Sandcastle Resort

Virginia Beach 36.84234300, -75.97324700 , 1307 Atlantic Avenue (Show on Map)
7.2
Good


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Summary of reviewsSandcastle Resort generally receives high praise for its prime location, situated right on the beachfront with easy access to the boardwalk, pier, restaurants, shops and other attractions, making it a perfect spot for both beach lovers and families. The scenic ocean views and the convenience of having everything within walking distance are notable highlights.

The dining options at the resort receive positive feedback thanks to the two on-site restaurants offering a variety of culinary delights with guests particularly commending the Mexican restaurant. The excellent service from the restaurant staff and the enjoyable ambiance, including live music, enhance the dining experience. The bars also add to the resort’s vibrant dining scene. Despite some occasional dissatisfaction with the food at Ocean’s 14 and concerns about pricing, the overall dining experience remains highly recommended.

The breakfast service, however, garners mixed reviews. While some guests appreciate the simplicity and adequacy of the free breakfast, many feel there's a need for improvement in terms of variety and quality, especially regarding hot food items.

Room reviews are mixed with many appreciating the spacious, clean accommodations offering beautiful ocean views. The Family Suite is particularly noted for its size and comfort. However, complaints about smaller-than-expected rooms, outdated decor and occasional cleanliness issues (including reports of dirt, dust and sometimes mold or pests) suggest a need for updates and better maintenance.

Cleanliness across the resort also elicits varied responses. While some areas, such as the lobby and hallways, are often praised for their cleanliness, inconsistencies are noted with reports of dirty floors, unclean bathrooms and inadequate housekeeping practices in other parts of the property.

The staff generally receive positive reviews for their friendliness, courteousness and helpfulness, notably in the front desk and concierge services. However, some instances of rude or inattentive behavior, especially during breakfast service, are mentioned.

WiFi service at the resort is a frequent point of contention. While some guests find it adequate for basic needs, many others report issues with slow speed, poor connectivity and unreliability, especially on certain floors and in public areas.

The gym, while slightly small, is appreciated for being well-equipped, clean and offering a pleasant ocean view, providing guests with a satisfactory workout experience. Some equipment issues have been noted in the past but seem generally resolved.

The pool area also receives mixed feedback. Families appreciate the kid-friendly features and indoor pool, although the absence of an outdoor pool and hot tub, along with issues with heating, accessibility and overcrowding, point to areas needing improvement.

The beach access is a standout feature, consistently praised for its cleanliness, pet-friendly policies and breathtaking scenery. The easy and immediate access to the sandy shores enhances the overall guest experience, making it an attractive destination for beachgoers.

Parking facilities are generally well-received, offering ample and secure options, although some guests find the parking garage tight and mention unexpected fees.

In summary, Sandcastle Resort excels in location, dining and staff friendliness, making it a favorable choice for those seeking a beachfront stay with convenient access to local attractions. Areas needing improvement include breakfast variety, room maintenance, WiFi reliability, pool amenities and housekeeping consistency.
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Categories
Family Friendly Hotel
This resort is family-friendly. It offers a clean room and accommodating staff.

Beachfront Hotel

Hotel near The Beach

Hotel for Honeymoon

Hotel near Nightlife Spots

Hotel with Swimming Pool

  Indoor Pool    Children's Pool  


Business Hotel

Hotel with Parking

Hotel with Gym

3-Star Hotel

Hotel with Children's Pool

Hotel with Indoor Pool

Room Types
King Room with Ocean View - Non-Smoking This room, featuring a private balcony, has a flat-screen TV, microwave, refrigerator, ironing facilities, coffee maker and hairdryer.

King Room - Non-Smoking This king room non-smoking rooftop (no private balcony), features a flat-screen TV, microwave, refrigerator and air-conditioning.

Family Suite This room, featuring a private balcony off the main bedroom, has a separate living room with a sofa bed and an en suite bathroom with a stand up shower.

King Room - Disability Access/Non-Smoking This air conditioned room features a private balcony, a flat-screen TV, microwave, refrigerator and a high bathtub with safety bars with a shower seat available upon request.

King Room with Roll-In Shower - Disability Access This air conditioned room features a private balcony, a flat-screen TV, microwave, refrigerator and a roll-in shower.

Two-Bedroom Suite This suite air conditioned suite, featuring a balcony, has a flat-screen TV, microwave and refrigerator

Queen Room with Two Queen Beds with Ocean View - Non-Smoking This room, featuring a private balcony, has a flat-screen TV, microwave, refrigerator and air-conditioning.

King Studio This room features a flat-screen TV, microwave, refrigerator and air-conditioning.

Room with Two Double Beds - Partial Ocean View This room, featuring a shared balcony with a partial view, has a flat-screen TV, microwave, refrigerator and air-conditioning.

Queen Studio This air-conditioned studio is comprised of a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a balcony with sea views. The unit has 3 beds.

Guest Reviews
7.2
Good
Location
Sandcastle Resort boasts an exceptional location that guests consistently praise. Situated right on the beachfront, visitors enjoy breathtaking ocean views and convenient access to both the beach and boardwalk. The proximity to popular attractions such as the pier, restaurants, shops and a carnival makes it an ideal spot for travelers. Many reviewers highlight the perfect placement for walking to nearby activities, appreciating how everything they needed was just steps away. The scenic, tranquil surroundings, combined with easy access to dining, shopping and entertainment, make it an excellent choice for beach lovers and families alike. Overall, Sandcastle Resort is highly appreciated for its prime location and the convenience it offers, including secure parking and clean accommodations.

Breakfast
At the Sandcastle Resort, breakfast offerings seem to elicit mixed feedback from guests. Many patrons were dissatisfied with the lack of variety and the predominance of cold food options, describing the breakfast as "basic", "poor" and even "disappointing." Frequent remarks about the absence of hot items like waffles, eggs and bacon indicate that the breakfast failed to meet many guests' expectations for a more robust meal. The selection was often limited to bagels, cereal, yogurt, bread and fruit. Additionally, some reviewers mentioned issues such as items running out quickly, unclean breakfast areas and occasionally rude service.

On the positive side, a number of guests did enjoy the breakfast, appreciating the simple yet satisfactory nature of the options available. Some highlighted the pleasantness and friendliness of the staff and noted that breakfast offerings included a decent variety and were plentiful, exceeding their expectations considering it was free. There were mentions of exceptional breakfast experiences, particularly when hot items like eggs and bacon were available.

Overall, while some guests found breakfast to be acceptable or even excellent, it appears the majority feel there's significant room for improvement, especially concerning variety, quality and availability of hot food items.

Dinner
Nestled within the Sandcastle Resort, the dining experiences offer a range of culinary delights to its guests. Boasting two on-site restaurants, visitors frequently highlight the convenience of having dining options just steps away. Many guests applauded the restaurants, describing the food as good, amazing and even great. Although a few diners mentioned that Ocean’s 14 fell short of their expectations, overall, the reviews leaned heavily positive.

The restaurant staff earned high praise for their excellent service, enhancing the meal experience with their attentiveness and respectfulness. The attached eateries not only provide convenience but also allow guests to enjoy live music while dining, adding an extra layer of entertainment to their meals. Particularly noteworthy is the Mexican restaurant, which some hailed as the best they have ever tasted.

For those interested in local cuisine, the proximity to nearby dining opportunities is an added bonus. The resort’s bars also garnered positive remarks, contributing to the well-rounded dining options available. Despite a few concerns about pricing and occasional rudeness from an isolated staff member, the overall dining experience at Sandcastle Resort remains highly recommended, making it a foodie-friendly destination.

Rooms
Sandcastle Resort's rooms received mixed feedback from guests with many highlighting both strengths and areas needing improvement. On the positive side, numerous guests appreciated the cleanliness of the rooms and praised the accommodations for being spacious and providing beautiful ocean views. The Family Suite, in particular, was mentioned as being very nice and adequately spacious. Comfort was another positive aspect with several guests finding the rooms comfortable and well-maintained. Clean rooms and a pleasant decor were often noted, adding to the overall good experience for some visitors.

However, a significant number of reviews pointed to issues with room size, noting that many rooms were smaller than expected and felt cramped, making maneuvering difficult, particularly for larger groups or families. Outdated furniture and decor were recurrent complaints with several guests commenting that the rooms and their fixtures were in desperate need of updates and repairs. Instances of cleanliness issues were frequent, highlighted by reports of dirt, dust, sand on the floors and in some extreme cases, mold and the presence of cockroaches.

The amenities also had their flaws: the plumbing often needed attention, balcony doors were sometimes rusted and non-functional and fixtures were described as falling off or damaged. Some guests found the rooms had a musty smell, adding to the overall dated feel of the accommodations.

While the beachfront rooms provided stunning views, the cleaning standards and the need for renovations significantly affected the overall guest experience. Therefore, the Sandcastle Resort would benefit from addressing these critical areas of guest concern to enhance their stay. Overall, while some guests found the rooms to meet their expectations with cleanliness and views, others felt the conditions were subpar, emphasizing the necessity for improvements.

Beds
A variety of feedback emerged from guests about the beds at Sandcastle Resort. Some guests found the beds to be super comfy or comfortable, noting that their king-size bed had been particularly enjoyable. However, many guests reported discomfort, describing the beds as too hard, stiff, lumpy or noisy. There were mentions of the mattresses being worn out or saggy and a few reviews pointed out that the beds felt like rocks or sleep like prison cots.

Numerous reviews also raised concerns about cleanliness with repeated mentions of finding sand in the beds upon arrival, stained bed sheets and even bed bugs in some instances. The pillows also received mixed reviews, often described as weird, old, awful or offering limited support.

While there were occasional comments highlighting well-fitting beddings and good bedding quality, these were overshadowed by the frequent complaints regarding uncomfortable mattresses, hard beds and cleanliness issues. Overall, guest experiences with the beds at Sandcastle Resort varied widely with a notable emphasis on areas needing improvement.

Cleanliness
Guest reviews of the Sandcastle Resort present a mixed picture regarding the cleanliness of the hotel. Some guests found the accommodations clean, describing the rooms as very clean, comfy and well-maintained. Notably, parts of the resort, including the lobby and hallways, were frequently mentioned as clean and organized.

However, a considerable number of reviews highlighted several areas falling short of expected standards. Complaints about dirt and sand on the floors, unclean bathrooms and dated and dusty furnishings were common. Specific issues such as mold in bathrooms, sand in beds and trash under furniture pointed to a need for more detailed and thorough cleaning.

Instances of cockroaches in rooms and pool areas alarmed some guests, exacerbating concerns about hygiene. Additionally, the breakfast area also faced criticism for lack of cleanliness, making some guests uncomfortable dining there. Reports of unclean sheets, stained towels and improper housekeeping services suggest that the hotel might struggle with consistency.

Overall, while some guests had positive impressions of cleanliness at Sandcastle Resort, others indicated that there is significant room for improvement, especially in specific areas and more consistent housekeeping practices.

Staff
The reviews of Sandcastle Resort paint a nuanced picture of the hotel’s staff, emphasizing their generally positive demeanor while noting a few inconsistencies. Commonly highlighted were the friendly, courteous and helpful attitudes of many of the employees, particularly praise for those at the front desk and concierge. Guests frequently mentioned enjoying warm and accommodating service with the staff often going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. Specific individuals, such as Asia and Tony at the pool, received exceptional commendations for their kindness and professionalism.

However, the experience wasn't uniformly excellent. Some reviewers encountered rude or inattentive staff, particularly at the reception and during breakfast service. Instances of unprofessional behavior and language barriers also cropped up, detracting from the overall guest experience. Despite these drawbacks, the staff's overall impressions were mostly positive, contributing significantly to many guests' enjoyable stays. The friendly atmosphere created by the majority of the employees, coupled with effective problem-solving and a welcoming attitude, left a lasting good impression on many visitors.

Wi-Fi
When considering a stay at Sandcastle Resort, it's essential to take note of the mixed reviews regarding the hotel's WiFi. While some guests reported having no issues and found the WiFi acceptable for basic needs, others encountered significant problems. There were several mentions of slow speeds, poor signal strength and inconsistencies in connectivity. A few patrons also noted that the WiFi worked well for them, but this did not seem to be the majority experience.

It appears that the reliability of the WiFi can vary greatly with reports of it not working on all floors and sometimes being almost non-existent. Additionally, some guests were frustrated by the extra costs associated with the WiFi, while others appreciated the free access despite its intermittent nature. Public areas did not fare much better, as the WiFi was said to be unreliable in those spots too.

Overall, while some visitors found the WiFi service met their basic needs, many others experienced issues that detracted from their stay. It's advisable for potential guests who require consistent and robust internet connectivity to keep these varied experiences in mind.

Gym
The gym at Sandcastle Resort offers a pleasant workout experience with its ocean view, allowing guests to exercise while enjoying a serene backdrop. It comes well-equipped and is noted for its cleanliness. Despite some mentions of it being slightly small and basic, the fitness center's overall quality and functionality make it a favorable amenity for those looking to maintain their fitness routine during their stay. The indoor gym is functional with good equipment, although some past issues such as non-working equipment have been noted.

Pool
The Sandcastle Resort’s pool area receives a mix of feedback from its guests, primarily highlighting both its favorable aspects and some room for improvement. Positively, the pool is often described as clean and well-maintained, providing an enjoyable experience for many visitors. Families particularly appreciate the kid-friendly features, including a small pool specifically designed for children. The indoor pool, though sometimes criticized for being cold, is generally seen as an asset, especially given its heated option, which appeals to those looking for relaxation and fun regardless of weather conditions.

However, there are notable concerns that guests have raised which impact overall satisfaction. The absence of an outdoor pool and hot tub is frequently mentioned and the indoor pool's inadequate heating has led to disappointment for some visitors. Additionally, accessibility issues, such as difficult pool steps and broken ladders, have been pointed out as hazards. The pool area has faced criticism for occasional closures and overcrowding, making it less accessible at busy times. Cleanliness standards are inconsistent with reports of sand, hair and other debris around the pool area posing a problem.

Despite these issues, many guests acknowledge the pool environment’s potential for fun and relaxation, particularly for families with young children. A few suggestions for improvement include regular maintenance, better heating solutions, enhanced cleanliness and improved accessibility. In conclusion, while the pool area at Sandcastle Resort has its virtues, addressing these concerns could significantly enhance the guest experience.

Beach
The beach near Sandcastle Resort consistently receives high praise from guests. Many appreciate the resort's premier oceanfront location, highlighting the stunning views and direct access to the beach. Guests love how close they are to the sandy shores with some mentioning that they could easily walk onto the beach right from the hotel. The beachfront balconies offer an amazing view, perfect for watching the waves and soaking in the coastal ambiance.

For families, especially those with young children, the proximity to the beach is ideal. The beach areas are noted to be clean and pet-friendly with designated spots for beach activities and safety. The location also allows for convenient access to nearby shops and restaurants, enhancing the overall experience.

The scenery is frequently described as breathtaking with many guests mentioning the beautiful sunsets and the overall serene atmosphere. Despite a few mentions of extra fees, the consensus is that the beach location of Sandcastle Resort significantly enhances the stay, making it a lovely destination for beach lovers seeking a convenient and picturesque getaway.

Parking
Sandcastle Resort offers a range of parking arrangements that cater to different guest needs. Many guests appreciated the ample and accessible parking options, including a convenient garage and on-site spaces. Secure and covered parking was highlighted as a positive feature, especially for families traveling with small children.

However, some noted the parking garage could be quite tight and had limited space, which sometimes resulted in narrow parking spots that made maneuvering challenging. A few guests mentioned unexpected parking fees, typically around $10-$11.50 per night, which were not always communicated upfront. Despite this, free parking was mentioned several times, providing a mix of complimentary and paid options for guests.

Overall, while there were some inconveniences with tight spaces and additional charges, the general consensus points to reliable, accessible and convenient parking facilities that contributed to a positive experience at Sandcastle Resort.

Family
Sandcastle Resort emerges as a highly regarded destination for families seeking a fun-filled vacation. The resort's family-oriented atmosphere and kid-friendly policies are often highlighted, making it an appealing choice for parents traveling with children and even pets. Families loved the variety of activities available and many reported that their children thoroughly enjoyed their stay, particularly the welcoming kids' pool area and the indoor pool.

The beautiful beachfront location and scenic ocean views surpass expectations, providing a perfect backdrop for a relaxing family vacation. The resort features a convenient family store and offers an overall family-friendly environment, complete with accommodating staff who go out of their way to meet guests' needs, such as providing applesauce for a baby.

However, there are a few areas that could use improvement. Some guests pointed out that the rooms and amenities could benefit from updates and the balconies were noted as not very kid-friendly. Despite these minor drawbacks, the general consensus indicated that Sandcastle Resort is great for family gatherings, fun-filled family trips and peaceful, relaxing vacations by the beach. The location, paired with family-friendly features and good amenities, makes it an ideal choice for a memorable family escape.

Nightlife
The Sandcastle Resort is situated in a lively neighborhood perfect for those who enjoy a vibrant nightlife. The nearby boardwalk and pier offer many entertainment options and numerous bars, restaurants and cafes in the area provide plenty of venues to enjoy music and socializing. On weekends, guests can expect live music from the hotel’s restaurant and nearby establishments, contributing to an energetic atmosphere.

Despite the positives, some guests have noted issues with noise, particularly from nearby bars and live bands, which can affect sleep quality. The hotel restaurant and some bars close relatively early, which may limit late-night dining options. The hotel provides useful information on local nightlife to help guests navigate the best spots for evening entertainment. Overall, the locale is appealing for those looking to explore local dining and nightlife, though noise-sensitive individuals might need to take precautions.

3 Star
Sandcastle Resort is a budget-friendly hotel that prominently features a simple yet satisfying breakfast, which many guests found to be one of the highlights of their stay. However, the overall experience aligns more closely with a two-star establishment rather than the advertised three-star rating. The hotel offers fair comfort for the money, making it a reasonable option for those looking for a cost-effective stay, but several elements detract from its overall appeal.

The property itself shows significant signs of aging with an outdated decor and worn furniture that suggest it hasn't been updated since the 1980s. Guests frequently noted that the facilities could use more maintenance and major renovations to bring them up to a more modern standard. As a three-star hotel, it falls short in terms of amenities and cleanliness, leading many to question the value for money.

While some guests recognized the value it provides within its budget range, others felt that their expectations were not fully met, primarily due to the dated and aesthetically unpleasing facilities. Regular room service issues and a generally old-fashioned and run-down appearance were common points of feedback. Travelers cited the need for a major overhaul to justify its current star rating and pricing. Overall, Sandcastle Resort meets basic needs but leaves much to be desired in terms of modernity and maintenance.

Business
Sandcastle Resort presents a mixed experience for business travelers. On the positive side, it offers several conveniences such as meeting rooms and room service specifically tailored for business needs. The resort is described as being business traveler friendly and has amenities like conference room breakfast, which can help ensure a successful business trip.

However, there are notable drawbacks highlighted by guests. The resort lacks a dedicated business center and adequate Wi-Fi support, which can be challenging for those who rely on strong internet connectivity for work. Additionally, there are mentions of inadequate business facilities overall and some guests found the breakfast service to be subpar.

Despite these issues, the overall sentiment indicates that a business stay can still be good, provided that the primary needs are met. The lack of comprehensive business amenities, however, may cause inconveniences for some.

Indoor Pool
Sandcastle Resort offers an indoor pool that is particularly appreciated during bad weather, as it provides a reliable option for guests to enjoy water activities. Many guests found the indoor pool to be a good option for kids and loved their time spent there. The pool is heated with some reviews specifically mentioning an indoor baby pool, making it a family-friendly feature. However, the pool area has received mixed feedback regarding its cleanliness with some guests noting discolored areas and instances where the pool was not as clean as expected. While the pool's size was described by some as smaller than anticipated, it remained a nice and clean amenity for others. The resort lacks some friendly facilities, but overall, the indoor pool is a beneficial feature, especially highlighted in the resort’s pictures.

Honeymoon
Sandcastle Resort stands out as a prime destination for honeymooners, offering a romantic ambiance that is perfect for couples. The resort provides specifically designed honeymoon packages, ensuring that special occasions are celebrated with a touch of magic. Guests laud its spacious lobby and large balcony, both of which contribute to the overall sense of luxury and relaxation. Many highlight the stunning, romantic views from the property, making it an ideal spot for a beautiful and unforgettable stay. Bursting with charm, the resort promises a lovely and amazing experience, encapsulating a true sense of romance and making it great for couples looking to create magical memories together.

Beachfront
Located right on the beach, Sandcastle Resort boasts an unbeatable beachfront location that guests repeatedly praise. Many reviews highlight the stunning oceanfront views with some rooms even featuring balconies directly facing the beach. Guests have been wowed by waking up to picturesque sunrises and enjoying serene sunsets from their beachfront balconies.

The proximity to the beach is frequently noted as a significant advantage with several guests loving the convenience of stepping right onto the sand from the hotel. The views are consistently described as amazing, beautiful and perfect, contributing to a truly immersive beach experience. Whether enjoying a beachfront balcony or just being right at the ocean's edge, the resort's location is a standout feature that leaves a lasting impression. Adding to the experience, the oceanfront setting is flawlessly complemented by other amenities, including a well-equipped gym, making the resort an attractive destination for both relaxation and fitness enthusiasts.


Yes, Sandcastle Resort has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Indoor Pool, Children's Pool.

No, a spa isn't available at Sandcastle Resort.

No, Sandcastle Resort doesn't allow dogs.

Yes, parking facilities are available at Sandcastle Resort.

Yes, Sandcastle Resort has a gym.

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