Cabana Bay Beach Resort Reviews

During my coverage of the many wonders of Universal Resort Orlando, I stopped in at the Cabana Bay Beach Resort. Courtesy of Universal, I spent 2 days checking out the hotel.

Cabana Bay manages to encompass a fun theme that isn’t pandering. The kitschy 50’s-60’s decor is spiked with modern tones and conveniences that are truly thoughtful. Along with most of the perks that come with staying onsite, the “value” resort features benefits like:

• Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

• Free shuttle buses to Universal’s CityWalk and both theme parks

• Room key charging privileges

• Complimentary delivery of merchandise purchased throughout the resort to the hotel lobby.

• Shuttles to Wet ‘n Wild waterpark, SeaWorld, and Aquatica

Express Passes, Water Taxis and Priority Seating at select resort restaurants that come with the “Deluxe” line of accommodations are not complimentary, but it will save you funds on a nightly rate. The exception of those perks seem to be the only thing the resort doesn’t offer.

ROOMS

We stayed in the Family Suite to accommodate my 5 member crew. A small kitchenette, complete with microwave, sink and mini-fridge, was stocked with a few plastic plates, bowls, and utensils. If you grab a box of cereal from a convenience store, you will have a place to have a quick and easy breakfast without worrying about the milk spoiling. We also grabbed a few bags of microwave popcorn for a nighttime snack.

Two-queen sized beds gave us plenty of room. Typically, you will find a couple of double beds in hotels, so this extra bed-space was very welcomed. It would easily accommodate a family of four, but the sofa in the living room area pulls out into a comfy full size bed! You could fit a total of 6 guests in the space and still have space.

I credit the design. The two-queen sized beds face a large TV that is mounted in the wall like a piece of art. The absence of a stand creates an open space to move around the room. Don’t fret on space to store your things. A few built-in drawers are tucked away in the wall that separates the sleeping area from the living room. Plus, there is a closet-esque space where you can hang clothes, stack your suitcase and even iron.

A second TV sits in the living area on top of cabinet/slash dresser. The sofa is almost magical. It’s quaint and chic, but transforms into a full-fledged bed without having to ask Harry Potter for an extending charm. The cushions even double as a soft headboard!

The bathrooms are spacious. A sink area and large mirror is open to the two beds, and a room for the toilet is on one side and another sink with shower/tub is on the other. So, one person could be using the restroom while another applies makeup and a third has privacy in the shower. I am thinking of adopting this design at home to stifle fights over restroom occupation!

But the best part was the pocket-door that slid shut, providing a separation from the beds and the living room space. While my youngest took a nap, I kicked back in the living room and watched a bit of TV while my older kids hit the pool. Everyone was happy and I didn’t have to sit in silence, hesitant to move or make a sound.

RECREATION

A lazy river, ping-pong, a place to build sand castles, several gorgeous stone-chess/checker boards, two pools, bowling, and fire-pit are just a few of the recreation options.

Cabana Courtyard sits on the right side of the property housed between the “Starlight”, “Thunderbird”, and “Castaway” buildings. There are a couple of shaded pavilions to find shady solace for a lovely picnic or break from the sun. The Kids Splash Pad is perfect for wee ones and the Hot Tub is a soothing break for adults spending a long day in the parks. To wind down for the night, each side offers a fire pit, but the nightly family-friendly film on the lawn draws the kids.

The pool on this side of the bay features a fun water slide that hovers on the tame side of the thrill-factor and it is zero-entry, perfect for tiny swimmers.. Private cabanas are available for rent to provide a shaded retreat, comfortable chairs, HDTV, Wi-Fi access, a fan, and fridge along with some personal space. During the popular summer season, these might be a sanity-saver.

The Lazy River Courtyard is located across the lobby, between the “Americana” and “Continental” building. Along with the river, guests will find another zero-entry pool and splash pad. Ample areas of relaxation are offered, but here you will find one of my very few concerns…

Tubes to float along the lazy river are not complimentary. If you don’t have your own, plan on purchasing an inflatable item ranging from $3-$12. Cash isn’t accepted, so have your chargeable room key or credit card ready.