Inside Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort: My Full Experience
I just released a new video all about Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort! In this post, I share who this retro-themed, budget-friendly hotel is best for, plus some tips from my stay. If you’re considering Cabana Bay for your Orlando vacation, here’s what you need to know before booking.
Whenever I visit Orlando’s theme parks, I’m always looking for that sweet spot between convenience, comfort, and value. On my most recent trip, my family and I stayed at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, and I filmed the entire experience for my YouTube channel.
👉 You can watch my full video tour of Cabana Bay Beach Resort here: https://youtu.be/BSV__puCup4
But in this post, I want to do more than just share the video. I want to give you my honest take on who Cabana Bay Beach Resort is for — and who might want to look elsewhere.
Why I Chose Cabana Bay
I’ve stayed at plenty of Orlando hotels over the years, from budget motels to deluxe resorts. Cabana Bay caught my attention because it’s technically a “value” resort within Universal Orlando, but it offers way more personality and perks than your average budget hotel.
From the moment you drive up, Cabana Bay feels like you’ve stepped into a retro postcard from the 1960s. Neon lights, bold turquoise panels, and even a vintage bowling alley inside — it’s like the Jetsons meet Florida beach vacation.
For me, this wasn’t just about saving money. I wanted a resort that felt fun, had easy access to the parks, and still gave my family some space to relax. Cabana Bay checked all of those boxes.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort. Can you spot Krakatau Volcano in the background?
The Big Perks of Staying at Cabana Bay
Here’s what stood out to me during my stay:
Early Park Admission – Even though Cabana Bay doesn’t include Universal’s Express Pass (that’s for the pricier premier resorts), you do get early entry to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and soon Epic Universe. This can make a huge difference for families trying to beat the crowds.
Direct Access to Volcano Bay – Cabana Bay is the only hotel with a private entrance to Universal’s water park. After spending a day in the sun, that easy walk back to the room really mattered.
Two Massive Pools + Lazy River – My kids couldn’t get enough of the lazy river. And I’ll be honest — I floated right alongside them.
Family-Friendly Dining Options – Bayliner Diner, the food court, has something for everyone (plus a Starbucks when I needed my caffeine fix).
Retro Fun – Between Galaxy Bowl, the Jack LaLanne fitness studio, and themed décor everywhere, the resort feels more like an experience than just a place to sleep.
See exactly what Cabana Bay Beach Resort is like in my latest video tour:
Who Cabana Bay Is Perfect For
Based on my stay, here’s my advice on who should consider booking Cabana Bay:
1. Families with Kids
The pools, lazy river, bowling alley, and casual dining make this a no-brainer for families. Kids will be entertained even if you take a “day off” from the parks.
2. Budget-Conscious Travelers
If you want to be on Universal property without paying deluxe resort prices, Cabana Bay is a solid middle ground. Rooms are straightforward but still themed and comfortable.
3. Theme Park Fans Who Want Convenience
The free shuttle buses and Volcano Bay entrance make it easy to maximize park time without the stress of driving or parking.
4. Retro & Design Enthusiasts
Honestly, even if you’re not a theme park person, the mid-century modern vibe is reason enough to stay. It feels like you’re living inside a vintage travel ad.
Who Might Want to Skip Cabana Bay
Of course, no resort is perfect. Cabana Bay might not be the right fit if:
You must have Universal’s Express Pass included. For that, you’ll need to book Hard Rock Hotel, Royal Pacific, or Portofino Bay.
You prefer luxury touches like fine dining, plush bedding, and upscale lobbies. Cabana Bay is fun and stylish, but it’s still a value-to-moderate category hotel.
You don’t like big resorts. With over 2,000 rooms, Cabana Bay is large and busy. If you want something more boutique, you’ll want to look elsewhere.
My Final Take
So, would I stay here again? Absolutely.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a fantastic choice if you’re visiting Universal Orlando with family, on a budget, or just want to soak up a playful retro atmosphere. It’s not about luxury — it’s about fun, convenience, and getting great value for what you pay.
If you’re planning your own Orlando vacation, I highly recommend checking out Cabana Bay. And if you want a full walkthrough of the resort, from the lobby to the lazy river, watch my video tour here: [Insert YouTube Link].
And if you’re already planning ahead to Universal’s brand-new Epic Universe park, you’ll want to see my guide on how to beat the crowds there. That’s right here: [Insert Link to Epic Universe Post/Video].
✦ I’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you stayed at Cabana Bay Beach Resort? Drop me a comment below or share your favorite Universal hotel experience!
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
Search articles
Recent Articles
See what I’m up to in the theme parks.
Helios Grand Hotel at Universal Orlando: Full Review & Tour
Explore Universal Orlando’s new Helios Grand Hotel near Epic Universe. Get a full tour, review, and travel tips for your next family vacation.
Touring Universal's New Helios Grand Hotel at Epic Universe: Full Review
Universal Orlando has opened the doors to one of its most stunning and anticipated hotel projects yet: the Helios Grand Hotel, located just steps from the gates of the all-new Epic Universe theme park. I recently spent a full day and night experiencing everything this hotel has to offer—from the celestial-inspired design and rooftop views to the exclusive private park entrance and poolside relaxation. In this post, I’ll walk you through the highlights, surprises, and honest impressions from my stay.
If you prefer a video tour, be sure to check out my full walkthrough on YouTube here: [LINK TO VIDEO]
Helios Grand Hotel at Universal Orlando
First Impressions: Arrival at Helios Grand
Pulling up to the Helios Grand, it’s immediately clear this is not your typical theme park hotel. The architecture is sleek and modern, with celestial themes woven into every design detail. Golden accents, massive glass panes, and an airy, open feel make for a striking first impression. The hotel’s name, Helios—Greek for the sun—comes to life through abundant natural light and sky-themed motifs throughout the property.
Watch my video on Helios Grand here:
The Lobby: Small But Stylish
Despite its grand name, the Helios Grand’s lobby is relatively modest in size. It’s flooded with daylight and features tall columns, reflective surfaces, and a stunning solar-flare-inspired light fixture. A large central atrium creates an open, modern space, while details like stained glass artwork and subtle nods to astronomy create an upscale but inviting atmosphere.
Check-In & Early Park Admission Access
Check-in during opening weeks was a bit chaotic due to high demand and guests arriving early to access Epic Universe. Luckily, Helios Grand offers early park admission, and all you need is your room key to gain entry through the hotel’s private entrance to Epic Universe. Even if your room isn’t ready, you can still enjoy early access to the park—just grab your key cards and go.
I arrived around 8:30 a.m. to get my room key so that I could utilize Early Park Admission. Dozens of other guests were doing the same thing, and the line was out the door. I checked in online days before, but online check-in at Helios Grand is meaningless. I still had to wait in line, provide my credit card again, my driver’s license, and confirm all my information. What was the point of doing all this on my laptop at home?
The staff at Helios should have a separate line for online check-in, with key cards ready to go in envelopes. All the guests need to do is show their ID and take their envelope. Done.
Why has Helios Grand gone back to the 1990s with its check-in process?
Coffee Stop: Aurora Market
Before heading into the park, I grabbed a cappuccino from Aurora Market, the hotel’s grab-and-go cafe. The space is stylish and modern, offering coffee, pastries, and quick bites in a beautifully designed environment with white tiles, brass fixtures, and natural light.
I went to the warming oven to grab some breakfast sandwiches and coffee. The sandwiches sit on a shelf wrapped in foil, the shelves are labeled with the type of sandwich. For example, “Bacon egg and cheese” or “Egg and Cheese.” Well, the sandwiches were all on the wrong shelves, something that we didn’t realize until after we opened them. I paid $12 each for a bacon, egg, and cheese, but got sandwiches without the bacon. Isn’t bacon the best part?
I returned them to the cashier and selected 3 new sandwiches. These had bacon, but they had a tomato spread on them, which appeared to be mayonnaise-based, and was oozing out of the sandwich. I really don’t like mayo, so this was important to me.
So I had to wait in a long line again, and asked if all the sandwiches had that spread on them. The staff told me there is no spread - it’s just bacon, egg, and cheese. I opened the sandwich and showed them the pale orange goo coming out. It looked like mayo and ketchup. They didn’t know what it was.
I then asked for a refund. They told me it would 3-5 weeks to refund my money due to the account process they have. So I went to the front desk, and they refunded me instantly.
So we skipped breakfast and decided to find a snack in the park.
Super Nintendo World First Thing
Thanks to early admission, I headed straight into Super Nintendo World—one of the most popular lands in Epic Universe. This section often opens before the rest of the park, and arriving early paid off. With fewer crowds and a head start, it was a perfect way to begin the day.
Back at the Hotel: Design Details & Dining
Returning to Helios Grand after the morning rush, I was able to take in more of the hotel’s artistic details. The artwork behind the check-in desk and Universal Vacation Planning Center features stained glass inspired by planetary orbits and flowers.
Across from the lobby is the hotel’s signature restaurant: Flora Taverna, a Mediterranean-inspired dining space with both indoor and outdoor seating and beautiful views of Epic Universe. A wood-fired oven and sophisticated decor make this a standout dining option, though it's worth noting this is the only full-service restaurant on-site.
Fitness Center & Pool Area
To prepare for some pool time, I changed in the fitness center locker rooms—which were bright, well-equipped, and overlooked lush gardens. The fitness area includes cardio equipment, weight training space, and large windows to bring in natural light.
Outside, the pool deck is serene and spacious, with a uniquely curved pool lined by palm trees, private cabanas, and plush loungers. Even with its proximity to Epic Universe’s Dark Universe land, the pool area is calm and relaxing. There’s also a wading area for families and a Lotus Lagoon Bar nearby serving cocktails and small bites.
Hotel Transportation
Helios Grand provides transportation to Universal’s other theme parks and Volcano Bay via a shuttle bus. Buses arrive frequently and drop guests off at CityWalk, making it easy to explore the wider Universal Orlando Resort.
SkyBar: Rooftop Lounge with Epic Views
One of the hotel’s most impressive features is the SkyBar rooftop lounge. After a ride up in an elevator that features celestial projection mapping, guests arrive at a cozy, upscale bar under a domed ceiling with indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor terrace offers panoramic views of the entire Epic Universe theme park, making this a must-visit spot during your stay.
Reservations for SkyBar are highly recommended and may even be required during peak times.
Our Theme Park View Room
Theme park view room, 4th floor
Finally, our theme park view room was ready. Located on the 4th floor, the room featured floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Epic Universe. The view was truly spectacular, especially as the sun set and the park began to glow.
The room design is elegant but smaller than I expected. It has gold tones, modern furniture, and thoughtful touches like a built-in desk, a Keurig coffee machine, and automated curtains. While the room was on the smaller side, it was comfortable and stylish. The split bathroom layout with a walk-in shower and backlit vanity was particularly nice.
Overall, it was a nice room, but it didn’t feel like a luxury hotel. Compare it to Disney’s Grand Floridian, Disney’s Beach Club, Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel - and you’ll see the difference. My nightly rate was similar to these hotels. These hotels are within walking distance to theme parks too.
Epic Universe at Night
One of the biggest perks of staying at Helios Grand is the ability to walk back into Epic Universe in the evening. The park comes alive after dark, with lands like Dark Universe and Super Nintendo World offering completely different experiences at night.
Watching the park from our room after 9 PM closing was magical. Seeing guests slowly trickle out while the lights continued to dance in the distance was a peaceful way to end the day.
Morning at Helios Grand
I woke up just before sunrise and took in the quiet beauty of the park from our room. Even at 3 AM, Epic Universe remained illuminated. Downstairs, the lobby and market were calm again, perfect for grabbing a final cappuccino and enjoying the reflective pool before checking out.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Price?
Our theme park view room cost $656 per night, which places the Helios Grand in the same price range as Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel and Portofino Bay—both of which offer complimentary Express Passes to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Helios Grand does not offer Express Pass.
While the room was well-designed, it was also compact, and the layout is nearly identical to rooms at Stella Nova and Terra Luna, which cost around $150 per night. This raises a valid question: is Helios Grand worth the $500 premium?
There are a few missing elements that might make guests think twice—like the limited dining options, no water slide at the pool, and the absence of Express Pass benefits. However, what Helios Grand does offer is a feeling—of calm, convenience, and light-filled beauty. It’s an escape, even while being embedded in the center of the action.
Should You Book Helios Grand?
Book it if:
You want the closest hotel to Epic Universe.
You value a sophisticated, quiet atmosphere.
You’re excited about panoramic park views and rooftop lounges.
Consider alternatives if:
You’re looking for more space or family-style accommodations.
Express Pass is a priority.
You prefer more dining and recreation options on-site.
Watch the Full Tour
Want to see every space for yourself? Check out my full video tour of the Helios Grand on YouTube
For more Universal Orlando hotel reviews and Epic Universe previews, follow along at orlandoparksguy.com and subscribe to my YouTube channel for all the latest updates.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
Search articles
Recent Articles
See what I’m up to in the theme parks.
Universal Orlando's Endless Summer Resort - Dockside Inn and Suites Review
Resort Tour: Universal’s Endless Summer Resort Dockside
Resort Summary
Universal’s Endless Summer Dockside Inn and Suites is divided into two parts: Dockside Inn and Surfside Inn. The name comes from the 1966 documentary on surfing titled, The Endless Summer.
Universal’s Endless Summer Dockside Inn and Suites
This resort is located on Universal Boulevard, a few blocks away from the Universal Orlando theme parks.
This value hotel features 2-bedroom suites that accommodate up to six guests and standard rooms that sleep 4.
There are 1,059 2-bedroom suites and 991 standard rooms with interior corridors.
What is the difference between universal dockside and Surfside?
These two hotels sit across the street from each other on Universal Boulevard. Dockside is larger and has 2 pools. It also has a larger lobby and foodcourt. Surfside is smaller and has 1 pool. Personally, I think Surfside is a little easier to navigate but I like that Dockside is bigger. Surfside and Dockside are comparable in terms of room size, nightly rates and the amenities offered.
Arrival and Lobby Areas
Room Categories
2-Bedroom Suites – These suites, which make up more than half the rooms at both Dockside Inn and Suites & Surfside Inn and Suites, sleep up to six and offer guests an unrivaled value.
With the families suite you no longer need two connecting rooms for extra space.
Standard Rooms - With separate bath and vanity areas, it’s easy for multiple people to get ready at the same time.
Pool View Rooms - Each inviting 313-square-foot room offers two queen beds and sleeps 4.
Room Rates
Standard rooms begin at $79 per night. The 2-Bedroom Suites start as low as $115 per night. Prices vary based on season with mid to late summer having the lowest rates.
2 Bedroom Suite
Standard Room
Hotel Services
Dockside Inn and Suites features:
Complimentary WiFi in guest rooms and public areas.
Universal Orlando Vacation Planning Center
Self-parking (daily fees apply)
Car rental available on-site
Universal Studios Store
Only Universal Orlando’s hotel guests get more ride time, more free time and more family time every day of their vacation.
Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal’s Volcano Bay, one hour before the theme parks open (Valid theme park admission required. Select attractions.)
Free shuttles are provided so it’s always a quick hop between your room and the parks.
Resort-wide charging privileges with your room key.
Complimentary merchandise delivery to your hotel from the Universal shops.
Complimentary Club-to-Club access at Universal CityWalk to select venues for the length of your stay.
Pool and recreation
Dining Options
Dockside Inn and Suites has tasty and convenient offerings for breakfast, lunch, dinner and every craving in-between.
Pier 8 Market – With multiple stations offering breakfast, lunch and dinner
Wave Makers Pool Bar – Laid-back poolside bar 4 The Oasis Beach Bar – Sunny poolside bar
Sunset Lounge – Lobby bar offering favorite cocktails and craft beer
Starbucks – Relax and sip for awhile or grab a coffee creation to go as you pass through the lobby
Fresh Pizza – Delivered directly to your room. Available during limited hours
Theme Park Transportation
Free shuttles to the Universal theme parks and Volcano Bay water park. Uber is also available.
Universal’s Endless Summer Dockside is located off-site, a few blocks away from the Universal theme parks.
Universal Orlando Resort
15 miles from Orlando International Airport (MCO)
10 miles from downtown Orlando
10 miles from Walt Disney World Resort
Endless Summer Resort - Dockside Inn address:
7125 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
Can you walk from Endless Summer to City Walk?
No, it is not possible to walk to Universal City Walk or to the Universal theme parks from Endless Summer Dockside. This hotel is located a few blocks away on very busy roadways. Bus transportation is fast and convenient.
Does Universal dockside have free breakfast?
No, breakfast isn’t free at Dockside or at any other Universal Orlando Resort hotel. A food court is available for breakfast, with many menu items under $12.
Is the pool at Endless Summer dockside heated?
Yes, pools are heated during cooler weather at all Universal Orlando hotels.
Does Endless Summer have water slide?
Dockside has 2 pools and a splash pad for little kids, but there is no water slide.
Which Universal hotel has a lazy river?
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort has a small lazy river.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
Club Level Rooms Now Available at Universal Orlando
Club Level Returns to Universal Orlando
The Hard Rock Hotel and the Royal Pacific Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort are now offering Club Level options with some modifications.
Club Level at the Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort is now available.
The continental breakfast will be served in individual eco-friendly containers with plastic flatware, there will be hot items for evening hours in addition to cold items, served by a hotel server in eco-friendly containers.
There will be beverages throughout the day as well as beer and wine in the early evening.
For added safety, all Club Level rooms are vacant for 24 hours between vacancies. There will be no housekeeping being offered during your stay. If you need extra towels, shampoo, etc., housekeeping will deliver them to your door in a sealed bag. Room service will be delivered outside of your door and they will call you upon arrival). Additionally, there is no bell service, luggage carts will be available for guests to use. No valet parking, self-parking only.
There are several offers available for Universal Orlando, including Agency Exclusives. You can view them all here on the Universal Offers Page.
For over 12 years Darren Wittko has been helping people save money at Walt Disney World as both, a travel writer and a travel advisor with Magical Vacations Travel. He’s featured in the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren resides in Celebration, FL.
More Updates
Save Big! Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort
AUGUST 14 - 18, 2020 - AGENCY EXCLUSIVE OFFER
Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando Offer
Book with confidence - cancel up to 5-days prior to arrival for a full refund.
Sample Pricing - A family of 4, staying 3 nights at Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel, Standard View Room pays only $705.39 (including tax). Theme park tickets can be added at additional cost.
Centrally located at Universal Orlando, Universal's Hard Rock Hotel offers exclusive unlimited ride access which lets ticket-holding guests skip regular lines at Universal theme parks. CityWalk nightlife is 5 minutes' walk away and accessible by water taxi. Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and Universal's Volcano Bay™ water theme park 1 hour before the theme parks opens. (Valid theme park admission required.) A 12,000-square-foot pool with underwater music and rock and roll memorabilia decor is on site. Free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, and an iPod docking station are available in each room. All rooms are decorated with rock music-themed decor.
This offer will sell out, get your quote today. Offer is subject to availability.
Find more offers and discounts on the Universal Orlando Resort Offers Page
Plan a smooth visit to Universal Orlando with this helpful accessibility guide for guests using wheelchairs and mobility devices. Learn how ride transfer requirements work, what to expect in queues, and how to navigate the parks confidently in 2025.