

Chef idea Mickey`=May 16, 2025

Pre fix sucks only if it's the only option. You save more than paying a drink, entree, dessert, soup, salad or appetizer if you did it all separate.

BocabearMay 16, 2025

I am not sure about that....California Grill is an awfully busy venue...as is the restaurant they built at the Riviera and the lounge on top of BLT... People love to have a wonderful view and are happy to pay for it. When we stay at BLT we always try to end each evening at the Top Of The World for a few cocktails... We have done the same at the Riviera...