Virginia Beach, VA
Where the Atlantic meets the boardwalk and endless summer
Where the Atlantic meets the boardwalk and endless summer
Things to know
The three-mile-long concrete boardwalk is the city's vibrant heart, buzzing with cyclists, joggers, and street performers. Lined with hotels, shops, and restaurants, it leads to the iconic King Neptune statue and offers direct access to the wide, sandy beach.
Virginia Beach is a haven for seafood lovers, famous for its Chesapeake Bay blue crabs, Lynnhaven oysters, and just-caught fish. Enjoy casual waterfront shacks like Chick's Oyster Bar or upscale dining at places like Terrapin for a true taste of the coast.
Explore over 2,800 acres of protected coastal habitat where English colonists first landed in 1607. Hike or bike through cypress swamps and maritime forests on 19 miles of trails, or launch a kayak into the calm waters of Broad Bay.
Home to one of the world's largest collections of flyable WWII-era aircraft, this museum offers a thrilling look at aviation history. See beautifully restored planes in hangars and watch them take to the skies during special flight demonstrations.
For a break from the sand, head to this stylish urban district featuring high-end retailers, diverse restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife scene. It's the go-to spot for boutique shopping, catching a concert at the Sandler Center, or enjoying craft cocktails.
The Atlantic waves make Virginia Beach a prime spot for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. Rent gear from local shops like Wave Riding Vehicles, take a lesson, or simply join a lively game of beach volleyball on the public courts.
things to do
Beyond the famous beach, Virginia Beach offers a mix of outdoor adventure, rich history, and family-friendly attractions that capture its unique coastal character.
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.
neighborhoods
Virginia Beach is a city of distinct districts, each offering its own slice of coastal life, from the bustling Oceanfront to quiet, historic enclaves.
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.
Browse by category
Salons and spas offering beach-ready styles and post-sun skincare with a relaxed, coastal vibe.
Find everything from surf shop essentials and beach souvenirs to upscale boutiques at Town Center.
From ocean-to-table seafood feasts to global flavors in a laid-back coastal setting.
Trusted local pros for everything from beach house repairs to hurricane prep and landscaping.
Recharge with sunrise yoga on the beach, miles of scenic trails, and fresh coastal air.
A hub for maritime, military, and tourism-focused businesses supporting the coastal community.
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