Favorite Pool Bars at Walt Disney World Resort

“Aruba, Jamaica, ooh I wanna take ya to Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama…” I have always loved Kokomo by the Beach Boys.  It’s a great song and the inspiration behind it is fabulous: steel drums, waves clapping the sand, palm trees swaying in the breeze and cocktails!

You can find all of these things at the Banana Cabana at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, which is why it is my favorite pool bar at Walt Disney World.  So maybe it isn’t waves you hear, but the splashing of the pool or the trickling of the serene water fountain next to the bar can still transport you to an island in the keys.  All of the Disney pool bars are all pretty incredible, but at the following locations the bartenders are friendly and the ambiance is addictive.  These are the places where the Cast Members are as quick with their wit as they are with the drinks and the lively atmosphere is contagious — even after a long and tiring day touring the theme parks.

• Banana Cabana Pool Bar, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

This is a place where you can’t help but to order something fruity. Drinks here should come with a pineapple and cherry garnish and maybe even an umbrella.  While all pool bars have a Standard Pool Bar Menu, this is one where ordering the Banana Cabana or Island Moon Shine seems completely appropriate and fitting.

• Uzima Springs Pool Bar, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Again, the theme of this pool bar is fantastic.  You can sip your Swahili Colada (a mix of Pina Colada and Myer’s dark rum) under the thatched roof, or take a short walk to view the sweeping savanna.  This is also one of the few places on property you can taste the Safari Amber: a red lager brewed exclusively for Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park and resort.

• The Drop Off Pool Bar, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Perhaps it is how massive the Big Blue Pool really is, or how fun all of the resort décor is, but this location always brings a smile to my face.  You can order a totally righteous organic Superfruit Sangria in either white or red.  (Both are delicious, although I prefer the red.)

• Gurgling Suitcase, Disney’s Old Key West Resort

I love that this little pool bar serves a full menu for lunch and dinner.  They also boast delicious concoctions like the Turtle Krawl or the Sultry Seahorse.  Drop by one evening to enjoy one of these special cocktails and a slice of Mascarpone Cheesecake.

• Petals Pool Bar, Disney’s Pop Century Resort

This fun and funky pool bar is a great place to unwind and relax.   You will definitely feel the flower power as you sip your favorite spirits.  I suggest the Black Cherry Lemonade or the Skinny Coconut Mojito for a groovy treat.

So, spend a day relaxing at your resort pool with a drink in hand, or stop by one of the other resorts just to check out the pool bar.  Although you aren’t allowed to pool hop at the different resorts on property, you can definitely pool bar hop and I highly recommend doing so.