Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a family favorite. This value resort offers accommodations to suite parties up to 6 people. Many would not expect a value priced resort to be within walking distance to Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure Theme Parks, but it is. I am going to share with you the pros and cons of this property so that you know what to expect upon your arrival.
Let’s get to it!
Generations of all ages will love to relax and play in this classic Florida beach themed hotel which takes inspiration right out of the 50’s and 60’s. Guests will be right next door to Universal’s Volcano Bay water theme park, with your very own dedicated walking path. Each day will be filled with adventure for all ages with two huge pools, a lazy river, bowling alley and more. When it comes to theming, Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a winner!
ACCOMMODATIONS & AMENITIES
The Facts…..
Enjoy vibrant, retro-style rooms and suites brilliantly
designed for family-size fun and value.
• 2,200 guest rooms including Family Suites with
kitchenettes
• 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
My Thoughts….
We had a fun view of the pool with Volcano Bay in the background which was amazing! I love the floor to ceiling windows. The room is themed retro so if that is not your taste you may get the feeling your room is dated. I love the theme and the super fun retro themed toiletries, way to go Universal! While the rooms are small the use of space if wonderful. I love when resorts think of families with split baths, this makes the morning rush to the parks super easy!
Definition of a Split Bath.…Split bathrooms are designed to further separate bathroom uses into a primary sink and entry area and a more private bathtub and toilet zone.
It is important to note that Cabana Bay Beach Resort also offers a Family Suite which sleeps up to 6 people as well as a 2-Bedroom Suite which can sleep up to 8 people.
DINING
The Facts…..
The 1950s and 60s theming is everywhere at Cabana Bay Beach Resort, including the
restaurants and lounges, where nods to the past are as fun as they are delicious.
• Bayliner Diner – This food court offers grab and go items from a variety of
themed stations
• Galaxy Bowl Restaurant – Casual table service dining in an old-school
bowling alley
• Atomic Tonic – A poolside bar and grill where a variety of specialty cocktails,
beers, non-alcoholic beverages, sandwiches, salads, wraps and doner kebabs are
served alongside the Cabana Courtyard Pool Deck.
Must be 21 or older with valid photo ID to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages.
• The Hideaway Bar & Grill – A Lazy River Courtyard stop for drinks,
burgers and more
• Swizzle Lounge – The lobby lounge features cocktails and made-to-order specialties
• Starbucks® – Conveniently located in the lobby serving premium coffee, tea and
fresh food items
• Delizioso Pizza – Classic, home-style pizza delivered to your room or other
hotel locations (available during limited hours)
My Thoughts…
You are not going to find any gourmet meals here at Cabana Bay Beach Resort. If you are okay with pizza, salad, and basic American food, this will be okay. Overall, I found myself headed to City Walk to dine. Kiddos will love the options at the Bayliner Diner. Cabana Bay also has some fun cocktails to enjoy by the pool.
Let’s give a mention to the fact that there is an actual Starbucks in the resort! This is amazing!!!
RECREATION
The Facts…..
Here you’ll fi nd a world of recreation right on-site.
• Cabana Courtyard – Features a zero-entry pool with iconic dive tower water slide,
interactive kids’ play area, cabanas for rent, and Atomic Tonic pool bar
• Lazy River Courtyard – Features a zero-entry pool, a lazy river with waterfalls and
cannons for interactive fun, and The Hideaway Bar & Grill
• Galaxy Bowl – Play a game or two at the hotel’s own 10-lane bowling alley
(fees apply)
• Jack LaLanne Physical Fitness Studio – Complimentary for hotel guests
• Game-O-Rama – Enjoy old school classics and the latest high-tech games
(fees apply
My Thoughts…
I love the pools and the lazy river. The ambiance is super fun! I think the addition of the Galaxy Bowl is nice as many families are looking for other things to do when they are not at the parks.
UNIVERSAL’S CABANA BAY BEACH RESORT
EXCLUSIVE HOTEL GUEST BENEFITS
The Facts…..
Only Universal Orlando’s hotel guests get more ride time, more free time and more family time every day of their
vacation. It couldn’t be easier.
• Early Park Admission* to Universal Studios Florida or Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal’s Volcano Bay
up to one hour before the theme parks open. (Valid theme park admission required. Select attractions.)
• Free shuttles 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 Universal shops.
LOCATION
• Universal Orlando Resort
• 15 miles from Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• 12 miles from downtown Orlando
My Thoughts…
If you can splurge and upgrade to a resort with the Universal’s Unlimited Express Pass it is worth the cost.
Final Thoughts….
Universal does a fantastic job of taking you back to the 1950’s and 60’s. I love the theme from top to bottom. This is a value property, and the price point reflects that. I thought the transportation was very easy as we decided not to walk to the parks. There is only one bus stop drop-off at City Walk so there is ease of access. If you are looking for fun theming and a cost-effective way to stay on Universal property, I recommend Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort.
Guru Travel would be honored to help you plan your Universal Orlando Vacation. Call us at 630-776-8371 or email us at letstravel@thewdwguru.com.
Guru Travel would be honored to help you plan your Universal Orlando Vacation. Call us at 630-776-8371 or email us at letstravel@thewdwguru.com.