Welcome to the tropical paradise of Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, where the magic of Disney meets the tranquil allure of the Caribbean. Nestled in the heart of Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, this expansive resort is a favorite among Disney enthusiasts and island lovers alike. With vibrant Caribbean-themed villages, a picturesque lake, and a host of family-friendly activities, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you're planning your first visit or are a seasoned Disney traveler, this guide will take you through each unique village, highlight the resort’s top features, and provide tips to ensure your stay is as magical as possible.
Overview of Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort is divided into five distinct “islands,” each themed after a Caribbean destination: Barbados, Jamaica, Martinique, Trinidad, and Aruba. These villages are situated around the 45-acre Barefoot Bay, providing guests with a scenic waterfront experience. The resort’s pastel-colored buildings, lush landscaping, and laid-back island vibe create an immersive environment that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks.
This resort is a moderate category Disney resort, meaning it strikes a balance between the amenities and services of the deluxe resorts and the affordability of the value resorts. The Caribbean Beach Resort is particularly popular for families due to its spacious rooms, themed pool area, and convenient access to Disney’s Skyliner, which provides transportation to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Now, let’s dive into what makes each island village unique, explore the activities available at the resort, and provide you with insider tips to make the most of your stay.
Barbados: A Relaxing Retreat
The Barbados section of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is the perfect escape for guests seeking tranquility and relaxation. This village is characterized by its pastel-colored buildings and serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a quiet retreat after a day at the parks. The architecture reflects the colonial influences of the island, with charming details like wrought-iron balconies and lush gardens.
Unique Features: Barbados is located closest to Old Port Royale, the resort’s main hub, which houses dining options, shops, and the main pool. This proximity makes Barbados a convenient choice for guests who want quick access to the resort’s central amenities. Despite being near the action, Barbados maintains a peaceful ambiance, offering a balance of convenience and seclusion.
Activities: Guests staying in Barbados can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the nearby Barefoot Bay or rent bikes to explore the resort. The nearby Fuentes del Morro Pool, with its Spanish fortress theming and water slides, is a hit with families. Barbados is also close to the Banana Cabana, a poolside bar offering tropical drinks and light bites.
Rating: 4/5 - Barbados is an excellent choice for guests seeking both convenience and a serene atmosphere. However, it may be less appealing to those who prefer a more vibrant or activity-packed setting.
Tip: Request a room in a building close to Old Port Royale if you want quick access to dining and amenities without sacrificing the peaceful vibe of Barbados.
Jamaica: A Vibrant Island Escape
Jamaica is one of the liveliest sections of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, with its bright, cheerful colors and fun island vibe. The buildings here are painted in vivid hues of yellow, blue, and green, capturing the spirit of the Caribbean. The village is located across the lake from Old Port Royale, offering beautiful views and a more secluded setting.
Unique Features: One of the standout features of Jamaica is its proximity to the Skyliner station, providing guests with convenient and quick transportation to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This makes Jamaica a great choice for guests who plan to spend a lot of time in the parks. The village also boasts one of the resort’s quiet pools, ideal for a relaxing swim away from the more crowded main pool.
Activities: Guests can enjoy the walking paths that connect Jamaica to other villages, offering picturesque views of the lake and tropical landscaping. The nearby playground is perfect for families with young children. The hammocks scattered along the beach provide a perfect spot for an afternoon nap or sunset watching.
Rating: 4.5/5 - Jamaica offers a great blend of convenience, vibrant atmosphere, and beautiful views. The proximity to the Skyliner is a major plus, though the distance from Old Port Royale may be a drawback for some.
Tip: If you’re staying in Jamaica, request a room in Building 45, which is closest to the Skyliner station and offers quick access to the main pool and dining options at Old Port Royale via the bridge over Barefoot Bay.
Martinique: A Deluxe Experience
Martinique offers a more upscale experience within Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, with its elegant French Caribbean-inspired architecture and lush, manicured gardens. This village is located at the northern end of the resort, offering a slightly quieter and more refined atmosphere compared to other sections.
Unique Features: The buildings in Martinique are painted in soft pastel tones and feature beautiful water views, making this village a favorite for guests who prefer a more luxurious feel. Martinique is also conveniently located near Old Port Royale, providing easy access to the main dining and shopping areas. The village’s proximity to the main hub of the resort gives it a deluxe feel, without the higher price tag of Disney’s actual deluxe resorts.
Activities: Martinique guests can enjoy easy access to the nearby beaches, where they can relax in a hammock or take in the view of the lagoon. The village also offers convenient access to the marina, where guests can rent boats for a leisurely cruise around Barefoot Bay.
Rating: 4.5/5 - Martinique is perfect for those who want a more refined and peaceful experience, with the convenience of being close to the resort’s main amenities. The slightly higher price point compared to other villages is the only drawback.
Tip: Request a water-view room in Martinique for a truly special experience. The views of Barefoot Bay, especially at sunrise or sunset, are worth the extra cost.
Trinidad: A Secluded Hideaway
Trinidad is the most secluded village at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, located at the southernmost end of the resort. This village offers a more private and tranquil experience, making it ideal for guests who prefer a quieter stay. The buildings here are painted in shades of coral and pink, reflecting the vibrant colors of the Caribbean.
Unique Features: Trinidad stands out for its Pirate-themed rooms, which are a favorite among families with young children and pirate enthusiasts. These rooms are designed to resemble a pirate ship, complete with nautical decor and beds shaped like ships. Trinidad also has its own unique dining option, the Spyglass Grill, offering a more secluded and intimate dining experience.
Activities: Guests can enjoy the quiet pools in Trinidad, which are typically less crowded than the main pool. The village also has direct access to the jogging trail that circles Barefoot Bay, perfect for a morning run or an evening stroll. The secluded beaches in Trinidad offer a peaceful spot to unwind and enjoy the sunset.
Rating: 4/5 - Trinidad is ideal for those seeking privacy and a unique themed experience. However, its distance from Old Port Royale may be a downside for guests who prefer easy access to the main amenities.
Tip: If you’re traveling with young children or pirate fans, book a Pirate-themed room in Trinidad for an unforgettable experience. For a quieter stay, request a room farther from the main pool area.
Aruba: A Scenic Sanctuary
Aruba is a picturesque village located on the opposite side of Barefoot Bay from Old Port Royale. This village is known for its pastel-colored buildings, beautiful landscaping, and relaxed atmosphere. Aruba offers a perfect balance of seclusion and accessibility, making it a popular choice for couples and families alike.
Unique Features: One of the unique aspects of Aruba is its proximity to the Riviera Resort Skyliner station, offering easy transportation to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The village also offers stunning views of the water, especially from rooms on the upper floors. The laid-back vibe of Aruba makes it a great choice for guests looking for a relaxing retreat.
Activities: Aruba guests can enjoy the nearby beaches, which are often less crowded than those closer to Old Port Royale. The village is also close to a quiet pool, ideal for a refreshing dip after a day at the parks. The walking paths around Aruba offer scenic views and are perfect for a morning jog or evening stroll.
Rating: 4.5/5 - Aruba’s beautiful setting, convenient Skyliner access, and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the top choices at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. The only minor drawback is the longer walk to Old Port Royale.
Tip: Request a water-view room in Aruba for breathtaking sunrise views over Barefoot Bay. If you prefer easy access to the Skyliner, ask for a room in Building 56.
Resort Activities and Entertainment
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort offers a wide range of activities and entertainment options for guests of all ages. Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool, enjoy a movie under the stars, or explore the resort on a bike, there’s something for everyone.
Pools and Water Activities: The Fuentes del Morro Pool is the main attraction, featuring a Spanish fort theme, water cannons, and two waterslides. It’s perfect for kids and adults alike. The resort also has several quiet pools located in each village, offering a more peaceful swimming experience. Guests can also rent paddleboats, kayaks, or motorized boats at the marina for a fun day on the water.
Movies Under the Stars: On select nights, the resort offers “Movies Under the Stars,” where guests can watch Disney classics on a large outdoor screen. This family-friendly activity is a great way to unwind after a day at the parks.
Campfire Activities: Guests can enjoy a campfire experience near the beach, where they can roast marshmallows and make s’mores. It’s a fun and relaxing activity for families, offering a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Bike Rentals: Explore the resort at your own pace by renting a bike. The resort offers both standard bikes and surrey bikes, which can accommodate multiple riders. The bike paths around Barefoot Bay provide stunning views and a peaceful way to explore the property.
Island Markets and Dining: The Old Port Royale offers a variety of dining options, from quick-service meals at Centertown Market to a sit-down experience at Sebastian’s Bistro, which features Caribbean-inspired cuisine. The Banana Cabana poolside bar is a great spot to enjoy a tropical drink or light snack.
Special Tips for an Unforgettable Stay
- Choose Your Village Wisely: Each village at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort offers a unique experience, so choose the one that best fits your travel style. If you prioritize convenience and access to amenities, Barbados and Martinique are great choices. For a more secluded stay, consider Trinidad or Aruba.
- Make Use of the Skyliner: The Skyliner is a fantastic way to travel between the resort and the parks. Jamaica and Aruba offer the best access to the Skyliner stations, so consider staying in these villages if park hopping is a priority.
- Book Early for Pirate Rooms: The Pirate-themed rooms in Trinidad are incredibly popular, especially with families. If you’re interested in staying in one, be sure to book early, as these rooms often sell out quickly.
- Enjoy the Quiet Pools: While the Fuentes del Morro Pool is a blast, the quiet pools offer a more serene swimming experience. These pools are typically less crowded and provide a great place to relax.
- Take Advantage of Resort Activities: From movies under the stars to bike rentals, there are plenty of activities at the resort that don’t require park tickets. Make sure to set aside some time to explore and enjoy these offerings.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort offers a unique blend of Disney magic and Caribbean charm. With its beautiful themed villages, extensive activities, and convenient access to the parks, it’s a fantastic choice for families, couples, and Disney enthusiasts alike. Visit the Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort website
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