From the press release:
ORLANDO, Fla. (March 31, 2014) – Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort officially welcomes its first guests today. This brand-new value and moderately-priced property is the fourth on-site hotel at Universal Orlando Resort and evokes the classic, retro-feel of iconic beach resorts from the 1950s and 60’s.
Located on-site at Universal Orlando Resort, the new hotel is a destination within itself – featuring a stunning design with bold colors, retro-inspired architecture and sweeping vistas that transport guests back to a time of relaxation and endless family fun. Cabana Bay guests can experience incredible amenities throughout the hotel, including:
- Bowling a strike at the 10-lane Galaxy Bowl
- Channeling the godfather of fitness at the Jack LaLanne Physical Fitness Studio
- Racing down the iconic dive tower waterslide and splashing into a 10,000 square foot zero-entry pool in the Cabana Courtyard
- Enjoying a retro-themed specialty cocktail from Swizzle Lounge or Atomic Tonic
- Finding something delicious for the entire family at Bayliner Diner, a food court with something for everyone to enjoy including a salad bar, burgers, sandwiches, pizza, pasta and grab-and- go items
- And this summer, guests will be able to enjoy even more incredible amenities, including a second 8,000-square-foot zero entry pool, Universal Orlando’s first lazy river at an on-site hotel, The Hideaway Bar & Grill, and additional moderately-priced family suites and value-priced standard guest rooms. When complete, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort will feature a total of 1,800 rooms – 900 family suites and 900 standard guest rooms.
Starting today, guests can stay in a family suite, which sleeps up to six people and includes a fold-out foam bed, kitchenette, a sliding partition for privacy, two flat-screen TVs and a bathroom with preparation spaces for three people at once. Cabana Bay guests also get exclusive benefits only available to on-site hotel guests at Universal Orlando, including Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the theme park opens.
Rates for the family suites begin at $174 per-night, and can run as low as $134 per-night depending on the length of stay. Rates for the standard guest rooms – which will be available this summer – begin at $119 per night, and can run as low as $93 per-night depending on the length of stay.
“We’ve sought to create a special place where families can spend time together and create long-lasting memories outside of the theme parks,” said Russ Dagon, Vice President and Executive Project Director, Universal Creative. “From the moment they step inside, families will be transported back to a different, more relaxing time.”
“We are thrilled to finally welcome guests into Cabana Bay Beach Resort,” said Adnan Bizri, Managing Director, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort. “This is the perfect addition to Universal Orlando’s already stellar line-up of properties, allowing families to continue a wonderful vacation well beyond the theme parks.”
There are also several videos showcasing the resort and its amenities — they are pretty darn fun!:
Heidi Swank says
I want to go there! Wow. That looks amazing.
Robin, NV says
Wish we could upload photos. I have historic photos of the bowling alley at the military base where I work. Sooo 60s.
Keusadilla says
I live about 30 minutes from the resort and have been so anxiously waiting the opening of it! I will definitely spend a day or two there at the pool. I really wish I was on the team that created this place!
Kate says
I’m jealous! If I lived that close, I’d for sure be there sipping a cocktail at the pool! 🙂
Erin in Ohio says
The bartenders at The Atomic Tonic know what they’re doing. Delicious cocktails! Sip the Swizzle Rum Punch slowly. 🙂
midmichigan says
I love it!!! They did a fantastic job! A lot of googie goin’ on! Nice touch with the old Brunswick crown logo on the lanes’ masking units. They used to light up red when you bowled a strike.
kiki says
The moment I saw the theming of this resort I knew I HAD to go ! It is perfection!
Already had a trip to orlando planned for next Feb- staying her overnight for sure !
Erin in Ohio says
My husband and I are headed there in just one month! I am counting down…especially after this post! My retro bathing suits are ready…now Virginia has me thinking about a swim cap…. 🙂
virginia says
Swim cap for sure — along with Coppertone lotion and appropriate flats and towels! Fortunately, one can also now go to ZuLilly in search of for the moment suitable 50sand 60s swim suits. Super flattering along with white framed sun glasses.
Bring on the ice-cold Cherry or Vanilla Coke
Laurie Louise says
Woo hoo! Let’s have a Retro Reno convention!
Mary Elizabeth says
Woo-hoo! I really want to play in that bowling alley! I need to sew some 1950s and 1960s outfits before I go. Let’s see:
1) a sundress with a halter top and gathered skirt, ballet slippers
2) a shirtwaist dress, low heels and pearls
3) jeans with a white shirt, collar turned up small bandana tied around neck, Keds
4) bellbottoms, “poorboy” sweater, hoop earrings, hippie beads, platform shoes
Mary Elizabeth says
The ballet slippers should be Pappagalo’s.
Janet in CT says
Wow! I need to lose some weight so I can wear all the Wrangler shorts I saved that are mid-sixties. And my hippie outfits and platform shoes from the late sixties. Sounds like alot of fun and just my type of place! Unfortunately, most of what I have is wool skirts, suits, jumpers and wraparounds that are just not suitable for warm weather, darn it!
Diane in CO says
You nailed it, Mary Elizabeth! hahaha……
In fact, Papagallo is responsible for my bunions – lived in those little low-cut flats in the ’60s!!
virginia says
Cool idea. They are reasonably priced too. The folks doing the videos should be dressed appropriately though! Bring on Jane Bryant.
What’s nice is to think that this will be open to anyone, unlike what occurred in reality back in the day. Nostalgia is a good, fun thing but we should never forget.
Love the bowling alley and wonder if true die hard girls and ladies will be tempted to don their swim caps! Great hotel lobby too. What I don’t get is the large, odd, tiered tower over the pool. Gather it’s a water tower of some sort.
Chris says
Pam — I think you and Kate need to go there, stay there, and do a review! 🙂
pam kueber says
Yes, I agree! We’ll be in Fort Lauderdale in 6 weeks for The Hukilau, maybe we should detour up to Orlando for a few days after!
Michael says
I hope you would pack some retro resort wear and cabana suits for the occasion. What fun!