Pools, waterslide and cabanas: using the three pools efficiently
Use Redwood Pool for families and the 90-foot waterslide plus the Mickey-shaped children’s pool; choose Fountain Pool for paddleboard fitness classes and calmer laps; reserve a cabana at Mariposa or Fountain Pool when you want shade, seating and a private space. Arrive early (pools typically open around 9:00 AM) and wear your hotel wristband—pools are for registered guests only.
In this guide
Which pool to choose and when
Disney's Grand Californian Hotel and Spa has three themed outdoor pools: Redwood Pool, Fountain Pool, and Mariposa Pool. Each has a different vibe suitable for families, fitness, or a quieter swim.
Match your visit to the pool’s strengths: Redwood Pool for active family play, Fountain Pool for fitness classes and calmer swimming, Mariposa Pool for a more relaxed, Craftsman-styled leisure swim.
- Redwood Pool — family-friendly, 90-foot waterslide, nearby Mickey-shaped children’s pool and whirlpool hot tub (photo 37).
- Fountain Pool — used for Paddleboard Yoga and Paddleboard Fitness classes (small-group fitness).
- Mariposa Pool — circular leisure pool with a nearby whirlpool spa; quieter atmosphere and cabana rentals available.
| Pool | Best for |
|---|---|
| Redwood Pool | Families, waterslide, children’s pool |
| Fountain Pool | Fitness classes, paddleboard activities, laps |
| Mariposa Pool | Leisure swims, quieter pool time |
Plan your day: timing, wristbands and rules
Pools are typically open around 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, though hours can extend (as early as 8:00 AM to midnight) during busy periods and are subject to change. Guests must wear the appropriate hotel wristband to use pool and pool-deck amenities; pools are for registered hotel guests only.
Depths range roughly from 3'6" to 4'9" and pools are heated year-round to about 82°F. Infants and children in diapers are allowed if they wear swim diapers; free life vests in various sizes are provided at every pool.
- Arrive early to claim loungers during busy periods.
- Follow posted lifeguard and pool rules; lifeguards are on site.
- Swim diapers required for infants/children in diapers; water wings allowed.
| Fact | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Pool wristband | Required for entry (hotel guests only) |
| Heated temperature | About 82°F year-round |
| Typical depth range | ~3'6" to 4'9" |
Using the waterslide and children's pool safely
Redwood Pool’s 90-foot waterslide curves around a Redwood-stump feature and is located near the Mickey-shaped children’s pool and a whirlpool hot tub. Lifeguards are on duty; follow their instructions for slide use and entry rules.
For younger children, use the Mickey-shaped children’s pool and the free life vests provided. Swim diapers are required for infants and toddlers who are not toilet trained.
- Obey lifeguards and posted slide rules (height/behavior restrictions may be posted).
- Have young children wear a life vest from the pool-side supply if they’re not strong swimmers.
- Use the children’s pool for shallow, supervised play; do not bring glass containers.
| Feature | Tip |
|---|---|
| Waterslide | Wait for lifeguard permission; one rider at a time |
| Children’s pool | Swim diapers required for infants/toddlers |
| Whirlpool | Use short sessions; check posted age/health guidance |
When to rent a cabana and what’s included
Cabanas are available for a surcharge at Mariposa and Fountain Pools and provide shaded seating and a private space to rest between park visits (photo 35). They are useful if you need a base for strollers, cooler bags, or multi-hour family downtime.
Cabana rentals are limited; reserve early when available. The hotel’s poolside team or concierge can confirm availability and current rental details.
- Use a cabana when you want shade, a dedicated seating area, and privacy for naps or meals.
- Ask concierge about current cabana features and booking procedures.
- Cabanas are a surcharge—check availability and times directly with the hotel.
| Where cabanas are offered | Recommended when |
|---|---|
| Mariposa Pool | You want a quiet, shaded spot near the leisure pool |
| Fountain Pool | You plan to join paddleboard classes or want a private base near fitness activities |
Combining pool time with spa and fitness
If you want both exercise and relaxation, schedule a Fountain Pool paddleboard class in the morning and a Tenaya Stone Spa treatment later; Tenaya Stone Spa has a relaxation lounge, steam room, and appointments are recommended. Spa reservations require guests to be 18 or older to book; teens 14–17 may have select treatments with a parent/guardian.
The Eureka Fitness Center is open 24 hours for eligible guests; if you prefer land workouts, visit the fitness center before pool classes. Towels are provided at the pools, and spa check-in may provide robes and slippers for treatment guests.
- Book paddleboard fitness sessions and spa appointments in advance when possible.
- Spa appointments recommended; Tenaya Stone Spa hours have been reported as 7:30 AM–8:00 PM.
- Fitness center (Eureka Fitness Center) is open 24 hours; ages 14–17 must be accompanied by an adult.
| Amenity | Tip |
|---|---|
| Fountain Pool classes | Book early—spaces can be limited |
| Tenaya Stone Spa | Appointments required; guests must be 18+ to book |
| Eureka Fitness Center | Open 24 hours; bring athletic shoes |
Practical tips for families and club-level guests
If you have a room with a pool-facing name such as Premium Pool View Room or Premium Pool View - and Day Bed Room, you’ll have closer walking access to pool decks. For families, use Storytellers Cafe or GCH Craftsman Grill for quick meals to and from pool time.
Club-Level rooms include access to The Veranda lounge with scheduled food service (continental breakfast, afternoon tea, evening wine and cheese) which can simplify meal planning around pool hours. Check with concierge for same-day pool conditions, cabana availability, and any seasonal changes.
- Travel with swim diapers and a small first-aid kit for kids.
- Consider a room like Premium Pool View Room if you want short walk times to the pools.
- Check pool hours with concierge; they can change seasonally.
| Guest type | Suggested plan |
|---|---|
| Families | Redwood Pool for slide + children’s pool; book cabana if you need shade |
| Fitness-minded | Fountain Pool for paddleboard and laps |
| Guests wanting relaxation | Mariposa Pool and Tenaya Stone Spa appointments |
