We have been to SeaWorld and its sister parks many times. We have found that there are two great hotels we like near SeaWorld. They do not give "VIP passes" or QuickQueue passes for staying at the nearby hotels unless there is a special package. The first being the Renaissance Hotel @ SeaWorld. It is across the street from SeaWorld. Therefore, in order to get to SeaWorld you simply need to exit the hotel, walk across the street, and through the parking lot and then you are there. The lobby is nice, rooms are above average, and they have a delicious breakfast restaurant. This restaurant ( I believe it is called Trailwinds) has a buffet as well as a menu. The food is great and it is reasonably priced. The pool and activites at the hotel are nothing special. However, they do have a Starbucks shop, gym, and I believe a spa. The second option being the Hilton Orlando. In order to get to SeaWorld, you would have to drive; however, depending on what you want it may be worth it. This hotel is much larger and nicer but it is still relatively inexpensive for a hotel in Orlando. The rooms are great as well as the service. It is a relatively new hotel. They too have a lovely breakfast restaurant- buffet and menu. This buffet is a little smaller than the one at the Renaissance but still good. However, this hotel has more activities. They have a basketball court, vollyball court, pool with a slide, lazy river, pool bar, huge state-of-the-art gym, and spa. In addition, they have a little market store with food and gelato. It depends on what you want. Don't forget to check for special offers. I hope this helps! Keep us posted on what you decide to do!