Disney’s Beach Club Villas

Nestled along the shores of Crescent Lake at Walt Disney World Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Villas offers a slice of New England coastal charm combined with Disney magic. This Disney Deluxe villa resort, connected to the iconic Beach Club Resort, is located in the Epcot Reosrt area and provides guests with spacious accommodations and premium amenities in a prime location. As you embark on your journey through this seaside haven, you’ll discover why it’s one of Disney’s most beloved properties.

Disney’s Beach Club Villas Summary

• Disney’s Beach Club Villas offers luxury accommodations in a New England coastal-themed setting, featuring studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom villas with full kitchens or kitchenettes, making it perfect for extended family stays.
• The resort’s prime location allows walking access to both EPCOT (10 minutes to International Gateway) and Disney’s Hollywood Studios (20 minutes), with additional transportation options including boats, buses, and the Disney Skyliner.
• Stormalong Bay, a 3-acre water complex shared with Disney’s Beach Club Resort, features a 750,000-gallon sand-bottom pool, 230-foot waterslide, lazy river, and multiple whirlpool spas, making it the most elaborate pool area at any Disney World hotel.
• Dining options range from signature experiences at Yachtsman Steakhouse to casual meals at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop and Cape May Café, which offers character breakfasts and seafood dinners.
• The resort’s elegant lobby showcases Victorian coastal architecture with maritime details, including a stunning model ship centerpiece and sophisticated seaside décor in soft blues and whites.
• Beach Club Villas guests have access to numerous amenities including the Ship Shape Health Club, tennis courts, volleyball court, quiet pools, and various recreational activities such as boat rentals and movie nights on the beach.
• The variety of villa sizes and configurations, including the innovative two-bedroom lock-off option, provides flexible accommodation options for groups ranging from couples to extended families of up to eight guests.

The Beach Club Resort Lobby

From the moment you step into the Beach Club Resort’s magnificent lobby, you’re transported to the refined elegance of New England’s golden age of seaside resorts. The soaring two-story space features a stunning color palette of soft sea-foam greens, gentle blues, and crisp whites that immediately evokes a coastal ambiance. Elegant chandeliers cast a warm glow over the comfortable seating areas, which are appointed with period-appropriate furnishings in maritime patterns and textures.

The lobby’s centerpiece is a beautiful wooden model ship, perfectly capturing the nautical theme that runs throughout the resort. Intricate architectural details, including white wooden trim work, wainscoting, and crown molding, speak to the Victorian influence in the design. The check-in area resembles a classic seaside hotel’s front desk, complete with brass accents and maritime-inspired artwork. Large windows flood the space with natural light and offer glimpses of the meticulously maintained gardens beyond.

Beach Club Villas Location and Theme

The Beach Club Villas maintains the same elegant, seaside aesthetic as its sister resort. The architecture and design draw inspiration from the grand seaside resorts of the late 19th century New England coast, featuring soft blue and white exteriors, wooden porches, and detailed trim work. The five-story villa building seamlessly integrates with the main resort while offering its own intimate atmosphere.

Its premier location puts guests within walking distance of two theme parks: EPCOT’s International Gateway entrance is just a 10-minute stroll away, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios can be reached via a scenic 20-minute walk along the waterfront promenade or a relaxing boat ride. The proximity to these parks, combined with the resort’s luxurious amenities, makes it an ideal choice for visitors seeking both convenience and comfort.

Beach Club Villas Accommodations

The Beach Club Villas offers several accommodation options to suit different party sizes and preferences.

The Studio Villas, measuring approximately 356 square feet, provide comfortable accommodations for up to five guests. These rooms feature a queen bed, a double sleeper sofa, and a charming twin-size pull-down bed. A kitchenette equipped with a microwave, small refrigerator, coffee maker, and toaster allows for basic meal preparation, while the split bathroom configuration with separate areas for shower/toilet and sink/vanity adds convenience for families.

For those seeking more space, the One-Bedroom Villas span 726 square feet and accommodate up to four guests. These villas feature a master bedroom with a plush king-size bed, while the living room includes a queen-size sleeper sofa. The full kitchens comes with full-size appliances, perfect for preparing family meals. Additional amenities include a washer and dryer, a luxurious whirlpool tub in the master bathroom, and a separate shower.

The Two-Bedroom Villas, at 1,083 square feet, provide ample space for larger families or groups of up to eight guests. These expansive accommodations include a master bedroom with a king-size bed, a second bedroom with two queen beds, and a living room with a queen-size sleeper sofa. Like the one-bedroom villas, they feature a fully equipped kitchen, washer and dryer, and two complete bathrooms.

For added flexibility, the resort offers Two-Bedroom Lock-Off Villas, which combine a one-bedroom villa with a studio. This configuration provides two separate entrances, making it ideal for extended families or groups wanting to maintain some privacy while staying connected.

When it comes to views, guests can choose from several categories. Standard Views typically overlook parking areas, rooftops, or dense landscape. Garden or Woods Views offer peaceful vistas of the resort’s lush landscaping and wooded areas. Pool or Water Views provide views of the spectacular Stormalong Bay, quiet pools, or Crescent Lake. For the most impressive vistas, Preferred Views offer premium views of the lake, lighthouse, or BoardWalk area.

Beach Club Villas Pools

Stormalong Bay

Stormalong Bay is the main book at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, and stands as the most impressive pool complex at any Disney World hotel, spanning three acres of aquatic entertainment between Disney’s Beach Club and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. This mini water park features a 750,000-gallon sand-bottom pool that creates an authentic beach experience right in the heart of Walt Disney World. The sand-bottom design extends throughout much of the main pool area, providing a unique sensory experience as you wade through the gentle slopes and varying depths.

The complex’s centerpiece is a life-size shipwreck, home to one of the highest hotel water slides at Walt Disney World. The 230-foot-long slide begins atop a 50-foot-tall mast and takes swimmers on a thrilling journey before splashing down near the ship’s bow. To access the slide, guests climb the winding stairs of the Ship Shape Health Club building, crossing an elevated wooden bridge that offers spectacular views of the resort area.

The pool complex features multiple distinct areas catering to different preferences. The main pool reaches a depth of 8 feet with a gradual slope, making it perfect for swimming and water play. A dedicated slow-moving lazy river winds through the complex, complete with inner tubes for guests to float along while enjoying the lush landscaping and peaceful atmosphere. For those seeking relaxation, three whirlpool spas of varying temperatures provide the perfect retreat, while an elevated tanning deck offers premium sunbathing spots with views of Crescent Lake.

Families with young children will find several areas designed specifically for their enjoyment. A zero-entry sandy beach area allows toddlers to splash safely in shallow water, while a separate children’s pool features a miniature slide shaped like a curved shell, perfect for younger swimmers. The adjacent sandy beach play area comes equipped with buckets and shovels, encouraging children to build sandcastles and enjoy beach play without leaving the resort.

Security and Services at Stormalong Bay

Due to it’s popularity, access to Stormalong Bay is strictly controlled through a wristband system, with cast members checking credentials at both the main entrance and the water slide. Lifeguards are stationed throughout the complex during operating hours, and complimentary life jackets in various sizes are available. The pool area features abundant seating, including lounge chairs, tables with umbrellas, and secluded spots tucked among the tropical landscaping. Towels are provided at the pool, and guests can purchase or borrow pool noodles and other water toys from the nearby Ship Shape Health Club.

The Tidal Pool: A Peaceful Retreat

Located specifically at the Beach Club Villas, the Tidal Pool offers a serene alternative to the excitement of Stormalong Bay. This quiet pool maintains a consistent depth of 4 feet, making it ideal for relaxed swimming and water exercises. The pool is surrounded by comfortable lounge chairs and features a spacious hot tub, perfect for evening relaxation. The area’s landscaping includes mature palm trees and flowering plants that provide natural shade and privacy, while still offering glimpses of the resort’s architecture through the foliage.

Dunes Cove Pool: Hidden Oasis

The Dunes Cove Pool, another quiet pool option, is nestled within the resort grounds and offers a more intimate swimming experience. This pool features a classic rectangular design with a consistent depth, making it perfect for lap swimming or casual dips. The surrounding deck area includes both sunny and shaded seating options, and the pool’s location away from main walkways ensures a peaceful atmosphere throughout the day. A dedicated hot tub provides another option for relaxation, and the pool’s heating system maintains comfortable swimming temperatures year-round.

Pool Hours and Seasonal Activities

All pools at the Beach Club Villas are heated throughout the year, maintaining a comfortable temperature even during cooler months. While specific hours may vary by season, Stormalong Bay typically operates from early morning until late evening, with the quiet pools available for slightly extended hours. During summer months, the resort often hosts poolside activities at Stormalong Bay, including games, music, and special events coordinated by recreation staff. The quiet pools remain true to their name, maintaining a calm atmosphere regardless of the season or time of day.

Beach Club Villas Dining

The Beach Club Resort and Villas offers an exceptional array of dining experiences, from signature restaurants to casual eateries, each maintaining the resort’s coastal theme while providing unique culinary experiences.

Signature Dining

Yachtsman Steakhouse

Located at the adjacent Yacht Club Resort, the Yachtsman Steakhouse stands as one of Disney World’s premier dining destinations. The restaurant’s entrance features a dry-aging room where guests can view the aging process of the premium steaks. The menu showcases hand-cut, grain-fed beef, aged in-house for tenderness and flavor. Signature dishes include the 32-oz Porterhouse for Two and the Maine Lobster tail add-on option. The restaurant’s sophisticated nautical atmosphere features rich wood tones, maritime artwork, and elegant table settings. An extensive wine list includes selections from renowned vineyards worldwide, with sommeliers available to assist with pairings.

Table Service Restaurants

Cape May Café

This New England-style restaurant offers two distinct dining experiences. The “Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast” features beloved Disney characters in beach attire, serving a bountiful American breakfast buffet including Mickey waffles, custom-made omelets, and fresh pastries. For dinner, the restaurant transforms into a seafood lover’s paradise, offering an all-you-care-to-enjoy seafood and more dinner buffet. The dinner spread includes fresh peel-n-eat shrimp, steamed crab legs, mussels, carved meats, and a selection of house-made desserts. The restaurant’s décor features cheerful coastal touches and large windows overlooking the resort grounds.

Beaches & Cream Soda Shop

This beloved casual restaurant captures the charm of a 1950s soda fountain. The intimate dining room features pastel colors, vintage-style booths, and counter seating facing the open kitchen area. Known for both savory and sweet offerings, the menu includes classic American fare such as burgers, sandwiches, and grilled cheese. However, the real stars are the elaborate ice cream creations, particularly the famous Kitchen Sink Sundae. This shareable dessert includes scoops of vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, cookies & cream, and mint chocolate chip ice cream, topped with every available topping and served in a actual “kitchen sink.” A to-go window offers quick service for ice cream cravings.

Quick Service Options

Beach Club Marketplace

This convenient quick-service location serves as both a grab-and-go dining spot and a general store. Breakfast options include hot breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. For lunch and dinner, guests can find made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and hot entrées. The marketplace also offers pre-packed snacks, drinks, and basic grocery items for villa guests.

Hurricane Hanna’s Waterside Bar and Grill

Situated alongside Stormalong Bay, this poolside bar and grill offers casual fare perfect for a day by the pool. The menu features items like burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and salads, along with a full bar serving tropical cocktails, beer, and wine. Mobile ordering is available for food items, making it convenient for families enjoying the pool area.

Lounges and Bars

Martha’s Vineyard Lounge

This cozy lounge offers a sophisticated escape with its warm wood tones and comfortable seating. The drink menu features an excellent wine selection, specialty cocktails, and appetizers perfect for sharing. It’s an ideal spot for pre-dinner drinks or a quiet evening nightcap.

Crew’s Cup Lounge

Adjacent to the Yachtsman Steakhouse, this nautical-themed lounge serves creative cocktails and a selection of appetizers and light meals. The menu often includes items prepared in the Yachtsman’s kitchen, offering a more casual way to enjoy the steakhouse’s cuisine.

Private Dining and Special Experiences

Room service, or “Private Dining” as Disney calls it, is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering a selection of American classics and specialties from the resort’s restaurants. For special occasions, guests can arrange for in-room celebrations with custom cakes and decorations through Disney Floral & Gifts.

During holidays and special events, the resort often offers enhanced dining experiences, such as holiday buffets at Cape May Café or seasonal treats at the Beach Club Marketplace.

Dining Tips and Recommendations

Advanced dining reservations are highly recommended for all table-service restaurants, especially Yachtsman Steakhouse and Beaches & Cream. These can be made up to 60 days in advance, and popular restaurants often book quickly. For the best chance at securing preferred dining times, guests should book as soon as their reservation window opens.

The proximity to EPCOT’s International Gateway also provides easy access to the restaurants of EPCOT’s World Showcase, effectively extending the resort’s dining options to include some of Disney World’s most unique restaurants. Additionally, the short walk to Disney’s BoardWalk offers even more dining variety within easy reach of the resort.

Beach Club Villas Recreation and Activities

Beyond the pools, the resort offers numerous recreational opportunities. The Ship Shape Health Club provides state-of-the-art fitness equipment for maintaining workout routines while on vacation. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy tennis courts, volleyball, and various watercraft rentals for exploring Crescent Lake. Evening activities include movie nights on the beach and campfire activities, perfect for family bonding. The Community Hall offers games and crafts for all ages, while the Lafferty Place Arcade provides electronic entertainment.

Beach Club Villas Transportation

The Beach Club Villas offers one of the most versatile transportation networks in Walt Disney World, with multiple options for reaching each destination. Let’s break down the best ways to reach each major location:

EPCOT

The resort’s proximity to EPCOT’s International Gateway entrance provides guests with three convenient options. The quickest and most popular choice is the short walk along the lake side walking path. A scenic 10-minute stroll along Crescent Lake that takes you directly to EPCOT’s World Showcase between the United Kingdom and France pavilions. This entrance typically sees shorter security lines than the main entrance, making it especially valuable during peak times and festivals.

For those who prefer not to walk, the Friendship Boats provide regular service to the International Gateway. The boat dock is located near Stormalong Bay, and the journey takes approximately 15 minutes, including stops at other resorts.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Guests have four transportation options for reaching Hollywood Studios. The Friendship Boats provide direct service from the resort’s dock, with the journey taking about 20-25 minutes as the boats make stops at other resorts along Crescent Lake. For those who enjoy walking, a scenic pathway winds along the lake and through the BoardWalk area, typically taking 20 minutes at a comfortable pace.

The Disney Skyliner offers another option, accessible via a short walk to the International Gateway station. From there, guests can take the gondola system to the Studios, often the quickest option during peak traffic times. Bus service is also available from the resort’s main bus stop, though this is typically the least efficient option given the resort’s location.

Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom access is primarily via Walt Disney World’s bus system. Buses depart from the resort’s main bus stop, located just outside the main lobby. The journey takes approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. Buses typically begin running 45 minutes before the park opens and continue until 2 hours after closing. During peak times, buses run every 20 minutes, with increased frequency during park opening and closing times.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Direct bus service connects the Beach Club Villas to Animal Kingdom, with the journey taking about 25-30 minutes. Like other bus routes, service begins 45 minutes before park opening and continues until 2 hours after closing. The bus stop features digital displays showing arrival times for the next several buses.

Disney Springs

Bus service to Disney Springs begins at 9:00 AM daily. Later in the day, service becomes two-way, allowing guests to return to the resort. The final buses from Disney Springs typically depart about 2 hours after closing time. The journey takes approximately 20-25 minutes, though travel times can be longer during evening hours when Disney Springs experiences peak traffic.

Water Parks and Other Destinations

When open, Disney’s water parks (Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach) are accessible via bus service. Typically, guests must transfer at Disney Springs or Animal Kingdom to reach the water parks. Transportation to ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex is available via bus with a transfer at Disney Springs.

Additional Transportation Notes

All resort buses are equipped with air conditioning and accommodate wheelchairs and ECVs. Friendship Boats can accommodate wheelchairs but not ECVs. The Skyliner gondolas are designed to accommodate wheelchairs, ECVs, and strollers without folding.

During peak times, such as park opening and closing, or during special events, additional buses are typically added to handle increased demand. The resort’s location in the EPCOT resort area means that guests often have multiple options for reaching their destination, allowing them to choose based on current wait times and personal preference.

Beach Club Villa Services

The Beach Club Villas provides a comprehensive suite of services to enhance guest comfort. The attentive staff offers everything from bell services and valet parking to package delivery and airline check-in assistance. A dedicated concierge team stands ready to help with dining reservations, ticket arrangements, and special requests. The resort’s dry cleaning and laundry services ensure guests can maintain fresh wardrobes throughout their stay.

Shopping opportunities abound at the Beach Club Marketplace, where guests can find everything from essential sundries and snacks to Disney merchandise and basic grocery items. The Fittings & Fairings Clothes & Notions shop offers resort-specific merchandise, swimming accessories, and a carefully curated selection of clothing and accessories that capture the resort’s coastal charm.

Each villa comes equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Complimentary Wi-Fi keeps guests connected, while flat-panel TVs and DVD players provide entertainment options. In-room safes, irons and ironing boards, and hair dryers offer practical conveniences. The H2O+ toiletries add a touch of luxury to the experience, while coffee makers and refrigerators allow for in-room refreshments.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay

Timing your visit can significantly impact your experience at the Beach Club Villas. Fall brings pleasant weather and lower crowds, while early December offers holiday decorations without peak season crowds. January and February typically see mild weather and lower occupancy rates. It’s advisable to avoid major holidays and school breaks if you’re seeking better availability and more moderate rates.

When booking your stay, consider requesting an upper-floor room for better views. Corner rooms tend to be slightly larger, offering extra space for families. Standard view rooms often provide better availability and value, while still allowing access to all of the resort’s premium amenities.

To maximize your vacation experience, take advantage of the International Gateway entrance to EPCOT, particularly during the park’s numerous festivals. Extended Evening Theme Park Hours, when available, provide additional opportunities to enjoy the parks with lower crowds. For villa guests, consider arranging grocery delivery to stock your kitchen for convenient meal preparation.

The resort’s proximity to several dining and entertainment venues means you should make dining reservations 60 days in advance, particularly for popular restaurants like Beaches & Cream and Yachtsman Steakhouse. For the best experience at Stormalong Bay, plan to arrive early in the day to secure prime spots and enjoy the pool before it gets busy.

Why Beach Club Villas

Disney’s Beach Club Villas stands as a testament to Disney’s commitment to creating immersive, themed experiences that go beyond typical resort accommodations. The combination of New England coastal charm, world-class amenities, and an unbeatable location makes it one of Walt Disney World’s most desirable properties. While the rates reflect its deluxe villa status, the spacious accommodations, premium amenities, and convenient access to multiple theme parks provide excellent value for those seeking a truly memorable Disney vacation experience.

Whether you’re a family looking for a spacious home base for your Disney adventures, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a group of friends wanting to experience the best of Walt Disney World, the Beach Club Villas offers an exceptional stay. The resort’s attention to detail, from its architectural elements to its thoughtful services, creates an atmosphere of refined relaxation that sets it apart from other Disney properties.

Remember that your stay at the Beach Club Villas isn’t just about having a place to sleep – it’s about immersing yourself in a carefully crafted seaside experience that combines the best of New England’s coastal charm with Disney’s legendary service and attention to detail. With proper planning and these insights in mind, your visit to Disney’s Beach Club Villas is sure to create lasting memories of a truly magical vacation.