What Is the Best Area to Stay in Virginia Beach?
By Carles Barcelo. Updated January 2026
Finding where to stay in Virginia Beach is fairly straightforward in this elegant and well-organised resort city on the Atlantic coast of Virginia. Depending on your travel style, you can choose between beachfront hotels, charming bed & breakfasts, seaside cottages, and holiday rentals. Visitors looking for a more relaxed and carefree stay will also find a good selection of comfortable mid-range and upscale hotels.
If you are travelling as a family, it is generally better to stay in the southern part of the beach, where attractions such as the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, Ocean Breeze Waterpark, and family-friendly beaches are easier to reach. Areas closer to Norfolk tend to be set farther from the shoreline and are more suitable for travellers seeking a quieter stay away from the crowds.
The Oceanfront boardwalk is undoubtedly the best area to stay in Virginia Beach, especially for first-time visitors. This lively beachfront stretch offers the widest choice of hotels, direct beach access, restaurants, entertainment, and activities for all ages. Cycling along the oceanfront bike path, water sports, and sunset cruises make it particularly appealing for couples, while families can enjoy dolphin-watching tours, fishing excursions, and seasonal events.
Don’t miss the iconic Old Cape Henry Lighthouse, located near the Chesapeake Bay. Built close to where the first English settlers arrived in 1607, it is the oldest surviving lighthouse in the United States.
On the map, which shows the most convenient area to stay in Virginia Beach, you can see a selection of some of the best located hotels.
Practical Information for Visiting Virginia Beach
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Country: United States
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State: Virginia
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Currency: US Dollar ($)
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Language: English
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Best time to visit:
- May to September for beach weather and outdoor activities
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Nearest airport: Norfolk International Airport (ORF), approx. 18 miles (29 km) from Oceanfront
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Getting around: Walkable Oceanfront area, seasonal trolleys, buses, rideshare services
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Safety: Virginia Beach is generally safe, especially in tourist areas; standard precautions apply at night
Where to Stay in Virginia Beach: Quick Overview
- Oceanfront → Best overall location, beachfront & attractions
- Town Center → Shopping, dining & nightlife
- Chesapeake Bay → Quiet beaches & relaxed atmosphere
Related destinations: Myrtle Beach, Charleston SC, Outer Banks, Savannah
Oceanfront, the Best Area to Stay in Virginia Beach
Oceanfront is a lively 3-mile (4.8 km) long boardwalk area running along the Atlantic coast and is the heart of tourism in Virginia Beach. Built in its modern form in the late 1980s, the boardwalk connects dozens of hotels, restaurants, beach bars, souvenir shops, a fishing pier, and water-sports rental points.
This area is ideal for travellers who enjoy staying close to the action. You can stroll, jog, rollerblade, or cycle along the 28-foot-wide (8.5 m) boardwalk while enjoying ocean views, street performers, and outdoor cafés. During the warmer months, free concerts and events take place at several beachfront stages.
Highlights include the King Neptune statue, rising over 34 feet (10 m) above the boardwalk, and the Naval Aviation Monument Park. Families will appreciate the abundance of kid-friendly attractions such as mini-golf, arcades, and bike rentals, all within walking distance of the beach.
Other Areas to Stay in Virginia Beach
Town Center (10 miles / 16 km from Oceanfront)
The Town Center District is Virginia Beach’s modern commercial and entertainment hub. Located inland, it features upscale hotels, shopping centres, restaurants, offices, and cultural venues. It is an excellent option if you prefer city comforts over beachfront crowds.
Art and culture lovers can visit the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Jones Art Gallery, and Zeiders American Dream Theater, while shoppers will enjoy a mix of well-known brands and local boutiques. In the evenings, the area offers a lively dining and cocktail scene.
Most booked hotel in Town Center: Hyatt Place Virginia Beach Town Center ⭐⭐⭐
Chesapeake Bay (12 miles / 19 km from Oceanfront)
The Chesapeake Bay area is perfect for travellers looking to escape the busy Oceanfront scene. Known as the largest estuary in the United States, the bay offers calmer waters, quieter beaches, and scenic coastal walks.
This area is well suited to couples and families seeking a more peaceful stay, with opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and waterfront dining. While accommodation options are fewer than at Oceanfront, several hotels and guesthouses offer attractive bay views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Most booked hotel in Chesapeake Bay: Delta Hotels by Marriott Virginia Beach ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Related Destinations
If you were interested in where to stay in Virginia Beach, you may also enjoy Myrtle Beach for classic East Coast resort vibes, Charleston SC for history and charm, Outer Banks for natural beaches, or Savannah for Southern culture and architecture.
Our recommended hotels in Virginia Beach
Use the interactive map to navigate through our recommended hotels in Virginia BeachNote: Hotel prices can change daily due to promotions, seasons, and demand. Our $ - $$$$ scale shows the overall cost range rather than exact prices.
