Universal Dockside vs Surfside, what Endless Summer Resort is better? This post will compare Endless Summer Dockside vs Surfside 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.
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.
When planning your trip here are a few things to consider to help you decide whether to stay at Dockside or Surfside at Universal.
Universal Dockside vs Surfside
Dockside Inn & Suites and Surfside Inn & Suites are the Endless Summer Resorts at Universal Orlando. Both 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. They are located pretty much equal distance from Epic Universe and Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Bus transportation is available to all parks from the resort.
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
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. The dining is a little bit different too.
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.
2-Bedroom Suites at Universal Orlando
The Endless Summer resorts are 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.
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.
Cost
There does not seem to be an expected cost to either of these resorts. At times Dockside is priced higher and other times Surfside is. I suggest checking nightly rates and choosing the one that is the best deal for your travel dates. Check the latest Surfside Inn and Dockside Inn rates.
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.
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.
