REVIEW: Norfolk Waterside Marriott, Virginia

Norfolk, Virginia is famed for its historic waterfront. The port city is on the edge of Chesapeake Bay where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Famously it is home to the world’s largest naval station, one of the East Coast’s largest ports, and is surrounded by lush gardens, rivers, creeks and beaches all around. So being by the water is top priority. Luckily, the Norfolk Waterside Marriott sits conveniently next to the harbour with many rooms offering views of the water and all the things you want to do are only a short distance away.

NORFOLK WATERSIDE MARRIOTT

The lobby of the hotel is surprisingly fancy. It reminded me of the grand era that is depicted in some of Virginia’s history and provides a great welcome after a long journey. There is temporary parking outside for you to drop off your luggage easily and the bellman directed us to available street parking just a block away to leave our car during the stay. This was significantly cheaper than the multi story carpark that guests can also use. At reception we received a warm Virginia welcome and staff were enthusiastic with restaurant recommendations and helpful tips which was handy as we arrived late and wanted to grab a quick bite.

room with a view

We were lucky to get a city-facing room which was on the corner of the hotel meaning a bonus view over the harbour. The room itself was a general American-sized, with a king bed, cosy chair, flat screen TV, desk and general facilities (Fridge and coffee making amenities). The hotel is pretty big – with a huge conference area and a ballroom – but the accommodations felt cosier and were clean and comfortable. The light pastel decor made the room feel lighter and less corporate than some other large hotels. Plus, touches like the crystal lamp and wall art with seashells and water-themed images provided a more personal, homely feel.

Bright and airy

Again, the bathroom here was pretty usual of a hotel such as the Marriott but it was clean and spacious with plenty of towels and standard toiletries. I do love toilets that have a separate door and this had exactly that, so I was happy!

Cool pool

After a long road trip we were thrilled to discover the hotel also has a large pool on the top floor with indoor and outdoor hot tubs offering views of the harbour. Plus, if you want to sweat off some of that southern food, there is a large fitness centre, also with great views of the bay.

We had a comfortable stay in this friendly hotel. I wouldn’t say it was particularly unique in its style but if you are looking for a good hotel to explore Norfolk, this is in a great location. We walked to the waterfront from here at night and felt safe and the historic walking trails, Victorian buildings (such as the Hunter House Museum) and best places to eat are also only a short distance away.

Read our guide on what to do in Norfolk and elsewhere in Virginia here

A quick note from us:
Standard prices for the Norfolk Waterside Marriott are listed above but we travelled with Purely Capital Region USA, who offer a nine night package to the Capital Region USA (Baltimore, Virginia and Washington DC) from £1499 per person. This includes return flights with British Airways from London Heathrow to Washington Dulles Airport, economy car hire throughout, two nights at the Four Seasons Baltimore, two nights at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott in a Elizabeth River View Room, two Nights at the Courtyard Richmond Downtown in a Standard Guest room and three nights at the Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square in a Deluxe Room. Price based on two people sharing a standard room. purelycapitalregionusa.co.uk

READ OUR HOTEL REVIEW FOR RICHMOND, VIRGINIA HERE