Disney’s Vero Beach Resort Review- The Quiet Side of Disney

The Disney theme parks will always have a special place in my heart, but sometimes the hustle and busyness of a parks vacation can really drag our family down to exhaustion. To take a break from our typical Disney vacation, our family spent 4 days at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort.

Located just 2 hours from Walt Disney World, on the Atlantic Ocean side, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort is directly on the beach. With plenty of Florida charm and subtle hints of classic Disney characters, the resort was truly a relaxing escape for my family.

The grand and open lobby greets you with palm trees and ocean views as you enter to check in. Other than a few subtle details, you didn’t feel overwhelmed that it was a Disney resort. Until you spoke with a Cast Member…

The same concierge style service, that Disney is famous for, welcomed us from the moment we checked in. Everyone was very cordial and made us feel at home. From character greetings to a “magical moment” at our first dinner, the service was exceptional.

The gem of the resort is definitely the pristine ocean view. Tip: ask for a room on the top floor for the best view. As part of Florida’s Treasure Coast, the water is crystal blue and the beach was very clean. It never felt overcrowded and rentals were available without a wait.

From Summer to early Fall, it’s nesting season for sea turtles. The resort protects their nests and hotel curtains must be drawn by 9pm. Disney even offers an early morning guided walk, on the beach, for a sea turtle learning session.

With a toddler, it was easiest for us to stay in the fenced-in pool area. They have a large heated pool, water slide and pirate themed splash pad for young kids. A mini golf area and playground is also fenced in with the pool. My son loved the splash pad area and Cast Members kept the kids entertained with fun poolside games.

We had one day of bad weather and still found plenty to do. Upon check-in, you’re given an activity calendar for the resort. We attended all of the activities for toddlers, which ranged from crafts to treasure hunts hosted by Cast Members.

For the adults, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort offers a full service spa, an indoor lounge and a pool bar. Even though our focus was a family trip, we were the minorities. Most vacationers were retired couples visiting the resort. The best part? Dole Whips at the pool!

The resort is currently renovating their restaurants, but they’ll be finished by last 2016. We tried Shutters twice and loved it. We didn’t need advanced dining reservations, the food was on par with Disney’s “signature” restaurants and service was great. They had a full menu for the kids and steak and seafood options for adults. I would recommend trying it on your trip!

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort was a quiet escape for us with Disney touches. From building sand castles to relaxing poolside, we just chilled all day long. That is hard to do with a toddler and special treat for us! 

We’ll definitely be back for more fun at Vero Beach. It’s a great addition after your Walt Disney World trip, to recover. Or it’s a quiet trip unto itself.

Disney’s Vero Beach resort is like the hidden gem we just discovered. I can’t wait to go back and relax again!

This resort is part of the Disney Vacation Club family, but anybody can pay cash to stay. They offer studios to beachside villas that sleep up to 12.