Welcome to planDisney, Amy! The easy answer to your question is yes! While the
Disneyland Resort is known for its incredible and iconic theme parks, the resort hotels have their own kind of magic, too. One of the best parts of staying at a
Disneyland Resort Hotel is the chance to take a refreshing dip in one of their uniquely themed pools. Each hotel has its own fantastic pool area with distinct decor and atmosphere, so let’s dive into the details.
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel, located adjacent to Disney California Adventure, is known for its Craftsman-style charm and serene ambiance, especially in its grand lobby. This resort features
three pools: the Fountain Pool, the Mariposa Pool, and the Redwood Pool. Each offers its own vibe, from tranquil relaxation to energetic fun. The Redwood Pool is a standout, thanks to its 90-foot-long waterslide that curves around the stump of a mighty redwood tree. One of my favorite summer memories is renting a cabana with friends, soaking in the sun, splashing through all three pools, and grabbing lunch at
GCH Craftsman Grill, conveniently located nearby.
Next up is the vibrant and newly reimagined
Pixar Place Hotel. Its colorful
Pool Deck area is packed with family-friendly fun, including a pool, splash pad, waterslide, and whirlpool. You’ll also find Pixar Shorts Court, a whimsical play area where you can enjoy games inspired by beloved animated shorts like Bao and La Luna. It’s also a great spot to catch the Disneyland fireworks on select nights, and if you're lucky, you may spot Bing Bong making appearances near the game courts or during special character moments throughout the hotel.
Finally, the
Disneyland Hotel has my favorite
pool area of all. It features the D-Ticket Pool, ideal for a few leisurely laps, as well as the nostalgic Monorail waterslides, a whimsical nod to Disneyland history that’s a hit with Guests of all ages. Be sure to swing by in the evening when the entire area is beautifully lit; it makes for a fantastic photo op. And just steps away is
Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar, a must-visit for tropical drinks, immersive decor, and unexpected surprises.
Amy, no matter which hotel you choose, you’ll find yourself with a perfect place to unwind poolside and soak up that California sunshine. If you have any more questions about the hotels at the Disneyland Resort or would like help planning more vacation magic, feel free to reach out again to us at planDisney.
Have fun in the sun!
David