Poly/Grand Floridian

[Glory Days]

Right now we're scheduled for the Dolphin hotel at Easter using the great teacher rates, which is where we stayed last Easter. Have already been at the BC at Easter and found the pool crowded, and prices high. I know the Polynesian and Grand Floridian are high priced at the holidays, but does anyone know if you can use their beachs to lounge on? I'm not sure if our two 16 year olds would like it as much as being by the BW, but if you can lay on a beach they want to go there. Tks.

 

[jel0511]

You really need to be a guest at either of the GF or the Poly to use the facilities there. If you plan on staying there, not a problem, but if you'll be at the Dolphin, then they won't be able to use the facilities of either hotel.

 

[SeaSpray]

Glory Days:

I don't think there are any policies which prohibit people from any of the resorts from enjoying the BEACHES at the resorts, just as anyone can use the marinas at any resort to rent watercraft. The beaches, from everything I've read and seen personally, are a "public area" of the resorts.

People often will head to the GF or Polynesian to view the water parades at night. Many people also will walk along the beach from the GF to the wedding pavilion to the Polynesian, and vice versa.

I don't work for Disney, obviously, so what I'm saying is merely what I believe to be true, but it's an educated opinion

If anyone knows otherwise, please let me know!

P.S. Just to clarify, the pools ARE off-limits to anyone not staying at that resort! (With the exception of sister-resorts like the PO resorts and AllStar resorts)

 

[BCV23]

Chip and Dale Express recently reported being on the beach at the Poly and being asked nicely to leave since he and his friend weren't guests of the resort. A number of years ago I remember them checking for resort IDs at the Poly beach, too.

I agree with jel0511...you really should be a guest at that resort to make use of the beach. There are only so many lounge chairs, etc. and it doesn't seem fair to the people who are paying big bucks and end up with a crowded beach. Not trying to flame or anything.

 

[Walts Buddy]

Probably a good idea to use the facilities at your own hotel...the GF can get pretty crowded all on its own.

 

[Glory Days]

Thanks for the info.
Guess I worded my question wrong, cause what I wanted to make sure was if I did switch over to the GF or the Poly there were lounge chairs on the beach to use. Since there are, think we will look into one of them for our trip. Now the big question is, which location is better for the teens?

 

[BCV23]

Whoops...so sorry, Glory Days. I read your post again and now understand! And yes as you ascertained both resorts have lounge chairs as well as a number of cabanas...for which you're not charged extra !

The Poly has 3 beaches. One is near the volcano pool and has a volleyball net. It's the busiest of the three as you might expect! There are also a couple of tandem swings under the palm trees. Very relaxing!

The GF has one beach. Most of the action is by the new pool but if you walk toward the Spa the beach appears quieter. We've only stayed at the GF once last January and it was too cold for the beach so I can't tell you more.

I think either resort beach would be fine for teens. Have a great time whatever you decide!