No, I’m not here to teach you how to swim.

If you’re like the majority of people, you’ll want to swim sometime during your Disney vacation. I’ve got some hints for you to make your experience more magical!

1. Pack your swim suit in your carry on bag.

Most people don’t think about this when they’re packing their suitcase, but it’s key if you’re arriving early and plan on swimming soon after arrival.  If you’re using Disney’s Magical Express from the Orlando airport, it can take a few hours for the luggage service to deliver your bags to your room.  If you’ve thought to pack your swim suit in your carry on bag, the fun can start right away!

2. You forgot your swim suit (or your kid’s suit).

Don’t fret if you’ve forgotten your suit!  Most of the resort gift shops carry a limited assortment of swim gear and you may be able to find what you need there.  If not, there are shops at Disney Springs or you can take a taxi/Uber to the nearest store to get one if you have to.

3. My kid needs a floatation device!

No worries if you’ve got a little one who can’t swim yet.  Disney provides an assortment of swim vests for children at no charge.  Just grab one off the rack and replace it when you’re finished.

4.  Don’t forget the sunscreen!

You’ll want to remember to pack the sunscreen in your carry on with the swim suits.  It’s very important in sunny Florida!  If you forget, they do have some for sale in the resort gift shops.

5.  Disney pools are awesome!

Disney has some really fun pools on property.  A few of our favorites include Stormalong Bay at Yacht/Beach Club, the volcano pool at Polynesian, The Big Blue Pool at Art of Animation, and Ol Man Island at Port Orleans Riverside.  They have daily activities for families poolside every day (weather permitting).  These include things like dance parties, hula hoop competitions, trivia and more.  All Disney pools have lifeguards on duty for extra safety.

6.  My toddler is too small for the big pool.

Totally fine!  Many of the Disney resorts have splash zone areas for the smaller children to have some water fun too!

7.  The pools aren’t extreme enough for me.

Fair enough.  You should try out the two water parks on Disney property: Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach.  These parks have thrilling water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, kids’ areas, and more!