Courtyard by Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront/South

Iris was welcoming, polite, and accommodating, and our room itself seemed suitable. We used points for most of our stay, and since we stay at Marriott properties around the country, I hope Marriott will address the problems here. The cot we requested was torn and ancient, with springs sticking out. Our phone didn’t work when I tried calling downstairs, just gave an out-of-order signal. Parking for guests was $18 a day. The hotel also feels run down, with dated lobby furniture and torn elevator flooring. There’s a mat in each elevator that seems like a tripping hazard. The bathroom floor needed a proper scrub.

The location is great, and check-in was smooth thanks to a really helpful woman at the desk. The room was dated, though, and the living area AC didn’t work. Thankfully the bedroom unit did, but the living space smelled like wet dog from the humidity. Internet was nonexistent in my end room, even though I was on a middle floor. The door needed a hard push to latch, and its security latch was coming off. The TV remotes only changed channels if I pressed them almost through the casing. When I reported the AC, I was initially just told sorry, with no points or small discount offered. In the morning they made it right with points, which was nice. Maintenance came around 9:30 pm, despite the desk saying it wouldn’t be fixed before checkout. The maintenance guy was great, but I didn’t want him working on it so late. Breakfast was pricey, with few take-away choices when I asked. Parking was very tight and cost $18. With renovations, this could be a great Courtyard.

We stayed five nights because of the government shutdown. We arrived Sunday, November 2, at 4 pm, and were told at check-in that the king rooms were sold out, even though that was what we’d reserved. I asked about getting one the next day, but there still wasn’t one available. The bed was soft and lumpy, and the sheets had stains, so I was glad I’d brought my own. The entry, bathroom, and sink area had tile, while the bedroom was carpeted; I wish the tile continued throughout. The ceiling was popcorn style, and the wallpaper around the sink and in the shower room was dirty. The deck rails were rusty, and its plastic chairs and side table looked dated.

The front desk was so welcoming and accommodating, and they offered tips on nearby places and good food. They even gave us a little Christmas treat bag. The room was clean and cozy, with great beach views.