Universal Studios Port Aventura in Spain is gearing itself up for its transformation from a theme park into a family resort with the opening of a water park and two four star hotels this spring.

The Universal Mediterranea Resort on the Costa Daurada will include Costa Caribe, a nine acre Caribbean-themed water park. Designed by Forrec, the park will feature an indoor beach plus an outdoor water play area with nine water slides, a wave pool, a seaplane replica and a river ride. Costa Caribe will be connected to the adjoining Port Aventura park.

The beachside 500-room Hotel Port Aventura, designed to recreate a Mediterranean village, and the Mexican themed Hotel El Paso will both be aimed at families and located within walking distance of the parks. Guests at the hotels will receive unlimited access to both parks plus express ride access.

'Universal Mediterranea is a totally diversified, truly comprehensive family destination with two world-class parks and the benefits of our location on the beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean,' said Greg Miller, managing director of Universal Mediterranea.

Shareholders in Universal Mediterranea include La Caixa, Universal Studios Recreation Group and Anheuser Bush.