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Overview
Sapphire Falls might just be my favorite resort at Universal Orlando. Its lush grounds and pool are complimented by open, airy interiors. A step up in price and amenities from Universal’s value resorts, this is a good midrange option. A large conference space makes this a popular spot for conventions too.
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The main lobby is airy and open. After entering, the front desk is on the left, a grab-and-go place is on the right, and a seating area is straight ahead at the opposite end. The seating area is under expansive windows with commanding views of the harbor with boats to CityWalk, and of the parks in the distance. Next to this seating area is Strong Water Tavern, an excellent rum bar open in evenings. Finally, hallways lead in three different directions to guest rooms.
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Sapphire Falls has an excellent pool area. It has a waterslide, pool bar, and plenty of loungers. The theming is very relaxing. Access it from the second level of the mill staircase. There is a beautiful waterfall area just outside the pool area. There is a gate to get to the path; look for the signs if lost. You probably noticed the waterfall if you took the boat to or from CityWalk. It is a beautiful and peaceful spot to relax.
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The mill staircase from the lobby leads downstairs to Amistata Cookhouse restaurant, and outside to the water taxi dock with service to CityWalk and the parks. Water taxis leave frequently and operate till quite late in the evening. Alternatively, take the walking path which goes to CityWalk, passing the Royal Pacific Resort enroute.
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Rooms
Rooms are arranged in one of three Guest Houses, named Guest House One, Two, or Three (simple enough) that each lead off from the lobby. Each guest house has its own elevators, so be sure to make note of which your room is in. The hallways are brightly lit and painted in an attractive blue.
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The rooms themselves are bright and uncluttered. They have a light beach theme. While the rooms are not particularly large, they don’t feel cluttered. Compared to the rooms at Universal’s value resorts like Cabana Bay or Aventura, the rooms at Sapphire Falls feel a bit more grown up, with nicer decor. However, the beds, TV size, and general furniture layout in the room are pretty much the same.
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Pros
The resort is very relaxing and feels bigger than it is. The lobby is very open and airy, with large windows providing both plenty of light and nice views of the property. To illustrate how the theming feels, the guest hallways have photographs of famous sites from the Caribbean, and the staircase from the lobby is themed to a sugar mill. In general, the theming is immersive but tasteful.
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One major pro is Strong Water Tavern, the rum bar right off the lobby. Not only does it have intriguing rum-based cocktails and rum flights, but it also has an extensive menu with dishes from all over the Caribbean (try the Ropa Vieja). Touching on the rum flights, I recommend doing one if you can. The bartender can curate a tasting based on various islands. For example, they could do an English Island rum tasing, a French Island rum tasting, and so on. However, it does get pretty busy during dinner time, especially on rainy nights. Similarly, Amatista Cookhouse downstairs gets quite busy at breakfast, so plan to go early or late, or wait.
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Cons
One problem at Sapphire Falls is its lack of a real counter service dining location. It has a cafe that serves Starbucks coffee, but it doesn’t serve much food besides light sandwiches and flatbreads. There isn’t a lot of seating, and it gets very busy. Strong Water Tavern and Amatista Cookhouse are both very good but are sit-down. Additionally, the Dhrum Club pool bar serves casual fare for lunch, but the hours are somewhat limited. Consequently, it is probably best to go off-resort for a casual or quick dinner. Of course, some visitors may enjoy the focus on sit-down restaurants, and this may be a benefit for such people.
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Conclusion
Sapphire Falls Resort might be my favorite resort at Universal Orlando Resort. Its moderate price range is matched by a relaxing vibe and central location. Moreover, the views from the water when going to and from CityWalk by boat are some of the best in all of Universal. Above all, guests should consider Sapphire Falls Resort whether traveling with kids, as a couple, or even just solo.
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Looking to book Sapphire Falls for your next Universal Orlando vacation? Click here to go to their webpage.
Want to read about another Universal resort? Explore Aventura Resort here.