Virginia Beach Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary
Experience the perfect blend of sun-soaked beaches, rich colonial history, and vibrant boardwalk culture on the Atlantic coast. From the bustling resort area to the tranquil nature of Sandbridge, Virginia Beach offers a diverse getaway for every traveler.
Virginia Beach is far more than just a stretch of sand; it is a vibrant coastal metropolis where three distinct beach experiences meet rich American history. To the east, the lively Resort Beach pulses with energy, defined by its iconic three-mile boardwalk and endless entertainment. To the north, the Chesapeake Bay offers calm waters and local vibes at Chic’s Beach, while the south hides the pristine, natural beauty of Sandbridge and the Back Bay.
Beyond the surf, the city surprises visitors with its deep historical roots, this is, after all, where the English colonists first landed in 1607 before moving on to Jamestown. Today, that history blends seamlessly with a modern culinary scene, a flourishing arts district, and extensive state parks that invite you to trade your flip-flops for hiking boots. Whether you are here to conquer the waves or explore the maritime forests, Virginia Beach offers an Atlantic escape that feels both nostalgic and new.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
Where History Meets the Horizon
What sets Virginia Beach apart from other coastal towns is its unique designation as the site of the “First Landing.” Before Jamestown became a settlement, the English colonists made landfall here at Cape Henry. You can literally walk in their footsteps at First Landing State Park, which offers a rare combination of maritime forest trails and beach access. It creates a travel experience that feels substantive, you aren’t just vacationing on a beach; you are standing on a cornerstone of American history.
The area is also deeply connected to aviation and military culture. With Naval Air Station Oceana nearby, the “sound of freedom”, the roar of fighter jets practicing maneuvers, is a familiar and thrilling soundtrack to a day at the beach. This patriotic spirit is palpable throughout the city, from the historic lighthouses guarding the bay to the world-class Military Aviation Museum in Pungo, making it a destination that honors the past while celebrating the present.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
First Landing State Park
Explore 2,888 acres of cypress swamps and maritime forest where English colonists first landed in 1607.
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Navigate through 800,000 gallons of aquariums featuring sharks, sea turtles, and harbor seals.
Cape Henry Lighthouse Climb
Climb the historic 1792 lighthouse for panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay meeting the Atlantic Ocean.
ViBe Creative District Tour
Walk through the city's arts hub featuring colorful murals, artisan coffee shops, and local galleries.
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The Icons You’ll Want to See
Virginia Beach Boardwalk - This 3-mile concrete promenade is the heartbeat of the resort area. It features a separate bike path, making it perfect for renting a surrey bike ($25/hr) or a morning jog. It is lined with hotels, restaurants, and stages for live music.
King Neptune Statue - Located at 31st Street and the Boardwalk, this massive 34-foot bronze sculpture is the city’s most Instagrammable landmark. It casts a watchful eye over the Atlantic and is free to visit 24/7.
Cape Henry Lighthouses - Situated on the Fort Story military base (approx. 5 mi north of the boardwalk), you’ll find two lighthouses standing side-by-side. The Old Cape Henry Lighthouse (1792) allows climbing for roughly $10, while the new one is still active. Note: All vehicle occupants must have ID to enter the base.
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center - Located about 2 miles south of the resort area, this facility houses sharks, sea turtles, and playful otters. Admission is roughly $25-$30, and it offers boat tours for dolphin watching in summer and whale watching in winter.
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Insider Tips
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Virginia Beach is straightforward via Norfolk International Airport (ORF), located just 20 minutes from the oceanfront. If you are driving, I-264 East dumps you directly onto the resort strip. Once you are at the oceanfront, the area is very walkable, but the “VB Wave” trolley system is a wallet-friendly way to move between the aquarium, the boardwalk, and the shops without worrying about parking fees, which can run $20+ per day in garages.
When packing, bring layers even in summer. While days are hot, the ocean breeze can cool things down in the evening. If you plan on visiting the Pungo area or hiking First Landing, bring bug spray, as the maritime forests can get buggy. Finally, remember that the “Resort Beach” is just one part of the city, if you want quiet, rent a house in Sandbridge; if you want action, stay on Atlantic Avenue.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Summer (June - August)
Pros
- Perfect ocean swimming temperatures
- Nightly live music and entertainment on the streets
- Full operation of all tours and attractions
Cons
- Hotel prices are at their highest
- Heavy traffic on I-264 and Pacific Avenue
- Crowded beaches and wait times for dining
Shoulder Season: Late Spring & Early Fall (May, Sept - Oct)
Pros
- Pleasant weather for outdoor activities
- Ocean is still warm enough to swim in September
- Better availability for oceanfront accommodations
Cons
- Ocean may be too cold for swimming in early May
- Some seasonal businesses reduce hours
- Risk of tropical storms in early autumn
Off-Peak: Winter (November - March)
Pros
- Lowest accommodation rates of the year
- Whale watching opportunities
- Empty beaches perfect for solitude
Cons
- Too cold for swimming or sunbathing
- Many boardwalk shops close for the season
- Wind chill near the ocean can be biting
Virginia Beach is a year-round destination, but the experience shifts dramatically by season. Summer brings the festivals and the crowds, while the shoulder seasons of May and September offer the “Goldilocks” zone of warm water and room to breathe. Even winter holds a special charm with empty beaches and migrating whales, proving there is no wrong time to visit where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic.
Sample Itineraries
The Classic Oceanfront Weekend
A quintessential beach getaway focusing on the famous Boardwalk, fresh seafood, and iconic sightseeing.
Day 1: Sun, Sand, and Neptune
- Morning: Start your trip with a hearty pancake breakfast at Pocahontas Pancakes, costing around $35 for two. Afterwards, rent a surrey bike for $25 per hour and cruise the 3-mile Boardwalk to see the King Neptune Statue at 31st Street.
- Afternoon: Stake out your spot on the sand near 24th Street where you are close to amenities and lifeguards. Grab a casual lunch at Chix on the Beach for fish tacos, expecting to spend about $40.
- Evening: Walk over to Waterman’s Surfside Grille for dinner and try their famous Orange Crush cocktail, with the bill likely running $80-$100. End the night listening to live music at the 31st Street Park stage, which is usually free during the summer season.
Day 2: Marine Life and Local Art
- Morning: Drive south to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, where tickets cost roughly $30 per adult. Spend about three hours exploring the Red Sea Tunnel and the harbor seal exhibit.
- Afternoon: Head to the ViBe Creative District for a walking tour of the murals and a coffee break at Bad Ass Coffee. Stop for a late lunch at Commune for farm-to-table sandwiches, costing approximately $45 for two.
- Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner at Rudee’s Inlet Restaurant and Cabana Bar to watch the boats come in, with a budget of roughly $90. Finish your trip with a scoop of homemade ice cream from Lolly’s Creamery nearby.
Nature & History Explorer
Escape the tourist center to explore state parks, historic lighthouses, and the quiet bay beaches.
Day 1: Where It All Began
- Morning: Enter First Landing State Park for a $10 vehicle fee and hike the Bald Cypress Trail to see the unique swamps. Pack a picnic or grab snacks before you go, as facilities are limited on the trails.
- Afternoon: Drive to the north end of the park to visit the Cape Henry Lighthouses located on the military base. Admission is around $10, and you will need a valid ID for base access to climb the old tower for incredible views.
- Evening: Relax at Chic’s Beach (Chesapeake Beach) for a calmer water experience and watch the sunset over the Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Have dinner at Buoy 44 Seafood Grill right on the water for about $70.
Day 2: Back Bay and Wildlife
- Morning: Drive roughly 30 minutes south to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, paying the $5 daily entrance fee. Rent a kayak or take a tram tour if available to spot heron, osprey, and perhaps sea turtles.
- Afternoon: Continue south into False Cape State Park if you are up for a long hike, or retreat to Blue Pete’s in Pungo for a late seafood lunch costing around $50. Explore the local farm stands in Pungo like Cullipher Farm for fresh produce or cider.
- Evening: Return to the resort area but stay on the quieter south end near Rudee Inlet. Enjoy a refined dinner at Rockafeller’s Restaurant for roughly $85, known for their local oysters.
Day 3: Aviation and Ocean
- Morning: Visit the Military Aviation Museum in the Pungo area, where tickets are $15 per adult. Allow two hours to walk through the hangars filled with operational WWI and WWII aircraft.
- Afternoon: Head back to the oceanfront for one last dip in the Atlantic Ocean at the calmer Croatan Beach surfing area. Grab a quick lunch at a local deli or food truck for under $30.
- Evening: Conclude your trip with a stroll down the fishing pier at Little Island Park in Sandbridge. Grab a final casual dinner at Margie & Ray’s Crabhouse for excellent she-crab soup, costing about $60 for two.
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