What to expect: This all-suites beach resort hotel and conference center sits on the quieter, more secluded north end of Virginia Beach where the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay meet. The hotel's beach is guests-only, in contrast to many of the resorts farther south which allow locals to use the beach. The hotel is five miles from the Virginia Beach oceanfront area and one mile from First Landing State Park.

Amenity highlights: Between Memorial Day and Labor Day the hotel sets up volleyball nets and beach chairs and rents out waverunners and aquacycles. The hotel features an indoor pool, seasonal outdoor pool, spa tub, and sauna. A fitness center with massage service and a seasonal concierge desk are on site. Guests enjoy complimentary daily play at the Virginia Beach Tennis Club, which offers 30 outdoor and six indoor courts with a variety of playing surfaces.

Insider tip: Located one mile from the resort, the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse is worth a visit. Built in 1792, it was the first lighthouse authorized by the U.S. government. George Washington was involved in hiring the first keeper of the light, which allowed the waters of the Chesapeake Bay to become navigable and Atlantic trade to flourish. Today the lighthouse is a National Historic Landmark.

What to expect: The original Cavalier Oceanfront, built in 1927, is a historic marvel of architecture. A newer building also houses guests, and sits on the beachfront. Families are a common sight here, thanks to the hotel's kid-friendly amenities and ideal beachside locale.

Amenity highlights: The seasonal outdoor pool is surrounded by a sundeck with lounge chairs and wide-open views of the Atlantic. A poolside restaurant is also open seasonally. Three other restaurants are also available (some seasonal). Children have plenty of options at The Cavalier, with a playground, wading pool, complimentary supervised activities, and a kids-only dining room.

Insider tip: For anglers wanting to try their luck with sea fishing, the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier is just two miles south of the hotel. From April to October, fishing rods and bait can be rented on site, and no fishing license is required.