Polynesian Resort vs Caribbean Beach

[Starman]

I know these two resorts reside in different pricing categories, but I'm looking to receive comments from people who might have stayed at both places. Our 9 day trip will probably be a one shot deal for our family of four; two adults & two girls ages 11 and 13. Poly might be a financial stretch, but I've loved living in the south pacific and we honeymoon in Barbados. It seems that one drawback to staying at the CB is it vast size and having to walk quite far for services. Is this true? Would love to read about your experiences regarding your stays at these resorts.

 

[Nolcrest]

I really can't answer your questions. I just wanted to welcome you to the boards. I'm sure you'll receive all the info you'll need here.

My only comment is that if you're considering a moderate resort the girls might prefer the pool at CSR .

I've stayed at CBR and my kids weren't crazy about the pool. Kinda babyish for them at the time.

Good Luck!

 

[jlaspoq]

We have stayed at both and loved them both. While CBR is big, it was not a problem for us - the walks are quite pretty. Both resorts have marinas and water. Poly has the monorail (therefore great transportation options), view of MK, view of MK fireworks, view of Electric Water Pageant at night, and character breakfast at the resort. AND bigger beds. That's the advantage of the deluxe. We truly enjoyed both resorts. Your girls are old enough for the walks at CBR to not be a problem - I wouldn't let that dictate your decision. Price will definitely be a factor given your length of stay. You can't go wrong with either one - have fun!

 

[jlaspoq]

Oh, and welcome to the DIS!

 

[Skroops]

If I could (which we can't afford right now) I'd totally try the Poly! It is so beautiful and the location is awesome! Go for it!!

 

[sprtnfan]

Well, if this is the only trip that you plan on taking to WDW, the Poly is the place to stay. It is our favorite resort by far. I can't really put my finger on it, but there's just something so magical about it! We stayed there last year in the concierge. It was a splurge, but worth every penny! We enjoyed watching the fireworks from the pool and the beach at night. We enjoyed the Tonga toast and Kona coffee in the morning. The grounds are wonderful and as far as getting to the parks, it's as easy as it gets.

We have never stayed at CBR, however we have stayed at CSR. I don't have anything bad to say about any WDW resort. It's just a different feel at the moderates. The bus service to the parks can be busy and slow at times. CSR was a great resort with a great pool and playground. The grounds were wonderful and quiet. I liked the food service and felt it was well priced for Disney.

I don't think you will be disappointed with any WDW resort, honestly. So, if you can get a decent price on the Poly, go for it. Don't break the bank though and cut back on other things. There's something for everyone to enjoy at all the resorts and we have never been disappointed. We've always come home and said "that is my new favorite resort"!

 

[4greatboys]

Why not try them both? I would stay at CBR for 3 or 4 days then the rest of your stay at the Poly.
I have never stayed at CBR but have stayed at the Poly and we liked it. The kids like the 0 entry level Volcano pool. They rooms are a good size. The monorail is right there and the bus service to the other parks was good as well. Be sure to try out Ohana's. The food is good and my 4 yr old ds and 7 yr old nephew had a great time with the coconut races, hula hooping and learning a hawaiian dance.

 

[smjj]

Having stayed at both I would go along with 4greatboys suggestion and stay at both. They will transfer your luggage the day of, you just let them know in advance. I would recommend staying at CBR first then the Poly second. Both are very nice and have advantages over the other. The Poly is quite a bit more expensive but the location is great. CBR is spread out but not as much walking as you might think. The Poly has two sitdown restaurants. The Kona Cafe and Ohanas. I can't remember if they put in a sit down at CBR when it was redone a year or so ago. There are many other difference but by staying at both you will be able to judge for yourself. Hope this helps...smjj

 

[safetymom]

CBR is a great place to stay. You are never very far from the food court or main pool from any area of CBR unless you stay at Trinidad South.

You might want to read the threads below and visit my pictures of CBR. It is a great place to stay. You truly feel like you have escaped from the world at CBR.

 

[Lynda Silk]

I've stayed at both and as the other posters say, both are great resorts! The big advantage for me at the Poly is the monorail; it's just so efficient and easy and such a smooth ride. The Poly also has bigger rooms which is a nice luxury but you don't find yourself in your room all that often. We loved the atmosphere at both resorts; the tropical theming was so relaxing and beautiful. I think we enjoyed the CBR pool more because there's a hot tub by the pool whereas there's no hot tub at the Poly but that wasn't a big problem for us. So I would say that other than staying at them both, let price be your determining factor. If I could afford it, I'd stay at the Poly because of the convenience of the monorail. Other than that and taking the price differential into account, I'd be more than happy to stay at the CBR and I know I'd still have a fabulous time!

Have a great trip! And welcome to the DIS!

 

[leighe]

I have stayed at and love both! I agree with some of the posters who have suggested splitting your stay. The main pool at CBR is a little small but there are several quiet pools. We really enjoyed those during our stay. Also, the rooms at CBR are the largest of any moderate.

The best thing about the Poly is the location! I just love sitting on the beach or on my balcony and watching the fireworks over the castle.

Have a great trip!