Nestled on the scenic shores of Virginia Beach, the Cavalier Hotel is a luxurious retreat blending historic charm with modern elegance. Established in 1927, this hotel is a renowned symbol of Virginia Beach’s rich history and hospitality, attracting visitors with its unique blend of southern sophistication and coastal charm. From its iconic grand staircase to its luxurious spa and expansive event spaces, the Cavalier is a true masterpiece, offering both relaxation and entertainment for all who visit.
A History of Glamour and Heritage
The Cavalier Hotel was constructed in 1927 and quickly became an icon of Virginia Beach, symbolizing prosperity and luxury. Designed in the Georgian Revival style, the Cavalier originally served as a winter retreat for wealthy elites, with guests including names like F. Scott Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and Elizabeth Taylor. Over the decades, it earned a reputation as a prestigious destination for politicians, Hollywood stars, and elite socialites.
In 2018, after a four-year, multi-million dollar renovation, the Cavalier was restored to its former glory, balancing historical preservation with modern amenities and design. The renovation aimed to restore the elegance of the original structure while updating rooms and facilities to meet the highest standards of luxury. The Cavalier is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing a rich past alongside a vibrant present.
Elegant Accommodations with Coastal Views
The Cavalier Hotel offers 85 elegantly designed guest rooms, each reflecting its heritage while incorporating contemporary luxuries. From rooms with ocean views to those that offer cozy nooks perfect for relaxation, each stay promises comfort and sophistication.
Historic Rooms
These rooms exude a sense of nostalgia with vintage-inspired furnishings, unique architectural details, and luxurious linens.
- Design: Traditional yet refined décor with period accents such as antique-style furniture, warm wood finishes, and hand-picked art pieces.
- Features: Each room includes high-thread-count bedding, a marble bathroom, and modern amenities like Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and plush bathrobes.
Ocean View Rooms
The Ocean View Rooms offer stunning panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean, ideal for guests seeking a peaceful retreat with a scenic backdrop.
- Décor: These rooms are airy and bright, featuring a coastal color palette that incorporates soft blues, whites, and natural wood accents.
- Amenities: Guests can enjoy additional features like a minibar, a cozy seating area, and floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for taking in the morning sunrise or enjoying the sound of waves at night.
The Presidential Suite
The Presidential Suite is the epitome of luxury at the Cavalier, offering ample space, breathtaking views, and the highest level of amenities.
- Space: This suite features a separate living area, a king-sized bed, a spacious marble bathroom with a soaking tub, and a private balcony.
- Additional Perks: The suite includes exclusive access to premium services like personalized concierge assistance, complimentary breakfast, and priority reservations at the hotel’s restaurants and spa.
Exclusive Dining Experiences
The Cavalier Hotel offers diverse culinary experiences to delight any palate, with options ranging from sophisticated fine dining to casual beachside snacks. The hotel’s restaurants emphasize fresh, local ingredients, many sourced from nearby farms and fisheries.
Becca Restaurant & Garden
Becca Restaurant & Garden is the hotel’s signature restaurant, offering farm-to-table dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients.
- Ambiance: The dining room offers an elegant yet welcoming atmosphere with views of the garden and surrounding grounds, perfect for both intimate dinners and lively brunches.
- Menu: Becca's menu includes refined dishes like Virginia oysters, homemade pasta, and heritage meats. The restaurant is also known for its robust wine selection and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Hunt Room
The Hunt Room is a cozy tavern located within the hotel, serving classic American dishes in a charming, rustic setting.
- Specialty: Known for its smoked meats, wood-fired dishes, and in-house bourbon distillery, the Hunt Room provides a true taste of Virginia.
- Atmosphere: With its wood-paneled walls, crackling fireplace, and handcrafted cocktails, the Hunt Room is an ideal spot for a warm, memorable evening with friends or family.
The Tarnished Truth Distillery
One of the unique highlights of the Cavalier Hotel is the Tarnished Truth Distillery, the only distillery located within a hotel in the United States.
- Experience: Guests can take a distillery tour, sample bourbon and whiskey, and learn about the craft of distilling in a one-of-a-kind experience.
- Signature Spirits: The distillery produces several award-winning spirits, including the Tarnished Truth Old Cavalier Bourbon, which guests can enjoy at the hotel’s bars or purchase to take home.
Luxurious Amenities and Services
The Cavalier offers a wealth of amenities and services to ensure guests have a relaxing, luxurious stay. From wellness treatments to recreational activities, the hotel has something for everyone.
SeaHill Spa
The SeaHill Spa is a tranquil oasis offering a variety of treatments designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Services: Guests can indulge in massages, facials, body treatments, and more. Signature treatments incorporate coastal-inspired ingredients like sea salts and botanicals.
- Facilities: The spa includes relaxation rooms, a sauna, a hydrotherapy pool, and access to a private garden where guests can unwind in a serene, outdoor setting.
Beach Club and Pool
The Cavalier Beach Club provides direct beach access, along with an exclusive pool area, cabanas, and beachside service.
- Private Beach Access: The Beach Club includes a stretch of private beach for hotel guests, with loungers, umbrellas, and food and drink service.
- Poolside Experience: The outdoor pool area features cabanas, a swim-up bar, and a spacious sundeck, perfect for lounging with a cocktail or cooling off from the Virginia Beach sun.
Fitness and Recreation
For active guests, the hotel offers a state-of-the-art fitness center and various recreational options, including:
- Gym Facilities: Fully equipped with cardio machines, weights, and stretching areas.
- Activities: Guests can participate in organized activities like beach yoga, tennis, and guided bike tours.
Event Spaces and Weddings
The Cavalier Hotel is a highly sought-after venue for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings, offering an array of elegant event spaces that cater to various occasions.
Grand Ballroom
The Grand Ballroom is a stunning space featuring crystal chandeliers, high ceilings, and intricate architectural details.
- Capacity: The ballroom can accommodate up to 400 guests, making it ideal for large events.
- Décor and Setup: The ballroom’s timeless elegance provides a beautiful backdrop for weddings, galas, and formal events, with customizable setup options to match any theme.
Garden and Beach Venues
For those looking for an outdoor setting, the hotel offers a garden area and private beach space for intimate gatherings and ceremonies.
- Garden: Surrounded by manicured landscaping, the garden area provides a picturesque setting for wedding ceremonies and cocktail receptions.
- Beach: The private beach access allows couples to say their vows with the ocean as a backdrop, offering an unforgettable beachside ceremony experience.
Sustainability and Community Commitment
The Cavalier Hotel is committed to sustainable practices and supporting the local community through various initiatives.
- Eco-Friendly Initiatives: The hotel has implemented energy-saving measures, water conservation practices, and recycling programs.
- Community Support: The hotel supports local businesses by sourcing ingredients locally, partnering with nearby farms, and hosting community events to promote Virginia Beach’s vibrant culture.
Location and Nearby Attractions
Located along the scenic Virginia Beach Boardwalk, the Cavalier Hotel provides convenient access to a range of local attractions.
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Just a short drive away, the Virginia Aquarium offers interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and an adventure park with zip-lining and climbing opportunities.
First Landing State Park
This historic state park offers miles of trails, beachfront access, and educational programs. It’s an excellent spot for hiking, bird-watching, or simply enjoying the coastal landscape.
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk
Stretching for three miles, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions, providing entertainment for all ages. Visitors can enjoy biking, dining, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the scenic coastline.
The Cavalier Hotel in Virginia Beach is more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination in itself, offering luxury accommodations, gourmet dining, and top-tier amenities within a historic setting. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic weekend, family vacation, or a special event, the Cavalier provides an unforgettable experience steeped in southern hospitality, elegance, and beachside charm. A stay at the Cavalier Hotel is an opportunity to enjoy the best of Virginia Beach, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
