Guests arrive at the entrance marked by a large fountain and lush tropical landscaping that includes large palm trees that grace the entire, sprawling complex. The bright, two-story lobby is a quiet oasis from the activity taking place just beyond it. Nice marble tile floors, two-story windows and drapes, and a comfortable sitting area adjacent to the large front desk exude an upscale feel. The heart of the resort is on the far side of the lobby that leads to the expansive pool area. It’s buzzing with activity, with few empty chairs and two pools full of families and couples. A DJ plays music, and a snack bar and tiki bar are full of patrons. Outdoor fun is the main attraction here, with lake activities, a mini-golf course, a waterfront nature trail that winds through dense foliage, and tennis courts. This is a resort for active guests and families who want to enjoy time at the resort and exploring Orlando. 

Star Island is located off of Interstate 4 in Kissimmee, in a gated community. The resort sits adjacent to two lakes including the 120-acre Lake Cecile. Walt Disney World Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, Epcot Center, Universal Studios, and Orange County Convention Center are approximately 15 to 20 minutes away by car. Orlando International Airport and the Church Street Station entertainment complex are about a 30-minute drive. The Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center is a 10-minute drive, and Old Town can be reached in about seven minutes by car. There's nothing of interest within walking distance of the resort, other than what's inside the gate. Parking at the resort is free. 

The all-suites property offers options a variety of room options including Mini-Suites (600 square feet), Deluxe One Bedrooms (850 square feet), and two Three-Bedroom Villas (1,450 square feet), each of which can sleep up to eight and includes a dining room, four flat-screen TVs, and a kitchenette. Each Deluxe offers a full kitchen with full-size fridge, twin vanity outside the bathroom, two-person whirlpool tub in the master bedroom, and balcony/patio and washer/dryer in some.

Bathrooms are average-size and decorated with typical beige tile floors, pedestal sinks, and a shower/tub combo covered by a fabric curtain. Some suites have walk-in showers enclosed with glass doors. Decor is rather simple and pedestrian for a resort, with light rattan-style furniture, brown patterned carpet, island-themed artwork, colorful drapes, and walls painted in light green and yellow tones. Flat-screen TVs rest on simple dressers in the master bedrooms; some suites have flat-screen TVs in the living areas as well. Kitchens or kitchenettes include stoves, fridges, dishwashers, microwaves, coffeemakers, toasters, cookware, and utensils. Free Wi-Fi, DVD players, and electronic safes are standard. While generally clean, suites show signs of being a bit dated. Past guests have reported a litany of maintenance-related issues from clogged drains to irons and whirlpool tubs not working and issues with cockroaches. Free housekeeping and towel service is provided weekly. Expect to pay more for daily service. 

The features are the icing on the cake at Star Island Resort and Club, and families shouldn't have any trouble finding something to do outdoors. The pool complex has two pools with water fountains and a whirlpool. A DJ plays music and staff directs various guest activities for kids. The poolside bar has live entertainment at night and another bar above it offers covered pool tables and lounge-type seating. A mini-golf course, putting green, and driving range are offered along with a nine-court tennis complex. Two adjacent lakes offer fishing and paddle boat rentals. A secluded nature trail winds through the complex along the water, and bicycle rentals are available.

There are no full-service restaurants but frequent dinner nights catered by local restaurants are offered. There is a poolside snack bar, and the deli/marketplace offers hot items, cold beverages, and groceries for stocking condo kitchens. The full-service spa offers massage and body treatments, facials, manicures, and salon services. The fitness center has cardio and weight machines and free weights along with separate locker rooms, showers, a steam room, and sauna. An arcade-style game room and business center with two computer stations are available, as are concierge services. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the complex, and free movie nights are offered on the deck.