The hype
Families love the space and pools but hate the check-in process and constant sales pressure.
Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
$115-229/ night
Book this if You need a massive multi-bedroom condo for a family reunion near Universal and have the willpower to say 'NO' to aggressive salespeople.
Why People Love It
- Huge villas with full kitchens and washer/dryers
- Seven heated outdoor pools and a legit water park on-site
- Proximity to Universal Studios and SeaWorld
Quick Take: A budget-friendly mega-resort that feels like a lottery: you either get a spacious renovated villa or a dated room with thin walls, all while dodging timeshare sharks in the lobby.
Reviewed by @theresawilson2624: Checking into Westgate Lakes felt like coming home. I loved the quiet evening walks under the string lights and the lake views were the perfect detox from the parks. Definitely make time for the Serenity Spa—it’s a total hidden gem.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'free' shuttle to Universal requires booking 48 hours in advance and fills up instantly; don't rely on it.
- You are traveling with a large family (6+ people) and need a kitchen
- You plan to spend days at the pool and don't mind paying extra for the water park
- You are immune to high-pressure sales tactics
Cleanliness & Maintenance
6.5
- Housekeeping: Non-existent during stay unless paid for. You are responsible for your own tidying.
- Bathroom hygiene: Hit or miss. Renovated units are clean; older units have reports of moldy grout and hair in tubs.
- Maintenance: Aging infrastructure. frequent complaints about broken ACs, peeling paint, and loose handles.
- Linens & towels: Industrial quality. Inspect mattress seams immediately for bed bugs (recent reports exist).
- Odors & scents: Older rooms can smell musty or like stale smoke. Renovated rooms smell fresh.
Sleepability™
5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Neighbor noise through connecting doors
- Exterior walkways and breezeways
- Turkey Lake Road traffic (for buildings near the road)
Before you book
Good to know
- Check-in is at 4pm, but the line can take an hour. Pre-register if possible.
- They will try to send you to a 'Welcome Center' to get your parking pass—this is a sales desk. You can often bypass it.
- A $50-$200 security deposit hold is placed on your card at check-in.
What to pack
- Dish soap and sponge (kitchens are stocked with bare minimum)
- Extra toilet paper and trash bags (housekeeping is not daily)
- Earplugs or white noise machine
Room Genie
Best picks
- Building 1000 (Renovated)
- Building 4000 (Often cited as better condition)
- Buildings 500, 1200, 1300 (Renovated villas)
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor units near pool gates (noise)
- Non-renovated units in older buildings (musty smell, worn carpet)
- Room 1418 (Specific bed bug report)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a high-floor unit in a recently renovated building (specifically requesting Building 1000, 1200, or 4000). Please ensure the unit is NOT a lock-off connecting room if possible, to minimize noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the water park free for guests?
No. Admission is ~$25 per person/day. Multi-day passes are available ($40 for 3 days).
Do I have to attend the timeshare presentation?
NO. They will offer you free tickets or dining credits, but you are under NO obligation. Just say 'No thank you' firmly and walk away.
Is there a shuttle to Disney?
No free shuttle to Disney. There is a limited free shuttle to Universal, but you must reserve it 48 hours in advance.
Are the pools heated?
Yes, all 7 outdoor pools are heated, which is a major perk for winter visits.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, but it costs $150 (non-refundable) + $100 refundable deposit. 2 dogs max, up to 60lbs combined.
Is parking free?
Mostly yes. Self-parking is generally free in the garages, but spaces fill up fast at night.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Skip the on-site pizza; order delivery from a local spot instead (drivers can meet you at the lobby).
- ✨
The 'Marketplace' is overpriced. There is a Walmart Supercenter just 5 minutes down Turkey Lake Road.
- ✨
If you arrive early, you can use the pools and water park before your room is ready.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'VIP' line at check-in is often slower than the regular line because they pitch you longer.
💡You have to strip your own beds and take out your own trash at checkout to avoid potential extra fees.
💡The WiFi included in the resort fee is capped at a certain speed; 'premium' speed costs extra.
💡Some 'lake views' are actually 'retention pond views' with a side of highway noise.
💡The elevators in the parking garages are frequently out of order.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa is located and what's nearby.