It is time to decide which of Universal Orlando Resort’s 11 hotels is best for you and your party: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Universal’s Aventura Hotel, Universal Stella Nova Resort, Universal Terra Luna Resort, and the multi-property Universal’s Endless Summer Resort.
Let’s start with what is the same about all 11 venues.
What do all of Universal’s hotels have in common?
Universal divides its eight resorts into three different categories:
Signature Collection:
Universal Helios Grand Hotel
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Hard Rock Hotel
Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
Prime Value:
Universal Aventura Hotel
Universal Stella Nova Resort
Universal Terra Luna Resort
Value Inn and Suites:
Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Universal Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites & Dockside Inn and Suites
This is important to keep in mind because the top tier, Signature Collection, features perks that the two more inexpensive levels, Prime Value and Value Inn and Suites, don’t. We’ll get to those differences in just a second – first, however, let’s go over what all three categories do have in common:
- Early Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Volcano Bay
- Transportation to all four parks and CityWalk (you can also walk from almost all of the hotels to CityWalk)
- Resort-wide charging privileges
- Delivery of merchandise purchased
- Non-smoking rooms with:
- flat-screen TVs
- hairdryer
- safe
- iron and ironing board
- coffee maker
- Free basic wifi, with premium available for a fee
- Heated, themed pools with lifeguards on duty
- Game room
- Complimentary fitness center
- Laundry services
Many guests are delighted to find out that staying at any Universal Orlando Resort hotel grants them complimentary access to the amenities at all others. This is especially handy if your preferred hotel is fully booked. For instance, if a family with teens wants to stay at Hard Rock but finds it sold out, they can book at Royal Pacific, likely save some money, and still enjoy Hard Rock’s pool—just remember to bring your room keys!
Plus, you can easily book any of these hotels through Orlando Informer right here!
A rundown of Universal’s hotels
Three primary characteristics differentiate the 11 hotels from each other: theming, room size, and price. Ultimately, these three elements combine to make each resort a good match for particular groups. Let’s take a closer look.
(To learn more about the specific amenities and room types at each of Universal Orlando Resort’s hotels, click on each individual property’s name below to view all of our info and sub-pages.)
Universal Endless Summer Resort
- Theming: a fun, coastal, laid-back beach vibe – which the next-door lake will only accentuate
- Room size: standard rooms are 314 square feet
- Price: standard rooms will start at $99 per night (using certain promos during certain times of the year)
- Best match: Endless Summer is the best match for any party traveling on a tight budget
- Keep in mind: Endless Summer does not offer either complimentary Express Pass access or water-taxi service
Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort
- Theming: splash back to the 1950s and ’60s, a vintage look pulled right from the blockbuster TV show Mad Men (with a dash of Old Florida)
- Room size: standard rooms are 300 square feet
- Price: standard rooms range between $145 and $333 per night
- Best match: Cabana Bay is the best match for any party traveling on a tight budget but that still wants to be close to the action (especially Volcano Bay)
- Keep in mind: Cabana does not offer either complimentary Express Pass access or water-taxi service.
Universal Aventura Hotel
- Theming: a sleek, modern hotel that is light on theming but heavy with style
- Room size: standard rooms are 314 square feet
- Price: standard rooms range between $145 and $333 per night
- Best match: Aventura is a best match for those who are less concerned with theming and more concerned with a 17-story rooftop bar or the iPads that come equipped with each room
- Keep in mind: Aventura does not offer either complimentary Express Pass access or water-taxi service
Universal Stella Nova Resort
- Themeing: a galactic getaway inspired by the ever-expanding universe
- Room Size: standard rooms are 315 square feet
- Price: standard rooms range from $134 and $451 per night
- Best Match: Stella Nova offers a budget-friendly option for families seeking proximity to Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park, Epic Universe, or repeat visitors looking for a wallet-friendly new experience.
- Keep in Mind: Stella Nova does not offer either complimentary Express Pass access or water-taxi service
Universal Terra Luna Resort
- Themeing: a hotel where the stars align, inspired by planetary elements
- Room Size: standard rooms are 314 square feet
- Price: standard rooms range from $134 and $451 per night
- Best Match: Similar to its sister hotel, Terra Luna offers a budget-friendly option for families seeking proximity to Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park, Epic Universe, or repeat visitors looking for a wallet-friendly new experience.
- Keep in Mind: Terra Luna does not offer either complimentary Express Pass access or water-taxi service
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
- Theming: a paradise where shoes are optional, blue waterfalls cascade across lush grounds, and the invitation to cool relaxation is everywhere
- Room size: standard rooms are 321 square feet
- Price: standard rooms range between $222 and $405 per night
- Best match: Sapphire Falls is ideal for meeting and convention attendees, and also suits families seeking the added benefits of a Signature Collection hotel without the need for Express Passes, offering more perks than Prime Value and Value Inn & Suites options
- Keep in mind: Sapphire does not offer complimentary Express Pass access
Loews Royal Pacific Resort
- Theming: the South Seas – Royal Pacific offers a tropical and festive ambiance, blending relaxation with excitement, ideal for those who appreciate immersive theming.
- Room size: standard rooms are 335 square feet
- Price: standard rooms range between $421 and $914 per night
- Best match: Royal Pacific is the best match for families with young children and, as Universal Orlando’s most economical hotel offering complimentary Express, it’s ideal for budget-conscious travelers during peak season
- Keep in mind: Royal Pacific is the nearest hotel to Islands of Adventure—often, walking from the resort to the park’s turnstiles is quicker than taking the water taxi. Typically the third of the 11 hotels to sell out, Royal Pacific consistently receives glowing reviews, more so than other Universal properties. Additionally, it has provided us with the best service during our numerous stays.
- OI tip: Royal Pacific has a number of rooms that look out directly toward Islands of Adventure, giving you a clear view of Hulk, Hogwarts Castle, and more. If you’d like one of these rooms, be sure to request a “park view” room on the seventh floor of Tower 2, the sixth floor of Tower 3, or the seventh floor of Tower 3 (club level).
Hard Rock Hotel
- Theming: The California mansion-like resort, reminiscent of the one on the Eagles’ “Hotel California” album cover, is striking from the outside with a delightful pool area, and inside, it houses multiple pieces of Hard Rock’s collector memorabilia
- Room size: standard rooms are 375 square feet, or 10 percent larger than Royal Pacific
- Price: standard rooms range between $386 and $978 per night
- Best match: Hard Rock is all about image and attitude—perfect for families with teens and a big hit among them. Younger couples also gravitate here, drawn by the free spirit of the rock ‘n’ roller. The hotel’s energetic atmosphere isn’t just about the decor; it’s fueled by guests hanging out and having a good time.
- Keep in mind: If you’re worried that Hard Rock might be a bit too intense for your kids, rest assured—it’s a very family-friendly property. Its smaller size and popularity with teens, a key demographic for Universal Orlando theme parks, mean Hard Rock often sells out first. To secure its perks, including the Express Pass benefit, it’s wise to book your room early!
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
- Theming: Modeled after its namesake, the renowned Italian Riviera fishing village, Portofino Bay stands as Universal Orlando’s flagship hotel property, boasting the most impressive theming of all eleven hotels—with Royal Pacific a close second—and its somewhat secluded location from CityWalk and the four parks enhances its immersive appeal
- Room size: Standard rooms are 450 square feet. That is 25 percent larger than Royal Pacific and about 15 percent larger than Hard Rock.
- Price: Standard rooms range between $393 and $1,024 per night.
- Best match: As previously noted, Portofino Bay is the flagship resort at Universal Orlando, not only impressing with its elaborate theming but also offering the broadest range of amenities. It boasts three pool areas—compared to just one at Hard Rock, Royal Pacific, and Sapphire Falls—and features more restaurants and shops than the other ten hotels. These qualities make Portofino Bay the ideal choice for older couples or anyone seeking a romantic getaway.
- Keep in mind: Portofino Bay is tailored for guests seeking a more upscale experience than other properties, but it’s also an excellent choice for families needing a respite from the park’s hustle and bustle. With its expansive layout, numerous amenities, and secluded location away from the theme parks, Portofino offers ample peace and quiet. Additionally, guests receive Express Pass benefits during their stay.
Universal Helios Grand Hotel
- Theming: Enter the palace of Helios, the Greek god of the sun, adorned with celestial patterns, constellations, and Mediterranean design elements
- Room size: Two-Queen-Bed Standard rooms are 325 square feet
- Price: To Be Announced
- Best match: Universal Helios Grand Hotel is ideal for guests eager to be near Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park, Epic Universe. With a dedicated entrance exclusively for hotel guests, it’s perfect for avid theme park enthusiasts or those who appreciate a short walk after a day at Epic Universe, all while enjoying the luxuries and stunning views the hotel offers.
- Keep in Mind: Helios Grand Hotel does not offer either complimentary Express Pass access or water-taxi service
Visiting Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
Theme park veterans know this already, but just in case you are a first-timer, we will let you in on a little secret: anyone can visit the Universal Orlando Resort hotels. (The same goes for all of Walt Disney World Resort’s hotels as well, just for the record.) Now, you do not necessarily have access to all the amenities – don’t plan on bringing your swimming trunks – but you can still visit, check out the theming, and grab a meal. We highly recommend that anyone visiting Universal for more than two days jump on the water taxis (or shuttle) and tour the resorts.
That brings us to one important reminder: all Universal Orlando Resort hotel properties charge for parking. And they charge more to day guests than Universal’s main parking garage, so don’t think you can skip the parking fee by grabbing a spot at a hotel like you can at Disney World.
Speaking of pricing…
Get ready for extra fees
If you are going to stay at one of Universal Orlando Resort’s hotels, please be aware that the hotels charge for many things guests usually assume are included with the room, such as parking. We should also mention that none of Universal’s properties operate their own shuttles, whether paid or complimentary, to Orlando International Airport (unless you’re a vacation package holder, that is).
What about the hotel’s cancellation policy?
Since all eight Universal Orlando Resort hotels are operated by Loews, they all feature the same cancellation policy: if you cancel your reservation six or more days in advance, you will receive a full refund. If it’s anything fewer than five days beforehand, however, you will be charged one night’s room rate plus tax.
It’s important to note that this cancellation policy is only for when you book the hotel by itself; if you have arranged accommodations through a Universal Orlando vacation package or through a third party, there will potentially be various fees with various timetables involved.
- Breakfast Options at Universal Orlando Resort’s Hotels
- Comparing Universal Orlando’s Hotels
- Hard Rock Hotel Orlando: Complete Guide
- Acoustic Sunday Brunch at Hard Rock Hotel
- BeachClub (full-service bar) at Hard Rock Hotel
- Hard Rock Hotel Orlando: Dining & Lounges
- Hard Rock Hotel Orlando: Distance From the Parks
- Hard Rock Hotel Orlando: Pool Area
- Hard Rock Hotel Orlando: Public Spaces
- Hard Rock Hotel Orlando: Rooms
- The Kitchen (full-service) at Hard Rock Hotel Orlando
- Velvet Bar at Hard Rock Hotel Orlando – photos, menus, & reviews
- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: Overview
- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: Dining & Lounges
- Bice Ristorante (full-service) at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
- Gelateria (quick-service) at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
- Mama Della’s Ristorante (full-service) at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
- Sal’s Market Deli (quick-service) at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
- Splendido Bar & Grill (full-service bar) at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
- The Thirsty Fish (full-service bar) at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
- Trattoria del Porto (full-service) at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: Distance From the Parks
- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: Pool Areas
- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: Public spaces & Harbor Piazza
- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: Rooms
- Mandara Spa at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: Dining & Lounges
- Loews Royal Pacific Resort: Overview
- Loews Royal Pacific Resort: Dining & Lounges
- Bula Bar & Grille (quick-service) at Royal Pacific Resort
- Despicable Me Character Breakfast at Loews Royal Pacific Resort
- Islands Dining Room (full-service) at Loews Royal Pacific Resort
- Jake’s American Bar (full-service) at Royal Pacific Resort
- Jake’s Beer Dinner at Loews Royal Pacific Resort
- Jake’s Beer Festival at Loews Royal Pacific Resort
- Orchid Court Lounge and Sushi Bar (full-service) at Loews Royal Pacific Resort
- Wantilan Luau at Loews Royal Pacific Resort
- Loews Royal Pacific Resort: Distance From the Parks
- Loews Royal Pacific Resort: Pool Area
- Loews Royal Pacific Resort: Public Spaces
- Loews Royal Pacific Resort: Rooms
- Loews Royal Pacific Resort: Dining & Lounges
- Loews Sapphire Falls Resort: Overview
- Loews Sapphire Falls Resort: Dining & Lounges
- Amatista Cookhouse (full-service) at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort – Photos, Menus, & Reviews
- Drhum Club Kantine (limited-service bar) at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
- New Dutch Trading Co. (quick-service) at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort – photos, menus, & reviews
- Strong Water Tavern (full-service bar) at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
- Loews Sapphire Falls Resort: Pool Area
- Loews Sapphire Falls Resort: Public spaces
- Loews Sapphire Falls Resort: Rooms
- Sapphire Falls Resort: Distance From the Parks
- Loews Sapphire Falls Resort: Dining & Lounges
- Universal Helios Grand Hotel: Complete Guide
- Universal Orlando Resort Hotel Discounts for Annual Passholders – Complete Guide
- Universal Stella Nova Resort: Complete Guide
- Universal Terra Luna Resort: Complete Guide
- Universal’s Aventura Hotel: Complete Guide
- Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Overview
- Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Dining & Lounges
- Atomic Tonic (quick-service) at Cabana Bay Beach Resort
- Bayliner Diner (quick-service) at Cabana Bay Beach Resort
- Galaxy Bowl (full-service) at Cabana Bay Beach Resort
- Shakes Malt Shoppe (quick-service) at Cabana Bay Beach Resort
- Swizzle Lounge (quick-service) at Cabana Bay Beach Resort
- The Hideaway Bar & Grill (quick-service) at Cabana Bay Beach Resort
- Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Distance from the Parks
- Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Pool areas
- Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Public spaces
- Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Rooms
- Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Dining & Lounges
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites: Complete Guide
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites: Dining & Lounges
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- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites: Distance From the Parks
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites: Pool Areas
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites: Rooms
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites: Public Spaces
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites: Dining & Lounges
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites: Overview
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites: Dining & Lounges
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites: Distance from the Parks
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites: Pool Area
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites: Rooms
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites: Public Spaces