Hi Andrew!
Thank you for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel and sharing your question with us! I'm sorry to hear that Disney was unable to accommodate your requests on your last visit and certainly hope you get a little more Pixie Dust this time.
I always complete
Online Check-In, hoping to skip the possible lines at the resort and hoping advance notice of my requests may help us receive our preferences. Unfortunately, all requests are just requests and sometimes it just doesn't work out. If you really prefer the ground floor over any other request, I would only note that preference on your Online Check-In. You can also call the resort directly (usually 5-7 days before your stay) and let a Cast Member know your request and reason for request. While this still doesn't guarantee it, they will make an additional note on your reservation. Lastly, if the room you are given isn't what you were hoping for, before you make yourself too comfortable, I recommend checking with the Front Desk to see if they have any other options available.
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort is one of my family's favorites and I hope you enjoy it as much as we do. Make sure that you do stop by the Front Desk or Concierge and ask for the resort's Recreation Activities Guide. It will be full of pool games and activities, movies, campfires and more fun for your whole family! Also, if you have little ones ages 4-12, they might love the
Pirate Adventure Cruise taking off from the resort daily.
Enjoy your stay, Andrew!
Lauren