When planning a Walt Disney World holiday from the UK, the Moderate tier is often the sweet spot: more relaxed and better themed than the Value hotels, but without the premium pricing of the Deluxe resorts. Caribbean Beach, Coronado Springs, and the two Port Orleans resorts all offer something a little different — so choosing between them can make a noticeable difference to your travel experience, especially on a longer stay.
Caribbean Beach Resort – Best for Skyliner Access & Pool Fun
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort stands out immediately because of its direct access to the Disney Skyliner, giving quick, scenic transport to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. For British families who value smooth, predictable transport (especially after long park days), this is a major advantage. Its relaxed, tropical layout also appeals to those wanting downtime between parks; the Fuentes del Morro pirate-themed pool remains one of the best in the Moderate category.
Downside: The resort is large and spread out, which doesn’t suit those wanting short walks to everything.
Coronado Springs – Best for Adults, Couples & Older Families
Coronado Springs is the most “grown-up” of the Moderates, thanks to its impressive Gran Destino Tower, convention-friendly layout and more sophisticated dining scene. Restaurants like Three Bridges Bar & Grill and Toledo give it a slightly Deluxe feel at a moderate price. British couples or families with teens often rate it highly for quieter evenings and more upscale touches.
Downside: No Skyliner, and its large size means longer internal travel unless you’re in (or close to) Gran Destino Tower.
Port Orleans Riverside – Best for a Cosy, Traditional Disney Feel
Port Orleans Riverside has a calm, leafy, distinctly “American South” atmosphere that a lot of UK visitors find charming. The resort’s river setting and easy boat ride to Disney Springs make evenings simple and relaxing. For larger families, the 5-person rooms in the Alligator Bayou section are a big plus.
Downside: Theming is beautiful but more understated; younger children may prefer Caribbean Beach’s brighter style.
Port Orleans French Quarter – Best for Small, Quiet & Extremely Convenient Stays
French Quarter is the smallest Moderate resort, and it’s often praised by British travellers for how easy it is. Everything — buses, food court, pool, lobby — is just a few minutes’ walk away. Its New Orleans theming is lively but not overwhelming, and the on-site beignets are a fun treat. Boat access to Disney Springs adds flexibility.
Downside: No table-service restaurant on-site and no Skyliner.
Other Upside ? Beignets 🙂
Which Moderate Is Best for British Families?
- For transport convenience: Caribbean Beach wins due to the Skyliner.
- For food quality and upscale feel: Coronado Springs.
- For families needing 5-person rooms: Riverside.
- For the simplest, easiest resort layout: French Quarter.
Where Caribbean Beach Stands Out
Despite strong competition, Caribbean Beach keeps its edge for UK visitors because it blends resort atmosphere with excellent park access. Many British families do 10–14-night stays, and the combination of the Skyliner, multiple pools, relaxing island vibe, and a central lake makes the resort feel like a holiday within a holiday. While it’s spread out, those wanting a quieter, more tropical base often find that this enhances the break from the theme park crowds.
Leave a Reply