I think the people who wrote negative reviews here didn't fully research the disney home away from home resorts. They are not hotels. DVC resorts are villas and studios. There usually are no elevators, only trash and towel service every 4th day and no bellhops. You basically parked right in front of your building and they had beach carts to help you get your luggage to your room. You have a washer/dryer combo in your room to wash your towels. The rooms are designed to match a fishing lodge from the 40's. That means they are not whitewashed with tropical colors like at Key West. They match the surrounding island them very well. You have to research what is there and what isn't.
If you want a fantastic beach vacation with no crowds, no drunks, no weirdos on the beach this is the place for you. The disney beach house side of the island was perfect for families and quiet. You had your own private beach house on the ocean. No looking for showers, bathrooms or snacks. It was right on the beach. Just miles of flat sand to ride bikes on and pick up shells. Disney has some parking there and also they run a shuttle every 30 minutes. I biked to the beach daily through the Palmetto Dunes community. Very NICE!
There were so many activities at this resort and on the island. We couldn't do everything. To the person who said there were no activities at the resort, they failed to read the daily activity sheet that was handed out at check in. It was for all ages. I was handed 5 or 6 coupon books, 101 things to do, places to go, places to eat etc. books from the disney staff upon checkin.
The resort is beautiful. DVC quality rooms just like disney world. Loved the adirondack chairs set up to watch the sunset or the sunrise at either end of their property. Kids loved riding bikes everywhere there. The shelter cove marina has restaurants and shops right there along with several restaurants right at the entrance to the resort. All within easy walking distance. The shelter cove mall was right nearby and there were tons of strip shopping, restaurants and cool mini golf places. It is also a golf course mecca if you are a golfer. DVC members got discounts for golf, restaurants and activities. We liked the Coligny Mall with its open atmosphere to walk around 80 shops. The public beach access is nearby also. Harbourtown was a must. We went during the Verizon Heritage tournament. Got great pictures from the top of the lighthouse over looking the 18th green. I even liked South Beach marina. It had many small shops to browze in and several restaurants on the water. We ate at the wreck of the salty dog and of course got our salty dog t-shirts there also. Hilton Head logo clothing was also very cheap there. Everyone can get outfitted under $20 with something. Use the book coupons for the free sand dollars at the shell shop and got a free shark tooth necklace at Tropical Outfitters. Kids love that stuff. I liked it so much I am going to retire at Hilton Head. I am planning my next summers beach vacation there. Lastly, ignore the naysayers and go with your instincts. Disney quality is world class and they have gone over the top with this resort. Location in the center of the island hooked to a marina with million dollar condos and a marsh/creek that is a kayakers dream was pure genius. p.s. yes Shadow does exist! Check out my pictures.
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Would I recommend this hotel to my best friend?
absolutely!
I recommend this hotel for:
A romantic getaway, Girlfriend getaway, Older travelers, Families with young children, Families with teenagers, Tourists
I do not recommend this hotel for:
Young singles, An amazing honeymoon, People with disabilities, Pet owners
I selected this hotel as a top choice for:
Beach / Sun, Outdoor / Adventure, Shopping