JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa
Staying at a resort onsite and close to the parks is always my recommendation for people visiting Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando, but it’s not always the only option. What if you’re visiting Orlando and just looking for somewhere nice to stay and maybe travel to the parks a bit? Let me introduce you to the JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa. I enjoyed a short visit here and I wish I had booked for longer so that I could have experienced everything it had to offer.
From the moment we walked in to the lobby and saw the front desk, we felt like we were walking in to a luxury resort.
Prime Location
Located only 30 minutes from Orlando International Airport, near International Drive and Lake Buena Vista, it is relatively close to all the touristy things you might want to do. With a complimentary shuttle service to the Walt Disney World Resort theme parks and Disney Springs, it does make it easy to get back and forth. My only caveat with this is that the hotel shuttles won’t be as quick as the Disney bus if you’re staying onside, so check how often and what times the shuttles run. You may also consider an Uber or Lyft to get around here. Universal Studios is only a short drive away as well, making it a great base for both Disney and Universal adventures.
Spacious Rooms
These rooms are fantastic and do not disappoint. They are spacious, modern, and equipped with all the comforts you would need including flat-screen TVs and a beverage cooler. The luxurious bedding is what you would expect from a JW Hotel, the beds ensure a terrific nights sleep.
Our room reservation was for a regular guest room, but there are suites with bunk beds available too for those needing some additional space. There are 516 guest rooms and suites in total combining modern luxury with comfort.
Resort Pools
There are plenty of hotel features that will impress any family. The resort pools are inviting with a splash pad and family pool area for kids, but if your travel party is adults only there is an adult only pool for a little piece of quiet.
While I was only there for the 1 night, we did experience the adult only pool. I can’t even tell you the service was outstanding! The moment we walked up to the pool one of the pool attendants found us lounge chairs, pulled over the umbrella to give us shade and then promptly brought us a big pitcher of ice water and two glasses.
We ordered some nibbles and drinks to enjoy poolside and they were delicious. We never had to wait for a refill and they were incredibly attentive – exceptional service all around.
Spa by JW
There’s nothing quite like indulging in some relaxation and spa services when you’re on vacation! Customized facials and massages are available at this luxurious spa. They are the only spa in Central Florida where you can enjoy the Hydra-Infusion facial powered by JetPeel technology and the Pure Forest facial. Next to the spa you can find a full-service beauty salon. Why not treat yourself while on vacation?
Dining Options
Dining options are important to me when selecting a place to stay and the JW did not disappoint. There is really something for everyone here. Sear + Sea full service restaurant has been recommended in the Micheline guide for years. The Sear + Sea Lobby Bar offers innovative small plates and handcrafted libations. Add the pool bar (where we got our nibbles), a beer garden, a bazaar, in room dining and a Japanese restaurant – you would never go hungry.
Illume Pot Stickers and Salad
When I was there we decided to eat at Illume, a Japanese inspired restaurant.
The food was delicious and we enjoyed every bite.
We walked outside after dinner to the rooftop terrace where you can see nightly views of the nearby Disney fireworks from Epcot or Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Family Fun
You don’t have to travel to the theme parks for fun when you’re staying here – there are quite a few things to keep the family entertained right at the resort. Aside from the family outdoor swimming pool, there are other activities that you might enjoy on the 6th floor (advanced reservations required for some of these activities)
Hidden Garden Kids Club
Now this was a fun spot that we toured (thankfully there was no one there so I could get pictures). The Hidden Garden Kids Club offers a wide range of activities for children age 5-12 with paid programs to allow the adults to have some time away too! Check the resort page for details.
Mt. Chelonia Rock Wall Experience
I stood at the bottom, I took a picture – I did not climb. BUT – it looked like fun.
Activity Garden Golf
There was a whole family up here enjoying the rooftop garden golf when we were there. They looked like they were having fun and enjoying the sunshine while they were working the 9-hole course
From specialty restaurants to multiple social spaces I felt like we could have spent a few more days here to enjoy more of what was available to us. I honestly could have done with a few more nights sleep in that bed – it was so comfy!!
As always – I recommend an onsite hotel if your primary purpose is to visit the theme parks. There is so much to see at Walt Disney World and you should consider how much time you might need to see it.
Have you stayed at a Bonnet Creek Resort?
