Pools are a staple feature at Walt Disney World Resorts, where you can swim comfortably in almost any season. While every resort has something unique to offer, these pools have distinctive highlights that put them at the top of the pack.
Noticeably absent from this list is the Nanea Volcano Pool at the Polynesian, due to the fact that this area will be closed until 2015 for refurbishments which will include some new watery highlights.
7. Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
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Stormalong Bay spans three acres and regularly tops lists of the best pools at Walt Disney World. Gentle currents and a sand bottom give this pool the most realistic atmosphere on property for visitors who want the feel of a beach vacation in central Florida. The life-size shipwreck is visible from the Boardwalk, but it’s even more impressive up close with a 230-foot waterslide. The pool area also features a lazy river, elevated tanning deck, a kiddie pool, and three whirlpool spas.
6. The Big Blue Pool at Disney’s Art of Animation
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The Big Blue Pool at Disney’s Art of Animation resort features something entirely new to Disney pools – underwater speakers. The pool features a zero-depth entry that’s ideal for small swimmers who want to splash in the shallow waters. An oversized Crush and massive jellyfish adorn the pool area, creating a scene straight out of Finding Nemo. At 308,527 gallons, this is a massive pool with plenty of room for everyone.
5. Silver Creek Springs Pool at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
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The gentle waters of the Silver Creek trickle along picturesque paths to the pool at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Towering pine trees and massive boulders surround the area, giving this retreat the feel of a northwestern lodge rather than a Floridian escape. A 67-foot waterslide offers ample fun for the kids, while hot and cold whirlpool spas give adults a soothing place to relax. The adjacent geyser adds to the atmosphere.
4. Doubloon Lagoon at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort
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King Neptune watches over Doubloon Lagoon from on high, while an alligator band keeps the good times rolling at this perpetual Mardi Gras party. A massive sea serpent snakes around this pool with a 51-foot water slide running along the scales. A whirlpool spa and kiddie pool adjacent to the pool add to the fun at this rollicking resort destination.
3. The Lost City of Cibola Pool at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
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This pool transports you to an ancient Mayan city, where you become the archaeologist and explorer of the fascinating watery ruins. The centerpiece of the area is a 50-foot pyramid with water streaming down the sides. Swimmers who are up for an adventure can brave the 123-foot water slide. Those who need a more low-key area can splash in the kiddie pool. The “Dig Site” where this pool is located also features the largest hot tub on property with a maximum capacity of 22 people.
2. Luna Park Pool at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
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The Luna Park Pool features a bright and playful carnival theme that makes it a favorite of small children. Happy elephants spout water from their trunks, and the winding water slide ends right in the mouth of a giant clown face. At 184,217 gallons, this pool is on the smaller side. It’s the quaint aura of heading to Atlantic City in the 1920s that really draws visitors in.
1. The Meadow Swimmin’ Pool at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground
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The Meadow is a rustic retreat at Fort Wilderness where guests will find a playground, boat rentals, a snack and gift shop, and an exciting pool. The Meadow Swimmin’ Pool features a 67-foot corkscrew water slide. Though not the most elaborate pool on property, this one made the list because the setting is so distinct. You’re surrounded by trees and a peaceful river instead of a bustling resort, as with most pools.
A cool afternoon at the pool is the perfect way to step back from the frantic pace of the parks and rejuvinate during the heat of the day. These resorts offer some of the coolest options for beating the heat.
