Construction Coming to the Island Tower
If you’ve been enjoying the fresh tropical vibes of the new Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, you’ll want to take note of some upcoming changes. Starting this week, Wailulu Bar & Grill is scheduled to undergo a refurbishment on its exterior roofing. While the restaurant isn’t closing its doors entirely, the work will definitely change how you experience your meals there over the next few months.
The Refurbishment Schedule and Seating Impacts
Construction is set to begin on April 23, 2026, and is currently expected to run through late June. During this period, the biggest impact for guests will be the availability of seating. If you’re planning to stop by for breakfast or lunch, keep in mind that Wailulu will only offer walk-up service with no seating available until 5:00 p.m. each day.
Once the clock strikes 5:00 p.m. and dinner service begins, the seating area will reopen for guests. This is a vital detail for those who managed to snag a dinner reservation, as the evening experience should remain relatively consistent despite the ongoing exterior work.
Why This Matters for Your Polynesian Stay
Since Wailulu Bar & Grill only recently opened as part of the DVC tower expansion in 2024, it has quickly become a popular spot for guests staying on the monorail loop. Because seating is restricted during the day, you’ll need to have a backup plan if you were hoping to sit down and enjoy the view with your lunch. The construction activity will be most noticeable during daylight hours, though Disney has stated they’re working to minimize disruptions for guests in the area.
Planning Pro-Tips for Your Visit
- Picnic by the Pool: Since seating is unavailable inside the restaurant until dinner, consider taking your walk-up order to the nearby pool deck or one of the many scenic outdoor benches around the Island Tower.
- Check the Weather: With the seating area closed during the day, you won’t have an indoor retreat if a typical Florida rain shower rolls through during lunch. Plan accordingly!
- Dinner is Still On: If you have an Advanced Dining Reservation for dinner, don’t panic. Seating resumes at 5:00 p.m., so your evening plans are still in good shape.
- Explore Other Options: If you specifically need a sit-down lunch, remember that Kona Cafe and Capt. Cook’s in the Great Ceremonial House are just a short walk away.
Looking Ahead
We expect things to return to normal at the Island Tower once the roof work wraps up in late June. Until then, just a little bit of flexibility will ensure your tropical getaway stays magical. We’ll keep an eye on the progress and let you know if the construction timeline shifts as we head into the summer season.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.
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