Hi Rebecca!
Thanks for stopping by planDisney with a splash-tacular question! There’s no better place to celebrate a magical milestone than Walt Disney World Resort and I’m sure you and your family will cherish those magical memories of a first birthday celebration here!
Rebecca, the pools at hotels in the Disney Resorts Collection can sometimes be considered attractions themselves! Between the amazing theming, fun water slides, and entertaining poolside games and arts and crafts, you can easily spend an entire day lounging at your resort and having an incredible time! I haven’t found a pool that I’ve been disappointed in at Disney, but there are a few standouts that are worth noting.
Out of the Deluxe Resorts, probably the most popular choice is
Disney’s Beach Club Resort which is home to
Stormalong Bay, a 3-acre water playground! Here you’ll find a sand bottom pool, zero entry (perfect for toddlers!), and plenty of spaces to explore. There is even a special Shipwreck Pool designed specifically for little ones. As an added bonus, you can easily walk to EPCOT’s International Gateway from this hotel and either walk or take a FriendShip boat over to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. You’ll also find
Minnie’s Beach Bash character breakfast at Beach Club and
Beaches and Cream Soda Shop when you’re ready for a poolside ice cream.
Next up,
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort would be my choice from the Moderate Resort category. At the
Fuentes del Morro Pool, you’ll find pirate theming, zero-entry, and a kids play area! This resort also serves as a hub for the
Disney Skyliner which means you can easily board an aerial gondola for a quick ride over to EPCOT or Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I really like the Skyliner as a toddler mom as you can roll on most single strollers without having to break them down! When you’re hungry,
Sebastian’s Bistro is a great dining choice at this resort. Caribbean Beach is a very large property so if you’re hoping to be near the pool and Skyliner, I’d recommend requesting a room in Jamaica or Barbados for the best of both worlds. Room requests can’t be guaranteed, but I always like to add one when I have a preference during
online check-in which is available 60 days before your arrival.
Rebecca, I hope this helps as you consider other resort options for your visit! Don’t forget to add a note when you make advanced dining reservations and complete online check-in that you’re celebrating a magical birthday - Cast Members will love to join in on wishing your little a very happy birthday! You can also grab a complimentary Happy Birthday button from your resort or inside the theme parks as well! I’m sending buckets of pixie dust for the best birthday celebration EVER and please stop by to see me or any of my panelist pals again with other questions you may have!
Cheers,
Kristi