Portofino Bay , Royal Pacific, or Hardrock Hotel?

Hard Rock Hotel all the way. Closest to the parks and the best pool.

Hard Rock is the best of the three (we’re here now). Portofino is ok, but very long walks to get anywhere. It can be 1/4 mile walk from the lobby to your room. I’d still stay at any of the three over the new Universal hotels just for the express pass.

If the main goal is the express pass and you’ve got 4 days of tickets, I think you’re better off at Cabana Bay and upgrading to annual passes then using the annual pass discount to purchase the express pass.

Now, if you want the deluxe resort amenities and accommodations I’d say Hard Rock but I like the poolside suites at Cabana Bay and how easy/close it is to Volcano Bay (and still walkable yo city walk if you want), bowling alley, etc