3 Best Hotels in Williamsburg and Hampton Roads, Virginia

This Hilton is the only four-star hotel in Virginia Beach; towering 21 stories over the oceanfront, it has shops, three restaurants, a rooftop bar, and infinity pool. The seafood restaurant, Catch 31, receives consistently good reviews, and there is great outdoor seating overlooking the boardwalk. At night the bar is a happening scene for thirtysomethings. Rooms use muted tan textiles to give the space a warm feeling. Flat-screen TVs are in both bedrooms and the bathrooms. Most rooms have balconies with panoramic views, but if yours lacks a beachfront view, you can always hang out at the rooftop pool with rails of glass looking down to the boardwalk. Recently upgraded, the three floors of the Empyrean Club level have really taken it up a notch: the bathrooms even have built-in TVs in the mirrors. Book early, as the Hilton sells out quickly, even in the off-season.

Yes, this is a hotel chain in the Marriott family, but it still stands out from the pack because all the rooms here are suites—outfitted with two flat-screen TVs, separate living area, and granite-counter-top kitchenettes. The rooms have bursts of color: red, blue, and yellow linens and carpets mixed with tropical art on the walls. Its location is close to events on the end of the boardwalk. From the balcony you can see fireworks (when launched) and free beach concerts. Breakfast is always included; the Belgian-waffle station is a standout. And parking is free—a rarity on the beach. Although it's a newer property, some of the rooms' carpets are showing damage. Ask to inspect a room before booking it.

This grand hotel from 1937 is owned and operated by Colonial Williamsburg—rooms are beautifully and individually furnished with reproductions and antiques in the English Regency style, and genteel service and tradition reign. Rooms come with such perks as morning coffee and afternoon tea, a daily newspaper, turndown service, and bathrobes. The Providence Wings, adjacent to the inn, are less formal; rooms are in a contemporary style with Asian accents and overlook the tennis courts, a private pond, and a wooded area.