Located on prime Disney property, near the parks, but operated by Marriott, the Swan & Dolphin resorts are not regular Disney World hotels.
Whilst they are Disney World hotels, and they give guests all the Disney World perks, the pair of four-star hotels have the amenities and facilities you’d expect from top-tier resorts anywhere in the world.
So, whether you're travelling as a family looking for kid-friendly fun, or whether you want to be pampered alongside your theme park thrills, the Swan & Dolphin resorts are stacked with more things to do than most resorts at Disney World.
Pools
Between the Swan and Dolphin hotels, there are six pools plus multiple whirlpools.
There’s a ‘grotto’ pool complete with waterfalls, caves, and a slide, as well as two regular swimming pools suitable for lap swimming, a spring water pool, a relaxation pool, and a kids pool.
Around the pool areas, there are three restaurants and bars.
Swimming pools at the Swan & Dolphin Resorts
There’s also an artificial beach, full of real white sand - plus volleyball courts.
Guests can add some extra fun to their pool days with inflatable rentals, or volleyballs.
For a grander upgrade, guests can book a private poolside cabana for a premium experience. Cabanas come with day-beds and comfortable seating areas, a TV, a stocked mini-fridge, and fresh fruit. On top of that, guests also benefit from concierge servers who are assigned to the cabanas.
Gym & Spa
There are, not one but three health clubs across the Swan & Dolphin resorts - one for each of the accommodation areas: Swan, Dolphin and Reserve.
These are among the most extensive hotel fitness facilities at any Disney World resort. The health clubs include cardio machines (treadmills, cross-trainers, stair climbers, and a variety of bikes), plus a range of strength training machines and free weights.
There are three health clubs at Swan & Dolphin Resort
Guests can book a ‘wellness concierge’, for a fee, as well as equipment hire, to assist with workouts whilst staying at the resort.
The health club also runs daily instructor-led fitness classes including yoga and pilates at the beach, as well as aqua HIIT and cardio splash in the pool.
Also outside, guests can make use of the jogging (and walking) trails at the hotel and in the EPCOT resort area.
Alternatively, for guests who prefer less lively activities during a hotel stay can visit the Mandara Spa at the Dolphin Hotel.
The spa offers luxurious treatments inspired by Balinese beauty rituals. Guests can indulge in massages, facials, or body wraps to rejuvenate after a long day.
Fun and games
The Swan & Dolphin hotels, of course, also have game rooms for kids of all ages (including the adult ones).
For the younger guests, Camp Dolphin offers supervised fun and activities for ages 4 to 12. With arts and crafts, games and Disney movies, the little ones have a blast while parents enjoy some time to themselves.
Playground, Camp Dolphin, and a rental peddler on the lake
In the evening, Camp Dolphin is also available in the evenings.
In terms of outdoor games, the Swan & Dolphin resorts offer beach volleyball, ping pong, rental peddlers, and playgrounds.
Nighttime
When the sun sets, the fun doesn’t stop! The resorts offer a variety of lounges and bars.
It’s a perfect way to end your day with a cocktail in hand, enjoying the relaxing atmosphere.
Guests can also enjoy toasting s’mores at the campfires on the beach, and can take in the Disney movies under the stars.
Shop
Just in case you haven’t had enough shopping at the parks or Disney Springs, or you just need to quickly pick up a souvenir, the Swan & Dolphin resorts offer convenient on-site shops that stock essentials, snacks, and drinks as well as exclusive Disney merchandise.
Thoughts …
Whether you’re looking to relax, stay active, or keep the kids entertained, the Swan & Dolphin Resorts offer a fantastic array of amenities and activities.
From luxurious pools, and fitness to kid-friendly fun and games, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
