Virginia Beach, VA

Paddle through the serene, protected waters of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a pristine estuary teeming with birdlife. Guided tours are available, offering a peaceful escape and a chance to see ospreys, herons, and maybe even a river otter.

Discover the marine life of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic at this top-rated aquarium. Walk through the Norfolk Canyon aviary, get up close with harbor seals, and explore hands-on exhibits in the Restless Planet gallery.

This artsy neighborhood is packed with local flavor. Browse independent art galleries, sip craft coffee at Three Ships Coffee, and sample creative bites from farm-to-table restaurants and craft breweries like Commonwealth Brewing.

Cast a line from this historic pier at the Oceanfront, a local favorite for catching spot, croaker, and flounder. No gear? Rent everything you need on-site and enjoy the classic pier experience with panoramic ocean views.

Catch a Broadway touring production, a symphony performance, or a headline concert at this state-of-the-art performing arts center in Town Center. Its diverse calendar brings world-class entertainment to the beach community.

Visit Fort Story to see the old (1792) and new (1881) Cape Henry Lighthouses, standing sentinel at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. Climb the newer one for breathtaking views where the Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean.

This is the classic Virginia Beach experience, centered on the three-mile boardwalk. It's a lively mix of high-rise hotels, souvenir shops, arcades, and oceanfront restaurants, perfect for families and visitors seeking non-stop action by the sea.

Just inland from the Oceanfront, this formerly industrial area is now the city's creative core. It's defined by colorful murals, artist studios, indie boutiques, microbreweries, and some of the best local coffee and eateries, attracting a hip, local crowd.

A walkable, high-density urban center away from the sand. Here you'll find luxury apartments, office towers, upscale shopping at stores like Apple and Anthropologie, fine dining, and a vibrant nightlife scene centered around concert venues and cocktail bars.

Located on the calmer shores of the Chesapeake Bay, this residential area offers a more local, low-key vibe. It's known for its sandy beaches, popular casual eateries like Chick's Oyster Bar, and stunning sunsets over the water.

A peaceful, residential beach community south of the main resort strip, often called "Virginia Beach's Outer Banks." It's a serene escape with miles of pristine, dune-backed beaches, vacation rentals, and direct access to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.