Universal Surfside vs. Dockside, what Endless Summer Resort should you pick? This Universal Endless Summer Resort review will compare the Endless Summer resorts and help determine which is best for your Universal trip.
I have stayed at both Endless Summer resorts and have an overall positive review of them. They are value resorts so guests do have less amenities than the Premier and Signature hotels but they are a great budget friendly option.
Universal Endless Summer Resort Review
The Endless Summer Resorts offer standard and 2-bedroom suites at a budget friendly price. They are nearly identical in amenities and layout. The biggest difference is the decor and subtle differences.
One big perk of the Endless Summer Resorts is the location. Once Epic Universe opens in May it will be the best hotel at Universal to stay at because it is in-between Epic and the rest of the Universal Orlando Resort.
What is the Difference Between Dockside and Surfside at Universal
The difference is in the details. Both resorts offer the basics to guests, but the theme at the resorts are a little bit different. The dining is a little bit different too.
Endless Summer Dockside Resort has a lakeside by the docks vibe. Decor is a calming dockside vibe. Surfside is bright and themed with surf decor. They both are nicely decorated and are close to the Universal parks.
These differences do not make a clear winner on which Endless Summer resort is best. It is a personal preference. The only reason you may want to choose Dockside is it has been open less time so may be less in need of an update.
The biggest difference between the Universal resorts sister hotels is the theme and vibe of the decor. 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.
Also be sure to ask yourself some questions about what you are looking for in a hotel. If you are looking for larger hotels you may want to upgrade to a different Universal hotel that has the amenities you are looking for.
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.
2-Bedroom Suites at Universal Orlando
The Endless Summer resorts are so popular with families because they have 2-Bedroom suites.
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.
Dockside Inn & Suites
Dockside has a calm vibe with drift wood decor throughout the resort. There are two pools, a Starbucks, quick service dining, and Universal gift shop.
Dockside is larger than Surfside. There are two sets of towers with two pools. Dockside guests have shuttle bus transportation to and from the parks as well as early park admission.
Want to learn more? Read this detailed review: Review of 2-Bedroom Suite at Universal Dockside
Surfside Inn & Suites
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.
Surfside guests have complimentary transportation and early park admission.
Want to learn more? Read this detailed review: Universal Surfside 2-Bedroom Suite Review
Surfside vs. Dockside
You can’t really go wrong in choosing between the Endless Summer Resorts but let’s compare a few of the on-site amenities to help you decide.
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 and 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 a fitness center, pool and splash pad, and game room. Surfside Resort has a fitness center, pool, and game room. They do not have hot tubs.
Dockside Resort has a larger pool area. If you think you will spend a lot of time at the pool Dockside may be a better choice.
Final Thoughts
My personal preference is Dockside because of the more relaxed vibe in the lobby. Surfside is more vibrant and that may be what you are looking for.
Dockside has a larger pool and that was a big draw to us when the kids were smaller. Also keep in mind Dockside is double the capacity, expect more people staying at Dockside.
In regards to nightly rates they are not always the same. At times Dockside is higher and at times Surfside is. This is most likely related to occupancy at the time. When I am planning our trip I price out both resorts and choose the least expensive one.
Overall both are great places to stay at Universal. The Endless Summer resort have become our go-to when visiting Universal.
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Leah has been planning and writing about Universal trips since 2016. She loves finding the best places to eat and stay during her visits to the park. Leah enjoys the little details that make visiting the parks so immersive and special, and sharing that with her readers.
