Picolo recommends · Hotel in Orlando, Florida
Loews Portofino Bay
Pastel houses around a little harbour, a water taxi waiting at the quay and Express Passes in your pocket for the day at Universal.
The day starts on the quay. A small boat leaves from the hotel's harbour and drops you near the Universal entrance, and the unlimited Express Passes that come with the room take you to the front of most queues.
Back at the hotel, the scenery is a copy of Portofino on the Italian Riviera: painted facades and a harbour you can stroll around in the evening when the parks have emptied.
Picolo’s verdict
Why we chose Loews Portofino Bay
It gives you the best of Universal and a calmer evening. The Express Passes alone change the shape of a park day, and the boat ride makes the commute feel like part of the holiday.
This is the most expensive of Universal's hotels. The included Express Passes make up much of the difference in peak weeks, but in quiet months you pay more for less benefit.
What you get
- Boat to Universal
- Unlimited Express Passes included
- Pool
- Restaurants on site
- Harbour promenade for evening strolls
A day at Loews Portofino Bay
- Morning
- Boat across to Universal as the gates open.
- Midday
- Straight to the front of the queues with Express.
- Afternoon
- Back to the pool when the parks fill up.
- Evening
- An evening walk round the harbour.
Location
Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando, Florida, USA
Open in MapsQuestions about Loews Portofino Bay
How do you get from Loews Portofino Bay to Universal?
A boat leaves from the hotel's own harbour and takes you to the park entrance. There is also a walking path.
Are Express Passes included at Loews Portofino Bay?
Yes, unlimited Express Passes for most rides are included with your stay, which saves a lot of queuing in busy periods.
Is Loews Portofino Bay worth the price?
In peak season the Express Passes cover much of the extra cost. In quiet months, when queues are short, a cheaper Universal hotel may make more sense.
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Updated 6 Nov 2026All articles
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