Are you comparing the Universal Endless Summer resorts to see what is the best choice for your Universal Orlando trip? I have stayed at each of the resorts numerous times with my family of five and they both offer great accommodations for your stay at Universal. Today I am sharing the differences between Dockside and Surfside at Universal to help you pick the best one for your vacation.
I have stayed at both of the Universal Endless Summer resorts and have an overall positive review of them. They are in the Value inns and suites resort category and have less amenities than the Premier or Signature hotels, but they offer a lot of space at a budget friendly price.
The Endless Summer resorts are located between Epic Universe and the original Universal Orlando Resort parks, it is a perfect location if you are visiting all the parks. They also offer early park admission and shuttle bus service to and from the resorts and the parks.
The biggest difference you will find in these resorts are the decor, slight difference in the pools, and at times cost. There are times when one resort is priced higher than the other, and this usually is impacted by hotel capacity.
If you are considering an Endless Summer resort for your trip you really can’t go wrong with either choice, but lets get into the little difference to help you decide on the best one for your trip.
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Universal Endless Summer Resorts- My Experience
I have stayed at both of the Universal Endless Summer Resorts and honestly there is not much of a difference. They both offer 2-bedroom family suites that are identical to each other except for subtle decor differences.
The 2-bedroom family suites are a game changer when traveling with a family of 5 or more and we loved that we had two resorts to choose from when planning our trips. The resorts are becoming a popular choice for families because of the affordability and the proximity to the parks.
Endless Summer Resorts, Dockside and Surfside, are centrally located between the main hub of Universal Orlando that includes Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Volcano Bay and Universal CityWalk and the newest park Epic Universe. If you are planning a visit to all the parks you may want to consider these resorts for the shorter shuttle bus rides.
Universal Endless Summer Resorts Quick Comparison
| Dockside Inn & Suites | Surfside Inn & Suites |
| -lakeside theme -standard & 2-bedroom suites -quick service, 2 bar lounges, Starbucks -shuttle bus to all parks -slightly larger pool size & splash pad | -surfing theme -standard & 2-bedroom suites -quick service, 1 bar/lounge, Starbucks -shuttle bus to all parks -surfboard shaped pool |
Surfside vs. Dockside- Comparison
As I mentioned earlier, both offer great accommodations but I want to share the differences in all the little things that can make or break a theme park trip.
Location & Transportation
The Endless Summer Resorts are located across the street from each other. During the low season they may share shuttle bus transportation. I have been there when they do and when they don’t and you can never really predict it.
The resorts are not close enough to walk to Epic Universe. Some guests may choose to walk to the main hub but it is not a short walk and the bus provides the best transportation to and from the parks.
Atmosphere
Dockside Inn & Suites has a calm vibe with drift wood decor throughout the resort. It is slightly larger than Surfside Inn & Suites and has two sets of towers with two pools. . There are two pools, a Starbucks, quick service dining, and Universal gift shop. Read this detailed review: Review of 2-Bedroom Suite at Universal Dockside
Surfside is bright and colorful. Most of the decor is surfboards and there is a great surfboard photo-op in the lobby. The layout has two towers with the pool in the center. Read this detailed review: Universal Surfside 2-Bedroom Suite Review
Dining
Dockside Resort dining options are: Pier 8 Market a grab and go food court style option for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They have pizza delivery, Starbucks, Sunset Lounge, The Oasis Beach Bar and The Wave Makers Pool bar.
Surfside Resort dining has Beach Break café a grab and go food court for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They have pizza delivery, lobby Starbucks, and Sand Bar by the pool.
Pools
Dockside Resort has two large pools, a splash pad, and a sand bar. These pools have more space for playing and swimming around. Surfside Inn & Suites has one pool in the shape of a surfboard. The pool is more of a chill pool and can feel crowded on busier days. Neither of the resorts have hot tubs.
Amenities
Both resorts offer pool side activities, fitness center, game room, and a Universal store. Check with the front desk to see what activities are offered during your visit.
Cost
The room rates for Endless Summer fluctuate with the seasons and capacity of hotel. Often these resorts hosts school teams and competition making them busier and priced higher.
At times Dockside is priced higher and other times Surfside is. On my latest check Surfside was $285.00 a night and Dockside was $219.00 a night for the 2-bedroom suites. Check the latest Surfside Inn and Dockside Inn rates.
2-Bedroom Suites at Universal Endless Summer Resorts
The Endless Summer resorts are popular with families because they have 2-Bedroom suites at an affordable rate.
The 2-Bedroom family suites fit 6 in the 440 square feet room. There are 2 bedrooms: one with a single queen bed and one with 2 queen beds. There is also a kitchenette are with a picnic table, microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker. The bathroom has a separate bath and vanity areas as well.
The suites make traveling with a large family much easier and it is why the Endless Summer Resort are at at the top of our best hotels at Universal for families list.
Universal Endless Summer Resorts- Which Should You Choose?
My personal preference is Dockside because of the overall relaxed vibe and the larger pools. Surfside is more vibrant and the surfboard theme is really well done. The larger pool was a big draw to us when the kids were smaller.
The difference is in the details at these resorts. Both resorts offer the basics to guests, but the theme at the resorts are a little bit different. Keep in mind Dockside is double the capacity, expect more people staying at Dockside. If you want a smaller resort feel Surfside may be a better choice.
These differences do not make a clear winner on which Endless Summer resort is best. It is a personal preference. On all of our visits we were happy with our stays at both of these resorts.
My advice is to choose the one you are drawn too. If you are looking for a value resort that offers a lot of value for the price the Endless Summer resorts will be a good choice. Overall both are great places to stay at Universal. The Endless Summer resort have become our go-to when visiting Universal.
Planning a family trip to Universal Orlando? Read my Universal Orlando Guide for all the planning details, tips, hotel reviews, and how to plan your day at the parks.
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Leah has been traveling with her family of 5 since 2012 and sharing her expertise on planning family vacations and visiting theme parks since 2016. Leah has been featured in Visit Rochester, Undercover Tourist, and Home Publications. She has worked with brands like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Hersheypark, Toyota, and various Tourism boards and destinations. Leah creates family travel itineraries based on real trip experiences with her family. Her guides and tips help others plan great family vacations. Learn more about Leah and Five for the Road.