Budget-Friendly, Beachy Vibes at Universal Orlando
Looking for the perfect mix of affordability, comfort, and that laid-back beach feel? Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites is your go-to home base for adventure! As one of Universal Orlando’s Value Hotels, Surfside Inn and Suites gives you access to the excitement of Universal’s theme parks—with perks that go way beyond what you’d expect from a budget-friendly hotel.
Beach-Inspired Bliss
From the moment you step into Surfside Inn and Suites, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a breezy seaside escape. The whole resort is designed with chill surfer vibes, light wood finishes, cool blue hues, and tropical touches that set the scene for your sun-soaked Orlando vacation.
Exclusive Universal Perks
Staying at a Universal Orlando Resort Hotel means you get more than just a place to sleep:
Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and Universal Volcano Bay—up to one hour before the parks open (with valid theme park admission).
Free Shuttle Transportation to all three Universal Orlando theme parks and Universal CityWalk.
Resort-Wide Charging Privileges with your room key.
Complimentary Merchandise Delivery to your hotel from the parks.
Room Options for Every Crew
Whether you’re traveling as a couple or bringing the whole crew, Surfside Inn has space that works for you:
Standard and Pool View Rooms – This room category is approximately 313 sq. ft and feature 2 Queen beds. This room category can sleep up to 4 guests.
2-Bedroom Suites– This room category is approximately 440 sq. ft. A total of 3 Queen beds are found in this category. The suites include a kitchenette with a sink, mini-refrigerator, microwave, and picnic table. There is also a compartmentalized bathroom with separate bathroom and vanity areas as well as 2 sinks. This room category can sleep up to 6 guests.
Why We Love It
Surfside Inn and Suites is perfect for travelers who want to experience the magic of Universal without breaking the bank. The two-bedroom suites are a major win for families, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to unwind after a day of thrills and spills. Plus, you’re just a quick hop away from Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.
Resort Amenities
Just because it’s a value resort doesn’t mean you’re skimping on fun. Here’s what you’ll find:
Game Room & Fitness Center: For the kids (and kids-at-heart), there’s an arcade; and for those who want to keep up their workout routine, the fitness center has everything you need.
Surfboard-Shaped Pool: Relax in the sunshine or cool off in the crystal-clear water. There are plenty of loungers and umbrellas for that perfect pool day.
Beach Break Cafe: A casual dining spot with something for everyone—think burgers, pizza, fresh salads, and even Starbucks® coffee to fuel your early mornings.
Pool Bar: Sip on tropical drinks and frozen favorites while you soak in those vacation vibes.
Universal’s Endless Summer – Surfside Inn Map
If you love following along for the most up-to-date park information and news, follow us on TikTok @themeparkprofessor and Instagram: @themeparkprofessor.
The Hard Rock Hotel at the Universal Orlando Resort is a premier hotel offering a great location and stellar amenities to guests. The hotel has a theme embracing rock music and celebrates beloved musicians throughout history.
Resort Overview
The hotel opened in 2001, as the second on-site hotel at the Universal Orlando Resort. This resort is a tribute to all things rock ‘n’ roll! From the saxophone chandelier to the music playing underwater at the pool, the entire hotel celebrates the music! There are photos and artwork of beloved musicians from John Lennon to Madonna and Justin Timberlake. There is also memorabilia throughout the floors of the hotel including outfits and costumes from famous performers such as Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, and more.
The vibe at this resort is fun for all ages, especially adults and families with older kids.
Reasons We Love This Resort
Location: The resort is located very close to the entrance of Universal Studios. Guests can use the complimentary water taxi to get to the parks and Universal CityWalk. There is also a walking path, and it takes about 10-15 minutes to walk to either park entrance.
Theme: The resort has a great theme, especially for any music lovers! Around every corner, look for memorabilia and photos of all your favorite musicians from the past and present. There is always music playing by these artists as well. You can even hear music when you’re swimming underwater at the pool!
Amenities: The amenities at the Hard Rock are a huge perk. Specifically, for guests who stay at this hotel, the Universal Express Pass Unlimited is included for the length of their stay. This includes the check-in and check-out days. Plus, the resort celebrates the music! There is often live music in the lobby and guests can even rent records or guitars to play!
Amenities:
Wi-Fi Service (complimentary wi-fi access in guest rooms, main lobbies, and main pools)
Dining Options (table service, quick service, and poolside service)
Business Center (computer services, print services, shipping services, office supplies)
Designated Smoking Area
Luggage Service (luggage assistance, valet parking assistance, dry cleaning)
Housekeeping Services
Valet and Self-Parking
Rental Car Service – Avis Desk
Front Desk Service (banking and mail)
Merchandise Delivery and Pickup
Grocery Orders
Meetings & Event Space
Vacation Planning Desk (purchase tickets, upgrade tickets, special requests)
Wake-up Call Service
Disability Service (mobility, hearing, visual, and service animal accommodations)
Universal Express Pass Unlimited Benefit
Early Park Admission
Priority Seating at Restaurants
A Full Range of Accommodations
The hotel features 650 guest rooms, including 29 suites. There are a few room types available to choose from, with different views such as the gardens or the pool. Each guest room features amenities including a flat-screen TV, plenty of storage space with a dresser and closet, a mini-refrigerator with coffee maker, a hairdryer, and a desk area.
Room Types
Garden View
Sleeps up to 5 guests (with a rollaway)
Views of the Garden or Courtyard area
Pool View
Sleeps up to 5 guests (with a rollaway)
Views of the Pool
1 King Bed or 2 Queen Beds
Deluxe Room
Sleeps up to 5 guests
1 King Bed or 2 Queen Beds
Future Rock Star Suite
Sleeps up to 5 guests (with a rollaway)
1 King Bed and 2 Twin Beds
Features attached kids’ room, perfect for future rock stars, opening only to the adults’ room
King Suite
Sleeps up to 4 guests
1 King Bed and 1 Sleeper Sofa
Open Floor Plan with entertainment area, including 2 flat-panel TVs and a mini-refrigerator
2-Bedroom King Suite
Sleeps up to 9 guests (with a rollaway)
1 King Bed and 1 Sleeper Sofa, Connecting room with 2 Queen Beds
3-Bedroom King Suite
Sleeps up to 14 guests (with a rollaway)
1 King Bed and 1 Sleeper Sofa, 2 Connecting rooms with 2 Queen Beds each
Club Level Rooms
For an upgraded experience, the Rock Royalty rooms offer guests a bit of extra luxury with added amenities. The hotel’s seventh floor is reserved exclusively for guests looking for added amenities and luxury. Standard guest rooms and suites are available with club-level access. The added amenities include:
access to the Rock Royalty Lounge throughout the day, offering a continental breakfast, hors d’oeuvres, and cocktail hour with desserts.
separate TV viewing areas in the lounge
personal concierge service
reduced prices on cabanas at the pool
Dining Information
There are several dining options available at the resort. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance. In addition, Universal CityWalk is a short walk or water taxi ride away and has additional options.
All Dining & Lounges
The Kitchen
This restaurant is known for American favorites with a twist. Enjoy mimosas at breakfast, tacos for lunch, or the famous mac and cheese for dinner. The desserts can’t be missed either!
**Please note, this restaurant is temporarily closed for renovations. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner in the Velvet Bar or Avalon Ballroom.
The Palm
This well-known New York steakhouse features a classy atmosphere and an Italian-inspired menu including steaks, lobster, and more.
Emack & Bolio’s Marketplace
With beautiful views of the resort and a rich menu, this restaurant is the perfect tropical retreat. Featuring a variety of options from sushi to sashimi, Japanese whiskey, and sake, the experience is sure to please.
Velvet Bar
This lounge is the perfect place to catch up with friends while enjoying cocktails and appetizers.
beachclub
This poolside bar and grill offer a restaurant and poolside service. Enjoy frozen cocktails, appetizers and more served right to your lounge chair!
Room Service
There is a wide variety of menu options available 24 hours a day.
Pools, Grounds, & Recreation
Underwater Tunes
Not only is there a 12,000-square-foot pool with a water slide and two hot tubs for guests to enjoy, but there is also an underwater sound system! As you enjoy your pool time, be sure to dive in and listen to the tunes!
Poolside Activities
There is plenty of fun waiting for guests who want to hang out poolside! Enjoy ping pong tournaments, water balloon tosses, pool basketball, hula hoop contests, and more. The concierge will have a full schedule of events available.
Velvet Sessions
This separately ticketed event offers an up-close-and-personal concert experience for guests age 21 and over. Enjoy light appetizers and fun cocktails as you jam to popular tunes! Past performers have included Bret Michaels, Foreigner, and more.
Game Room
Find the latest video games here at the arcade located next to the pool. The game room is open daily from 8:00 am to midnight.
The Sound of Your Stay™ program
Guests can rock out to the music right in their hotel room with this unique program. Choose from a variety of playlists to jam and sing along with tracks.®. WIth picks®, choose from a menu of 20 different Fender® guitars to be delivered to your room, and wax® offers a Crosley turntable and your choice of 10 different records from iconic artists to play and enjoy. Please note that a down payment and loan agreement is required for guitar rental.
Sound Body
With the Sound Body program, guests can enjoy one-of-a-kind amenities designed to keep your mind, body, and spirit refreshed throughout your stay. Guests can enjoy a complimentary Rock Om yoga kit, available upon request, and then use the kit around the hotel or in the comfort of their hotel room. There are even three on-demand yoga videos available on the TV. In addition, the bodyrock® fitness center features a variety of exercise equipment.
Walking & Jogging Paths
Several paths are available around the resort to enjoy a peaceful walk or jog. With landscaped grounds and a butterfly garden to enjoy, there is plenty to see along the way!
Hard Rock Hotel Orlando Transportation
Are you wondering how you will get to where you want to go during your vacation? The Universal Orlando Resort is easy to navigate and there is complimentary transportation provided to help you get where you want to go throughout your vacation.
We have it broken down for you:
Universal Studios: The water taxi runs approximately every 20 minutes and takes guests to Universal CityWalk, just a few minutes away from the park entrance. Alternatively, there is a walking path from the hotel. It takes approximately 10-15 minutes to walk.
Universal Islands of Adventure: The water taxi will take guests to Universal CityWalk where guests can walk to the park entrance. Alternatively, there is a walking path and it takes approximately 15-20 minutes to walk.
Universal CityWalk: The water taxi is available to take guests to Universal CityWalk, running approximately every 20 minutes. It is also a short walk, approximately 10-15 minutes.
Universal’s Volcano Bay: Buses run approximately every 20 minutes to Volcano Bay.
Parking
*Guests who drive either their own vehicle or a rental car to Walt Disney World should know that a standard overnight self-parking fee of $28 plus tax per night will be applied to the guest hotel folio upon check-out. Valet parking is available for $37 plus tax per night. Parking is also available for day guests, with self-parking starting at $10 plus tax and valet parking at $42 plus tax.
If you love following along for the most up-to-date park information and news, follow us on TikTok @themeparkprofessor and Instagram: @themeparkprofessor.
Loews Royal Pacific Resort is one of three premier hotels at the Universal Orlando Resort. This resort takes guests away to paradise, with a theme inspired by the South Seas.
Resort Overview
The resort opened in 2002 and is located closest to Universal’s Islands of Adventure Theme Park. The theme takes guests away to a tropical paradise, with modern amenities and luxury that are guaranteed to result in an amazing vacation experience! The proximity of the resort to the theme parks is a huge perk to staying here. Guests may choose to take a short walk to Universal CityWalk or use the complimentary water taxis to get to the parks. In addition, since this hotel is one of the premier hotels at the Universal Orlando Resort, guests staying here get the Universal Express Pass Unlimited included for the length of their stay.
Reasons We Love This Resort:
Location: The resort has a great location, just a few minutes away from Universal CityWalk and the theme parks.
Theme: With a relaxing tropical theme, the grounds are beautiful and the rooms are spacious with décor reminiscent of a South Seas paradise.
Amenities: This hotel is one of three premier hotels at the Universal Orlando Resort, which means that it includes the Universal Express Pass Unlimited for guests for the length of their stay. This is a huge benefit, especially when the parks are busy.
Amenities:
Wi-Fi Service (complimentary wi-fi access in guest rooms, main lobbies, and main pools)
Dining Options (table service, quick service, and poolside service)
Business Center (computer services, print services, shipping services, office supplies)
Designated Smoking Area
Luggage Service (luggage assistance, valet parking assistance, dry cleaning)
Housekeeping Services
Valet and Self-Parking
Rental Car Service – Avis Desk
Front Desk Service (banking and mail)
Merchandise Delivery and Pickup
Grocery Orders
Meetings & Event Space
Vacation Planning Desk (purchase tickets, upgrade tickets, special requests)
Wake-up Call Service
Disability Service (mobility, hearing, visual, and service animal accommodations)
Universal Express Pass Unlimited Benefit
Early Park Admission, including access to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Priority Seating at Restaurants
A Full Range of Accommodations
There are 1,000 guest rooms at the resort, along with several types of suites. There are accommodations available for families or groups of all sizes. There are even rooms the kids will love, including the popular Jurassic World Kids’ Suite. Each room type includes amenities such as a flat-screen TV, desk, hair dryer, coffee maker, safe, and mini-refrigerator. There are several outlets and USB plugs available as well. Rollaway beds are available at check-in for an additional charge per night.
Room Types
Garden View
Sleeps up to 5 guests (with a rollaway)
2 Queen Beds or 1 King Bed
Views of the
Water View
Sleeps up to 5 guests (with a rollaway)
2 Queen Beds or 1 King Bed
Views of the Lagoon and/or Theme Park
Jurassic WorldTM Kids’ Suite
Sleeps up to 5 guests (with a rollaway)
1 King Bed, 2 Twin Beds
Jurassic World-themed attached kids’ room, opening only into the main room
King Suite
Sleeps up to 4 guests
1 King Bed and 1 Sleeper Sofa
Features separate living room area
Club Level
Royal Club Level Guest Room
Sleeps up to 5 guests (with a rollaway)
2 Queen Beds or 1 King Bed
1-Bedroom Royal Hospitality Suite
Sleeps up to 8 guests (with a rollaway)
2 Queen Beds or 1 King Bed and 1 Sleeper Sofa
Features sitting room, dining room, and kitchenette with refrigerator
2-Bedroom Royal Hospitality Suite
Sleeps up to 10 guests (with a rollaway)
2 Queen Beds, 1 King Bed, 1 Sleeper Sofa
Features a kitchenette with refrigerator, sitting room & dining room
Presidential Suite
Sleeps up to 11 guests with additional connecting bedrooms (and rollaway)
King Bed and Sleeper Sofa
Features spacious living area with dining room table and kitchenette with refrigerator and sink
Dining Information
Photo Courtesy Universal Orlando
Photo Courtesy Universal Orlando
There are several dining options available at the resort. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance. In addition, Universal CityWalk is a short walk or water taxi ride away and has additional options.
All Dining & Lounges
Islands Dining Room
This restaurant has an island vibe with a full menu at breakfast and dinner. There is something to please every palate from traditional options such as Eggs Benedict to Hawaiian pancakes and Pan-Asian cuisine for dinner.
Jake’s American Bar
Paying homage to the South Seas explorer Jake McNally, this full-service bar offers cocktails, appetizers, and some entrees to choose from as you toast your own adventures!
Orchid Court Lounge & Sushi Bar
With beautiful views of the resort and a rich menu, this restaurant is the perfect tropical retreat. Featuring a variety of options from sushi to sashimi, Japanese whiskey, and sake, the experience is sure to please.
Tuk Tuk Market
This quick-service location is a lobby marketplace offering coffee, breakfast items, hot and cold sandwiches, and more.
Bula Bar & Grill
This poolside bar is the spot to enjoy food and beverages with a tropical vibe.
Wantilan Luau
Enjoy the tradition of the Hawaiian Luau at this unique dinner show. With authentic Polynesian food and entertainment, you won’t want to miss it. Enjoy live music, hula, and fire dancers as you feast on an all-you-can-eat buffet. Shows are on Saturday evenings and tickets are required.
Room Service
There is a wide variety of menu options available 24 hours a day.
Photo Courtesy Universal Orlando
Photo Courtesy Universal Orlando
Photo Courtesy Universal Orlando
Photo Courtesy Universal Orlando
Pools, Grounds, & Recreation
Lagoon-Style Swimming Pool
Sit along the white sand beach or relax in one of the two hot tubs in this relaxing pool area. Kids will love the Royal Bali Sea interactive play area. Private cabanas are also available to rent, complete with amenities including a phone, TV, refrigerator with refreshments, and a fruit bowl.
Poolside Activities
If you want more fun at the pool, there are plenty of activities available. Options include ping pong tournaments, water balloon tosses, arts & crafts, and more. Check with the concierge for details.
Complimentary Fitness Facility
If you are looking to maintain your fitness routine while on vacation, there is a complimentary fitness center available. The fitness center features over 5,000 square feet of fitness and workout equipment, a sauna, a co-ed whirlpool, and separate men’s and women’s locker rooms and lounges. Exercise equipment includes treadmills, a StairMaster, elliptical machines, and more. Check with the concierge for hours of operation and details.
Walking & Jogging Paths
Enjoy the tropical vibes of the resort as you explore extensive paths surrounding the property. There are designated dog walking areas and paths that will take you to the theme parks as well.
Game Room
Are you looking to test your skills? The latest video games are available here! The game room is open daily from 8:00 am to midnight and is located next to the pool.
Loews Royal Pacific Transportation
When you stay on-site at the Universal Orlando Resort, it’s very easy to get around the resort.
How to get to each park:
You may be wondering how you can get to each park using the free transportation systems offered. We have it broken down for you:
Universal Studios: The water taxi runs approximately every 20 minutes and takes guests to Universal CityWalk, just a few minutes away from the park entrance. Alternatively, there is a walking path from the hotel. It takes approximately 10-15 minutes to walk.
Universal Islands of Adventure: The water taxi will take guests to Universal CityWalk where guests can walk to the park entrance. Alternatively, there is a walking path and it takes approximately 15-20 minutes to walk.
Universal CityWalk: The water taxi is available to take guests to Universal CityWalk, running approximately every 20 minutes. It is also a short walk, approximately 10-15 minutes.
Universal’s Volcano Bay: Buses run approximately every 20 minutes to Volcano Bay.
Parking
*Guests who drive either their own vehicle or a rental car to Walt Disney World should know that a standard overnight self-parking fee of $28 plus tax per night will be applied to the guest hotel folio upon check-out. Valet parking is available for $37 plus tax per night. Parking is also available for day guests, with self-parking starting at $10 plus tax and valet parking at $42 plus tax.
If you love following along for the most up-to-date park information and news, follow us on TikTok @themeparkprofessor and Instagram: @themeparkprofessor.
