If you want to stay inside the Universal Orlando resort bubble without spending big, Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites is the one to look at first.
Guests say it’s cheerful, clean, and stylish for a Value-tier property.
Essentially, it is the kind of place that keeps your holiday budget intact, so you can prioritise activities and experiences around Orlando, without feeling like you’ve compromised.
Surfside is right next door to its sister resort, Dockside Inn and Suites, together forming the Endless Summer duo.
Both resorts deliver the same Universal perks: Early Park Admission, free shuttle buses to the theme parks, and the ability to charge purchases to your room. But Surfside stands out for aesthetic, smaller footprint and slightly calmer, more chilled atmosphere.
Let's explore what accommodation options there are for guests, and what you can expect if you stay here.
Modern beach vibes at Universal
As you might expect, given the resort's name, surf theme runs right through the hotel's public spaces from the lobby, which guests typically describe as “fresh, bright, and welcoming.”
Wood panels shaped like waves and retro surfboards set the California-beach tone, while smart seating areas with charging points make it easy to relax or catch up before heading to the parks.
It’s one of the newer hotels in the Universal portfolio, and it shows. Guest reviews often mention that Surfside feels more modern and more comfortable than you may expect at this price point.
The accommodation options
Surfside has 750 rooms, including nearly 400 two-bedroom suites.
These two categories are identical in design to Dockside’s, just with a lighter, bluer colour palette that feels more coastal.
Whilst it's in a similar price point to other 'value' options in Orlando, at both Endless Summer resorts the accommodation is in the typical hotel style. In other words, they are accessed via indoor hallways, rather than 'motel-sytle' walkways on the outside.
Guests say this makes Endless Summer feel safer and more like a proper hotel.
There’s also the option to upgrade and book a pool-view suite, overlooking Surfside’s surfboard-shaped pool and the small lake beyond.
Standard rooms
The standard rooms are around 313 square feet and come with two queen beds, a small table, and a bathroom divided into sink and shower areas.
The look is bright and beach-inspired, and although the rooms are somewhat basic, they’re practical, well laid out and clean.
In-room storage is practical, and to an extent 'substance-over-style.
There’s space for suitcases under the bed, a few drawers, and some well-placed hooks.
Two-bedroom suites
The two-bedroom suites are Surfside’s biggest draw and among the best-value family rooms anywhere in Orlando.
Two-bedroom suites sleep up to six guests, with each suite including three queen beds (two in one room, one in another), a kitchenette with fridge, microwave, sink and coffee maker, and a picnic-style dining table that doubles as a workspace.
At around 440 square feet, these suites offer far more room than most Disney or Universal Value-level hotels.
These are a hit with parents who appreciate the separate bedroom, with the privacy of having their own door.
Who is Surfside for?
Surfside is designed mainly for families, couples, and groups who want Universal perks without the premium price tag.
The two-bedroom suites are great for families of five or six get, and for an Orlando theme park hotel the price point is exceptional value for these bigger groups.
Couples and smaller groups (up to 4) find the standard rooms perfectly adequate for a short theme park break, and it is especially popular for guests who prioritize their budget for spending on food, activities and experiences.
Guests who want to most of their time exploring and experiencing the Orlando theme parks the Endless Summer resorts should give you everything you need.
How it compares to nearby hotels
Surfside’s sister property Dockside Inn and Suites is nearly identical in layout and pricing, though some guests find Dockside busier due to its slightly larger size.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a bit more upmarket, but still very affordable.
In Universal's 'Prime Value' category and overlooking Volcano Bay, Cabana Bay is a popular choice that comes with some extra facilities compared to Endless Summer. Cabana Bay adds a lazy river, waterslides, and retro theming, while Aventura Hotel offers modern rooms and a rooftop bar.
Further up the scale are Universal's 'signature' resorts - Royal Pacific and Hard Rock Hotel - which deliver deluxe experiences, luxury surroundings, and the most "big deal" Universal resort perk of them all, the 'free' Express Passes. These resorts are, however, a lot more expensive.
Verdict
Surfside Inn and Suites does exactly what a Value resort should: it keeps things simple, stylish, and affordable while delivering all the essentials that make a Universal trip easy.
Rooms are clean and bright, suites are spacious, and the vibe is fun without being chaotic.
It shouldn't be a surprise that Surfside Inn and Suites is one of Universal Orlando’s most popular resort hotels.
In case you missed it ...
What room types and sizes are available at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites?
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites offers standard rooms around 313 sq ft with two queen beds and two-bedroom suites around 440 sq ft that sleep up to six.
What features do the two-bedroom suites at Surfside Inn and Suites include?
Surfside Inn and Suites two-bedroom suites provide three queen beds, a kitchenette with fridge, microwave, sink and coffee maker, plus a picnic-style dining table that doubles as a workspace and a separate bedroom door.
What Universal hotel perks do Surfside guests receive?
Surfside Inn and Suites guests get Early Park Admission, free shuttle buses to the theme parks, and the ability to charge purchases to their room.
How does Surfside compare to Dockside, Cabana Bay, Aventura Hotel, and Universal’s deluxe resorts?
Surfside Inn and Suites mirrors Dockside but feels calmer, while Cabana Bay adds a lazy river and waterslides, Aventura offers modern rooms and a rooftop bar, and deluxe Royal Pacific and Hard Rock include “free” Express Passes at a higher price.
Who is Surfside Inn and Suites best for?
Surfside Inn and Suites suits value-focused families, couples and groups, with two-bedroom suites ideal for five or six and standard rooms fitting up to four for short stays.
