The hype
Families love the space of the villas and the water park, but many are frustrated by the nickel-and-diming on fees.
Reunion Resort & Golf Club
$200-450/ night
Book this if You want a massive vacation rental with hotel amenities (lazy river, golf) but don't want to risk a sketchy Airbnb host.
Why People Love It
- Access to three signature golf courses (Palmer, Watson, Nicklaus)
- 5-acre water park with lazy river and slide
- Rooftop fireworks views from Eleven restaurant
Quick Take: It’s a gamble: you either get a pristine, modern mansion or a dated condo with 90s furniture, depending entirely on who you book through.
Reviewed by @AmyWestTravel: I honestly think this is the best way to do Orlando. We skipped the crowded parks for the resort's private waterpark and didn't regret it for a second. Sipping wine on the balcony while the kids were exhausted from the pool? Perfection.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'resort fee' ($40+) doesn't cover everything—expect to pay extra for golf, parking ($20/day), and even housekeeping in some rental units.
- You are a multi-generational family needing 3+ bedrooms and a full kitchen
- You are a golf fanatic wanting to play three legendary courses in one spot
- You have a car and don't mind driving 15-20 mins to Disney parks
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.5
- Housekeeping: On request only for most villas. Expect to do your own dishes and trash during the stay.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally good, but older units often have grout discoloration and peeling caulk.
- Maintenance: Hit or miss. The Grande is well-kept; private villas can have scratched furniture, wobbly fans, and worn carpets.
- Linens & towels: Standard hotel quality in The Grande; variable in villas (sometimes worn/thin).
- Odors & scents: Neutral in common areas; older villas can have a faint 'musty Florida rental' smell.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- I-4 highway traffic (constant hum in western villages)
- Neighbors in adjacent condos (thin walls)
- Construction near Tradition Blvd
Before you book
Good to know
- The resort is cashless; bring a credit card for everything.
- Shuttle to Disney is included in the resort fee but runs on a set schedule—reservations required.
- Check-in is at 4pm, and they are strict about it; early check-in often costs extra.
What to pack
- Dish soap and laundry detergent (starter packs in villas are tiny/non-existent)
- Pool towels (resort towels stay at the pool; you'll want your own for the villa)
- Coffee filters and ground coffee (villa coffee makers vary, usually standard drip)
Room Genie
Best picks
- The Grande Tower (for consistent, hotel-like quality and proximity to the main lobby/sushi bar)
- Eagle Trace (newer townhomes, less likely to be dated)
- Bears Den (ultra-luxe, gated enclave for high-budget travelers)
Rooms to avoid
- Villas facing I-4 in Reunion West (highway noise)
- Ground floor units in older villages like 'Seven Eagles' (prone to foot traffic noise and wear)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a unit in The Grande Tower or a recently renovated villa in Eagle Trace. Please ensure the unit is NOT facing I-4 and is away from the Tradition Blvd construction zone.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Can I use the water park if I book on Airbnb?
Likely NO. Unless the host has a specific membership they transfer to you (rare), you will be denied entry. Book direct or via 'Preferred Partners' to be safe.
Is there a resort fee?
Yes, approx. $40-47 per night, plus tax. It covers wifi, shuttle, and water park access (if eligible).
How far is Disney World?
About 6-9 miles. It takes 15-20 minutes by car without traffic, but I-4 traffic can double that.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the water park and main pools are heated to ~80°F year-round.
Do I need a rental car?
Yes. The resort is massive (2,300 acres) and spread out. Walking to the lobby from some villas could take 45 minutes.
Are pets allowed?
Only in specific designated units and usually with a non-refundable fee ($150+). The Grande Tower is generally no-pets.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The rooftop pool at 'Eleven' turns into a 21+ venue in the evenings; great for fireworks viewing without the crowds.
- ✨
You can rent a golf cart to get around the massive property, but reserve it weeks in advance—they sell out.
- ✨
The 'Seven Eagles' pool is often quieter than the water park but still has food service and a gym.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Water Park' hits capacity (500 people) quickly on holidays; arrive at opening (10am) or you might be waitlisted.
💡Parking on the street is strictly prohibited in many villages (e.g., Corolla Ct, Titian Ct) and you WILL get towed.
💡Bath amenities in the villas are often 'hotel sample' size—one tiny bottle for a family of 6. Bring your own.
💡The 'lazy river' requires a wristband check every single time you enter; don't lose it.
💡Some 'villas' are actually just converted apartments with thin ceilings; you will hear the kids running upstairs.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Reunion Resort & Golf Club is located and what's nearby.