Disney’s Polynesian Resort has been on the top of our list for years. The theming, the laid-back atmosphere, and the tropical scents are 100% our style and we anxiously wait for the day when we have the chance to try this resort out. But not staying here hasn’t stopped us from enjoying what the resort has to offer. We often resort hop to The Polynesian Resort for midday breaks from the Parks, a chance to relax on the beach, and of course, food. Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace is one of the most popular bars at Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Read on for all the info about this fun outside lounge.
Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace at Disney’s Polynesian Resort
Trader Sam’s is a bar located on the first floor of Disney’s Polynesian Resort. It’s known for being quite difficult to get into. Mostly just because it’s so small. But also, because it’s incredibly popular. With interactive drinks, and a fun, quirky atmosphere, it’s definitely a unique experience. Guests wishing to enter Trader Sam’s often need to get their names added to a waitlist as early as noon. The bar doesn’t open until 3 pm, but you’ll want your name to be on that list well before opening.
This is where Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace comes in. Located outside, behind Trader Sam’s, this spot is a great alternative if you can’t get into the inside bar. Or if you just want to be outside instead of inside the tiny area making up Trader Sam’s. Not only does the terrace offer the same beverage menu as Trader Sam’s, but they also have live music that makes for a very relaxing experience.
If you’re not looking to sit down while you enjoy your beverage, this is also the pool bar at Disney’s Polynesian! So they have a walk-up window where you can just order drinks, and you can take these back to the pool with you if you’re a resort guest. Or relax elsewhere around the resort, like the beach!
Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace Menu
Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace offers cocktails, mocktails, and small bites. The appetizers here are generally pretty reasonably priced, and depending on your appetite, you could even make a full meal out of them. We are big fans of the Thai Chicken flatbread and the Pan-Fried Dumplings, but they also offer sushi, lettuce cups, and pork tacos.
The No Booze Brews are pretty good here, though like many mocktails at Walt Disney World, are really just mostly juice. Not bad if you’re avoiding alcohol. But also not the most inventive that we’ve seen. The Specialty Cocktails are mostly themed to match the vibe of the restaurant. Tropical and fun, and many can be ordered in special drinkware that you can take home with you. On our last trip to the Tiki Terrace, none of the drinks were being served in these fun glasses, but you could still order one to take home with you. You can find the full menu for Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace here.
Do you need reservations for Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace?
Nope! Unlike Trader Sam’s, The Tiki Terrace is much easier to get into. You may have to wait if you’re there during a busier time, but generally, people don’t tend to linger too long here. They don’t usually even have a walk-up list. Just show up and find an empty table.
Is Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace Adult Only?
No, the Tiki Terrace is not adult-only. Anyone is allowed here. Although it tends to be really popular with adults at Disney, it’s also laid back enough to be family-friendly.
Where is Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace Located?
Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace is located at Disney’s Polynesian Resort, on the terrace of the main building. It’s behind Trader Sam’s, out the door at the end of the hallway where Trader Sam’s is located. There are signs to point you to Trader Sam’s, so just follow those, and it’ll be easy to find the terrace from there. Alternatively, you can also find it near the outdoor seating at Captain Cook’s. You can see the walk-up bar from there. Just make your way over and you’ll find the Terrace.
How to get to Disney’s Polynesian Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Resort is located on the monorail loop, making it easy to get from most places. Just pop over to Magic Kingdom and take the resort monorail to the third stop, and you’re there! You can also take the Disney buses from any Disney Park or Disney Springs to the Polynesian Resort. Disney’s Polynesian Resort is super easy to get to, making this an easy stop during a Park Day, or on your days away from the Parks.
Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace Review
Overall, we love Trader Sam’s, Tiki Terrace. The laid-back vibe, the outdoor space, and the live music make this a very relaxed lounge space at Disney. Whether you’re looking for the best lounges at Disney, planning a girl’s trip to Walt Disney World, or just want somewhere to take a nice afternoon break, the Tiki Terrace should be on your list! Great food, fun and unique drink concoctions, and let’s face it, the location at the Polynesian Resort, are all great reasons to add this to your next Disney visit. Have you been here before?
Melanie Renee is a photographer, writer, designer and mom. Visiting Disney destinations since 2010, she is also an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. When she's not creating her next coffee recipe, or designing apparel at Polka Dot Pixie Shop, she's seeking beautiful sunsets and planning her next trip .
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