Disney World Pools: Disney Pool Rules, FAQ, and Disney Pool Hopping

From Value resorts to Deluxe Villas, Disney World resorts all have amazing pools. One of the most common questions that guests have is about pool rules, and specifically pool hopping.

Disney Pool Types

There are two types of pools at Disney World Resorts. The first is known as the Feature Pool. This is the pool that hosts activities and games during the day, and often has live music playing. It will also be the pool that has a water slide if you are staying at a Moderate or Deluxe Resort.

The other type of pool is known as Leisure Pool or Quiet Pool. These pools are still all ages, but you won't find music, games, or water slides at these pools. They tend to be more geared towards adults.

Disney Pool Rules and Safety

The pool rules can be found listed around every Disney World pool. Here are the rules for resort pools:

1. All children 12 and under must be supervised by an adult
2. Children who are not potty trained must wear swim diapers
3. Food and drink must be consumed on the pool deck, and not in the pool
4. No glass containers of any kind on the pool deck

Other than these basic pool rules, Disney does a great job of making sure guests remain safe while swimming. Life guards are often present at the pools, but lifeguard availability vary by pool and time of year. So be sure to check with a Cast Member.

Also know that life jackets are available at no cost for children. You'll find them at each pool in various sizes.

Each resort will also have either a zero depth area or a splash pad area so that smaller children, and kids who can't swim can still enjoy the pool area safely.

Disney Pool Hours

Pools at Disney World are open year round, and the pools will remain heated all year. Depending on the time of year the pool hours may change. Check with a Cast Member to confirm pool hours at your resort.

Pool Amenities

Disney has thought of everything when it comes to having a relaxing pool day. Here are some of the things you can expect at each resort:

Towels

Every Deluxe Resort has towels at the pool for you to use. Many Moderate and Value Resorts have towels as well, but if they do not you can use towels from your room.

Lockers

You will find lockers available at each resort for guests using the pools. You'll find those near the main "feature pool" at your resort.

Pool Bar

Every resort will have at least one pool side quick service stop. You'll usually find alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks along with a limited menu. Check your resort for menu details.

Pool Toys

You can use pool noodles and small toys at Disney Resort pools. You can usually find these items at the resort shops. Don't expect to be able to use large rafts that you brought from home.

Water Slides

Moderate and Deluxe resorts at Disney World have water slides at their resort pools. While the slides are nothing compared to the big slides at Typhoon Lagoon, you'll still want to make sure that your kids are good swimmers before allowing them to ride on the slides. You will not be able to go down the slide with a small child. Water slides are 1 rider at a time.

Pool Hopping

A common question about Disney World pools is, "Can I resort hop to take advantage of other resort pools?"

In most cases, the answer is NO. You will need to scan your magic band to get in to the pool area, so if your band does not match the resort you are at, you will not be able to enter.

That being said, there are a few exceptions where you CAN pool hop:

1. Guests that have reserved a private cabana at The Grand Floridian Resort or The Contemporary Resort can use those pools even if they are staying at another resort
2. Guests of any of the All Star Resorts are able to use any of the All Star pools
3. Guests staying at either of the Port Orleans resorts can use either of the Port Orleans pools
4. Disney Vacation Club owners can use other DVC resort pools

Using a Pool Before Check In / After Check Out

If you arrive to your resort before your room is ready, or if you have a late flight and have checked out of your resort room before it's time to head back to the airport, you can use your resort pool.

If you arrive before check in, and have checked in online, your Magic Band will grant you access to your pool. If you need to check in at the front desk, you'll be able to use the pool once you've checked in (even if your room is still not ready).

The same is true if you check out, but have a late flight. Once you check out you can still use the pool for the rest of the day.

Ready to Book Your Vacation?

Get a free quotehere!

Still confused or need help?

I am happy to help!Contact me.

See you at the parks,
-Julie