Things To Do
in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is a coastal city in southeastern Virginia known for its long Atlantic beaches and lively boardwalk. The Oceanfront stretch runs for miles with family-friendly attractions, seafood shacks, and live music along the sand. Beyond the beach, a growing arts and dining scene, convenient shopping districts, and a strong military heritage give the city multiple facets.
With nearby parks, wildlife refuges, and easy access to the Chesapeake Bay, it’s a versatile destination all year round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, where you can enjoy a sunrise walk along the ocean. Grab a hearty breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh seafood dishes like crab cakes or the famous Virginia Beach omelet. After breakfast, explore the nearby Old Coast Guard Station Museum to learn about the rich maritime history of the area.
In the afternoon, head to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center to see fascinating marine life and interactive exhibits. After that, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Waterside District, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and enjoy local art installations. Enjoy lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants, sampling local seafood and enjoying scenic views of the harbor.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot on the beach to enjoy the stunning colors of the sky. Later, indulge in dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can savor fresh fish tacos or shrimp scampi. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along the Boardwalk, taking in the sounds of the waves and the lively atmosphere.
Begin your morning with a hike in First Landing State Park, where you can explore scenic trails surrounded by nature. Enjoy a picnic breakfast with freshly baked pastries in one of the park's picnic areas, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you walk through the diverse ecosystems of the park.
After your hike, spend some time at the beach within the park, where you can relax on the sandy shores or take a dip in the refreshing water. For lunch, pack a cooler with sandwiches and snacks to enjoy at one of the picnic tables by the ocean. Later, rent a kayak or paddleboard for an exhilarating adventure on the water, exploring the beautiful coastline and its hidden coves.
In the evening, head back to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner. Choose a local restaurant known for its Southern cuisine and enjoy dishes like fried chicken or shrimp and grits. After dinner, attend a local live music event or simply relax by the fire pit on the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-180 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🧃Soft drink or coffee | $2-5 |
| 🧭Museum or attraction admission | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Long, family-friendly beaches with a lively boardwalk
- Strong seafood and casual dining scene, plus parks and wildlife areas
- Peak-season crowds and higher prices in summer
- Some areas can feel tourist-centered; quieter neighborhoods require a short drive
Places to Visit in Virginia Beach
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic photo point with the Atlantic horizon as a backdrop, best captured at sunrise or sunset with the lively boardwalk activity in frame.
Historic lighthouse at Fort Story offering dramatic coastal views and dramatic skies, especially at golden hour.
Industrial harbor scenes with fishing boats, reflections on the water, and sunset hues over the inlet.
Wildlife photography and marshland scenery with trails that reveal diverse ecosystems and wide estuary horizons.
Food in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crunchy-on-the-outside, tender crab meat inside, seasoned with Old Bay and minimal filler; best enjoyed at Oceanfront seafood spots like Waterman’s Surfside Grille.
Must-Try!
Seasonal, lightly fried soft-shell crab served on a crusty bun with remoulade or a tangy slaw.
Creamy soup flavored with crab meat and roe; a Virginia Beach staple at many seafood restaurants.
Fresh, typically served with a mignonette or cocktail sauce; a frequent choice at harbor-front eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, seafood, baked goods, and prepared foods; great for a quick bite or picnic supplies.
A rotating array of street-food vendors along the Oceanfront, offering tacos, grilled corn, barbecued items, and sweet treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect posted rules, keep noise reasonable at night, and avoid leaving litter on the sand. Remember to yield to lifeguards and follow rip current warnings.
Walk on designated pedestrian paths, keep music at reasonable levels, and share the space with joggers and cyclists.
Do not disturb nesting birds or wildlife; stay on marked trails in parks and refuges.
Safety
Tipping in Virginia Beach
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. practice is 15-20% for dine-in service; 10-15% for bars; higher for exceptional service. Tipping is customary in hospitality and service industries.
Most establishments accept cash and major credit/debit cards; contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common. ATMs are widely available in resort areas and shopping districts.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for outdoor activities and coastal hikes. Occasional showers, but much sunnier and less crowded than summer.
Hot and humid with peak beach crowds; perfect for swimming, surfing, and boardwalk festivities. Expect higher prices and busier traffic, but vibrant events outdoors.
Comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds; ideal for outdoor exploration and seafood specials as tourist traffic slows.
Cool and sometimes windy with occasional coastal storms; many outdoor venues reduce hours, but the city feels quieter and intimate with occasional festive events.
Virginia Beach at Night
Hiking in Virginia Beach
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of coastal trails through marsh, forest, and shoreline with scenic overlooks.
Diverse marshland paths ideal for birding and quiet walks with waterfront views.
Long, more remote trails along the barrier island; best for seasoned hikers and wildlife watchers.
Airports
How to reach Virginia Beach by plane.
Primary regional airport serving Virginia Beach with domestic flights and connections; approximately 20-25 miles from the Oceanfront.
Smaller regional airport within a reasonable drive; serves several domestic routes and connections.
Larger hub about 100 miles west; offers extensive domestic connections and some international service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A core market for the city with kid-friendly beaches, amusements, and parks.
Ongoing presence due to nearby bases and related communities; influences local amenities and services.
Choose VB for beach living, calmer neighborhoods, and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular activity along the Atlantic coast with beginner-friendly waves near the Outer Banks-style breaks and dedicated surf shops.
Common on summer weekends with public courts and sanctioned events near the boardwalk.
Lynnhaven and the Chesapeake Bay provide calm waters for sailing, paddling, and wildlife viewing.
Several courses in and around Virginia Beach offer coastal and parkland layouts with water features.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Virginia Beach.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many seafood-focused restaurants offer meatless options such as salads, veggie sides, pastas, and veggie burgers. When in doubt, ask for chefs to customize pasta dishes or salads and avoid fish-based sauces. Local markets and cafés also provide fresh produce and plant-based snacks.