9 Days Poly CL DxDP...Too Much Food???...Too Much Fun!!!...1600 Pictures

[hstrickland]

I really like the pictures. The tour looks great. Do you have to leave a credit card number when booking the reservation? And who do you call to book it?

Thanks!

You do have to leave a credit card number when booking. I guess if you don't show, they charge your card We used the IPO to book our tour, but there is a number somewhere on the Disney website. Sorry I don't know exactly where it is....I ran across it one day while looking around, just don't remember exactly where

Just found your TR and loving it. We are staying at BC (surprise for DS12 and DD9) in Sept and are also doing the Dxl dining for the 2nd time. We are eating at many of the same place that you did, so thanks for the reviews. We plan mostly 2TS/day (breakfast and dinner) with a few lunches. Works great for us.

We also did the Behind the Seeds tour in Dec 08 and Loved it. I would recommend it to all.

I would love to surprise my kids, but don't think I could keep it to myself. How are you doing it??!!! When are you going to tell them? The BC is one of the resorts that we are leaning towards for our next trip. DH and I have talked before about surprising the kids.

The Dxdp really works well for us, too. In fact, when we are pricing out trips, we never exclude the dining plan. It's just something that we have to have BC looks like a great resort because there are tons of restaurants nearby, not to mention all the places to eat at EP.

I see you are from CT! My sister and her family live there as well....a beautiful state!! I keep trying to talk them into joining us at Disney...no luck

Hope y'all have a magical trip! When you return, do a TR....would love to see your review of the BC and all your ADRs.

 

[ctalley]

I do have a cute story. On July 4th we were at the lake watching fireworks. DD4 and DS3 looked a little disappointed while watching. I asked them what was wrong....their reply...."Why isn't Tinker Bell coming out?!!"...and "Where is the music!!?" Bless their hearts, they thought it was supposed to be like Disney....not even close, right?! WDW has really spoiled them. DH and I thought this was comical....our non Disney friends didn't get it

My DD10 made a similar comment while watching July 4th fireworks this year. WDW does spoil you!

 

[bluejasmine]

WOw your early morning Poly pics are beautiful! I am so excited God Sept is still so far away!

 

[hstrickland]

DH and I decided long before our trip that we would need a night away. My parents said they would be happy to watch the children, so.....they wanted to do the Luau (we ARE staying at the Poly, right!) and DH and I went to California Grill (that will be my next review). FYI....DS9 is helping me write the review

Here is some general info about the Luau:


WHEN IS IT? There are two shows every Tuesday through Saturday at 5:15 and 8:00 p.m. The shows last approximately two hours.

PRICING/SEATING: The Spirit of Aloha dinner show has tiered pricing. Reservations may be made 90 days in advance.

Category 1 Adults (10 and up) $61.99 including tax and gratuity
Children (3-9) $31.99 including tax and gratuity
Infants (0-2) No charge

Category 2 Adults (10 and up) $56.99 including tax and gratuity
Children (3-9) $27.99 including tax and gratuity
Infants (0-2) No charge

Category 3 Adults (10 and up) $52.99 including tax and gratuity
Children (3-9) $26.99 including tax and gratuity
Infants (0-2) No charge

Category 1 is located in the lower level, in the center and nearest the stage so you will be as close to the performers as possible. You won't miss a moment of the excitement with these wonderful seats. You'll feel as though you are one of the Polynesian dancers.

Category 2 offers tables in the lower level that are located on either the left or right side of the stage OR upper level tables that are located directly behind the Category 1 seating. All of these seats will give you and your family a great view of the entire stage area and you won't miss a thing!

Category 3 offers tables in the lower level that are located to the extreme far right or left of the stage, OR the majority of the upper level tables. You will still have a good view of the stage and be able to enjoy all of the excitement of the authentic Polynesian dancing.

Discounts are sometimes available so inquire for Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members and Disney Visa Card Holders... you never know!

Disney Dining Plan: The Dining Plan can be used for the Spirit of Aloha, for Categories 2 and 3 seating only. TWO table service credits will be deducted for these shows.

RESERVATIONS -- Reservations may be made 90 days in advance by calling 1-407-WDW-DINE. Tables are assigned in the order in which reservations are made. Shows can sell out during regular and busy times of the year. Payment in full will be required for the Spirit of Aloha at the time of booking. As long as you cancel up to 48 hours in advance, you will receive a full refund.

The show many be cancelled due to weather.

Special Meals - If you have special dietary needs, be sure to make that clear when you make your reservation. You should be given a phone number to call at least 48 hours in advance to make arrangements for your meal.

WHERE IS IT? The show is held at Luau Cove at the Polynesian Resort. Once inside follow signs tho the Luau Cove.

Transportation: The Polynesian is a Magic Kingdom monorail resort. You can access the Polynesian from any Disney theme park as well as
Downtown Disney. Be sure to allow plenty of travel time


Before we booked the Luau, we were well aware of the good AND bad reviews. There seems to be many mixed feelings about the show.

My family did the 8pm show....5:15pm was a little early for us. We were usually just returning from the pool at 5pm!! On their way over to Luau Cove, my parents passed the marina and got this pic.

DS9 thought it was neat that the CMs put a "Mickey" on the boat. Apparently this boat was getting ready to go out for the Fireworks Cruise....something I would love to do!

Make sure you arrive early! Look at the crowd....long line! I believe they arrived around 7:30pm.

When you are closer to Luau Cove, they will give each member of the party a lei (when we returned home from vacation, we had 21 leis!!!! any suggestions about what to do with them??) They will then take a picture of your party (this is on photopass, too)

DS3 decided that he would wear his lei on his head.....not sure why????

As you read above in the Luau info, if you are on the DDP then it's two TSs and you can only sit in Cat 2 or 3. My parents said that their seats were not bad at all....could have been a little better, but no complaints. They were able to see everything.

The plates were very Hawaiian, leaf shaped pewter plates and serving pieces. They immediately bring out the appetizer type food:
Pineapple-coconut bread- Yummy!!
Mixed greens with mango poppy seed dressing
Fresh pineapple

The main course was very good and plenty of it!!!
Bar-b-q pork ribs
Roasted chicken
Polynesian rice
Seasonal vegetables

While they were eating, people were perfoming on the stage. DS9 said that the performers were super cool!

DS9 was extremely impressed with the fire dancers. In fact, he still talks about it.

The dessert was brought out on big platters with an erupting volcano in the middle (I'm assuming it was done by dry ice)

Again, the dessert was displayed on beautiful pewter platters.

The name of the desert was Kilauea Volcano Delight....very chocolatey.

DD4 fell asleep after dinner! DS3....wide awake!!

So.....the big question....Would they return to the Luau? And was it worth the money?

My father says he would not go back...wasn't terrible, but wasn't great. He did say the food and service was good, though. He just thought some of the "acts" were a bit cheesy.

My mother says she thought it was good...not nearly as good as HDDR, but okay. She was glad that they experienced it for the kids because all the children seemed to really like it. She also said that she had been wanting to do it for years and finally did....probably wouldn't go back.

DS9 had a blast. Although he didn't eat much, (he had been nibbling in the CL lounge) he said the food was really good. He really, really, really, liked the performance, especially the fire dancers. He also said that he would love to go back with us next time we go to WDW.

I think overall, my parents were glad that they experienced it at least once. Their feelings were like this...."since we're staying at the Poly, we might as well try it."



Stay tuned for California Grill!!!!

 

[Stitch'sCousin]

Your review of Behind the Seeds has us convinced that it is something we should consider doing when we are at the Poly in just over 5 weeks! Just a quick question after reading your review of the Luau and seeing the picture of the long line. Were your seats assigned to a specific table or was it "first come first served"? We will be on DDP/CL so we were only able to book the category 2 seats too.

 

[5inwonderland]

Hi There!
Thanks for the great trip report! I have three children as well, so this has been very interesting to read! Your kids are adorable
We are leaving for our first trip to Disney in about six years, and our first stay at POLY!
We are super duper exicted
I'll be watching for the rest of your report, and am now considering upgrading to CL (if it's not too late!).
Thanks again!
k

 

[hstrickland]

Your review of Behind the Seeds has us convinced that it is something we should consider doing when we are at the Poly in just over 5 weeks! Just a quick question after reading your review of the Luau and seeing the picture of the long line. Were your seats assigned to a specific table or was it "first come first served"? We will be on DDP/CL so we were only able to book the category 2 seats too.

Well, I think this is correct....since I wasn't there, I'm relying on DS9s account and my dad (emailed him and he said he wasn't completely sure either) They think that the table number is already assigned. After their pictures were made, a waiter took them directly to the table. The CMs at the CL lounge will give you your "tickets" for the Luau...just ask them. Not sure how Disney assigns seats, either, or how they decide where you sit Does anyone know for sure?? I'm pretty sure it isn't first come first serve. The IPO made our ressie on the 180 mark. My parents kinda thought their table would have been better. Some of the Cat 2 seats are in the middle right behind Cat 1...but they were off to the side. Still not bad seats, though. Who knows???

Hi There!
Thanks for the great trip report! I have three children as well, so this has been very interesting to read! Your kids are adorable
We are leaving for our first trip to Disney in about six years, and our first stay at POLY!
We are super duper exicted
I'll be watching for the rest of your report, and am now considering upgrading to CL (if it's not too late!).
Thanks again!
k

I REALLY loved CL. My parents loved it, too. DS9 was always going back and forth getting drinks and snacks. We really had to keep an eye on him. One night he returned to the room with tons of desserts! I could have died! He was just trying to be helpful, but I didn't want people to think he did not have mannersIt was just so convenient for breakfast, snacks, drinks, etc. And the Hawaii building is located close to everything. I can't say enough good things about the Poly.

I can imagine how excited your family is!!! I'm already excited about our next trip and it's months away. Y'all will have an awesome time and your kids will have a blast!

 

[DisneyBoundinDec]

loving your review! We are staying for the 1st time at the Poly in November (have 2 boys aged 7 and 3) and can't wait!! Just like you I totally think the monorail is going to be a blessing to us.. I can't tell you how many times we had to take 2 sleeping boys and a bulky stroller on the bus! UGH it was miserable!!!
Thanks for the great TR!

 

[dr&momto2boys]

Loved your updates! Can't wait to read about California Grill. We've never eaten there. Although my kids are great in restaurants, I don't think they'd like it much so we'll have to wait until we get some time alone.

 

[cdotla]

Great review of the Luau. I still have memories of eating here as a kid, and wanted to take the kids here on our last trip. I went back and forth so many times btwn the Luau and O'Hanas for where we would eat on our last nite at the Poly on our trip, and ultimately went with O'Hana.

I think your review of the Luau was the most balanced and fair account I have read. All of your pros and cons seem to be what I have heard makes others like or dislike it.

In the end, I think I am glad we went with O'Hana. But I think we will still try the Luau next time. I am really keen to hear the Hawian Rollercoaster music from Lilo and Stitch that I have heard that they play. My family really likes that song!

Can your kids recall whether the kids in the audience were able to get up and dance when they played it, or at any other part during the Luau?


Really looking forward to your review of California Grill. I have had an adults-only meal there, and have also eaten there with the kids a few times. While all 3 meals I have had there were fantastic, I definitely enjoyed the Adults-Only one the best!

 

[hstrickland]

loving your review! We are staying for the 1st time at the Poly in November (have 2 boys aged 7 and 3) and can't wait!! Just like you I totally think the monorail is going to be a blessing to us.. I can't tell you how many times we had to take 2 sleeping boys and a bulky stroller on the bus! UGH it was miserable!!!
Thanks for the great TR!

Some people feel that the monorail is overrated, but with 2 strollers it was a life saver!!!! It was way too easy to jump on the monorail to the MK. The walk to the TTC is short...and once again...jump on the monorail. The Poly & the monorail will spoil your family!! Be warned!!!!

I am really keen to hear the Hawian Rollercoaster music from Lilo and Stitch that I have heard that they play. My family really likes that song!

Can your kids recall whether the kids in the audience were able to get up and dance when they played it, or at any other part during the Luau?

Wish I could answer your question, but DS9 doesn't remember First he told me yes, the little kids danced....then he said, "or was that Ohanas where they danced?" Sorry! Maybe someone can answer for me?? DS9 did just say, as I was typing this, (he reads along with me at night) that the Luau is GREAT for kids. His exact words were..."yeah, yeah, mom...tell them they need to go!!"

 

[DisneyDoc5]

with regards to the kids dancing at the Luau, yes, they call the kids up at the end of the night and teach them some 'moves' - it's great. My boys, 4 and 7 at the time, loved it. And I thought the food was awesome, this was in 2006. We are staying Poly for the first time this fall, and we are doing Ohana instead of the 2 points at the Luau, but I would recommend everyone try it once, we really enjoyed it.

Loving the trip reports!

 

[hstrickland]

with regards to the kids dancing at the Luau, yes, they call the kids up at the end of the night and teach them some 'moves' - it's great. My boys, 4 and 7 at the time, loved it. And I thought the food was awesome, this was in 2006. We are staying Poly for the first time this fall, and we are doing Ohana instead of the 2 points at the Luau, but I would recommend everyone try it once, we really enjoyed it.

Loving the trip reports!

Thanks DisneyDoc5!!! I let my son read your reply and he said, "oh yeah....that sounds right."....Kids!!?? DD4 was no help because she was asleep by the end of the show.

Have y'all been to Ohana before, or is this your first trip there? It's one of our favorites!!

 

[DisneyDoc5]

We have eaten at Kona and the Luau, we had a chance when we went last spring to eat at Ohana, but DH didn't want to wait 1.5 hours. We loved Kona, our dinner was awesome and our server was excellent! We have spent a lot of time exploring the Poly, so we are beyond excited to stay there this fall. I think Ohana will be a nice addition to our stay! I also think Captain Jack's sounds great, we always do Hurricane Hannah's at the Beach Club for our resort counter service meal or two, and it sounds like Captain Jack's is better - plus Dole Whip!!! Major diet will occur prior to the trip so we can pig out! I will do deluxe when the kids get a bit older I think, I can't wait to try the California Grill like you! Have a magical day!!!
Erin

 

[hstrickland]

Erin,

Y'all will really like Ohana!!! It's a great place for families and children. We ate soooooo much that night. When the dessert came out, I almost didn't eat any. Then, I tasted it! Holy cow! It has got to be the best Bread Pudding that I have ever had. Our family was almost sick when we left. The diet you mentioned might be a good idea All four adults on our trip put on pounds during our 9 day stay, and that's the honest truth! One would think with all the walking you do, that weight gain wouldn't occur.....so worth it, though We are already trying to decide which restaurants to try when we go next June.

 

[Yellowbellow]

This is our first attempt to respond to your TR. We are lovin it - it is like reliving the trip again. For all of you others we are the 3rd Genderation aka the Grandparents. more later

 

[mulley16]

Stay tuned for California Grill!!!!

Thanks for the great info on the Luau! Maybe next time we can squeeze it into our schedule. My three children appear to be approximately the age of yours - I hope I haven't goofed by not booking the luau!

My DH and I have ADRs at Cali Grill during our trip in August. We are staying at Poly too, sadly not CL, but we are still very excited. On our "date" night we will be taking our three kids to the Neverland Club. All three are excited about it - I'm crossing my fingers that they like it! Can't wait to hear about your CG review - I hope I haven't set my sights too high!

Sally

 

[DisneyDoc5]

Erin,

Y'all will really like Ohana!!! It's a great place for families and children. We ate soooooo much that night. When the dessert came out, I almost didn't eat any. Then, I tasted it! Holy cow! It has got to be the best Bread Pudding that I have ever had. Our family was almost sick when we left. The diet you mentioned might be a good idea All four adults on our trip put on pounds during our 9 day stay, and that's the honest truth! One would think with all the walking you do, that weight gain wouldn't occur.....so worth it, though We are already trying to decide which restaurants to try when we go next June.

Thanks Heather - I refuse to watch my diet on vacation - can't wait to pig out at Ohana!!! Any restaurants you haven't eaten at but want to try for your next trip?

 

[hstrickland]

Thanks for the great info on the Luau! Maybe next time we can squeeze it into our schedule. My three children appear to be approximately the age of yours - I hope I haven't goofed by not booking the luau!

My DH and I have ADRs at Cali Grill during our trip in August. We are staying at Poly too, sadly not CL, but we are still very excited. On our "date" night we will be taking our three kids to the Neverland Club. All three are excited about it - I'm crossing my fingers that they like it! Can't wait to hear about your CG review - I hope I haven't set my sights too high!

Sally

You haven't goofed...you can always do it next time, right? With Disney, there always seems to be a next time!

We would have used the Neverland Club, too, if my parents had not been with us. Have heard really great things about it. You will have to let us know how your children like it. I will be doing my Cali Grill post tomorrow. I don't think you will be disappointed at all. The atmosphere by itself is just awesome. It was a great place for a 'date night'!!!! I'll keep you in suspense....read tomorrow

Thanks Heather - I refuse to watch my diet on vacation - can't wait to pig out at Ohana!!! Any restaurants you haven't eaten at but want to try for your next trip?

Let's see, I know one that we will definitely try is Flying Fish. My SIL went there last month and said it was outstanding. If we decide to stay at the BC, then we will certainly do Beaches & Cream for lunch, maybe Kat Kora's new restaurant Not sure of the name?? Citricos is high on our priority list along with Artist Point. Of course DH and I would like to try Victoria & Alberts, but not sure we will do that on the next trip. Really, really want to go back to the HDDR....we LOVED it!! Any suggestions?.....I can already see the weight gain coming!

 

[DisneyDoc5]

Let's see, I know one that we will definitely try is Flying Fish. My SIL went there last month and said it was outstanding. If we decide to stay at the BC, then we will certainly do Beaches & Cream for lunch, maybe Kat Kora's new restaurant Not sure of the name?? Citricos is high on our priority list along with Artist Point. Of course DH and I would like to try Victoria & Alberts, but not sure we will do that on the next trip. Really, really want to go back to the HDDR....we LOVED it!! Any suggestions?.....I can already see the weight gain coming!

Do you listen to the disunplugged podcast? Kevin does great dining reviews. Needless to say I think everything on your list is great with the major exception of Kat Cora's, terrible reviews for food, service, and atmosphere. I have heard good things on the Flying Fish. I would recommend Yachtsmen Steakhouse - 2 points, but well worth it. If you stay at BC - Cape May is also very good for breakfast and the other meals of the day. I would pay out of pocket for Beaches and Cream (unless you are doing deluxe again and have extra points). I would also add some additional dining options in EPCOT since you can walk there, dine, then catch the monorail if you are on the way to the MK (hence, skip the MK bus from BC) I really want to try Chef's de France. If you haven't done Garden Grille, it is really fun and great character interaction! Hope this helps!