Disney’s Beach Club Resort: What to Know Before You Go
THINKING ABOUT STAYING AT DISNEY’S BEACH CLUB? HERE’S WHAT MAKES IT SO SPECIAL
Disney’s Beach Club Resort is hands-down one of my favorite places to stay at Walt Disney World. I love the relaxed, coastal vibe, and you truly can’t beat how close it is to EPCOT!
My clients love it too. Whether they’re traveling with kids or doing an adults-only trip, Beach Club is always a hit.
From the charming New England-style architecture to the massive Stormalong Bay pool and the quick walk into EPCOT, this resort blends deluxe comfort with easygoing fun. It’s got that breezy, vacation feeling while still putting you right in the heart of the action.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through:
- Room Types
- Dining and Amenities
- Pros and Cons
Let’s take a closer look at what makes Disney’s Beach Club resort so special!
Resort History and Theme
Disney’s Beach Club Resort brings the charm of a New England seaside retreat right to the heart of Walt Disney World. Its theme is inspired by turn-of-the-century Atlantic coast resorts, with soft pastel colors, shingle-style architecture, and a relaxed, breezy vibe throughout.
The entire resort feels elegant without being stuffy—more like a cozy, upscale beach cottage than a formal hotel. You’ll find white railings, vintage nautical accents, and garden pathways that make it feel peaceful and inviting.
The Origins of Disney’s Beach Club Resort & Villas
Disney’s Beach Club Resort opened in 1990 as part of Disney’s deluxe resort collection. It was designed by architect Robert A.M. Stern, who also created its more formal neighbor, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. The two resorts are connected and share amenities, including the famous Stormalong Bay pool area.
In 2002, Disney expanded the property with Beach Club Villas, offering Disney Vacation Club guests a home-away-from-home with studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options—all while keeping that charming seaside feel.
Beach Club’s location near both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, combined with its comfortable design and deluxe amenities, has made it a longtime favorite among families, couples, and Disney regulars alike.
Theming at Beach Club Resort & Villas
Disney’s Beach Club Resort is designed to feel like a classic New England seaside escape, with a strong nautical influence throughout. Inspired by the upscale coastal resorts found along Cape Cod and the Atlantic coastline, the Beach Club blends that maritime charm with Disney’s signature attention to detail.
You’ll see this theme come to life in the shingle-style architecture, the soft sea-glass blues and whites, and the elegant nautical touches found in everything from the lobby decor to the room accents. It has a light and breezy atmosphere, with Crescent Lake stretching out just beyond the sandy beachfront paths.
The resort feels peaceful and cozy, like a slower-paced beach town where everything is just a short walk away. With its charming coastal design and easygoing vibe, the Beach Club offers a relaxing retreat that still keeps you close to the magic of EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
Room Accommodations
Disney’s Beach Club Resort offers elegant and cozy accommodations that blend coastal charm with deluxe-level comfort. Whether you’re staying in a standard room or a spacious villa, every detail reflects the resort’s New England seaside theme.
Let’s take a look at the different room types available at Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Villas!
Deluxe Studios
The Deluxe Studios at Disney’s Beach Club Villas offer a comfortable setup for smaller families or couples who want the convenience of a kitchenette and extra space. Each studio includes a queen bed, a double-size sleeper sofa, and a single pull-down bed, sleeping up to five guests.
You’ll also find a small kitchenette with a microwave, mini-fridge, sink, and coffee maker—perfect for light meals or snacks in the room. The decor ties into the beachy theme with soft sea blues, subtle nautical accents, and light wood finishes that make the space feel fresh and airy.
1 Bedroom Villa
The 1 Bedroom Villas are a great choice if you want more space and home-like comforts. These villas sleep up to four guests and include a private bedroom with a king-size bed, a living area with a queen-size sleeper sofa, and a full kitchen for easy meals.
You’ll also have a dining table, a washer and dryer, and a split bathroom with both a soaking tub and walk-in shower. It’s ideal for longer stays or when you just want a more relaxed, residential feel after a busy day in the parks.
2 Bedroom Villa
Perfect for larger families or groups traveling together, the 2 Bedroom Villas sleep up to eight guests and offer plenty of space to spread out. These villas include a master bedroom with a king bed, a second bedroom with two queen beds (or one queen and a sleeper sofa, depending on the layout), plus a queen sleeper sofa in the living room.
With two bathrooms, a full kitchen, dining space, laundry, and a spacious living area, the 2 Bedroom Villas feel more like a beachside condo than a hotel room, just with a little extra Disney magic.
TRAVELISTA TIP: If you need even more space there are several resorts on property that offer 3 bedroom villas, including both Disney’s Animal Kingdom Jambo House and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Kidani Village.
Suites
At Disney’s Beach Club Resort (not the villas), you’ll also find Club Level Suites that offer a deluxe hotel experience with extra space and upgraded amenities. These suites typically include a separate bedroom and living area, with upscale furnishings and access to the Stone Harbor Club, Beach Club’s Club Level lounge.
Staying Club Level means you’ll enjoy concierge service, evening turndown, and daily offerings like continental breakfast, midday snacks, and evening wine and appetizers. It’s a great choice for those looking to elevate their stay with extra comfort and convenience.
Decorating Your Room Door & Window
Decorating your resort room door or window is a fun little tradition that many Disney guests love. It’s a great way to make your space feel more personal and festive during your stay.
You’ll often see guests add magnets to their doors, decorate the windows with lights or signs, or celebrate birthdays, holidays, or runDisney weekends with themed displays. Beach Club’s relaxing vibe and community feel make it the perfect place to join in on the fun.
My family always looks forward to putting together our decorations. It’s something small that adds a big dose of joy, and we love walking around and seeing how creative other guests get too!
TRAVELISTA TIP: There are several companies that will come out and decorate your resort room or door. My favorite to use is Birthdays and More.
Resort Transportation to Parks
Getting around from Disney’s Beach Club Resort is simple, fast, and honestly one of the biggest perks of staying here. With multiple transportation options and an unbeatable location, you’re never far from the magic.
Walking Path
One of the best parts of staying at Beach Club is the walking path directly into EPCOT’s International Gateway. You can be inside the park within 5–10 minutes, depending on your room location. It’s especially convenient during festivals or if you plan to visit the World Showcase often.
You can also walk to Hollywood Studios along a scenic path that wraps around Crescent Lake. The walk takes about 15–20 minutes and is a peaceful way to start your day. If you’re an early riser or just want to avoid the crowds, this path is a game-changer.
Disney Water Taxi Transportation
Beach Club also offers Friendship Boat service across Crescent Lake. Boats run between EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, the BoardWalk, and the Swan and Dolphin Resorts.
It’s not the fastest method, but it’s definitely relaxing, especially at night when everything is lit up. If you’re in no rush and just want to enjoy the ride, the boat is a great option.
Disney Skyliner Transportation
While the Skyliner doesn’t depart directly from Beach Club, the EPCOT International Gateway station is just a short walk away. From there, you can hop on the Skyliner for a scenic ride to Caribbean Beach Resort‘s hub, where you can transfer to Hollywood Studios, Riviera Resort, Pop Century, and Art of Animation.
It’s a fun and efficient way to travel, especially if you’re heading to Hollywood Studios or want to explore the other Skyliner resorts. Even the ride itself is part of the adventure! It is my favorite way to travel on Disney World property!
Disney Bus Transportation
Buses are available from Beach Club to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and the water parks. The bus stop is located right outside the resort’s main lobby and is shared with Yacht Club, so you may make multiple stops depending on the time of day.
Buses typically run every 20 minutes and are clearly marked, making it easy to find where you’re headed next.
TRAVELISTA TIP: If you’re aiming to catch a specific show or reservation, give yourself plenty of time to navigate transportation and get through park security.
Tips for Navigating Disney Transportation
Beach Club’s location makes getting around super convenient, but a little planning still goes a long way. Be sure to check the My Disney Experience app for up-to-date transportation info, like bus arrival times or Skyliner wait times if you’re heading that way.
If you have dining reservations or Lightning Lane times, give yourself a buffer, especially when using the boats or buses, which can take a little longer during busy times.
For the smoothest experience, try heading out earlier in the day or waiting until crowds die down after park closing. And don’t forget—you can always walk to EPCOT or Hollywood Studios if the lines for boats or Skyliner are long. Sometimes that’s the fastest option of all!
TRAVELISTA TIP: If there is lightning or high winds, the Skyliner and the Friendship Water Taxi will not be running. Buses will be sent to get guests to and from EPCOT and Hollywood Studios instead.
Resort Shopping Options
At Disney’s Beach Club Resort, you’ll find a charming little gift shop called Beach Club Marketplace, located just off the main lobby. It’s a convenient stop for Disney-themed merchandise, resort-branded souvenirs, park essentials, and grab-and-go snacks.
Whether you’re hunting for the perfect keepsake or just need a quick refill on sunscreen, this shop has a little bit of everything. There’s even a small selection of groceries, which comes in handy if you’re staying in a villa and want to stock your kitchenette.
I always love popping into the Marketplace on arrival day. There’s something about browsing the resort-specific merch that makes it all feel real—like your Disney vacation has officially begun!
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Resort Dining Options
One of the things I love most about staying at Beach Club is how many solid dining options are just steps from your room. Whether you’re in the mood for a sit-down meal, a quick snack, or something poolside, there’s something for every mood—and every appetite.
Here’s a closer look at the dining options available right at the resort:
Cape May Cafe
Cape May Café is home to my personal favorite character breakfast in all of Disney World! The Beachside Breakfast Buffet with Minnie and friends is such a fun way to start the day. The food is always fresh, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the character interactions feel more low-key than some of the busier dining spots.
At dinner, Cape May turns into a New England-style seafood buffet (without characters), offering options like peel-and-eat shrimp, clams, mussels, and seasonal dishes. It’s a great choice if you’re in the mood for something hearty without having to leave the resort.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Did you know that when you book with me as your agent, I take care of all of your dining reservations for you?! That’s right! No need for you to wake up at 5am to snag the best dining reservations… I’ve got you covered!
Beaches and Cream Soda Shop
Beaches & Cream is a must-do if you’re staying at Beach Club—or even if you’re just visiting from another resort. This retro-style soda shop serves up classic diner food like burgers and grilled cheese, but it’s most famous for its ice cream treats.
The Kitchen Sink sundae is iconic, but there are plenty of other delicious sundaes, milkshakes, and floats if you’re not quite up for the challenge. You’ll want to snag a reservation if you can—this spot fills up fast!
TRAVELISTA TIP: Beaches and Cream does have a walk up window that offers a limited menu of ice cream treats and snacks for those that don’t want a whole sit down reservation just for some ice cream.
Beach Club Marketplace
For quick meals, snacks, or groceries, Beach Club Marketplace has you covered. It’s located just off the lobby and has a mix of grab-and-go items and hot selections like breakfast sandwiches, flatbreads, and pasta.
It’s a convenient spot to grab something before heading to the parks or to wind down with a quick bite after a long day. There’s also a small seating area if you’d rather not eat in your room.
Martha’s Vineyard
Tucked away near Cape May Café, Martha’s Vineyard is a cozy little lounge with a relaxed vibe and some solid drink options. They also offer a small food menu, including appetizers like wings and loaded tots—perfect for a low-key evening snack or drink.
It’s rarely crowded and has that laid-back, beachy feel that makes it a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the parks.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Mobile ordering through the My Disney Experience app allows you to order ahead of time and schedule a pick up time. It is a life saver when you want to grab a quick meal to eat in the comfort of your resort room.
Hurricane Hanna’s Waterside Bar & Grill
Located right next to Stormalong Bay, Hurricane Hanna’s is the resort’s poolside bar and grill. It’s perfect for a midday break when you’re hanging out by the pool or need a quick bite between park time and rest time.
You’ll find burgers, wraps, salads, and kid-friendly options, along with tropical drinks and cold beers for the grown-ups. It’s casual, quick, and the perfect place to recharge without missing out on pool time.
Resort Recreation & Amenities
Disney’s Beach Club Resort offers a wonderful mix of relaxation and recreation. Whether you’re cooling off at the pool, enjoying an evening movie, or just strolling the scenic paths along Crescent Lake, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s one of those resorts where you really want to slow down and soak it all in.
Water Fun at Disney’s Beach Club Resort & Villas
🌊 Stormalong Bay: This is hands-down one of the most popular pool areas on Disney property—and for good reason. Shared with Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Stormalong Bay is a 3-acre water wonderland with a sand-bottom pool, lazy river, whirlpool spas, and even a life-size shipwreck with a 230-foot waterslide.
It’s part pool, part mini water park, and it’s worth planning some downtime to enjoy it. Kids will love the shallow sand play areas, while adults can relax in the quiet whirlpool sections or float along the lazy river with a drink in hand.
🌊 Leisure Pools: In addition to Stormalong Bay, Beach Club also has two quiet leisure pools located in other areas of the resort. These pools are perfect if you’re looking for a more peaceful, low-key swim or a quiet place to relax with a book in the sun.
TRAVELISTA TIP: When planning how many days you want to spend on your Disney World vacation, make sure you allow for some time to enjoy the resort, especially Stormalong Bay!
Sports and Recreation Adventures
Disney’s Beach Club Resort offers a nice mix of active and creative activities for both kids and adults. Whether you’re squeezing in a workout, letting the kids burn off energy, or just enjoying a quiet afternoon craft, there’s something to keep everyone entertained without ever leaving the resort.
☀️ Ship Shape Massage and Fitness Center: Located between Beach Club and Yacht Club, this full-service facility has everything from treadmills and weights to massage treatments. It’s a great way to stay on track with your workouts or unwind with a little self-care during your stay.
☀️ Jogging Trail: The walking and jogging trail around Crescent Lake is one of my favorites on property. It’s scenic, peaceful, and loops past some of Disney’s prettiest resorts. Whether you’re doing a morning run or an evening walk, it’s a lovely way to explore the area.
☀️ Outdoor Playground: Located near Stormalong Bay, this playground is perfect for younger kids to climb, slide, and let off some steam while parents relax nearby. It’s a simple spot, but it comes in handy when the kids need a break from the parks or pool.
☀️ Mickey Tie-Dye: Offered on select afternoons near the pool area, this creative activity lets you make your own Mickey-themed tie-dye shirt. It’s a fun and colorful keepsake and one of those small touches that makes a Disney trip feel extra special.
TRAVELISTA TIP: Mickey Tie Dye is one of my family’s favorite resort activities! We have done it on multiple Disney World vacations!
Entertainment Options
Even after the parks close, there’s still plenty of fun to be had back at Disney’s Beach Club Resort. The resort offers a few easygoing, family-friendly ways to wind down your day, and they’re all just steps from your room.
💥 Movies Under the Stars: Each evening, you can catch a Disney movie out on the lawn near the quiet pool. Bring a blanket or towel and settle in for a relaxing night under the sky. It’s such a simple tradition, but one my family always looks forward to.
TRAVELISTA TIP: The weekly movie lineup is usually posted in or near the lobby.
💥 Nightly Campfire: Before the movie starts, you can stop by the nearby campfire to roast marshmallows and enjoy some downtime. It’s a laid-back way to spend the evening—and yes, the marshmallows are complimentary!
💥 Lafferty Place Arcade: If you’ve got gamers in the family, you’ll want to stop by this classic Disney arcade located right near Stormalong Bay. It’s filled with a mix of video games and old-school favorites that kids (and adults) will love.
Other Onsite Amenities
Rooms at Disney’s Beach Club Resort come equipped with the Hey Disney! voice assistant, which adds a fun, interactive element to your stay. It can help with park info, wake-up calls, or even a few jokes to entertain the kids.
For longer stays, self-service laundry facilities are available near guest rooms and villas. Whether you’re drying swimsuits or doing a mid-trip refresh, it’s a handy option to have without leaving the resort.
Resort Pricing and Value
Disney’s Beach Club Resort falls into the deluxe category, and while it comes at a higher price point than moderate or value resorts, the experience truly reflects that upgrade. Between the unbeatable location, access to Stormalong Bay, and deluxe-level amenities, many guests (myself included!) feel it’s worth the splurge.
What really sets Beach Club apart is the walkability to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, plus the shared use of one of the best pool areas on property. You also have a wide range of dining options, beautiful views of Crescent Lake, and all the little touches that make a deluxe stay feel extra special.
As a Disney resort guest, you’ll still enjoy great perks like early park entry, free transportation, and early access to Lightning Lane selections, but paired with the comfort, convenience, and peaceful charm of the Beach Club setting.
If you’re looking to make your Disney vacation feel like a true getaway, Beach Club is a wonderful option. And if you’d like help finding the best rates and planning every detail, I’d love to help! As a Disney travel professional, I’ll make sure your trip is not only magical, but also stress-free from start to finish.
Pros and Cons of Staying at Disney’s Beach Club Resort & Villas
Trying to decide if Beach Club is the right fit for your Disney vacation? Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons to help you weigh your options:
Pros:
- Unbeatable Location: Beach Club is just a short walk to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. You can’t get much closer without being inside the park.
- Stormalong Bay Pool: This sand-bottom pool is practically a mini water park. It’s one of the best on Disney property, with a lazy river, waterslide, and plenty of space to relax.
- Spacious Villas: The Beach Club Villas offer more space and comfort for families or longer stays, with options like full kitchens and in-room laundry.
- Dining Favorites on Site: From the character breakfast at Cape May Café to ice cream at Beaches & Cream, the resort has some seriously fun and delicious dining options.
- Charming Nautical Theme: The elegant New England seaside vibe gives the resort a calm, relaxing feel while still being distinctly Disney.
- Deluxe Resort Perks: You’ll enjoy early park entry, extended evening hours (for deluxe guests), and easy access to park transportation.
- Access to Yacht Club Amenities: As a sister resort, Beach Club guests can also enjoy select amenities at the neighboring Yacht Club, including lounges, dining, and the shared pool complex.
Cons:
- Deluxe Price Point: Beach Club is one of Disney’s more expensive resorts, which might not work for every budget—especially during peak seasons.
- Shared Amenities with Yacht Club: While the shared pool is a huge perk, it also means larger crowds during busy times.
- Limited Quick Service Options: The Beach Club Marketplace is convenient, but if you’re used to larger food courts, the offerings might feel limited for longer stays.
If you’re looking for deluxe comfort, an unbeatable location near EPCOT, and a resort that blends peaceful charm with plenty to do, Disney’s Beach Club Resort is a fantastic pick. It’s one of those resorts that makes the resort time just as magical as the park days!
Packing for a Stay at Disney’s Beach Club Resort & Villas
Packing for your stay at Disney’s Beach Club Resort & Villas can be a breeze with the right essentials. Here’s a handy list to ensure you’re ready for a relaxing and magical tropical getaway.
Essentials:
Comfortable Clothing: The resort’s size means lots of walking, so pack breathable outfits and supportive footwear.
Swimwear: With Stormalong Bay and two leisure pools, you’ll want to have swimsuits ready for some water fun.
Sunscreen, Hats, and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the Florida sun while you’re out enjoying the resort or the parks.
Ponchos or Rain Jackets: Afternoon rain showers are common, so bring lightweight ponchos or jackets.
Reusable Water Bottles: Stay hydrated with reusable bottles that you can refill at water stations.
Portable Chargers: Keep your devices charged while snapping photos or using the My Disney Experience app.
Extras:
Disney-Themed Decorations: Bring window clings, lights, or themed decorations to add a personal touch to your room.
Autograph Book and Sharpies: If you’re heading to the parks, bring these along for capturing magical character meet-and-greets.
Backpack or Day Bag: A lightweight bag is perfect for carrying your essentials to the parks or around the resort.
With this packing list, you’ll be well-prepared for a fantastic Disney resort experience!
TRAVELISTA TIP: For a list of my recommendations of items to bring into the Disney parks with you, check out my Travel Resources page.
Booking a Vacation at Disney’s Beach Club Resort & Villas
With its breezy coastal charm, unbeatable location, and access to some of the best amenities on Disney property, Beach Club Resort is a top-tier choice for your next Disney stay. But to make the most of your vacation, it helps to have a plan, and someone to guide you through it all.
That’s where I come in.
As a travel agent with Magical Moments Vacations, I help families just like yours plan unforgettable Disney and Universal trips—without all the stress. From choosing the right resort and booking your park tickets to planning your dining and Lightning Lane strategy, I handle the details so you can just show up and enjoy.
And the best part? My services are completely free when you book your Disney vacation through me.
Let’s make your dream Beach Club stay a reality. Click the button below to get started. I’d love to help you plan every magical moment!
Final Thoughts: Disney’s Beach Club Resort & Villas
Disney’s Beach Club Resort is one of those places that makes your vacation feel special from the moment you arrive. With its peaceful, nautical charm and deluxe-level amenities, it offers the perfect mix of relaxation and convenience.
My family and clients love the ease of walking to EPCOT, the fun of Stormalong Bay, and the cozy, beachside feel that sets this resort apart. Whether you’re starting your day with Minnie and friends at Cape May Café or winding down with a stroll along Crescent Lake, every moment at Beach Club feels like a true escape.
If you’re looking for a Disney resort that combines location, comfort, and that little bit of extra magic, Beach Club might just be your perfect match.
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