Universal Orlando taking reservations for new hotel

By Jerry Limone

Universal Orlando Resort said the reservations book is open for the Cabana Bay Beach Resort, an 1,800-room hotel scheduled to open in early 2014.

Reservations are being accepted for stays beginning on March 31, 2014.

The hotel, the fourth within Universal Orlando, will “evoke the classic, retro feel of iconic beach resorts from the 1950s and '60s,” Universal Orlando said.

An area located around the North Courtyard will open first, followed later in 2014 by an area located around the South Courtyard.

Guests will have two room options: a standard guestroom or a 430-square-foot family suite that sleeps six. Family suite rates will begin at $174 per night; standard room rates will begin at $119 per night.

Package rates are available with savings based on length of stay. Universal Orlando said that a family of four can stay for seven nights for $47 per person, per day — including accommodations and tickets to both Universal Orlando theme parks.

When complete, there will be two pool complexes with sand beaches, a lazy river, a 10-lane bowling alley, a food court and a game room.

Alice Norsworthy, executive vice president of marketing and sales at Universal Orlando Resort, said that Cabana Bay will be a “value-driven option for families that want to stay within the Universal Orlando Resort.”

Loews Hotels will operate the resort.