Cabana Bay vs Hard Rock

[Crow]

i can get an AP rate of $79 for cabana bay vs Hard Rock at $174. stayed at Royal Pacific last yr and liked it but its not showing an AP for my days...Jan 26-28
any opinions on those resorts

[Strmchsr]

Haven't stayed at Cabana Bay, but I've seen it. Those two is about like comparing a Disney value to deluxe. If you're going to use the hotel amenities at all, Hard Rock definitely has better amenities and a better deal on the Express Pass, but if you're only going to sleep there, Cabana Bay might be the way to go.

[Crow]

i liked the express Pass, but idk if i will need it as much during the last wk of January. and i might only be there a night or two.

[mickeyman42]

Hard Rock all the way. It's like comparing staying at ASMo vs the GF, night and day. the express pass is worth it hands down, even if you dont "need" it I would gladly take it every day of the week, rides will still get up to the 40-60 min wait, especially for the usual popular rides, plus the HR resort is amazing. we stayed there last Aug for 2 nights and were glad we did, we loved it so much that our kids (8 and 13) didnt want to leave, and they could care less about the disney resorts (and we've stayed AKL savannah view the last several trips) I say stay at the Hard Rock, and at that price its a steal

[buzznwoodysmom]

For me the main appeal of Universal is the ease of the vacation. So for me it would be Hard Rock all the way. I want to be able to walk to the parks, and I want Express Pass (no matter the time of year). So for me and my family it's a no brainer.

However, if location isn't a big concern to you, and you don't feel you need Express Pass then pick the resort that appeals to you more. Or if your trying to keep a budget in mind choose the cheaper option.

[Crow]

thanks for the input

[Crow]

booked HR..using delta vacations since i had a disney movie reward $250 off reward that had to be used. and it worked out about the same as bookin flight and annual pass rate separate. this will b my first orlando trip wo disney.
mainly booked HR to get the express pass and a little nicer place maybe than cabana

[NJGIRL]

The Hard Rock is a very nice hotel. You won't be sorry....plus it's steps away from the Studio entrance.

[Crow]

that and the express pass influenced me