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Virginia Beach, Virginia is a dynamic coastal city that stretches 35 miles along the Atlantic Ocean and ranks as one of the most visited destinations on the East Coast. This vibrant city offers visitors a rare combination of sun-soaked beaches, rich military history, and thriving arts and culinary scenes. Whether you are arriving for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, Virginia Beach delivers experiences that appeal to every type of traveler.
Virginia Beach’s history dates back to the Powhatan people who inhabited the area for thousands of years before European contact. English settlers established the First Landing Colony at Cape Henry in 1607, marking one of the earliest English settlements in North America. The city’s name comes from the actual beach where colonists first set foot on Virginia soil, a defining moment preserved today at Cape Henry.
The military has shaped Virginia Beach profoundly since World War I. Naval Air Station Oceana opened in 1943 and remains one of the largest naval air stations in the world. The presence of the military has created a deep sense of patriotism in the community, evident in the city’s numerous memorials and veteran celebrations throughout the year.
The cultural landscape of Virginia Beach reflects its diverse community. The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art showcases rotating exhibitions from regional and national artists. The ViBe Creative District in the Oceanfront area has transformed old buildings into studios and galleries where local artists create and sell their work. The city hosts the Pungo Strawberry Festival each June, celebrating the agricultural heritage of the surrounding region.
The Oceanfront Boardwalk stretches three miles along the Atlantic and serves as the heart of Virginia Beach tourism. The concrete promenade is lined with hotels, restaurants, and attractions, featuring iconic Neptune statues at 1st Street and 31st Street. Street performers, musicians, and artists create a lively atmosphere from dawn until late evening.
Mount Trashmore Park stands as a unique urban landmark that transformed an old landfill into a 165-acre public park. The park features two man-made mountains perfect for skateboarding and BMX biking, along with playgrounds, a lake for fishing, and extensive walking trails. The innovative reclamation project has become a model for environmental restoration across the country.
First Landing State Park marks the exact spot where English colonists first landed in 1607. The park offers 12 miles of hiking trails through diverse ecosystems including dunes, marshlands, and hardwood forests. The Chesapeake Bay beach within the park provides a quieter alternative to the busy Oceanfront area.
The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center houses over 300 species of aquatic life across multiple exhibit buildings. The facility features a 70,000-gallon coral reef tank, a touch tank, and outdoor aviaries. Boat tours depart regularly for whale watching excursions and seasonal dolphin watching cruises in the Atlantic.
Virginia Beach’s beaches rank among the cleanest and widest on the East Coast. The 35-mile coastline includes the bustling Oceanfront, the family-friendly Sandbridge area, and the secluded Cape Henry. Lifeguards patrol designated swimming areas during summer months, and the gentle slope of the shoreline makes it safe for swimmers of all skill levels.
Fishing and water sports thrive in Virginia Beach’s waters. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel creates world-class fishing spots where anglers catch striped bass, flounder, and red drum. Kayakers explore the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, paddling through marsh channels teeming with bird life including herons, egrets, and bald eagles.
The Virginia Beach Bike Loop connects over 70 miles of dedicated bike paths throughout the city. Cyclists can ride along the oceanfront bike path, through coastal neighborhoods, or into the rural southern end of the city. Electric bike rentals are widely available at the Oceanfront for visitors without their own equipment.
Golfers enjoy several championship courses designed by renowned architects. The Virginia Beach National Golf Club hosts annual professional tournaments, while public courses offer affordable play with stunning water views and challenging layouts. The Virginia Beach Golf pass provides discounted access to multiple courses throughout the area.
Military Aviation Museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of privately owned military aircraft. Most aircraft are restored to flying condition and demonstrated during regular show events. The hangar-style facility displays WWII-era planes, vintage helicopters, and rare military jets from conflicts spanning a century of aviation history.
Oceanfront nightlife comes alive after sunset with bars, breweries, and live music venues. The Repeal SS offers craft cocktails in a historic bank building, while Back Bay Brewing Company serves local beers with waterfront views. Dance clubs and live music venues along Atlantic Avenue cater to visitors seeking evening entertainment.
Farmers markets and waterfront dining showcase Virginia Beach’s culinary identity. The Old Beach Farmers Market operates Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings at 19th Street, offering local produce, artisan goods, and prepared foods. Fresh seafood dominates restaurant menus, with local oysters, blue crabs, and Chesapeake Bay rockfish featuring prominently at waterfront establishments.
Adventurepark provides aerial obstacle courses and zip lines for thrill-seekers of all ages. The park includes rope courses suspended among pine trees, climbing walls, and the area’s only outdoor laser tag arena. Summer concert series at 5th Street Beach Stage bring free live music to the Oceanfront throughout the season.
Late spring and early fall offer the ideal combination of comfortable temperatures and smaller crowds. May brings the Bikini Beach Music Festival and perfect beach weather in the 70s. September features the Neptune Festival, the city’s largest annual event celebrating the region’s maritime heritage with sand sculpting, parades, and waterfront activities.
Summer remains the peak season for beach activities with temperatures in the 80s and 90s. The Oceanfront hosts weekly fireworks displays every Friday during summer months. Hotel rates surge during this period, so booking well in advance is essential for anyone planning a summer visit.
Winter transforms Virginia Beach into a peaceful retreat with temperatures in the 40s and 50s. Hotel rates drop dramatically, and the holiday season brings festive events including the Beach Blanket Bazaar and seasonal light displays. This slower pace allows visitors to explore museums, spas, and restaurants without the typical crowds.
Here are some of our recommended things to do while visiting Virginia Beach. Pick your favorite!
The Cape Henry Lighthouse stands as one of the most historically significant landmarks in Virginia Beach, marking the exact spot where English colonists first landed in 1607 before continuing on to establish Jamestown. Today, two lighthouses rise si…