Sheraton Virginia Beach: Is It Worth the Stay?
Planning a beach vacation to Virginia Beach? The Sheraton Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hotel stands as one of the region’s most prominent oceanfront accommodations, offering direct beach access and modern amenities for leisure and business travelers. With its prime location on the Atlantic Coast, this property promises convenience and comfort, but whether it delivers true value depends on your specific needs, budget, and travel expectations.
Virginia Beach attracts millions of visitors annually, drawn by its expansive sandy shores, maritime attractions, and vibrant boardwalk entertainment. The Sheraton positions itself as an upscale choice in this competitive market, competing against numerous beachfront properties ranging from budget-friendly chains to ultra-luxury resorts. Understanding what this hotel offers—and what it doesn’t—helps you make an informed decision about whether your vacation dollars are well spent here.
Location and Beach Access
The Sheraton Virginia Beach’s oceanfront position represents its strongest selling point. Situated directly on the Atlantic Ocean, the hotel provides immediate beach access without navigating through downtown streets or parking challenges. This convenience factor alone appeals to families and couples seeking straightforward leisure experiences.
The property sits within Virginia Beach’s main tourist corridor, placing you near the famous Virginia Beach Boardwalk, which stretches 3 miles along the shore. From the hotel, you can easily access restaurants, shops, entertainment venues, and attractions like the Virginia Beach Aquarium and Marine Science Center. The location reduces transportation costs and time spent getting to popular destinations.
However, proximity to tourist attractions means higher ambient noise levels, especially during peak summer months and weekends. Ocean views come with overhead aircraft sounds from nearby Naval Station Norfolk, one of the world’s largest naval bases. This environmental factor significantly impacts the tranquility that oceanfront guests often expect.
Room Features and Amenities
Guest rooms at the Sheraton Virginia Beach feature modern furnishings and standard four-star hotel accommodations. Most rooms include ocean or partial ocean views, with balconies providing outdoor space—a premium feature compared to many competing properties. Room categories range from standard oceanfront to suites with expanded living areas.
Standard amenities include flat-screen televisions, work desks suitable for business travelers, climate control systems, and hotel room safety features like electronic locks and in-room safes. Bathrooms provide quality toiletries and adequate counter space, though they don’t offer the luxury touches found in five-star establishments.
The hotel offers rooms with jacuzzi tubs in select suite categories, appealing to guests seeking spa-like relaxation. High-speed wireless internet throughout the property accommodates remote workers and business professionals, with reliable connectivity in rooms and common areas.
Room decor maintains a contemporary coastal aesthetic without excessive theming. Furnishings show wear in high-traffic properties, and some guests report that rooms reflect their age despite periodic renovations. Housekeeping standards generally meet expectations, though occasional inconsistencies appear during peak occupancy periods.
Facilities and Services
The Sheraton Virginia Beach provides comprehensive facilities designed for extended stays and active vacations. The property features multiple pools including an oceanfront pool area, which creates a resort atmosphere while supplementing beach recreation options. An indoor pool accommodates year-round swimming and provides alternatives during inclement weather.
A fitness center with modern equipment allows guests to maintain exercise routines, equipped with cardio machines, free weights, and strength training apparatus. The facility typically remains uncrowded except during early morning hours, providing comfortable workout environments.
Additional amenities include a business center for corporate travelers, concierge services for activity bookings and local recommendations, and room service during specified hours. The hotel accommodates meetings and events with multiple conference spaces, positioning itself as a dual leisure-and-business destination.
Valet parking and self-parking options serve different preferences and budgets, though parking fees add to overall accommodation costs. Beach towel service, umbrella rentals, and chair arrangements facilitate oceanside relaxation without guests bringing extensive beach gear.
Dining and Beverage Options
The Sheraton Virginia Beach operates on-site dining venues, eliminating the need to leave the property for meals—convenient but typically more expensive than nearby independent restaurants. The main restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner service with varied menus featuring seafood, American cuisine, and international options.
A poolside bar and grill provides casual dining during warmer months, serving sandwiches, salads, and beverages in relaxed settings. Room service availability accommodates guests preferring in-room dining, though limited menus and service fees apply.
For travelers seeking dining variety without leaving the immediate area, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk hosts numerous restaurants within walking distance, from casual seafood shacks to upscale fine dining. This proximity allows guests to experience local establishments at competitive prices compared to hotel restaurants.
The hotel’s beverage program includes a full-service bar with craft cocktails, local Virginia wines, and beer selections. Happy hour promotions and seasonal drink specials provide value-conscious options during specific times.
Value and Pricing Considerations
Room rates at the Sheraton Virginia Beach fluctuate dramatically based on seasonality, day of week, and local events. Peak summer season (June-August) commands premium pricing, often exceeding $250-350 per night for standard oceanfront rooms. Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) offer moderate rates around $150-220, while winter rates may drop to $100-150 nightly.
The hotel frequently offers package deals combining accommodation with breakfast, spa services, or activity vouchers, which can improve overall value. Loyalty program members accessing Starwood Preferred Guest benefits receive room upgrades, late checkout, and points accumulation toward future stays.
When evaluating value, consider what you receive: direct oceanfront access, established brand reputation, predictable service standards, and convenience justify premium pricing for some travelers. However, similar oceanfront properties and nearby vacation rental alternatives may offer comparable experiences at lower rates, particularly for families seeking kitchen facilities and flexible check-in schedules.
Hidden costs accumulate during extended stays: parking fees ($15-25 daily), resort fees (where applicable), dining expenses exceeding typical restaurant costs, and gratuities for housekeeping and service staff. Budget-conscious travelers should factor these expenses into total trip costs.
Guest Experience and Reviews
Guest reviews for the Sheraton Virginia Beach present mixed perspectives. Positive feedback emphasizes oceanfront location convenience, responsive staff, and reliable service standards. Business travelers appreciate the professional facilities and consistent quality meeting expectations for Sheraton-branded properties.
Common criticisms include noise from aircraft and traffic, aging room furnishings requiring updates, and pricing that some guests view as excessive relative to amenities provided. Families report satisfaction with pool facilities and beach access, though some note that oceanfront crowds during peak season diminish the exclusive experience they anticipated.
Service consistency varies across guest accounts. Some visitors report attentive, helpful staff anticipating needs, while others describe impersonal interactions typical of large hotel operations. Housekeeping quality shows variation, with some rooms receiving thorough attention while others exhibit rushed cleaning during busy periods.
The property’s hotel safety record maintains standards expected of major chain establishments, with security cameras, trained staff, and emergency procedures in place. Guests generally report feeling secure at the property, though standard precautions apply as with any public accommodation.
Comparing Alternatives
Virginia Beach hosts numerous oceanfront accommodations serving different budgets and preferences. Budget chains like Days Inn and Best Western offer beachfront rooms at substantially lower rates ($80-130 nightly), sacrificing some amenities for affordability. These properties appeal to cost-conscious families prioritizing beach access over luxury.
Mid-range competitors including Holiday Inn and Comfort Inn provide oceanfront options with pools and basic amenities at rates between the Sheraton and budget chains. These properties attract travelers seeking balance between value and comfort.
Luxury alternatives like the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront and The Cavalier Historic Oceanfront Resort offer premium experiences with higher price points ($300-500+ nightly) and elevated service standards. These properties appeal to guests prioritizing luxury over value.
Vacation rental platforms featuring condos and homes with kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and washer/dryer units provide flexibility for families and groups. These options often deliver better value for longer stays, though lacking daily housekeeping and front-desk services.
Your choice depends on priorities: if oceanfront convenience and established brand reliability matter most, the Sheraton delivers. If budget optimization or kitchen facilities are primary concerns, alternatives may better suit your needs.
FAQ
Does the Sheraton Virginia Beach offer beachfront rooms?
Yes, the property features oceanfront and partial ocean view rooms with balconies. Most accommodations provide direct beach access, making it a true oceanfront property rather than beach-adjacent. Ocean view rooms command premium rates compared to standard accommodations.
Are pets allowed at the Sheraton Virginia Beach?
Pet policies vary by specific Sheraton properties. Contact the Virginia Beach location directly to confirm current pet accommodation policies, associated fees, and any breed or size restrictions. Many oceanfront properties restrict pets due to space limitations.
What’s included in the room rate?
Room rates typically include accommodations, access to pools and fitness facilities, and basic amenities. Resort fees, parking, dining, and entertainment represent additional charges. Confirm what’s included versus à la carte expenses when booking.
Is the Sheraton Virginia Beach suitable for families?
Yes, the property caters to families with multiple pools, beach access, and family-friendly dining options. Kids clubs or children’s programs may vary seasonally. Families should consider whether oceanfront location convenience justifies higher rates compared to inland properties.
How far is the hotel from Virginia Beach attractions?
The Sheraton sits directly on the boardwalk, placing attractions within walking distance. The Virginia Beach Aquarium is approximately 1 mile away, while the Naval Station Norfolk is about 5 miles distant. Most major attractions are accessible within 15-20 minutes by car or taxi.
What’s the cancellation policy?
Cancellation policies vary by booking rate type and season. Standard policies typically allow free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before arrival, with non-refundable rates offering no cancellation options. Confirm specific terms during booking.
Does the hotel offer conference facilities?
The Sheraton Virginia Beach maintains conference spaces serving corporate events, weddings, and group gatherings. Business travelers benefit from dedicated meeting facilities, making it suitable for conferences and corporate retreats alongside leisure stays.
