Staying at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: A Slice of Italy in the Heart of Universal Orlando
When I think back on my week at Universal Orlando, one of the biggest highlights wasn’t even inside the parks—it was my stay at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. As Universal’s flagship luxury property, this resort doesn’t just give you a place to rest your head. It gives you an experience. And honestly? It’s one worth talking about.
First Impressions
The moment I arrived, I felt transported. Inspired by the Italian seaside village of Portofino, the hotel is all pastel facades, cobblestone piazzas, and boats bobbing in the water. Even though I was in Orlando, I could almost convince myself I had landed in Italy.
My Standard 2 Queen with a Plaza/Water View was stunning. Spacious (the largest standard rooms of any Universal property), beautifully decorated in Venetian-inspired hues of blue, and complete with a massive bathroom featuring double sinks and a walk-in shower—it struck the perfect balance of luxury and comfort.
Pro tip: the East Wing elevators are a bit of a trek from the lobby. Use bell services so you can stroll through the piazza unencumbered while your luggage makes its own journey.
Resort Amenities
Portofino Bay is the kind of place where you could spend an entire day without ever leaving the property.
● Three Pools, Three Vibes:
○ The Beach Pool – lively and family-friendly with a sandy entry, waterslide, splash pad, and poolside service.
○ The Villa Pool – serene and surrounded by greenery, ideal for relaxation.
○ The Hillside Pool – a hidden retreat where adults can read, nap, or enjoy peace and quiet.
● Weddings & Events: With ballrooms, white marble staircases, and professional planners, this resort doubles as a luxurious wedding destination. It also hosted our team’s Harry Potter–inspired soiree and awards night—complete with catered bites like chicken skewers, fried conch, and empanadas (all delicious!).
● Club Level Access: One of my favorite perks. The Club Lounge offers all-day snacks, three buffet-style meals, drinks you can take to the parks, and plenty of space to relax or work. For families, the value is undeniable. One meal here can easily offset the additional nightly cost.
Dining at Portofino Bay
Food was another standout during my stay.
● Sal’s Delicatessen quickly became my favorite spot. Their hot Italian sub was so flavorful I devoured it in minutes.
● The Café with Starbucks was my early-morning lifesaver, especially with its unique pastry lineup (the cinnamon chip scone was the best bite of my trip).
● Upscale options like Mama Della’s, Bice, and Trattoria del Porto round out the property, offering everything from hearty Italian classics to refined dining experiences.
Getting Around
One of the best perks of staying here is the complimentary transportation:
● Water Taxi: My personal favorite—relaxing, scenic, and just 5 minutes to CityWalk and the parks. They run every 10 minutes, and it feels like part of the experience rather than just a transfer.
● Shuttle Buses: Running every 10–15 minutes, with covered stops and even USB charging stations for the trip back to the hotel after a long park day.
Why Stay Here?
The Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is more than just a hotel—it’s part of the Universal Orlando experience. Between the Unlimited Express Passes (included for all guests), luxury amenities, and immersive Italian charm, it delivers both convenience and indulgence.
Whether you’re a family looking for space and value, a couple planning a romantic getaway, or even a group attending a conference, Portofino Bay offers something special. And if you can swing Club Level? Even better.
Final Thoughts
My six nights at Portofino Bay were unforgettable. From lounging poolside and indulging in subs and scones to zipping to the parks by water taxi, it set the perfect backdrop for my Universal adventure.
If you’re looking to pair theme park thrills with luxury resort vibes, this is the Universal Orlando stay you’ve been searching for reach out to Tracy for your next adventure!
