The Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, Autograph Collection

The Cavalier is the grande dame of Virginia Beach. Opened in 1927 as a destination for the Jazz Age elite, the Georgian Revival hotel sits on a landscaped hill a short distance from the Atlantic, its red brick and white columns unmistakable among the glass towers of the resort strip. Over the decades it has hosted presidents, bandleaders and generations of families, and a careful restoration has brought the historic building back to its former grace while adding modern comforts. Guests can choose between rooms in the original hotel, with period details and a sense of history, and larger, more contemporary rooms in the newer oceanside building. The property is as much a destination as a place to sleep. There is a beach club on the sand with pool, cabanas and food service, and several bars and restaurants, including spaces in the historic building.

Choosing a room is the main decision. The historic building has classic proportions, tall windows and a quieter, more residential feel, and it appeals to travelers who want character and a story. The oceanside tower offers bigger bathrooms, newer finishes and views of the Atlantic, with the convenience of being closer to the water. Both are comfortable, and guests share the same amenities. Families and groups appreciate suites and connecting rooms, while couples often prefer the historic side with its porches and gardens.

Location is slightly different from the other Oceanfront hotels. The main hotel is set back and uphill from the boardwalk, which gives it a calmer atmosphere and room for lawns, but it also means that guests walk or ride a short shuttle to reach the beach club and promenade. For many people this trade-off is a plus, since the hotel feels removed from the crowds yet remains close. Parking is on site, and the staff are used to arranging dinner reservations, local tours and beach club reservations.

The Cavalier suits couples celebrating anniversaries, multigenerational groups and travelers who value history. It is less suited to guests who want to step from the elevator straight onto the sand, or to those on a tight budget, since rates are in the upper tier of the Oceanfront, particularly in summer.

Visit in spring or fall for lower rates, quieter beaches and the chance to enjoy the gardens, then plan a few evenings in the bars and restaurants. Even if you stay elsewhere, the lobby and grounds are worth a look, as they capture the elegance that made Virginia Beach famous.

A few planning notes make a stay smoother. Ask about the schedule of the beach club shuttle, request a room in the building that matches your taste, and look at package offers that bundle dinner or beach club access. The hotel is also a favorite for weddings and celebrations, so check for event weekends if you want a quiet stay. Summer holiday weekends command the highest rates, while winter offers peaceful rooms, fireside evenings and some of the best value of the year.