Tom E.
Yelp
350 miles from home, this is the closest disney property to my house. In just under 6 hours (traffic pending), this place can be such a great weekend getaway, no matter the time of the year (I do assume though in the summer months it gets hellacious). On my most recent visit (it had been about 2 years since my last) was right before Christmas, so I got to see this place all dolled up, which is always fun (pro tip, I don't think anybody does Christmas better than Disney).
Since I came in straight from work (and I had a few days to burn), I decided to make a mini trip spending a night in Hilton Head, a night in Vero, and a night in Disney World (call it a large circle trip). I did my online check in before hand, so when I got there, it made things go by even quicker. Also, at the time of staying here on most recent visit- masks are required on all indoor public areas (this is true for all Disney properties at the moment). Another thing, MagicBands (which are currently exclusive to Disney World), do not work here- but that doesn't mean you can't show them off!
This resort is on its own island, which is really cool, and away from the beach, but moreso on the inland, with some marshes- which is a nice change. Don't worry, they have a private beach house (across the street) in a gated area that you can either walk, drive, take the shuttle, or rent a bike to get there. Its called Disney's Beach House and you can only access it if you are staying on the property during that time.
Back to the main property, there are studios, 1BR, 2BR, and 3BR villas scattered throughout. There is only one elevator on property, so if you have trouble going up stairs (the buildings are 2 stories that are higher off the ground in case of flooding), note that before when you make a reservation.
The theme here is woodsy. I know the large pool in the center of the property may change that, but for the most part, the theme fits in well. There is also no full service restaurant here, so for food, plan ahead (I went to Sam's Club before coming in). Thankfully, there is a Kroger and Whole Foods right outside the property, and plenty of restaurants you can walk to across the bridge (less than a 5 min walk). They do have a gift shop with your basic food needs, and a quick serve restaurant (good for breakfast and lunch)- but expect Disney prices.
In terms of the actual rooms- I usually stay in a 2br villa here (it seems to be the most available when I book). They sleep 8 people comfortably, and comes with 2BRs (the master bathroom comes with an extra area with another sink and the shower for guests staying in the dining room couchbed. The second room has 2 queens, and its own bathroom. The kitchen, is fully stocked (with a balcony), and a mini foyer with a laundry area as well (biggest difference between a villa and the studio is the full kitchen, the extra tv, and the laundry, and the extra sofa bed).
The property mascot is Shadow, a seemingly golden irish retriever. What a sweet pup, but always so elusive! Only seen it on one visit, but such a sweet pup!
This place can get pricey, as you can pay cash or use your disney points. If you know somebody in the Disney Vacation Club that has points to burn, see if they are nice enough to let you use them, before you spend your money. This property does have some of the lower points values across disney- making it a popular destination. I had seen a few comments about this place not being upgraded- it actually is not too terribly dated- except for the hot tubs in the villas- but I actually prefer those to the new soaking tubs they have been installing throughout disney- almost twice the size!
Anyways, this place is always a great place to come relax to, especially when I need a quick disney fix. Definitely a unique disney property!