Well, I didn't stay in a water view room but I have heard that some people with a water view room over ESPN thought it was loud. It might be loud if you are over Jellyrolls. It's a fun atmosphere though (a fun noise, if there is such a thing...not like construction or something
) so if the assurance of quiet is something important, I'd ask for a quiet water view location at check-in. It's not guaranteed, but I've had great luck w/ Disney for our room requests, so far.
As for what I love about the resort, the first would probably be the decor and the fact that its on the Boardwalk. There are plenty of other resorts in the MGM/ Epcot vicinity which all share the great location (on the lake with access to water transportation, and there's nothing like that comfortable walk back to the resort at night after Illuminations--while everyone from the other resorts are standing in lines to get on buses to go home!--I've been there, too!
)., but the Boardwalk Inn is my favorite resort in that area because of the theming. The lobby is so beautiful and reminds me of a scene from the Great Gatsby. The quiet pool is surrounding by pretty landscaping and rose bushes and we had it to ourselves (and the quiet pool's jacuzzi) on many occasions--even during spring break! The antique furnishings and accents are beautiful and a relaxing stroll around the Boardwalk is great fun. We love to browse in the shops and watching the people on surrey bikes. Its such a nice atmosphere. My son loves the pizza slices and I like those white chocolate dipped rice crispie squares at the candy shop.
The pool area is great (my son loves Dumbo), especially the carousel designed bar area. We've had better service at other deluxe resorts (like AKL and GF, and have never come across an unhappy CM at the Poly either) but its the look and feel of the Boardwalk that is so attractive. Our room was drop dead gorgeous, the prettiest of any other deluxe hotel rooms we've had, and I loved our huge balcony.
I'm a big fan of AKL and GF as well, but in the Epcot area, the Boardwalk Inn is my favorite. We would never hesitate to stay there! It's great
!