My two favorite villa properties! Both are fabulous, both distinctively different. I was at the Beach Club in January, and at Bay Lake just 2 weeks ago. Headed back to the Beach Club in October, and back to Bay Lake in February/March. Clearly you can see how I struggle choosing between the two :lol:
I prefer the Beach Club for a trip that will focus on two things: access to Epcot and "swimability" of the dates of our trip. As you know, Stormalong Bay is undeniably the place to swim at all of the WDW resorts. While the Bay Cove pool at BLT is great, it doesn't match Stormalong Bay. Access to Epcot, for us, is a huge plus during a trip that is perhaps a) childless or b) during an Epcot prime time (like Food and Wine or Flower and Garden).
The "walkability" of both resorts is undeniably great, too. When we go with our children, which is pretty much every trip, we are at the MK every day at some point. For us, the walkway to the MK is worth every penny alone. When we are at the Beach Club, having the walking access to Epcot and HS is just as big of a plus. And, of course, the proximity of the Boardwalk and the entertainment it offers goes without saying.
If you think your party is bound to split into different directions, I would lean towards the Beach Club; I feel it has a bit more to offer as far as walkable activities at your fingertips.
Our family consists of little ones 6 and under - hence the draw to Bay Lake and the MK. For the ages of the "kids" in your crew - Beach Club seems to call out to me as a good match for you - in my humble opinion!
You cannot go wrong with either property. Don't think of Beach Club as "playing it safe" - think of it as a dear old friend that's joining you on your trip
