Ocean Key Resort

The blocky, nine-story Ocean Key Resort is simple and practical -- don't expect chandeliers or sleek, modern decor schemes -- and the time-share beachgoers like it that way. The lobby is simple, with a handful of wicker chairs and sofas with autumnal colored cushions. Large glass windows separate the lobby from the pool, and the ceilings extend to the third floor for a feeling of airy spaciousness. The pool is always lively, filled with families, and the noise can extend to the lobby. This time-share hotel is popular with groups, and the many family-focused amenities make it a hit with families with young children.

On the southern end of Virginia Beach's main drag, Ocean Key Resort is in an area full of shops and restaurants that attracts throngs of tourists and locals alike (which can mean some noisy nights). In addition to the beach and boardwalk out the back door, there's an inlet behind the hotel, accessed by a walkway that passes over the water and is much less crowded than the oceanfront. Across the street is Waterman's Surfside Grille, one of the most popular restaurant-bars on the strip, and a late-night party spot. Neptune's Park, where evening concerts take place most nights during the high season, is a seven-minute drive or half-hour walk away. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center takes five minutes to reach by car or 20 minutes on foot. The Norfolk International Airport is a 30-minute drive away. 

The suite-style units at the Ocean Key Resort are simple and basic, with blonde wood furniture, light blue and yellow linens, and the motel-style upholstery frequently found in Virginia Beach hotels. There are wall-mounted flat-screen TVs in the living and dining room areas and in bedrooms; bedrooms also have DVD players. All units come with small kitchens or kitchenettes with fridges, ovens, stoves, microwaves, and plenty of cookware; guests can also order groceries online ahead of their visit to have delivered to their rooms upon arrival. Bathrooms lack windows but are painted in a sunny shade of yellow and have combination shower/tubs, single sinks, and plenty of storage space. Soap and shampoo are provided in wall-mounted dispensers. Windows don't open in rooms and past guests have complained of strong chemical cleaner smells, as well as mustiness. It's worth noting that guests have to exchange their own towels and linens downstairs if they'd like clean linens during their stay.

The third floor of the property has an activity center with a TV, computer, family-room-style seating, and lots of magazines. Just off this room is the fitness center, which has a comprehensive selection of strength training and cardio machines. The connected game room has arcade games, and there's also a small kids' play room with toys and activities for small children. Outdoors, there's a sun deck with sofa and table seating. Downstairs, the hotel has a small, heated indoor pool with a hot tub located in an atrium-like room just off the lobby. The pool has adults-only swim hours in the early morning and again in the evening. There's also a low-key pizzeria on-site, open seasonally, that also serves gelato and a range of Italian desert classics, including tiramisu. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, although its strength varies depending upon the room.