A variety of activities are offered including nightly marshmallow roasts, outdoor movies (Disney of course), and boat rentals right off the resort's dock.
In the evenings, you can head to the water's edge for fireworks viewing. The resort pipes in a soundtrack to accompany the show, and it's a lovely way to end the day. You may also glimpse the classic Electrical Water Pageant, a charming floating parade that's been gliding through the resort's waters for decades.
The Great Ceremonial House is the center for entertainment and dining at the Polynesian. One of the big draws of the resort is Trader Sam's Grog Grotto, a retro tiki bar with tropical cocktails, limited edition tiki mugs, and a variety of special effects that accompany the drinks.
In addition to the Trader Sam's, there are three other bars — Trader Sam's Tiki Terrace (their outdoors outpost), the Barefoot Pool Bar, and Tambu Lounge.
Visitors from all over Walt Disney World come to the Polynesian for Disney's Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show, an open-air all-you-can-enjoy luau with hula dancing, fire dancing, and drummers.
The other popular dining choice in the resort is 'Ohana, an all-you-can-enjoy dining experience with characters such as Lilo and Stitch. Make sure you book a spot early.
For more casual dining, the Kona Café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with on-stage sushi chefs creating nigiri, sashimi, and rolls. Capt. Cook's, Oasis Bar and Grill, and On the Green Grill are the resort's counter service restaurants for a quick bite.
There is always a line at the Pineapple Lanai where people are happy to wait for one of the soft-serve Dole Whips. They even offer a Dole Whip with a rum floater for adults.
Another amenity I found useful was the Resort Airline Check-in. Instead of keeping your bags at the Bell Desk while enjoying the last day at the parks, the hotel will check your suitcases directly through to the airport and even give you your boarding passes.
Another great perk was the free shuttle — The Magical Express — to and from the Orlando airport. You'll need to call Disney to arrange this service.