Amenities at Hard Rock vs Portofino?

Question

Our plans changed, and we will now be having a full day at whatever resort we pick, and wondering for a family of 4 (twin 13 year old boys) which resort has better pool/activities etc; Hard Rock, or Portofino?

I am getting mixed messages on if they have a slide or not. Has anyone been recently to tell me if either pool has a slide? Do not except water park type, but also do not want toddler only type.

Thank you!!

Answer

When comparing the Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando for a full day stay with a family of four (twin 13-year-old boys), both resorts offer appealing amenities, but they cater to slightly different experiences. Your choice may depend on whether you prioritize a more vibrant, music-themed atmosphere or a themed Italian luxury experience.

Pools and water features:

Hard Rock Hotel: The pool area is large and lively, featuring a sand beach entry and plenty of lounge chairs. There is a poolside bar and food service, along with music-themed décor. Critically for your age group, the Hard Rock pool has a moderately sized waterslide that is suitable for older kids and teens—not just toddlers—so your 13-year-olds will enjoy it. There are also hot tubs and cabanas for relaxing.
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: This resort offers a more serene, Italian village-style pool environment. The pool is large and has a splash area suitable for younger children, but the water slide options are limited compared to Hard Rock. While the atmosphere is elegant and scenic, older kids may find fewer active water features compared to Hard Rock. There is a poolside bar and quiet areas for adults to relax.

Activities beyond the pool:

Both resorts offer complementary shuttle service to Universal theme parks, early park admission, and on-site dining.
Hard Rock Hotel has a more energetic vibe, often hosting family-friendly events and games by the pool. Teens may enjoy the atmosphere with music and occasional activities geared toward older kids.
Portofino Bay focuses more on a relaxing, upscale resort feel, with walking paths, gondola-style decor, and quieter entertainment options. While still family-friendly, teens may find less interactive activity on the property itself.
Both resorts offer fitness centers, arcades, and dining options catering to families, but Hard Rock tends to have a more casual, high-energy appeal that can be more fun for teenagers.

Summary:

If your 13-year-old twins enjoy slides, a more animated pool atmosphere, and a lively, music-themed environment, Hard Rock Hotel is the better choice for a day on property.
If your family prefers a picturesque, quieter Italian-themed setting with a more relaxing vibe and scenic surroundings, Portofino Bay Hotel is ideal, but note the lack of large slides or more “teen-focused” pool activity.

Overall, for a full-day resort experience with activities for teens, Hard Rock provides more interactive fun and water features suitable for older kids, including a waterslide, while Portofino Bay offers a more tranquil, elegant environment that may appeal more to adults or younger children.

Amenities at Hard Rock vs Portofino?

More Orlando Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions