OKW vs SSR (spa / health club access?)

[Esteri]

Hello!
We're busy planning our next WDW vacation for August, and I'm having trouble deciding between OKW and SSR. We had a GV at OKW in 2001 - which was some time ago - and haven't been back since. I've never been to SSR. I've looked at all the pictures and read the reviews on several websites. But they don't have all the information I want - so I'm coming to you - the experts.

So here's my question:
What sort of access do members have to the spa / health club facilities at SSR vs OKW? I do like my sauna / steamroom in the evening...

As near as I can tell - the pros and cons between the two go something like this:
OKW is more "cost effective" = 10 rather than 9 days
SSR is newer
OKW has larger rooms
SSR is closer to DTD = easier access to varied dining
Based on the pictures - I believe OKW will be a "mellower" property
Both have pools with slides (that's new since our visit), but I can't tell from the pictures which has the more fun pool area - so I'm calling it a wash - unless someone can give some advice?

We are a party of two families - four boys total, aged 10, 10, 6, and about to turn 5. The pool will be important. (Oh my, all that boy energy! ) But I'm finding the larger size of of OKW particularly attractive. (Oh my, all that boy energy! ) We're going for a more relaxed vacation (9-10 days with only 4-5 in the parks), yet will keep the boys busy during the day with all the other cool stuff in the area. Since one family is from FL - we'll have access to a car.

In any case, I'm leaning towards OKW, but I do like my sauna. And one member is active duty Army Special Forces and works out regularly. So the health club facilities may tip the balance.

Thoughts?

 

[Chuck S]

There is a sauna at OKW, though not part of a "health club" setting. It is located inside the lighthouse. The fitness center at SSR is superior to the fitmness room at OKW.

 

[Lew]

We almost always stay at OKW, but use the facilities at both OKW and SSR.

We're members at OKW and find we get much more for our points in the way of accommodations there. After staying at OKW, all other WDW DVC accommodations seem way too crowded.

We regularly use the spa and pool at SSR. If you have a car, it's a very short ride. Another option, of course, is boat transportation between the two resorts and DTD.

As Chuck S mentioned, there is a sauna at OKW. We also enjoy the hot tub late at night then a dip in the pool.

 

[CarolA]

Go for OKW. With all those kids you want the SIZE! I took my bext friend and four kids and OKW felt crowded LOL!

 

[MinnieGirl33]

We love OKW & are staying there next week.

HOWEVER... based on what you've said I would book SSR.

As ChuckS said, the spa/fitness center is superior.

My boys (12 & 9) like the arcade at SSR.

Fun factor for the pool is a draw for the kids (SSR may get slight edge) but from a parents perspective, I prefer SSR because you have visibility to the entire pool area. At OKW the bridge can block your view.

Artist Palette beats Good's anyday.

Personaly I think SSR is equally as mellow as OKW.

I assume OKW wins on room size (but I've never seen the inside of a OKW GV).

 

[Esteri]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I really appreciate the information - keep it coming.

I hadn't considered that we could use the club facilities at SSR if we are staying at OKW. That's definitely an idea.

The better arcade at SSR is actually a minus as the kids aren't allowed to play. When DS5 saw the picture of the arcade at SSR his immediate response was "I want to go there!" Not certain I want to face that battle on vacation. Just call me chicken! Thanks for the heads up!

We've stayed with this same family in a 2BD at BCV in 2003. I certainly wouldn't want to go any smaller than that. I think SSR is the same size. DH is liking the larger size of OKW.

Being able to see the boys in the pool is certainly a consideration. Gazing into my crystal ball I predict spending a lot of time there. Can someone tell me if there are lifeguards?

 

[Lew]

The main pool at both resorts has life guards.

 

[Esteri]

This is awesome. Thanks for all the advice.

I'm sitting here with the "other mom" - and after careful deliberation have decided on....

drum roll please...

Old Key West

the size of the balconies and the rooms wound up being the deciding factor.

thanks so much!