Virginia Beach Travel Guide

What’s there to do in Virginia Beach, Virginia?

Virginia Beach is a popular coastal destination in Virginia known for its sandy beaches, three-mile oceanfront Boardwalk, outdoor recreation, seafood, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you want to relax by the Atlantic Ocean, explore nature trails, enjoy fresh seafood, or spend the day outdoors, Virginia Beach offers plenty of ways to experience the coast.

Virginia Beach at a Glance

• Best known for: Beaches, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, outdoor recreation, and seafood
• Boardwalk: Three miles along the Oceanfront from 2nd to 40th Streets
• Nature: First Landing State Park and Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
• Outdoor activities: Swimming, biking, hiking, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing
• Quieter beach option: Sandbridge Beach
• Best for: Families, couples, beach lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts

Enjoy the Beaches and Boardwalk

The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is the heart of the city’s beach scene. The three-mile Virginia Beach Boardwalk stretches from 2nd to 40th Streets and offers space for walking, jogging, and biking along the Atlantic Ocean. The area also features restaurants, shops, hotels, entertainment, and attractions such as the King Neptune statue and Grommet Island Park.

For a quieter coastal experience, head south to Sandbridge Beach. Its residential setting provides a more relaxed alternative to the busy Oceanfront while still offering access to the beach and nearby natural areas.

Explore Nature and Outdoor Activities

Virginia Beach offers much more than its oceanfront. Several parks and protected areas provide opportunities to hike, bike, kayak, fish, and see local wildlife.

First Landing State Park is one of the area’s top outdoor destinations. The 2,888-acre park features about 20 miles of trails, 1.5 miles of Chesapeake Bay beach frontage, and habitats including maritime forests, lagoons, and bald cypress swamps. The park is also recognized for its historical significance as the site where English colonists first landed in 1607.

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge provides another option for exploring Virginia Beach’s natural landscape. The refuge protects beaches, dunes, freshwater wetlands, and woodlands and offers more than eight miles of scenic trails. Visitors can hike, bike, kayak, fish, photograph wildlife, and observe birds.

Outdoor activities to consider

• Walk or bike the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
• Hike the trails at First Landing State Park
• Explore Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
• Go kayaking or canoeing
• Try fishing or crabbing
• Watch for coastal birds and other wildlife
• Spend a quieter beach day at Sandbridge

Dive Into Local Dining and Culture

Virginia Beach’s dining scene highlights its coastal location, with seafood restaurants serving dishes featuring fish, shrimp, oysters, and other regional favorites. You’ll also find casual restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, waterfront dining, and options near the Oceanfront.

Beyond the beach, explore local shops, galleries, live entertainment, and community events. The Oceanfront is a convenient place to combine dining and entertainment with a day at the beach.

Where to Stay in Virginia Beach

Where you stay depends on the type of trip you’re planning. Oceanfront hotels and resorts put you close to the Boardwalk, beach, restaurants, and entertainment. Vacation rentals can be a good option for families or travelers who want additional space and a more residential setting.

For a quieter coastal getaway, consider staying near Sandbridge Beach. Visitors interested in outdoor recreation may also prefer accommodations with convenient access to First Landing State Park or Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

Planning a Longer Stay in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach can be a convenient place to settle in for an extended stay, whether you’re relocating, renovating a home, or spending part of the year near the coast. Extra storage space can help keep furniture, beach equipment, seasonal belongings, and household items organized during a move or transition.

A Public Storage unit can provide convenient extra space while you get settled and make room for everything that comes with coastal living.

FAQs

What is Virginia Beach known for?

Virginia Beach is best known for its beaches, three-mile Boardwalk, Atlantic Ocean waterfront, outdoor recreation, seafood, and family-friendly attractions.

Is Virginia Beach good for families?

Yes. Families can enjoy the beach, Boardwalk, Grommet Island Park, First Landing State Park, and numerous outdoor activities.

How long is the Virginia Beach Boardwalk?

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is three miles long and runs from 2nd Street to 40th Street along the Oceanfront.

What outdoor activities are available in Virginia Beach?

Popular activities include hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, wildlife watching, photography, and beach activities. First Landing State Park and Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge offer additional opportunities to explore nature.

What is there to do at First Landing State Park?

First Landing State Park offers about 20 miles of trails, Chesapeake Bay beach access, hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and opportunities to explore coastal habitats and local history.

Is Sandbridge Beach quieter than Virginia Beach Oceanfront?

Generally, yes. Sandbridge is a more residential beach area and offers a quieter alternative to the busier Oceanfront Boardwalk area.

What is the best area to stay in Virginia Beach?

The Oceanfront is a convenient choice for visitors who want easy access to the beach, Boardwalk, restaurants, and entertainment. Sandbridge is better suited to travelers looking for a quieter beach setting.