Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort Rooms – Standard vs Family Suite

Are you planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort and thinking about staying at Cabana Bay Beach Resort?  I had the opportunity to stay in both a standard room and a family suite on the same trip – here’s my thoughts on the two room types.

The Standard Room at Cabana Bay Beach Resort is perfect for couples, families or solo travellers (which I was when I was in it)

• Approximately 300 square feet
• Sleeps up to 4 guests
• Two queen beds
• Flat screen TV
• Mini-refrigerator
• Coffee maker
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Retro-inspired decor

The Standard Room provides enough space as would any standard hotel room. Its vintage design inspired by the 1950s and 60s added a unique charm.  My room was one with entrance from an interior hallway which was nice since I was there solo.

Family Suite: Spacious guest rooms for the whole family or for those who like a little more space.

If you have 5 or 6 guests, the Family Suite is a great alternative vs getting 2 standard rooms:

• Approximately 430 square feet
• Sleeps up to 6 guests (maximum occupancy)
• Two queen beds and a pull-out sofa
• Sliding privacy partition between the bedroom and living areas
• Kitchenette includes a mini-refrigerator, microwave, and small sink
• Split bathroom with shower and sink on one side, toilet and sink on the other
• Two flat-screen TVs
• Coffee maker
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Extra storage space in the closet

The Family Suite offers the perfect balance of togetherness and while offering some privacy.  If you’re staying for a longer period of time and don’t like to feel like you’re “on top of” each other, that extra space is nice!  I stayed in this room with 1 friend and it was perfect for us.  We each had our own bed which was really nice.  With the split bathroom it made it so much easier for us to get ready in the morning and when we came back to get changed for dinner at Universal Citywalk.  There were a few times where we just wanted to “chill” for a bit and have our tea & coffee – the living room gave us a comfy spot to do that without having to lay on the beds.

The Cabana Bay Experience

Regardless of which room type you choose, all guests at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort enjoy access to fantastic amenities, including:

• Two massive pools with sand beaches
• Lazy river
• 10-lane bowling alley (additional cost applies – reservations required)
• Fitness center
• Game room
• Starbucks right in the hotel for that early morning caffeine
• Complimentary transportation to Universal theme parks and Citywalk
• Close to Universal’s Volcano Bay
• Early Park Admission (conditions apply) to:
  • Universal Studios Florida,
  • Universal Islands of Adventure and
  • Universal Volcano Bay

Having access to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter an hour before the park opens is a fantastic bonus for guests!

If you are wondering about the food, the Bayliner Diner food court was a gem.  I really enjoyed meals here, especially the pizza.  One night I was late getting back to my room and really just wanted to chill and snack.  I ordered one of the small pizzas to go and enjoyed it while watching TV in my room.  I should also mention the breakfast, it was delicious as well!  It was just a great place to grab a bite and I never had trouble finding something I would like, and I never struggled to find a seat!

And how can I forget the bars?  There were some great spots to grab a drink, the Hideaway Bar, Atomic Tonic and of course the Swizzle Lounge in the lobby.  One night after the parks my friends and I decided to catch up over drinks and ended up staying a lot longer than we should have!  The friendly staff here really made it a great evening.

And… last but not least – Shakes Malt Shoppe!  I personally didn’t even get a chance to try it out, but I have heard fantastic things.  There was just never enough time!

I thoroughly enjoyed both of my stays at Cabana Bay.  I toured the resort at length, checked out the pools (didn’t swim, ran out of time) and I was amazed at how close it was to Volcano Bay.   The shuttle buses were quick and convenient from here, but the bus stop can be a bit of a walk depending on where your room is in the resort.

Would I stay here again?  Absolutely.  I think if I had 3 adults I would opt for the family suites, but solo or just 2 of us I would be happy in the standard room.

Have you stayed here?  What type of room did you have?