This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links. I promise I will only recommend products that I have personally used! Thank you for supporting our blog so we can continue creating free content each week! Learn more on our Privacy Policy page.
As Florida residents and Walt Disney Passholders since 2016, we have stayed on-site and off-site in various Disney hotels. Two of our favorites are sister hotels located just beyond The Boardwalk in the Epcot Resort area – The Swan and Dolphin Hotels. Last week, I gave all the details about The Swan Hotel, so this week let’s focus on my personal favorite, The Dolphin Hotel!
Disney’s Dolphin Hotel is a beautiful resort located in the heart of Walt Disney World, offering a perfect blend of Disney perks with the luxury and service of a Marriott-operated property. As part of the Swan and Dolphin complex, the Dolphin Hotel is ideal for guests looking for high-end accommodations with close proximity to the theme parks. Here’s everything you need to know!
Don’t want to miss a single blog post from us? Sign up for our email list and be notified every time we make a new post!
Staying at Disney’s Dolphin Hotel
As Marriott Bonvoy members, Mark and I love to stay at the Swan or Dolphin anytime we attend one of the many Epcot festivals we love. It’s within walking distance, which is great because we can walk back to the room at the end of the night instead of cramming into crowded buses or the long skyliner lines at the end of the day.
Plus, it’s like staying at two resorts for the price of one since the sister hotels share many of the amenities! If you missed my last blog about The Swan, you can read it here!
Disney Perks at Dolphin Hotel
Although the Dolphin Hotel is not owned by Disney, it offers many of the same benefits as Disney resorts, including:
MagicBand Compatibility: MagicBands can still be used for park admission and Lightning Lane selections, though not for room entry or hotel charges.
Early Theme Park Entry: Guests can enter the parks 30 minutes before official opening times.
Extended Evening Hours: Available for guests staying at the Dolphin on select nights.
Complimentary Park Transportation: Convenient boat service to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, along with bus transportation to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs.
Rooms and Accommodations
The Dolphin Hotel features stylish and comfortable accommodations designed for both relaxation and convenience. Room options include standard rooms and accessible rooms.
- Standard Rooms: Feature two queen beds, a serene ambiance, and upscale decor.
All rooms come equipped with modern conveniences such as mini-refrigerators, coffee makers, high-speed Wi-Fi, and plush bedding to ensure a restful stay. And sometimes you will get lucky and get one of the many rooms that overlook the Epcot and Hollywood Studios fireworks!!
Dining and Restaurants
The Dolphin Hotel, along with its sister properties, offers an impressive selection of dining experiences ranging from casual eateries to fine dining.
- Shula’s Steak House: A high-end steakhouse offering premium cuts and an upscale atmosphere.
- Todd English’s Bluezoo: A seafood restaurant featuring creative dishes and a sophisticated ambiance.
- Rosa Mexicano: Unwind over margaritas and craft cocktails in a chic lounge that celebrates Mexican flavors and culture.
- The Fountain: A casual American diner serving burgers, sandwiches, and ice cream treats.
- Fuel: A café-style spot ideal for coffee, pastries, and light snacks.
- Phins Bar Service: Cap off your day enjoying signature cocktails and selections from our small plates menu.
Location and Transportation
One of the biggest advantages of staying at the Dolphin Hotel is its prime location within the EPCOT resort area.
- Walking Distance to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios: A scenic walk along Disney’s BoardWalk provides easy access to the parks.
- Water Taxi Service: Relaxing boat rides transport guests to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
- Bus Transportation: Complimentary buses run to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs.
- Flexible Transportation Options: Rideshare services and rental cars are available for added convenience.
Resort Amenities at Disney’s Swan Hotel
Recreation & Leisure
- Five Heated Pools (shared with Swan)
- Grotto Pool with waterfall and water slide
- Two lap pools
- Two leisure pools
- Kiddie pool and whirlpool spas
- White Sand Beach with loungers and games
- Swan Paddleboat Rentals (weather permitting)
- Jogging Trails around the lake and through nearby resorts
- Playground for younger kids
- Game Room / Arcade
Health & Wellness
- Mandara Spa (located at the Dolphin)
- Full-service spa with massages, facials, body treatments
- Fitness Center
- Open 24/7 with cardio machines, weights, and Peloton bikes
- Yoga and Fitness Classes (seasonal)
Family Services
- Character Dining at Garden Grove (Swan)
- Camp Dolphin (at Dolphin Hotel – evening kids’ activity program)
- Cribs and Pack ‘n Plays upon request
Shopping & Essentials
- Disney Gift Shop
- Lobby Convenience Store / Sundries
Is It Worth Staying at the Dolphin Hotel?
The Dolphin Hotel is an excellent choice for guests looking for a balance of luxury, Disney perks, and a prime location. While it doesn’t offer full Disney theming, its close proximity to the parks, deluxe resort benefits, and exceptional dining make it a compelling alternative to Disney’s official hotels. Next time you are headed to Disney – let me help you book a wonderful stay at the Swan or Dolphin!
A bucket list item I have is to stay at all the resorts/hotels on Disney World property. I’m adding the Swan and Dolphin to that list.
I love that goal – I have the same hopes LOL