Loews Royal Pacific Resort is a slice of Polynesian paradise with theme park thrills only a short stroll away.
One of Universal Orlando’s Signature collection of hotels, Royal Pacific Resort is undoubtedly an elevated stay for theme park goers.
It's a favourite stay of ours for a number of reasons – not least because it’s the only place where we’ve checked into a luxury resort and gotten multiple theme park benefits in return.
But more on that later.
This deluxe-level hotel brings a lot to the table, especially for those planning a few high-energy days at Universal Orlando. Think tropical island vibes, a lagoon-style pool, comfy rooms, and a lobby that feels more like a beach resort than a theme park hotel.
It can be more like a beach resort, than theme park hotel
Your booking comes with serious perks
Now, we won’t pretend Royal Pacific is flawless.
First up - it’s not cheap. Room prices can climb to up to $900 per night, and sometimes higher, during peak season (but, at other times can be quite a bit cheaper - so it’s advisable to be flexible on dates if you can).
While it does come with some serious perks, it's not always easy or possible to justify that cost if you’re booking to a budget.
Also, while the public areas of the hotel are beautifully themed and polished, some guests feel the standard rooms aren’t quite as impressive as other parts of the hotel.
Whenever we’ve stayed here, our rooms have been comfortable, nicely decorated, and well-equipped. But, they don't quite compare to the five-star luxury hotels around the world at a similar price point.
But, when you weigh up what you’re getting for your money when it comes to the facilities overall and the Universal Orlando Perks that come with your stay here, the value equation swings firmly back in Royal Pacific’s favour - especially if you're travelling with a family,
Why we keep coming back
Staying at Royal Pacific gives you one of the biggest advantages at Universal Orlando … Unlimited Express Passes free for every guest, for every day of your stay (the theme park tickets themselves do still need to be purchased separately).
Now, these aren't lightweight or throwaway perks.
On paper, the face value is huge. The same passes can cost $150 to $250 per person per day when bought separately. With a family of four in one room, the cash-equivalent savings stack up quickly.
It means guests staying at Royal Pacific can zip past long queues for top rides like Jurassic World VelociCoaster, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and The Incredible Hulk Coaster. This genuinely frees up hours of your trip.
Combine that with Early Park Entry, which comes with stays at all the Universal Resort hotels, and gives guests access to the theme parks up to an hour before park opening, you can take so much stress out of your days at the parks.
All that is before we mention the unbeatable location. Royal Pacific is just a short walk or water taxi ride to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and CityWalk.
It makes for a fantastic way to start your day at Universal - so, you can see why this resort is such a favourite of ours.
Comfy rooms and standout suites
Rooms at Royal Pacific come with either two queen beds or a king.
The styling is somewhat subtle and calm, with tropical accents, and plush carpets.
There are plenty of power outlets (USBs included), and, we especially appreciated the mini-fridge and in-room coffee machine, too.
If you’re travelling as a family or want a bit more space, there are several suite options including the brilliant Jurassic World Family Suites, which give children their own themed sleeping area complete with gyrosphere beds.
Comfy guest rooms, with flexibility for family stays
Grown-ups get a proper bedroom and some peace and quiet. Win-win.
There’s also the option of booking neighbouring adjoining rooms, whilst is particularly helpful visiting with your extended family.
If guests want a more elevated experience, there’s the option to upgrade to Club Level rooms which add lounge access providing free snacks and continental breakfasts.
Hospitality and Presidential Suites are also available for the ultimate luxury experience.
Dining
The Islands Dining Room serves pan-Asian dinners with flair, while Jakes American Bar is a lively eaterie serving American classics with a twist.
Sushi fans will enjoy the Orchid Court Lounge, and for more casual bites, Tuk Tuk Market and the Bula Bar by the pool keep you topped up with burgers, wraps, drinks, and ice cream.
There’s also the weekly Wantilan Luau dinner show if you’re after an all-in-one night of Polynesian food and entertainment.
And when you’re ready to explore more, CityWalk’s restaurants are only a short stroll or boat ride away.
Pool time, playtime, and everything in between
The lagoon-style pool is one of the best in Orlando - with zero-entry access, hot tubs, and an interactive water play area for little ones. It was the perfect spot to relax and recharge after a busy morning in the parks.
For the ultimate pool day experience, private cabanas are available to rent complete with a TV and mini fridge stocked with water, soft drinks and fruit.
Kids will also love the arcade and resort-run activities such as Bingo and Trivia.
The gym is large and well-equipped, and the jogging paths around the tropical gardens are a lovely way to start the day.
To be honest, around the resort, it is very easy to forget you’re at a theme park hotel … well, it is until you spot the Minions merch in the lobby gift shop.
Why it’s a favourite stay
Loews Royal Pacific nails the balance of convenience and escapism.
It’s close to the parks (in fact you can get a glimpse of rides from some rooms), but it never feels chaotic.
It’s undoubtedly family-friendly, but also somewhere couples can enjoy a luxurious few days.
It’s got great food, great service, and really does feel like a slice of island paradise … with rollercoasters just around the corner.
And yes, we think the Express Pass benefit makes the price tag a lot easier to swallow, especially if you use it right and you avoid the priciest dates on the calendar.
Would we stay here again? Without Question!
