Okay, so we all know the news surrounding bars and lounges at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort has revolved almost solely around two places recently: Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto and Tiki Terrace.
But one place we haven’t discussed much at all recently is the Barefoot Pool Bar… primarily because it hasn’t been open. You see, with the major refurbishment of the Polynesian’s Volcano Pool came the closure of its accompanying pool bar.
But early this month the pool opened up again — much to the happiness of many a Poly guest! And the Barefoot Pool Bar has reopened right along with it.
Not much has changed at the Barefoot Pool Bar itself, still finding its home at the side of the volcano, though the sign is new.
But the general feel is somewhat different, and I think that’s due more to the bar’s changed surroundings more than the lounge itself. For instance, the fence around the pool, which ends at the Barefoot, does change the vibe (though all are still welcome to have a drink at the bar — only Resort guests are permitted swim in the pool, as per usual).
The familiar Disney pool bar drinks still grace the menu (and the full bar is also available).
A little reminder is posted regarding operating hours.
Alas, I didn’t have time to sip, since I was preparing to get in line for Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. But I did take a few moments to do a little exploring in the surrounding areas. Now that the pool is open again and the majority of construction walls are down in the main area surrounding the Great Ceremonial House, we can all at last get a feel for what the renovated Polynesian Village Resort is like.
So while we’re here, let’s take a walk, shall we? Here’s another look at the pool.
One very welcome addition is that of the new
hot tub.
The surrounding pathway from the back of the pool leads to Captain Cook’s, where outdoor seating is once again available.
Heading back towards the beach, even with the addition of the Bora Bora Bungalows (the newest addition to Disney Vacation Club Villas), there are still some good vantage points available from which to view “Wishes” while enjoying a Dole Whip from the Pineapple Lanai.
And even though the tab to stay at one isn’t within my reach 😉 , here’s a look at the Bora Bora Bungalows while we’re here.
And for now, that’s a wrap! Mickey sure hopes you’ve enjoyed this little walking tour…
And with that, we say “Aloha” once again from Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort!
Will you be stopping at the Barefoot Pool Bar on our next stop at the Polynesian? Please let us know with a comment!
Diane says
Thanks for the tour! When we lived nearby, the Poly was always one of our “non-park day” stops. I know you focus on the food, but I’d love to see pictures of what the landscape between the new bungalows and the old hotel buildings looks like. Whatever became of Sunset Point? Last I saw, it was a pile of dirt. 🙁
Sharon says
Diane, sunset post is rebuilt. Mousesteps.com has a lovley video of it!
Essie says
I don’t really have much interest in the pool bar, but I’ll be stopping by for a shaved ice with cream on it!
JanH. says
I don’t know if it’s just me but, I loved the way the Polynesian used to look. We loved the beach and enjoying the lake when the kids could play in the water and build sandcastles. I also loved all the lush tropical greenery around the pool and along the winding walkways. It looks a little naked now with all the concrete. The snack bar and area outside had lots of plants and trees around it, now it is so open and looks bare. The Tangaroa Terrace restaurant, snack bar and game room were a real highlight on vacation when my children were small. They need something on that end of the resort.
Kiki says
Nice walking tour. The Poly needed a little update but on some things Disney went to extreme.
Currie markham says
When we first went to the poly in 1995 it cost us for three people 10 nights 11 days a total of 3600.00 that was including the food and fun plan which was three meals a day all recreation and entry to all the parks including water parks we went to the poly in 2008 and it cost us for the same package except water parks cause they weren’t included the price was 14,000.00 what a price jump that’s the only reason we don’t stay at the poly anymore we loved it there but we just can’t afford it anymore. And when they say value resorts there’s no such thing anymore I can’t see how some of these people can afford to go with 4-5 children because the value resorts for us four people costs around 6500-7500 now with more kids I’d hate to see the price of the value .what value there is none anymore you have to take a second mortgage out anymore to visit such a wonderful place it’s a shame Disney can’t see that.
Emily says
Do you know if the drink menu here has changed? I’ve be trolling through all the bar menus at the Poly, and cannot seem to find a Banana Cabana anywhere…. but…. it’s on this menu. Worried they discontinued it; hopeful it’s maybe just not on the Disney website.
DFB Sarah says
Emily, I’ll see if someone can check on the menu there.
Emily says
Thank you so much!