Romantic Trips

The Top Six Resorts in Virginia Beach for a Perfect Stay

An ideal vacation needs the perfect accommodations, and there’s plenty to choose from in Virginia Beach.

Resorts in Virginia Beach are as diverse as the surrounding nature. There are options for every budget and taste. You can choose among those located on the famous Oceanfront, the Town Center, Chesapeake Bay, and other city districts.

Families on vacation and solitary nature explorers alike can find the resort that fits their needs. Take a look at our list of the six top resorts in Virginia Beach and decide on the perfect one.

Turtle Cay Resort

_{Simpleviewinc.com. (2023). Available at: https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/fetch/c_limit,q_75,w_1200/https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/crm/virginiabeachva/Outdoor-Pool—Waterfall.b—Turtle-Cay_923FED05-EF14-4946-BE78C7510D2B62AA_47bdd906-351d-49c5-8eb0d4b5268dc647.jpg}

Located at the south end of the city and right between the ocean and Lake Holly, this resort has a range of accommodations. Here you can choose between studios and suites of different sizes. Since Turtle Cay Resort is further away from the most active areas, it’s relatively peaceful and quiet.

The resort features two swimming pools and the city beach is very near. The swimming pools are very nice looking, with plenty of greenery and rock-like decorations. There are kid sections and even a mini-waterfall.

If you’re up for some relaxing and fishing, you can go to the small yet charming Lake Holly right across the road.

Hyatt House Virginia Beach

The Hyatt House is on the Boardwalk, overlooking the ocean. The Oceanfront hotel offers rooms with a perfect view. All balconies face the water, and the rooms are spacious and comfortable.

Hyatt House Virginia Beach focuses on going green and offers optional services to that end.

The hotel has an indoor swimming pool, a fitness room, an excellent restaurant, and a store. It’s also worth mentioning that the hotel is pet-friendly. And the central location of Hyatt House guarantees you’ll always be just minutes away from the city attractions.

Belvedere Beach Resort

_{Oyster.com. (2023). Available at: https://www.oyster.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/35/2019/05/pool-v3525349-1440.jpg}

For the ideal family vacation, there are not many hotels as convenient as Belvedere Beach Resort. While it’s on the Boardwalk, the more relaxed northern-end location means the area’s less crowded. At the same time, the beach is right there, as are the restaurants, cafes, and shops. If you like golfing, the Princess Anne Country Club is in close proximity.

The retro-styled rooms are cozy and very functional. While some have a real kitchen area, all of the rooms have mini-fridges and microwave ovens. Depending on the room, you’ll be able to see more or less of the ocean from the balcony.

There’s also a heated pool outside, and guests can take the hotel bikes out for a ride.

The Founders Inn and Spa

The Founders Inn and Spa offers a different experience compared to other popular resorts. It’s far away from the ocean, located in the countryside.

Rather than the Atlantic, there are several gorgeous, small lakes and the Elizabeth River nearby. A lovely English garden surrounds the resort that overlooks a clear lake. The resort is pet-friendly, and there’s a dedicated dog park within the estate.

The rooms are stylish and comfortable, as is the entire resort interior. You can get accommodations with a view of either the lake or the garden. In any case, a beautiful sight will be there every time you take a look outside. And if you happen to get one of the rooms with a fireplace, you’ll enjoy the time spent inside even more.

The Founders Inn and Spa features two excellent restaurants. And the eponymous spa is worth mentioning, as it has many special treatments available. This resort is a great opportunity for rest and relaxation for those who don’t need to spend every day at the beach.

Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront

_{Staticflickr.com. (2023). Available at: https://live.staticflickr.com/7892/44629847720_3e89dcdf17_b.jpg}

This resort is one of many near the Boardwalk. It’s right next to Neptune’s Park and the famous Neptune Statue. The resort is modern and luxurious, banking on the world-renowned level guaranteed by the Hilton brand. While not all rooms have an ocean view, all are still very enjoyable with cozy beds and flat-screen TVs.

The infinity swimming pool at the rooftop overlooks the Atlantic. There’s a hot tub right next to it offering the same amazing view. The hotel has an indoor pool as well and a gym to satisfy every fitness enthusiast.

You’ll also find a restaurant and a top-class steakhouse in Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront. So make sure to try the phenomenal Wagyu steaks there – it’s a memorable culinary experience.

Talking about Hilton, there’s another resort of the same brand a minute’s walk away. The Hilton Garden Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront offers similar amenities. The style of this hotel is slightly different, though. If you’re up for the Hilton experience, check out both resorts to find out which one suits you better.

Four Sails Resort

Google.com. (2019). Available at: https://www.google.com/travel/hotels/entity/CgsI6qGfm4ms5NCpARAB/photos?

Located at the north of the Boardwalk, the Four Sails Resort is right in the center of Virginia Beach activity. This resort is best suited for group vacations. The rooms have a scaled-down, very tasteful decor, which is the overall style of the hotel. Its spacious living rooms and kitchens featured in the suites make them perfect for families.

You can enjoy a wonderful view of the ocean as well as Jacuzzi tubs in some suites. If you’d like to sit down for refreshments, the resort has a cafe on the very Boardwalk. Breakfast and Wi-Fi are, of course, a given. The hotel also features a fitness center and an indoor swimming pool.

Choose the Best Place to Enjoy Your Virginia Beach Vacation

Your stay in Virginia Beach will undoubtedly be pleasant and fun. There’s nature to explore, plenty of places to visit, and various activities to engage in. Once you pick the perfect accommodation, you’re guaranteed to have the best experience possible.

Our list of the best resorts in Virginia Beach will point you in the right direction and you’ll enjoy a memorable vacation.

Related Topics:oceanfront cafes VA swimming resorts food & drinks boardwalk beaches restaurants virginia beach hotels

Up Next

Newcastle on the Cheap – What to Do on Your Next Trip

Don't Miss

Here’s Where Nature Lovers Should Go When Visiting Virginia Beach

California

Oceanside’s Surfing Scene: A Beginner’s Guide

If you’ve ever dreamed of catching your first wave, Oceanside, California, is the perfect place to start. With its laid-back vibe, warm sandy beaches, and surf culture woven into everyday life, this coastal city welcomes beginners looking to dip their toes (and boards) into the sport of surfing. Whether you’re brand new to the ocean or just brushing up on your skills, Oceanside has everything you need to get started.

Why Oceanside Is Great for Beginners

Yeeew.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.yeeew.com [Accessed 29 Aug. 2025]

Unlike some California surf spots known for heavy crowds or challenging waves, Oceanside offers a mix of mellow breaks and consistent swells ideal for learning. The city’s wide sandy beaches give beginners plenty of space, while the surf community here is friendly and supportive. Add in sunny weather almost year-round, and you’ve got the perfect environment for a surf session.

Read More: Hidden Gems in Orlando

Best Beginner Surf Spots in Oceanside

Oceanside Pier

The iconic Oceanside Pier is one of the most popular surf spots in town. On the south side of the pier, you’ll find consistent, softer waves that are great for practicing your pop-up and balance. Just be mindful of more experienced surfers who also frequent this area.

Harbor Beach

Known for its long sandy stretch and beginner-friendly waves, Harbor Beach is ideal if you want a little extra room to practice. Families also love this spot since there are lifeguards on duty and plenty of amenities nearby.

North Jetty

For those ready to take the next step, the North Jetty offers slightly bigger waves without being overwhelming. It’s a good middle ground for surfers moving from absolute beginner to intermediate.

Surf Lessons & Rentals

Not ready to dive in on your own? Oceanside has plenty of surf schools and rental shops to get you started. Professional instructors can teach you the basics of ocean safety, paddling, and standing up on your board—all while cheering you on. Most shops offer affordable rentals for boards and wetsuits, so you don’t have to invest in gear right away.

Some local favorites include:

Oceanside Surf School – Private and group lessons for all ages.
Surf Ride Oceanside – A well-known surf shop with rentals and gear.
Whitlock Surf Experience – Personalized lessons with an emphasis on fun and safety.

Tips for Beginner Surfers in Oceanside

Start early: Mornings often bring smaller, cleaner waves that are easier to ride.
Check conditions: Websites like Surfline provide real-time reports on wave size, tides, and winds.
Wear a wetsuit: Even in sunny California, the Pacific can be chilly year-round.
Respect surf etiquette: Don’t drop in on someone else’s wave and always be aware of your surroundings.
Be patient: Surfing takes practice, but each session gets you closer to that first unforgettable ride.

After the Waves

Part of the fun of surfing in Oceanside is enjoying the post-surf hangout. Stroll along the pier, grab tacos from a local food truck, or chill at a beachfront café. Oceanside’s surf culture extends beyond the water, with surf shops, art galleries, and a community that embraces the beach lifestyle.

Ready to Catch Your First Wave?

Oceanside’s beginner-friendly surf scene makes it one of the best places in Southern California to learn. With supportive instructors, great beginner breaks, and plenty of surf stoke in the air, your surfing journey can start right here.

So grab a board, slather on some sunscreen, and paddle out—your first wave is waiting!

California

Why San Diego Might Be California’s Coolest City—And No One’s Talking About It

When people think of California’s most iconic cities, Los Angeles and San Francisco usually steal the spotlight. But those in the know will tell you that San Diego quietly delivers everything you want from the Golden State—and maybe even more.

This beachside gem is effortlessly cool, endlessly sunny, and filled with experiences that blend laid-back living with cultural depth. Here’s why San Diego might just be California’s coolest city—and why no one’s talking about it (yet).

1. A Beach Scene That’s Actually Relaxing

Forget the see-and-be-seen crowds of Malibu or Venice. In San Diego, the beaches are wide open, the surf is steady, and the vibes are impossibly chill. La Jolla Shores is perfect for kayaking and snorkeling, while Sunset Cliffs offers dramatic views without tourist overload.

Local Tip: Head to Torrey Pines State Beach for fewer crowds and one of the most beautiful coastal hikes in California. If you’re traveling with kids, check out Coronado Beach—its calm waves and golden sand make it ideal for families.

2. A Food Scene That’s Quietly World-Class

From fish tacos to Michelin-worthy plates, San Diego’s food culture is on the rise. Whether you’re eating fresh sea urchin at a seaside shack or indulging in fine dining in Little Italy, every bite feels intentional and locally inspired.

Must Try: Taco Stand (La Jolla) for classic Baja-style tacos – Herb & Wood (Little Italy) for upscale California cuisine – Convoy District for some of the best Asian food in the state -Liberty Public Market for an eclectic, local foodie experience under one roof.

3. Sunshine Without the Smog

With an average of 266 sunny days a year, San Diego has the perfect climate—warm, breezy, and rarely extreme. It’s a city built for flip-flops, bike rides, and endless patio dining. And unlike other California hubs, the air feels fresh and the pace is just… easier.

Pro Tip: Rent an e-bike and cruise the Mission Bay bike path for 12 miles of coastal views, beach cafés, and perfect photo spots.

4. Culture That’s Not in Your Face

San Diego’s creative scene is unpretentious and full of local character. You’ll find outdoor art installations, indie surf shops, and pop-up galleries alongside historic landmarks like Old Town and the Gaslamp Quarter.

Don’t Miss: The eclectic art museums and gardens at Balboa Park – A live show at The Old Globe Theater—San Diego’s answer to Broadway – The Chicano Park murals in Barrio Logan, a colorful tribute to the city’s cultural roots

5. A Laid-Back, Local Energy

What really makes San Diego stand out is the people. Friendly, fit, and effortlessly cool, the locals are as easygoing as the sea breeze. It’s a place where you’ll feel welcomed, not crowded—where the city unfolds slowly, inviting you to stay awhile.

Neighborhoods to Explore: North Park for vintage shops, craft beer, and murals – South Park for indie boutiques and brunch spots – Ocean Beach for classic SoCal vibes and a weekly farmers market Final Word San Diego might not shout the loudest, but it wins hearts quietly—with surf, sunshine, street tacos, and soul. It’s a city that doesn’t need hype to be great. And that’s exactly why it’s so cool.

So if you’re craving California without the chaos—San Diego’s waiting. Just don’t tell everyone.

Travel Tip: Book a visit in late spring or early fall for warm weather, smaller crowds, and seasonal festivals like CRSSD or San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival.

California

Why Oceanside Is The Coolest Beach Town In California You’ve Never Heard Of

Oceanside: The Coolest Beach Town in California You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should!)

Forget the crowded boardwalks and sky-high prices of California’s more famous beach towns. There’s a true gem sparkling on the Southern California coast, quietly cultivating a vibrant, authentic, and undeniably cool vibe: Oceanside. If it’s not on your radar yet, prepare to be wonderfully surprised.

For years, Oceanside might have been considered merely a pit stop on the way to San Diego. But those days are long gone. This dynamic city has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a destination that perfectly blends classic California surf culture with a burgeoning arts scene, an exciting culinary landscape, and a commitment to sustainable living.

So, what makes Oceanside the coolest beach town you’ve been missing out on? Let’s dive in!

More Than Just Miles of Sand (Though We Have Plenty!)

Yes, Oceanside boasts 3.5 miles of pristine, wide sandy beaches – perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or catching a wave. But it’s the iconic Oceanside Pier that truly sets the scene. Stretching nearly 2,000 feet into the Pacific, it’s one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast, offering breathtaking views, fantastic fishing (no license required!), and a quintessential California stroll. You’ll see surfers carving lines below and may even spot dolphins or seals playing in the waves.

Just north of the pier, the Oceanside Harbor is a charming hub for all things maritime. Think colorful boats, fresh seafood restaurants, and opportunities for whale watching, kayaking, or paddleboarding. It’s a picturesque spot to soak in the coastal ambiance.

A Surfer’s Paradise with a Rich History

Oceanside’s roots are deeply entwined with surf culture, and it’s celebrated at the fantastic California Surf Museum. Here, you can immerse yourself in the sport’s history, marvel at vintage boards (including an 11-foot redwood from the 1800s!), and learn about legendary surfers. Even Bethany Hamilton’s shark-bitten board is on display, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the surf community.

Beyond surfing, Oceanside embraces its past with historic landmarks like the Mission San Luis Rey and the beautifully restored “Top Gun” House (now serving up nostalgic pies!). You’ll find a blend of old and new, creating a unique character you won’t find just anywhere.

A Culinary Scene That Will Surprise and Delight

Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com [Accessed 14 Jul. 2025]

Prepare your taste buds, because Oceanside’s food scene is booming! What was once a sleepy surf town is now a culinary hotspot, with new and exciting restaurants popping up regularly. From European bistros to East Coast-inspired delis, and a plethora of craft breweries and wine-tasting rooms, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Don’t miss out on exploring Artist Alley, a vibrant space that hosts a First Friday Art Walk with pop-up galleries and artisan goods, often with delicious food trucks on hand.

Beyond the Beach: Unique Adventures Await

Biking — Nitrocdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://cdn-ilbhmcd.nitrocdn.com [Accessed 14 Jul. 2025]

Oceanside offers a surprising array of activities that go beyond the typical beach day:

Skydiving with Ocean Views: For the ultimate thrill, try indoor skydiving at iFLY or, for the truly adventurous, jump out of a plane with GoJump Oceanside for unparalleled views of the coastline.
Goat Hill Park: This isn’t your average golf course. It’s a refreshingly inclusive and unique spot with ocean views, a relaxed atmosphere (no dress code, rock music!), and even a commitment to local beekeeping!
Whale Watching: Year-round excursions from the Harbor offer incredible opportunities to spot majestic whales and playful dolphins.
Biking the Strand: A pedestrian-friendly path runs parallel to the ocean, perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll.
Sunset Market: On Thursday evenings, Pier View Way transforms into a lively outdoor market with food, music, and local crafts – an experience not to be missed.

Why Oceanside is Your Next California Escape

Oceanside isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a community with a strong sense of identity, a laid-back charm, and a dedication to growth that benefits both visitors and locals. It’s less crowded than its Southern California neighbors, offering a more authentic and relaxed beach town experience. And with visitor spending consistently growing (reaching $568 million in 2022!), it’s clear that more and more people are discovering its magic.

So, if you’re looking for a California beach getaway that’s off the beaten path, rich in culture, brimming with delicious food, and offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, then Oceanside is calling your name. It’s the coolest beach town in California you’ve never heard of, and it’s time to change that.