Cavalier by the Sea

The beach entrance is just around the corner, up a set of stairs and onto the sand, and shops and restaurants are close, too. Captain George’s was a seven-minute walk, with breakfast, coffee, bagels, and donuts also within a couple of miles. Our room was clean and a good size, with comfortable beds and pillows and a fridge bigger than I expected. It faced the large pool, which was only a few steps from our door. Half is nine feet deep and half is three to four feet, so it worked well for keeping an eye on the kids. It felt like an amazing, affordable place for several families. We did have visitors without parking passes take the space in front of our room after hours. They stood by our door drinking for quite a while. It wasn't an emergency, but it was irritating, and more signs should make clear they can't block paying guests or hang around in assigned spaces. The shampoo, conditioner, and body wash are fixed to the shower wall. My eight-year-old couldn't reach the nozzles, so I had to climb in and help in the cramped space. That small hassle wasn't enough to take away a star.

The cottage is really cute, and the kitchen is set up great. I'll definitely come back, though I wish there were TVs in the bedrooms.

We've been coming to Cavalier by the Sea with my family for about 35 years. The rooms are simple, but clean and well kept, and the staff are super friendly and helpful. From an ocean-view room, it's just a few steps down to the beach with the water right there. One thing to know when booking: they don't check guests in or out on Saturdays because the owners are Seventh Day Adventists.

I was there for an event and just stayed one night, but it felt like a little trip back to childhood visits to Nags Head with my parents. The staff were welcoming, the room was spotless, cold, and comfortable, and after the heat it was great to have hot water and strong shower pressure. I also liked the full-size fridge and microwave, plus the chairs outside the rooms for sitting on the porch. The hotel is right on the beach, the location can't be beat, and it was affordable.