The Villas at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel

Overall Rating: 4 Stars

Though mostly made available to members of the Disney Vacation Club, technically anyone can book these rooms if you're able to pay cash, but for those DVC members who have not yet stayed at the Grand Californian Hotel, here's an idea of what you're missing out on so far because what this hotel lacks in the standard guest rooms it makes up for in the DVC villas!

Location: 4 Stars

You cannot get any closer to the parks at the Disneyland Resort than by staying at the Grand Californian!  This is the only American Disney hotel I know of that even has its own entrance into a Disney park.  The DVC villas are even at the farthest end of the hotel and you can still get to DCA is less than five minutes.  Super convenient!

​Accommodations: 4 Stars

While I was somewhat disappointed by the standard guest rooms at the Grand Californian, I was very impressed by the DVC villas.  CMs promote the DVC as providing members with the best accommodations at each hotel and these villas live up to that claim.  There's no one feature that stands out as superior, but the overall feeling in the room is that of quality and attention to detail.  Even the view out the window was nothing but beautifully overgrown trees so it truly felt like we were in a wilderness lodge, which is the whole idea of the hotel!

Amenities: 3 Stars

As can be expected with any DVC villa, there are limited services available, particularly housekeeping, but they warn you of that when you sign up.  However, something about the room and its amenities make you feel "welcomed home" so it's okay.  The size of the pool, though, is still too small for the hotel's capacity.

Value: 4 Stars

If you're a DVC member and are wondering if the large number of vacation points are worth spending on this hotel, the answer is yes.  It requires a lot of points mostly because there are a limited number of villas available.

If you're considering a DVC membership, it's something to look into.  It's not the right option for every family, but if it works for you then this room will show you it's worth it!