Hello, Todd! Thanks for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel and asking your question!
Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel is a lot of fun and I think your family is really going to enjoy staying there. The pool policy is similar to the Walt Disney World Resort in that you will only have access to the pool at Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel. You will get to enjoy the
Paradise Pool, California Streamin' slide, a children's pool, and the Paradise Spa whirlpool all atop the roof of the third floor. Plus, you can order cocktails and snacks at The Sand Bar while you are lounging.
Although you won't be able to swim at the Disneyland Hotel, I absolutely recommend checking out other things the hotel has to offer like
Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar,
The Coffee House (where you can get my favorite treat, the Dole Whip), and the amazing memorabilia display inside the main lobby. The Disneyland Hotel is my absolute favorite hotel and it's so much fun to explore. If you visit the Frontier Tower, you can view a really neat scale model of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
Finally, as a Guest of Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel, don't forget to take advantage of
Extra Magic Hour every day of your stay. This includes exclusive access to Disney California Adventure Park on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
I hope this information was helpful. Please return with any other questions you may have!
-Linda M.