Windsor Hills vs Windsor Island vs Windsor at Westside: Which Disney Resort Is Best for Families?

🏰 Decoding the Distinctions: Windsor Hills vs. the Other Windsors Near Disney

Planning a Disney vacation and getting confused by all the “Windsors”? You’re not alone! With names like Windsor Hills, Windsor Palms, Windsor Island, and Windsor at Westside, it’s easy to assume they’re connected.

But here’s the truth:

These resorts have no affiliation with each other—aside from sharing a builder (Pulte Homes).
The similar names were simply an effort to replicate the success of the original: Windsor Hills Resort.

Windsor Hills set the standard for what a family-friendly vacation rental community near Disney could be. While the others may offer shiny amenities or newer construction, Windsor Hills remains the closest, most established, and most loved of the bunch.

Let’s break it all down so you can decide which community truly fits your dream Disney vacation.

🌟 Windsor Hills Resort — The Original and Still the Best

Distance to Disney: 🚗 Just 2 miles – the closest gated community to Walt Disney World
Best For: Families who want a magical stay with unbeatable location, comfort, and convenience

Why Windsor Hills Stands Above the Rest:

• ✅ Unmatched Proximity to Disney (5–10 minutes from the gates)

• ✅ Waterpark-style pool with twisting slides, splash pad, and hot tub

• ✅ No resort or parking fees 

• ✅ Family-first features: castle playground, arcade, movie theatre, sports courts

• ✅ 24/7 gated security and well-maintained grounds

• ✅ Personalized, themed vacation homes with fully stocked kitchens, laundry, and baby gear

• ✅ A strong sense of community with many repeat guests who return year after year

🏡 Owner-managed homes like Belle’s Villa go the extra mile—featuring Disney-themed kids’ rooms, strollers, high chairs, and thoughtful touches that make families feel truly at home.

🌴 Windsor Palms 

Distance to Disney: ~4 miles
Best For: Travelers looking for affordability over amenities.

• Community pool, playground, tiki bar

• On-site movie theatre and sports courts

• Older homes with lower price points

• Quieter, more low-key environment

Windsor Palms offers decent value, especially for guests who will be at the parks all day and just need a comfortable place to rest.

🌊 Windsor Island 

Distance to Disney: ~8–10 miles
Best For: Large families and groups wanting a resort-style escape.

• Lazy river, splash pad, water slides

• Clubhouse, bar & grill, and mini golf

• Big homes (5–10 bedrooms)

• Newer area, still under development in parts

A great fit for guests who want lots to do within the resort—but be prepared for a longer commute to the parks.

🌅 Windsor at Westside

Distance to Disney: ~7 miles
Best For: Groups wanting newer homes and resort-style amenities.

• Pool, lazy river, fitness center, lounge, and arcade

• 4–10 bedrooms homes

• Higher traffic area, especially during peak season

• Resort fees and parking charges may apply

Guests enjoy the sleek look and social vibe, though it's less intimate than the original Windsor Hills experience.

🏁 The Verdict: Windsor Hills Still Reigns Supreme

Despite the name similarities, these Windsor resorts are not connected—and only one of them has earned its reputation through decades of consistent guest satisfaction: Windsor Hills Resort.

🗝️ Why We Chose Windsor Hills

At Belle’s Villa, we’ve welcomed countless families over the years—and Windsor Hills keeps them coming back. The unbeatable location, family-focused amenities, and personal touches in every home make it a standout that newer resorts have tried (and failed) to fully replicate.

If you're looking for a place that feels magical from the moment you arrive, Windsor Hills is the one.

🔗 See what makes Belle’s Villa special or reach out—we're happy to help you plan your dream stay!