On Island Time

Inspired by the Caribbean, it's only fitting that Loews Sapphire Falls Resort - with its laid-back vibe, eye-catching rivers and splashing waterfalls - feels like an oasis amid the hustle and bustle of Orlando.

As you step onto the 2-year-old, 1,000-room property, you'll think you've entered a lovely estate in the tropics - a place that instantly puts you at ease. From the lobby, which has ruins of a stone turret, to the island charm of guest rooms, you'll feel your stress disappear and your excitement grow for an adventurous theme park vacation.

Sapphire Falls is one of six hotels within the Universal complex. Royal Pacific and Cabana Bay Beach resorts are its next-door neighbors. Other Loews resorts on the property are Portofino Bay; the Hard Rock Hotel; and Aventura, which opened last summer.

Sapphire Falls provides guests with an array of theme park perks, including free water taxis and early (but not express) entry to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Every Saturday, Universal characters such as Gru, Agnes, Edith, Margo and those wacky minions from "Despicable Me" show up for a character breakfast. Who can resist a selfie with a minion, after all?

We found it difficult to tear ourselves away from Sapphire Falls' magnificent 16,000-square-foot pool, complete with waterslide, kids' areas, two sandy beaches and a hot tub. There's no shortage of lounge chairs, so don't worry about finding a place to catch some rays. For those preferring privacy and shade, cabanas are available for rent. After the sun sets, Dive In Movies offer nightly screenings of family-friendly films.

The upscale resort's indoor spaces impressed us, too, with stylish contemporary décor and island accents. All rooms offer flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, iPod docks, premium bedding and home comforts such as coffee makers and refrigerators. Most bathrooms have large walk-in showers, although some have tubs.

Standard rooms are 321 square feet with two queen beds or one king. You can also book  lagoon- and pool-view rooms, some of which offer views of Hogwarts Castle, Doctor Doom's Fear Fall and other Islands of Adventure attractions. Generally, the higher the floor, the better the view. Families who want more space can book one of the suites, ranging from 529 square feet to 1,353 square feet.

If aquatic activities and theme park adventures aren't enough excitement for you, hit the Kalina Health and Fitness Center, overlooking the pool, or take a run on one of the scenic paths around the resort. And, if your kids can't live without video games, they're sure to enjoy the Calypso Game Room.

The hotel is a short walk (or boat ride) away from Universal's CityWalk, a 30-acre entertainment complex with dozens of clubs, restaurants and shops. Complimentary shuttle service is available to Universal's Volcano Bay, a water park centering on a 200-foot-tall volcano, Krakatau. Free boat service to and from the parks is another perk of the hotel.

Hungry? Not to worry. Guests at Sapphire Falls have several dining options, ranging from Amatista Cookhouse, a full-service restaurant next to the boat docks, to Drhum Club Kantine, a bar and grill with fresh seafood and drinks. Strong Water Tavern is known for its rum tastings, ceviche bar and patio overlooking the lagoon, whereas New Dutch Trading Co. is a Caribbean- style marketplace selling a variety of grab-and-go food.

Because Sapphire Falls, like most Loews hotels, is Fido-friendly, pets up to 75 pounds can join the family fun for an additional fee. Speaking of family: If your kids like a change of scenery after a day or two, you can pool-hop among the other Universal Orlando Resorts at no charge. Just use your room key to buy drinks or snacks.

Every Friday, the Caribbean Carnival invites guests to experience the vibrant colors, tastes and sounds of the Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica and Trinidad via a conga line, limbo contests, an endless buffet and drinks - all of which is included in the price of admission.

While it may be tempting to remain on the hotel grounds, the theme parks - Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay - are way too appealing to pass up. Be sure to plan enough time to enjoy it all. O Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is located at 6601 Adventure Way, Orlando.

For more information, call 888-430-4999 or visit loews hotels.com/sapphire-falls-resort.