Summertime Stays – 5 DVC Resorts That Are Perfect for Your Summer Vacation!
Just like everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf, I LOVE summer! There’s nothing better than blue skies, sunshine, and the joy of vacation season!
I’ve compiled a list of 5 DVC resorts and why I think they’re perfect picks for your summer vacation!
Aulani – A Disney Resort & Spa
Did you know that the summer months are by far the most popular for Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii? It’s true! Our DVCR team sees availability for June, July, and August book up quickly year after year. As a Canadian who isn’t a fan of winter, I would have thought that January or February was in the highest demand, but I was wrong! After learning more about the resort, I definitely understand why so many people want to spend their summer vacation at Aulani.
To start, this resort has an epic pool complex called Waikolohe Valley with splash pads, infinity pools, waterslides, a lazy river, and even a snorkeling reef filled with fish. What more could you ask for in ways to cool off? Oh yeah – the ocean!
The waves of the Pacific lap right onto Aulani’s beach area, where you’ll also find activities such as boogie-boarding, paddleboarding, canoeing, and more. With character meet and greets, shows and entertainment, games, off-resort excursions, a golf course next door, and Aunty’s Beach House for kiddos, there’s truly something for everyone at this tropical oasis!
Located a couple of hours southeast of Walt Disney World, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort is the perfect option for those looking to relax, enjoy some family time with fun activities, and soak up the sun with a touch of Disney magic to make it extra special!
Nestled along the shores of the Treasure Coast along the Atlantic Ocean, Vero Beach has an idyllic and charming vibe. Of course, you could spend all your time lounging on the beach or splashing in the ocean, but there are also tons of summery activities here, such as miniature golf (or regular golf nearby if you’re so inclined), bike rentals, sports, and games, archery, scavenger hunts, and more! Basically, all of the things that a child (or a 42-year-old woman like me) dreams of when thinking about summer holidays – including a pirate-themed pool and waterslide!
One of the coolest things about staying at Vero Beach, though, is that they share their resort space with sea turtle nesting grounds! Guests can see Disney Conservation Team Wildlife working on the beach in the morning to help different species of threatened or endangered turtles and can contribute to the Disney Conservation Fund in the resort’s gift shop. Kids might be out of school for the summer, but they can still learn a little something when staying here!
Summer vacation and beachside splendor go hand in hand in my mind, so Disney’s Beach Club Villas has got to be on this list! In fact, this is why it is my personal all-time favorite resort! When I was a kid, on my very first trip to WDW during summer vacation, this was the first resort I ever visited. When I think of Beach Club, I think of cherished memories, sunshine, ice cream, and the pool of my dreams!
Two words really sum it up perfectly: Stormalong Bay. It’s not just a pool, it’s a mini waterpark. This aquatic masterpiece boasts a variety of areas to splash in: a lazy river, a life-size replica shipwreck waterslide, a sundeck, pool parties, and a unique sand bottom for that extra beachy feel. It is nothing short of perfection for having fun in the sun!
The pool isn’t the only summery feature, though, of course! There’s also a white sand beach where you can enjoy some downtime and soak up the beautiful views of the Boardwalk across the water, and Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast at Cape May Café will give you the chance to see some beloved characters in their finest warm weather outfits. Just beyond the pool, there’s also Beaches & Cream Soda Shop, where all kinds of ice cream concoctions are served up to help you cool down after a fun-filled afternoon at the pool. Add to that the seaside-inspired décor that fills the resort and villas, and you’ve got a stay that perfectly encapsulates a summer spent on the New England Coast – but with a dash of Disney flair to make it extra magical!
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Tiki torches on a sandy beach, tropical drinks with the cute little umbrellas, laying poolside with palm trees for shade…can you picture yourself in full vacation bliss yet?
When staying at the Polynesian, you’ll find yourself immersed in the beauty and enchantment of the islands of the South Pacific. For a Disney adult such as myself, being able to mix the ambiance of a dreamy tropical oasis with waterside views of Cinderella Castle is incredibly magical. Not to mention, it’s a much shorter flight!
Beyond the island-inspired atmosphere, this resort has all the makings for a perfect summer vacation! The Lava Pool has a waterfall, waterslide, and, oh, yeah, a volcano! It’s awesome! There’s a splash pad for kids there, too, or, if you prefer a quieter swim, the Oasis Pool has a very tranquil vibe. There are boat rentals, campfires, games, pool parties, character dining, and everyone’s favorite frosty treat, Dole Whip, can be found at Pineapple Lanai when you need to cool off but also want to satisfy your sweet tooth. The villas are super cozy, and soon, there will be even more options to choose from when the new Island Tower opens later this year!
The Florida Keys are well-known for their laid-back vibes, sun-drenched pastel buildings, and swaying palm trees, and you’ll find all that and more at Old Key West! Just like the tiny island town that inspired it, this resort makes you feel at home and envelops you in its peaceful atmosphere.
As someone who is always on the go, one thing I truly love about this resort is that it inspires me to slow my pace. I’m not worrying about emails; instead, I’m focused on the Olivia’s Café menu and thinking about what I’m going to order at brunch tomorrow. I’m wondering if I should take up golf at the course adjacent to the resort. I’m dreaming about poolside loungers and dipping my toes in the water. I’m actually relaxing! Isn’t that what summer vacation is all about?!
Not only is it sun-soaked and stunning, as Old Key West was the original DVC resort, it also has some of the largest and most homey-feeling villas on property. It feels like its own little community, full of friendly faces, fun activities, shimmering pools, and my personal favorite, shaded hammocks where you can spend the day alternating between a good book and cat naps! I don’t know about you, but that’s what my summertime dreams are made of!
These are just five of the many DVC resorts, and honestly, they’re all amazing! No matter which option you choose, a magical summer vacation is just a reservation away!
~Stacy
