All the Best Spots to See Moana at Disney World Resort Guide
If you’ve got a Moana fan in your family, you’re in for a treat at Disney World. From character meet-and-greets to immersive attractions, Moana’s world is sprinkled throughout the parks in ways that’ll make any fan super excited! Whether you’re planning to explore with little ones or love the movie yourself, this post will help you find all the Moana magic waiting to be discovered. Let’s make the most of your visit!
Meet Moana at Disney World 2025
If your kids (or let’s be honest, maybe even you) are big fans of Moana, you’re in luck. Disney World offers a couple of magical opportunities to meet her face-to-face. Whether it’s a quick selfie or a quick conversation about wayfinding, these meet-and-greets are worth adding to your plan. Let me break down exactly where to find her and how to make the most of it.
Moana Meet-and-Greet at Animal Kingdom
You’ll find Moana at Disney’s Animal Kingdom during select times at Discovery Island, known for its lush surroundings and shaded walkways. It’s the perfect backdrop for meeting a voyager like Moana. Her meet-and-greet spot is tucked near the Tree of Life, where the natural vibe feels totally on-brand for her story. There are signs around the area, so keep your eyes peeled to spot her location.
Timing Tip: Moana is a popular character, especially after the popularity of the Moana 2 movie, so you’ll want to arrive early for the shortest line. Morning slots are less crowded, especially right after the park opens. Plus, the lighting at that time is perfect for pictures! Her schedule isn’t set in stone, but you can usually find her on the My Disney Experience app the day of your visit, which is super helpful for planning.
Moana Meet-and-Greet at EPCOT
Over at EPCOT, Moana now has a dedicated spot for greetings in the new Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana area. This space is not only a tribute to her story, but it’s also interactive and beautiful. Her meet-and-greet area is near the entrance to this attraction, making it easy to blend your visit with exploring the space right after. The setting feels straight out of the movie, which just adds to the magic.
Moana often strikes fun poses and adds a little humor to her interactions. If you’ve got a little Wayfinder-in-training, she might even give them tips on how to find their “inner Moana.”
Best Time to Visit: EPCOT feels less rushed, so the morning hours can be a good time to see her here. Also, stop by in the late afternoon; you can often catch a smaller crowd. Again, checking the My Disney Experience app is key to knowing her schedule and avoiding any surprises.
Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana at EPCOT
If you’ve ever wished you could step into Moana’s world, you’re going to fall in love with Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana at EPCOT. This attraction takes everything you love about the movie—the connection with nature and the beautiful water scenes—and brings it to life in a meaningful and interactive way. It’s as much about fun as it is about learning, making it perfect for families or anyone who loves the story of Moana.
What to Expect at Journey of Water
Journey of Water isn’t your typical Disney ride or show. Instead, it’s a self-guided experience where you walk through gorgeous water-themed areas with interactive features. Think of it as part splash pad, part outdoor gallery, and a complete sensory experience. You’ll find different stations where you can touch and interact with water in almost magical ways. It’s designed to showcase how water moves through the environment, from raindrops to rivers to the ocean itself.
Here are my favorite parts:
- Interactive Water Stations: Kids and adults will love the chance to play and engage with water. You can make it ripple, dance, or spray—it’s like the water has a personality of its own. If you’ve got little ones, they’ll be totally captivated.
- Educational Elements: Disney does a great job sneaking in some learning here. There are moments when you realize you’re picking up lessons about the water cycle and conservation without it feeling like a school lecture. It’s a great way to teach kids (and ourselves!) about caring for our planet.
- Themed Design: The entire area is decked out in Moana-inspired visuals. You’ll see nods to Te Fiti, the Heart of the Ocean, and even the playful character of the water itself. It’s like walking into a painting from the film.
Tips for Visiting Journey of Water
To make the most of your visit to Journey of Water, a little planning goes a long way. This spot can get busy, especially since it’s one of the newer additions to EPCOT. Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind:
- Go Early or Late: Crowds tend to build in the mid-morning and taper off towards the evening. If you want a more relaxed experience, aim to visit right after the park opens or closer to closing time.
- Wear Water-Friendly Shoes: The interactive areas can get splashy, and while it’s not like you’ll need a poncho, your shoes might catch a little spray. Picking something waterproof or quick-drying can save you from soggy feet.
- Pack Extra Clothes for Little Ones: If your kids love water play, chances are they’ll get wet. Tossing a change of clothes or a small towel in your park bag can keep the rest of your day more comfortable.
- Take a Moment to Explore the Details: Disney Imagineers are known for their attention to detail, and this spot is no exception. Look for hidden nods to Moana’s story and characters as you wander through.
Journey of Water is the kind of attraction where you can go at your own pace. Whether you want to breeze through in 20 minutes or linger and soak in every detail. Either way, it’s a refreshing addition to EPCOT and a must-visit for Moana fans.
Moana-Themed Merchandise at EPCOT
If you’re anything like me, no Disney trip feels complete without a bit of shopping—especially when it’s tied to your favorite characters. Luckily, EPCOT has some awesome Moana-themed merchandise that’ll make perfect souvenirs for fans big and small. Whether you’re hunting for a keepsake or a gift for your little ones, there are plenty of treasures to discover.
Exclusive Moana Merchandise Options
Disney knows how to do merchandise right, and the Moana-themed items at EPCOT are no exception. Here’s a peek at what you can expect:
- Clothing and Accessories: Moana-inspired shirts and hats are perfect for fans who want to express their love for the character. You’ll also find accessories like mouse ears and Loungefly backpacks.
- Toys and Plush: Kids will love the adorable Moana plush dolls, along with action figures of her, Maui, and even Pua. There are also little figurine sets for imaginative play at home.
- Collectibles: For collectors, keep an eye out for limited-edition pins and other collectibles.
Best Shops for Moana Finds in EPCOT
Not every shop at EPCOT carries Moana items, but if you’re in the park, you’ll want to know exactly where to look. Here are some of my top recommendations to guarantee you don’t leave empty-handed:
- Creations Shop: This is EPCOT’s flagship store, located in World Celebration. It’s massive and has one of the most extensive selections of Moana-themed merchandise. You’ll find everything from clothing to pins here. Plus, it’s laid out beautifully, so it’s a great place to start your shopping adventure.
- Souk-Al-Magreb (Morocco Pavilion): While not exclusively Moana-themed, this shop has unique Polynesian-style jewelry and accessories that pair beautifully with her aesthetic.
- Merchandise Kiosks Outside Journey of Water: If you’re near the Moana attraction, don’t skip the nearby kiosks. This is where you’ll find exclusive items themed specifically to the Journey of Water experience. It’s also a great stop if you’re short on time and want something directly tied to her story.
Moana at Hollywood Studios: Fantasmic and Nighttime Light Show
Hollywood Studios is another fantastic place to find Moana magic, especially during the evening entertainment. Moana fans will be thrilled to see how beautifully her story is woven into two of the park’s most iconic shows. From breathtaking projections to mesmerizing music, these are must-sees during your visit!
Fantasmic! at Hollywood Studios
Moana takes center stage in the recently refreshed Fantasmic! show at Hollywood Studios, an evening spectacular that combines water, fire, music, and live-action storytelling. Her moment in the show is nothing short of breathtaking. Moana sails across the water, her courage and determination on full display as scenes from her journey are projected behind her. It combines drama, Disney magic, and her empowering story perfectly.
Pro Tip: Fantasmic! can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Arrive at least 45-60 minutes before showtime to secure a good viewing spot. Consider using a Fantasmic! Dining Package, which pairs a delicious meal with reserved seating for the show, making the experience even easier to plan.
The Wonderful World of Animation projected on the Chinese Theatre
Over at Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway in Hollywood Studios, the nighttime projection showcase now prominently features Moana! The exterior of the Chinese Theatre transforms into a dazzling canvas with visuals from some of Disney’s most beloved films, and Moana’s moment is nothing short of spectacular.
Her scene includes vibrant animations of the ocean, Te Fiti, and iconic moments from her story projected in stunning detail. The combination of music from the movie and the colorful visuals creates a truly magical experience. It’s a beautiful way to end your park day and a must-see for any Moana fan.
Viewing Tips:
- Grab a spot nearby at least 15 minutes before the show starts to enjoy an unobstructed view of the Chinese Theatre facade.
- For an even better experience, enjoy a sweet treat from nearby carts while waiting for the show to begin. It’s the perfect way to cap off your night at Hollywood Studios.
Why You Can’t Miss These Shows
Both the Fantasmic! performance and the nighttime projection show featuring Moana are immersive, jaw-dropping, and filled with Disney magic. From live-action sequences to stunning visuals, these moments bring Moana’s world to life in ways that will stay with you long after your visit. Add them to your itinerary for a perfect evening filled with wonder and inspiration!
Moana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
For any Moana fan, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a must-visit. The mix of tropical vibes and subtle nods to Moana’s story will make you feel like you’ve stepped into her world. From the thoughtful decor to engaging activities, there’s plenty of Moana magic waiting here.
Moana-Themed Decor and Atmosphere
The moment you arrive, you’ll notice how the Polynesian Village Resort feels like a slice of Motunui. While it’s not fully themed around Moana, there are many details throughout the resort that celebrate her story. The design blends traditional Polynesian culture with subtle references to the movie for a cohesive look.
In the resort’s main lobby, for example, you’ll spot tropical accents like wooden carvings, hanging lanterns, and vibrant floral arrangements. While Moana herself isn’t overly featured, the atmosphere undeniably fits her aesthetic. Walk around a little, and you’ll start to notice small, thoughtful details like ocean-inspired artwork or patterns that echo her journey.
Moana Activities and Dining
If you’re hoping for Moana-centered activities, Polynesian Village Resort doesn’t disappoint. While the resort isn’t loaded with direct Moana experiences, there are still fun ways for her fans to stay entertained.
Moana Storytelling at the Lava Pool
One of the cutest activities for younger kids is the occasional storytelling sessions. These often happen near the pool or on the sandy beach areas. Cast Members bring Moana’s story to life with engaging tales that kids (and adults) will love. If your little one lights up when they hear about Moana’s bravery, this will be a highlight of your trip.
Island Tower Expansion
The newest part of the Polynesian Hotel is the Island Tower, which has Moana-themed rooms and a splash pad called “Moana’s Voyage.” I can’t wait to get over to the new area of the hotel to check out all the latest Disney magic!
Nighttime Movie Under the Stars
The resort also hosts outdoor movie nights where Disney movies are shown on the lawn. While Moana isn’t shown every night, it’s often in rotation. Grab a blanket and a snack, and enjoy watching her story under the stars in a setting that feels almost authentic to her world.
If you stay at the Polynesian Village Resort or visit for a few hours, keep your ears open for updates. Disney often introduces new experiences, and with Moana’s popularity, there’s always the chance for additional activities in the future.
Your Moana Adventure Awaits
Disney World truly delivers for Moana fans of all ages. Whether you’re meeting her in person, exploring the stunning Journey of Water, spotting her in the Fantasmic Show, or soaking in the tropical vibes at the Polynesian Village Resort, there’s so much magic to enjoy.
Start planning your itinerary to include these Moana highlights—you and your family will love every moment. What’s your must-see Moana experience? Let me know in the comments!
For more Disney World Resort planning tips, check out my First-Timer Guide.
