Is Margaritaville Resort Orlando Worth It? My Honest Opinion

If you’d asked me a few years ago where I would stay in Orlando, I would probably have immediately said Reunion Resort Villas or Encore Resort Villas. They’re two of the most established villa communities in Central Florida and both offer excellent accommodation. However, after spending more time looking into Margaritaville Resort Orlando, I’ve come to the conclusion that it deserves far more attention than it gets. But the real question is, is Margaritaville Resort Orlando worth it?

In my opinion, yes. In fact, for certain types of travellers, it may be one of the best places to stay in Orlando.

The reason is simple. It offers something that many other villa communities don’t: atmosphere.

Why Margaritaville Resort Orlando Feels Different

One thing I’ve noticed about many Orlando villa communities is that they’re fantastic places to sleep but not always places where you spend much of your holiday.

You stay in a beautiful villa, drive to Disney, drive to dinner and then drive back again.

Margaritaville feels different.

The entire resort has a laid-back Florida vibe that starts the moment you arrive. Palm trees, colourful architecture, outdoor dining and live entertainment all help create the feeling that you’re genuinely on holiday rather than simply using a villa as a base.

Guests who normally browse Luxury Orlando Villas, Private Villas Orlando and Luxury Orlando Vacation Homes are often surprised by how much more there is to do around Margaritaville itself.

Is Margaritaville Resort Orlando Worth It for Families?

Absolutely.

One of the biggest mistakes families make when visiting Orlando is assuming every day needs to be spent at Disney.

Trust me, after three or four consecutive theme park days, most families appreciate a slower day.

This is where Margaritaville really shines.

You have access to restaurants, entertainment and the nearby Island H2O Water Park. Instead of another 25,000-step day at a theme park, families can spend a day enjoying water slides, relaxing by the pool or simply exploring Sunset Walk.

For families considering Family Villas Near Disney World or Villas Near Disney World Orlando, Margaritaville offers a fantastic balance between convenience and entertainment.

Why I Think Sunset Walk Is Margaritaville’s Secret Weapon

If I had to choose one reason why Margaritaville stands out, it would be Sunset Walk.

I’ve stayed in plenty of Orlando resorts where, once the sun goes down, your options are limited. You either stay in the villa or get back in the car.

At Margaritaville, you can simply walk.

Want dinner? Walk.

Fancy live music? Walk.

Need ice cream after a long day at Disney? Walk.

For me, that’s a huge advantage.

Having restaurants, bars, shops and entertainment within walking distance makes the holiday feel easier and more relaxing.

One of my favourite spots is Ford’s Garage. It’s exactly the sort of place families love after a day at the parks. Great burgers, a fun atmosphere and no need to drive home afterwards.

Is Margaritaville Resort Orlando Worth It Compared to Reunion Resort?

This is probably the question I get asked most.

The truth is they are very different.

If you’re looking for:

• Championship golf
• Large luxury estates
• Gated exclusivity
• Golf course views

then I would probably point you towards Luxury Reunion Resort Villas and Reunion Resort Golf Villas.

However, if you’re looking for:

• Walkable entertainment
• Great restaurants
• A lively atmosphere
• Disney convenience
• A resort that feels like a destination itself

then Margaritaville may actually be the better choice.

They’re both excellent. They simply appeal to different travellers.

Is Margaritaville Worth It Compared to Encore Resort?

Encore is another fantastic community.

Families often love Luxury Villas in Encore Resort because of the water park and family facilities.

However, I think Encore and Margaritaville appeal to different people.

Encore feels very family-focused.

Margaritaville feels more balanced.

Couples, families, grandparents and groups of friends can all enjoy it.

That’s one reason I think it has such broad appeal.

The Island H2O Water Park Is a Bigger Deal Than People Realise

I genuinely think many visitors overlook how valuable Island H2O is.

Not every day has to be Disney.

Not every day has to be Universal.

Sometimes you just want an easy day.

Having a water park virtually on your doorstep gives families another option and helps break up the holiday.

For anyone staying a week or more, I think that’s a huge benefit.

What I Don’t Love About Margaritaville Resort Orlando

No resort is perfect.

If I’m being fair, there are a few things worth mentioning.

First, if you’re a serious golfer, Reunion is still the better option.

Second, if you’re looking for enormous 12-bedroom estates with cinemas, arcades and bowling alleys, you’ll find more options in Reunion and Encore.

Third, Sunset Walk can be lively during peak periods. Personally, I like the atmosphere, but travellers seeking complete peace and quiet may prefer a more traditional gated resort.

My Verdict: Is Margaritaville Resort Orlando Worth It?

Yes.

In fact, I think it’s one of the most underrated resorts in Orlando.

It combines a great location, excellent accommodation, family-friendly facilities, restaurants, entertainment and a genuinely enjoyable atmosphere.

Would I choose it over Reunion Resort?

For golf, no.

If you want luxury estates, no.

For atmosphere, convenience and overall holiday experience?

Quite possibly.

That’s what makes Margaritaville so interesting. It offers something different from the traditional Orlando villa experience.

And sometimes different is exactly what you’re looking for.

Things To Do Near Margaritaville

One of the biggest reasons I think Margaritaville Resort Orlando is worth considering is that you’re not limited to the resort itself. While many Orlando villa communities require you to drive everywhere, Margaritaville places you close to some of Central Florida’s best attractions, dining and entertainment.

Of course, most visitors will spend time at Walt Disney World and many families also visit Universal Orlando Resort during their stay. With the opening of Epic Universe, Orlando has become an even stronger destination for families looking to combine multiple theme parks into one holiday.

If you’re looking for somewhere to spend an evening, Sunset Walk is one of my favourite entertainment districts in the Orlando area. The atmosphere is lively without feeling overwhelming, and there are plenty of restaurants, bars and live music venues to enjoy after a day in the parks.

For shopping, many visitors head to the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets or explore the attractions, restaurants and entertainment venues along International Drive.

Families looking for a break from Disney should also consider SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove, both of which offer a completely different experience from Orlando’s traditional theme parks.

For golfers, Orlando remains one of America’s top golf destinations. The excellent courses at Reunion Resort are only a short drive away, making it easy to combine a family vacation with a few rounds of golf.

One of the reasons I rate Margaritaville so highly is that it puts you in the middle of everything. Whether you’re interested in theme parks, golf, shopping, dining or simply relaxing in the Florida sunshine, there’s always something to do nearby.

FAQs

Is Margaritaville Resort Orlando worth it?

In my opinion, yes. It offers a unique combination of villas, restaurants, entertainment and Disney access that few Orlando resorts can match.

Is Margaritaville Resort Orlando good for families?

Absolutely. Families benefit from spacious accommodation, nearby attractions, Island H2O Water Park and easy access to Disney World.

Is Margaritaville Resort close to Disney World?

Yes. The resort is located just minutes from Walt Disney World and is an excellent base for Disney holidays.

Is Margaritaville Resort Orlando better than Reunion Resort?

Not necessarily. Reunion is stronger for golf and luxury estates, while Margaritaville excels for atmosphere, dining and entertainment.

Is Margaritaville Resort better than Encore Resort?

That depends on your priorities. Encore is more focused on family resort facilities, while Margaritaville offers a broader holiday experience.

What is the best thing about Margaritaville Resort Orlando?

For me, it’s Sunset Walk. Having restaurants, shops and entertainment within walking distance completely changes the holiday experience.

Would I stay at Margaritaville Resort Orlando again?

Yes. If I wanted a resort that combined convenience, atmosphere and easy Disney access, it would be very high on my shortlist.