dlr destinations 02; Asian Family; Siblings; daughter; son; mom; dad
  • On Jul 14, 2025
    Patricia from AB Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    We are planning a one night stay at the Disneyland hotel in November. Do we get access to the water park area prior to check in?

    Greetings, Patricia, and welcome to planDisney! The pool area of the Disneyland Hotel is a dream come true – picture small water slides for the little ones, larger Monorail-themed slides, a Steamboat Willie splash pad, and multiple pools and hot tubs, all set against a tropical vibe with hints of nostalgia. You and your family will love it!

    Patricia, I have good news: You can certainly use the hotel amenities, including the pool, on the day of your arrival, even if your room isn't quite ready yet. Once you arrive, head over to the front desk to complete the check-in process and request a key card. It won't unlock the door to your room until closer to 3 p.m., but you can use it to access the pool area in the meantime.

    After checking in, head over to the hotel's Bell Desk to store your luggage – just keep a bag with all your swim items handy. There are changing rooms near the pools you can use.

    Here are a few more exciting things to know about the pool area at the Disneyland Hotel, Patricia:

    • The pools are heated year-round, so you can plan to enjoy time in the water even if it's a little chilly outside. Please note that pools or certain features may be unavailable due to adverse weather conditions.
    • You can also enjoy the pool area after you check out on the day of your departure. Keep your room key, pack a post-swim outfit, and use the changing rooms near the pool (similar to your access on the day of your arrival).
    • Private poolside cabanas are available for an additional fee, and there's a poolside bar that serves lunch, dinner, and drinks.
    • There are life jackets for kids that are easily accessible (and free to use).
    If you are arriving early enough, and if you have theme park tickets, you can also take advantage of Early Entry on the day of your arrival. This is a great benefit that offers Disneyland Resort hotel Guests the chance to enter a designated theme park 30 minutes early each day they are checked in. You'll either tap your room key or show the Cast Member that you have an active hotel reservation on your phone. Just make sure your theme park reservation matches the park that is opening early.

    Let's dive into a few other highlights of the hotel. Nostalgic details are sprinkled throughout the property, including the pools themselves. There are also magical touches in the rooms – look for the twinkling headboard! My kids loved playing lawn games like giant chess and the bean bag toss. And I loved going to Tangaroa Terrace for breakfast in the morning and for a Dole Whip in the afternoon. For an extra memorable dining experience, make reservations at Goofy's Kitchen.

    Patricia, I hope you have a magical stay at the Disneyland Hotel this fall, filled with lots of fun in the water and magical moments. If you have any other questions as you continue planning your trip, please reach out. We're always happy to help here at planDisney.

    Just keep swimming,
    Kriss
thumbnail image for Kriss

Meet the Panelist: Kriss, California

Hi, there! I’m Kriss, a wife, mom of two mini Mouseketeers, and lifelong Orange County local. As a Magic Key holder who visits the Disneyland Resort often, you have a friend in me when it comes to tips and tricks for making the most of your magical visit. Plant-based dining, navigating the parks with kids, transportation, pin trading, itineraries for various preferences – I’ve got you covered! Learn More About Kriss

Didn't find what you were looking for? Click the Ask a Question button to open the Ask a Question dialogue box. If you are not logged in a dialogue box will appear to signin in order to ask a question.

To submit your question, please log in now if you have not already done so.

Ask a QuestionOpens the Ask a Question dialog box.
x

Update Browser

For a better experience browsing this website, please download an updated version of Internet Explorer.


Or you can continue browsing without updating.