Hi, Mindy! Oh, it's so exciting counting down to a Walt Disney World (WDW) vacation, isn't it?!
I also have 4 children (3 boys and 1 girl), and my oldest son is 16. I am imagining my family's needs/preferences as I advise you. On a recent trip to WDW, I toured the family suites at All-Star Music (ASM) and saw the pirate rooms at the Caribbean Beach Resort (CBR). Both are awesome, but here is my mom's perspective:
- ASM Family Suites have kitchenettes which will allow you to save a little on storing and preparing snacks and quick breakfasts in the room.
- Both the suites and the two pirate rooms at CBR would give you two bathrooms, but the two pirate rooms will cost more.
- You can get adjoining rooms at CBR, but they can't "guarantee" it upon reservation.
- The pirate rooms do have cool decor, and with two rooms, you'll have four double beds. Whereas the family suites will give you a queen-sized bed in one bedroom and a pull-out couch (double), a sleeper ottoman (twin) and a pull-out chair (twin) in the living area.
- The square footage of the suites is about 520 feet as opposed to the rooms at CBR which average about 315 each -- giving you more "elbow room."
- Both resort-room doors open to the outside, but the suites are located closest to the main building/pool. You may enjoy easier access to food/transportation at ASM, but it might be a bit louder depending on where your room is located.
- The CBR is huge with an internal bus system of it's own. Make sure you know where you would like to be located before you book.
I think that's all of the points so that you can make the best decision for your family. For me and mine, I think the cost-efficiency, location to the main building and kitchenette of the ASM suites would win out over the decor and increased square footage of the CBR. Yet, you may think differently! Have a wonderful day and a magical vacation!