Econo Lodge on the Ocean

Surrounded by other value hotels along the boardwalk, this Econo Lodge is among the smallest, standing only three stories high. Inside, this property feels like a budget hotel and doesn’t have much communal space, but guests loyal to the brand aren't staying here to lounge and linger in swish common areas. Instead, this is a solid bet for bargain rates right on the beach. The lobby is decorated with old paintings and a few outdated wicker chairs with worn cushions. There is a green, faux-granite front desk and a brochure rack, with an adjacent breakfast-service counter -- there is no dining area, so guests are encouraged to bring breakfast to their rooms or eat outside by the pool on plastic patio tables. The pool has no view, but is the epicenter of the property, particularly in spring when the place is teeming with spring break partiers. The hotel draws budget-conscious guests from almost all categories, including families and couples. 

Situated directly on the Virginia Beach boardwalk, the location is ideal for tourists and those on summer holidays. There are several shops and restaurants within an easy five-minute walk, and the pretty beach is just behind the hotel. The Virginia Beach Convention and Visitor Bureau is about a six-minute drive away and the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center is about a 10-minute drive away. Colonial WIlliamsburg, a popular family-friendly attraction, is 65 minutes away by car, while Busch Gardens will take about an hour to reach. The hotel is a 25-minute drive from the Norfolk Airport and downtown Norfolk.

There are just 38 rooms at this Econo Lodge, all of which are accessed from the outside from front doors facing the parking lot; there is commonly noise from people and traffic coming and going. Ground floor rooms have direct access to the boardwalk and beach from small patios while rooms on the second and third floors have small balconies with a small plastic table and pair of chairs, plus great ocean views. There is no elevator access to upper floors. The look in rooms is unremarkable and dated, but pleasant enough and clean, with striped carpet floors, soft green walls, faded wall art, maroon-pattern chairs, and satin bedskirts. The mid-tone wood veneer furniture in some rooms is showing signs of wear and tear. All rooms are equipped with modern appliances including a flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, microwaves, and coffeemaker. Rooms also have a safe and individual climate control. Bathrooms are bland, with dark tile floors and yellow shower curtains; all feature shower/tub combos. Wi-Fi is free throughout.  

The winning feature of this hotel is the free bike rentals with direct access to the path that runs along the boardwalk and beach. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi access in rooms, a free but limited continental breakfast (including cereal and pastries) with no indoor dining area, and free parking, although the lot is small and restricted to one car per reservation. The outdoor pool is small and doesn’t have a view, but is surrounded by plenty of lounge chairs and a few plastic dining tables.