Grand Californian: Disneyland DVC Resort
Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa in California stands as the crown jewel of Disneyland Resort hotels, and the addition of Disney Vacation Club Villas allows members to experience this Arts and Crafts masterpiece while enjoying exclusive access to Disney California Adventure park. For West Coast DVC members or those wanting to explore Disneyland Resort, the Grand Californian offers unmatched location and California elegance.
Disneyland Resort's Premier Property
The Grand Californian takes its inspiration from early 20th-century Arts and Crafts architecture, reminiscent of national park lodges and California's historic resort hotels. The stunning lobby features massive timber beams, intricate woodwork, and authentic period details creating an elegant atmosphere that honors California's architectural heritage while providing modern luxury.
The resort's integration into Downtown Disney and Disney California Adventure creates a Disneyland Resort experience found nowhere else - you can literally walk into California Adventure through the resort's exclusive entrance, bypassing main gate crowds and security lines. This convenience transforms your Disneyland vacation, particularly during busy periods when standard entry involves substantial wait times.
Exclusive Park Entrance
The Grand Californian's private entrance into Disney California Adventure represents one of DVC's most valuable perks. Resort guests enter directly into Grizzly Peak area, arriving inside the park without dealing with main gate crowds, security screening, or entry plaza congestion. During early entry periods, this becomes even more advantageous, letting you reach popular attractions while others are still arriving.
Downtown Disney sits just outside the resort's main entrance, providing world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment without leaving the property area. The combination of park access and Downtown Disney proximity means you're never more than minutes from Disneyland magic, whether heading to the parks or returning for breaks.
Villa Types and Accommodations
Grand Californian villas include deluxe studios sleeping up to 4 guests, one-bedroom villas accommodating 5, two-bedroom villas sleeping up to 9, and spectacular three-bedroom Grand Villas hosting up to 12 guests. All villas feature premium Arts and Crafts-inspired décor, modern amenities, and luxurious appointments befitting this flagship property.
Studios include kitchenettes while larger villas offer full kitchens perfect for preparing meals and snacks, particularly valuable given Southern California's high dining costs. Many villas feature views of Disney California Adventure, Downtown Disney, or the resort's beautiful courtyard with pool area.
Pools and Recreation
The resort features multiple pool areas including the Fountain Pool with waterslide and the Mariposa Pool offering a more serene atmosphere. Redwood Pool provides additional swimming space with a redwood forest theme. The luxury Tenaya Stone Spa offers full spa services, while the fitness center features state-of-the-art equipment for members wanting to stay active during vacations.
The beautifully landscaped grounds encourage peaceful strolls, and the resort's central Disneyland Resort location means you can easily walk to both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, plus all Downtown Disney offerings.
Exceptional Dining Options
Napa Rose ranks among California's finest restaurants, offering wine country-inspired cuisine with an award-winning wine list and views of Disney California Adventure. Storytellers Cafe provides buffet dining for breakfast and dinner, with character dining at breakfast featuring Mickey and friends. GCH Craftsman Bar serves craft cocktails and small plates in an refined setting.
White Water Snacks offers quick-service options, while Hearthstone Lounge serves coffee and pastries. The proximity to Downtown Disney adds dozens of additional dining choices including Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen, Naples Ristorante, and numerous quick-service options.
Points and West Coast Value
Grand Californian contracts typically range from $140-165 per point on the resale market, reflecting the property's premium positioning and exclusive Disneyland access. Contracts expire in 2060, providing 35+ years of use. Point requirements are moderate compared to newer Walt Disney World resorts, and the West Coast location appeals strongly to California residents and members who prefer Disneyland Resort to Walt Disney World.
For West Coast members, Grand Californian eliminates airfare costs associated with Florida vacations, potentially offering better overall value despite higher per-point costs. The ability to take frequent weekend trips rather than annual week-long vacations changes the value equation for members within driving distance.
Perfect For...
Grand Californian excels as a home resort for West Coast members, Disneyland enthusiasts, and members wanting access to both coasts' Disney parks. The exclusive California Adventure entrance makes it ideal for families with young children who benefit from easy park access and midday break convenience. It's also perfect for members who prefer Disneyland's more compact layout and classic attractions over Walt Disney World's sprawling property.