Virginia Beach is a vibrant coastal city located along the southeastern coast of Virginia. Known for its beautiful beaches, lively oceanfront boardwalk, and a wide range of activities, offering something for everyone. This travel guide will help you plan your visit.
Who Should Visit:
- Beach Enthusiasts: VB boasts over 35 miles of pristine shoreline, making it a perfect destination for those who love the sun, sand, and ocean. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Families: The city offers numerous family-friendly activities, from amusement parks to interactive museums and a vibrant boardwalk. It’s an ideal destination for a family vacation.
- Water Sports Lovers: Virginia Beach is a hub for water sports such as surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. There are plenty of rental shops and instructors for all levels of expertise.
- Nature and Outdoor Enthusiasts: The area offers a variety of parks and wildlife refuges for hiking, birdwatching, and nature exploration. Don’t miss the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
- History Buffs: Explore the historic sites, including the Cape Henry Lighthouse and the First Landing State Park, which marks the site of the first landing of English colonists in 1607.
- Nightlife Seekers: Virginia Beach has a vibrant nightlife with live music venues, bars, and clubs along Atlantic Avenue. It’s perfect for those looking for entertainment after dark.
Where to Stay:
Virginia Beach offers a wide range of accommodation options:
- Oceanfront Resorts: Enjoy beachfront luxury at oceanfront resorts like The Cavalier Hotel, Hilton Oceanfront, and The Oceanfront Inn.
- Hotels: Find various hotels ranging from budget-friendly to upscale, such as the Hyatt Place, Hampton Inn & Suites, and The Founders Inn and Spa.
- Vacation Rentals: Consider renting a beachfront condo or a vacation home for a more private and spacious experience.
- Camping: First Landing State Park offers campsites for those looking for a more rustic experience. There is also the Holiday Trav L Park, which we love!
What to Do:
Virginia Beach has a little bit of everything to do, making this destination so family-friendly!
- Boardwalk: Stroll along the famous three-mile-long boardwalk that runs parallel to the beach. Enjoy street performers, festivals, and shops.
- Beach It Up!: Spend time at the beach swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, and playing beach volleyball.
- Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center: Explore marine life through interactive exhibits, a nature trail, and even a zip line adventure.
- First Landing State Park: Hike the trails, enjoy picnics, and learn about the historical significance of this park.
- Cape Henry Lighthouse: Visit the historic lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline from the observation deck.
- Walk Around Towncenter: The “Downtown” of Virginia Beach gives a little city life mixed with an outlet mall.
- Apex Entertainment: Think of Dave N Busters but on steroids! Fun for all ages.
- Hunt Club Farms: Enjoy a day on the farm with seasonal festivities and all the barnyard animals.
Where to Eat:
Virginia Beach has some of the best food you can find, especially on vacation. Here are my top recommendations:
- Waterman’s Surfside Grille
- Rudee’s on the Inlet
- Chix on the Beach:
- Bay Local
- Back Bay Gourmet
- Orion’s Roof:
- The Porch on Long Creek
- Chick’s Oyster Bar
- BoBo’s Fine Chicken
- American Brew
- Leaping Lizard Cafe
- Whiskey Kitchen
- Taqueria La Patrona
- Aberdeen Barn Steakhouse
- The Bee and the Biscuit
I could spend all day listing restaurants s check out my Ultimate Local’s Guide to Eating in Virginia Beach here for more restaurants.
You could spend a week in Virginia Beach and still not see the entire area because it is just THAT big. Should we write a second post sharing more local favorite to-dos?
