I didn’t have huge expectations for Virginia Beach. I figured it would be your typical boardwalk beach town fun, maybe a little loud, and mostly geared toward families. But within a few hours of arriving, it completely surprised me.
It started with a sunrise bike ride along the boardwalk. The air was cool and salty, the sky painted in pastel pinks, and I had the path almost entirely to myself except for a few early joggers and a guy playing saxophone near Neptune’s statue. It felt… peaceful. Like the kind of place that doesn’t try too hard and still wins you over.
Later that same day, I joined a small dolphin-watching boat tour at Rudee Inlet. Just as the sun dipped low on the horizon, a pod of dolphins swam right beside us, leaping through the waves like they were showing off just for us. I couldn’t help but laugh out loud it felt like the kind of simple, magical moment that makes a trip stick with you.
That’s the thing about Virginia Beach it’s more than just a stretch of sand. It’s a place that somehow balances energy and calm, family fun and solo serenity, beachy relaxation and cultural depth. Whether you’re here for ocean breezes and seafood or hiking trails and art murals, there’s something for you.
In this guide, I’m sharing everything I loved and a few things I wish I’d squeezed in. From mural-hopping in the ViBe District and sipping Orange Crush cocktails at sunset, to hiking remote wildlife trails and finding unexpected pockets of local history, here’s how to make the most of Virginia Beach.
Quick Highlights
- Walk or bike the Oceanfront Boardwalk
- Watch dolphins from a boat tour at Rudee Inlet
- Explore murals and brunch cafés in the ViBe District
- Visit Cape Henry Lighthouse & Memorial
- Kayak through Back Bay or First Landing State Park
- Relax on quiet Chesapeake Bay Beach
- Sample Orange Crush cocktails at sunset
- Hike Mount Trashmore (yes, really!)
1. Beaches & the Boardwalk
You can’t come here and skip the beach it’s the heartbeat of Virginia Beach. The main stretch along the Atlantic is wide, golden, and buzzing with energy no matter the time of day. There were mornings when I had the sand almost to myself, walking barefoot with a coffee in hand, and afternoons when it came alive with beach volleyball games, sandcastles, and music drifting from the boardwalk.
But what really made this area special for me was the 3-mile Oceanfront Boardwalk. It’s not just a path it’s a scene. I rented a beach cruiser and pedaled along the dedicated bike lane as joggers, rollerbladers, and stroller-pushers shared the space, all with the ocean sparkling to one side. Every few blocks you’ll find little surprises: a gazebo with live music, a seafood shack serving up fish tacos, or a local vendor selling handmade shell jewelry.
Don’t miss:
- The King Neptune Statue at 31st Street – It’s massive, iconic, and makes for a fun photo opp (especially at sunrise when the light hits just right).
- Surrey Bike Rentals – Perfect if you’re with friends or family. We laughed the whole ride trying to coordinate pedaling in sync.
- Street Performers at Sunset – From fire jugglers to jazz guitarists, this is where Virginia Beach shows off its quirky charm.
Zee Tip: If you’re an early riser, the boardwalk at sunrise is pure magic quiet, colorful skies, and dolphins just off the shore.
2. Family-Friendly Fun
I may have traveled solo, but I couldn’t help but notice how perfect this town is for families. Everywhere I went, there were options for kids of all ages many of them right by the water so parents could relax while kids played.
- Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center – This place is enormous and genuinely impressive. You walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and sea turtles. There’s a nature trail outside, and if your kids have energy to burn, there’s even a ropes course and zipline.
- Grommet Island Park – This playground is right on the beach and fully accessible. It’s filled with giant sea creature sculptures, shaded areas, and interactive water features. Watching kids light up here is heartwarming.
- Atlantic Fun Park – This classic summer fairground near the boardwalk has a nostalgic charm Ferris wheels, funnel cake, and ocean views while you ride the bumper cars.
- Mount Trashmore Park – Yes, it used to be a landfill, but now it’s a lush green space with rolling hills, a lake for fishing, skate parks, and picnic tables under shade trees. I saw families flying kites from the top and kids racing down the grass on cardboard sleds.
Zee Tip: If you’re visiting with toddlers or anyone with sensory sensitivities, check out the “quiet mornings” programs offered at some attractions.
3. Outdoor Adventures & State Parks
This is where Virginia Beach totally exceeded my expectations. I knew it had beaches but I didn’t know it had peaceful back bays, wildlife preserves, and pine-covered hiking trails.
- Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge – I spent a slow afternoon here walking the wooden boardwalks through marshes filled with egrets and dragonflies. It’s incredibly peaceful no crowds, just the sounds of wind in the reeds and birds overhead. Great spot for photographers or anyone who just needs a mental reset.
- False Cape State Park – This place feels like a secret. There are no roads in, so you hike or bike through Back Bay Refuge or kayak along the coast to reach it. I didn’t get to paddle all the way there, but it’s 100% on my list for next time. You’ll be rewarded with quiet beaches and untouched landscapes.
- First Landing State Park – This is where the first English settlers arrived, and it’s now a mix of forest trails, beaches, and calm waterways perfect for kayaking. I hiked a shady cypress-lined trail that felt straight out of a movie.
- Kayak or Paddleboard Rentals – Outfitters are everywhere, especially near Rudee Inlet. I did a solo sunrise paddle, and the stillness on the water was surreal just birds, the occasional fish jump, and me.
Zee Tip: Bring bug spray for the parks especially in summer and consider renting a fat tire bike if you’re biking through the sand trails.
4. History & Museums
Virginia Beach might not be the first place that comes to mind for history buffs, but it has layers if you look for them. Some of the best moments on my trip came from slowing down and exploring these unexpected gems.
- Cape Henry Lighthouse & Memorial – I climbed the old black-and-white lighthouse (it’s the first federally funded lighthouse in the U.S.) and took in views of the Chesapeake Bay. Just steps away is the Cape Henry Memorial, where the first settlers landed in 1607. The area is inside Fort Story, an active military base, so bring your ID and expect a vehicle check but it’s worth it for the history and scenery.
- Military Aviation Museum – Even if you don’t geek out over planes, this museum is impressive. Dozens of WWI and WWII aircraft are restored to working condition and on weekends, they sometimes fly them. You can even book a ride in an open-cockpit biplane for a real throwback adventure.
- Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) – I ducked in here during a hot afternoon and ended up staying for an hour. The exhibits are fresh, thought-provoking, and often spotlight local artists. It’s a small space but beautifully designed.
Zee Tip: If you’re a military family, check for discounts or special events they’re common in this area.
5. Art, Culture & Murals
If you’re someone who loves walking through cities with a camera in one hand and a latte in the other, ViBe Creative District will be your happy place. It’s colorful, artsy, and full of little surprises.
- I started my morning with a cinnamon latte from Three Ships Coffee, then wandered down 19th Street and its surrounding blocks where murals cover nearly every wall. Some are huge and vibrant, others subtle and tucked between buildings it felt like a scavenger hunt with spray paint.
- I stopped into Commune for brunch (get the sweet potato hash), where the vibe was as good as the food. The place sources almost everything locally and feels like a community hangout.
- Afterward, I wandered into The Artists Gallery, where working artists open their studios to visitors. I chatted with a painter who’d lived in the area for 30 years and got some great Zee Tips on more hidden murals to find.
- You’ll also find spots like Studio 17 with handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and fun printmaking workshops if you want to take a piece of the trip home.
Zee Tip: Plan to visit mid-morning on a weekday for fewer crowds and better light for photos.
6. Where I Ate & Drank
If you love a good meal as much as a good view, Virginia Beach will not disappoint. From seafood with oceanfront tables to cute cafés tucked into bungalows, I found myself eating well sometimes too well every single day.
- Waterman’s Surfside Grille – This spot is legendary for a reason. I went just before sunset and ordered their famous Orange Crush cocktail (made with fresh-squeezed juice) and crab cakes. The view from the patio is unbeatable surf crashing below, warm lights twinkling overhead. It’s a must.
- The Bee & The Biscuit – I waited 45 minutes for a table on a weekday and I’d do it again. This cottage-turned-breakfast spot is impossibly charming, with mismatched plates, cozy porch seating, and dishes like biscuit sandwiches piled high with bacon and pimento cheese. Zee Tip: Grab a mimosa while you wait and chill in the garden.
- Commune – The ViBe District’s brunch go-to. Everything is farm-to-table, from the beet toast to the duck egg shakshuka. I ended up chatting with the barista about local farms, which somehow made the food taste even better.
- Back Bay Brewing Co. – This brewery feels like your cool friend’s living room laid-back, pet-friendly, and filled with locals playing board games. I tried the blueberry wheat ale and watched the mural outside glow under string lights.
- Big Sam’s Inlet Café & Raw Bar – Tucked right along Rudee Inlet, this was one of my favorite unplanned finds. I popped in after kayaking, still in a windbreaker and sandals, and devoured a seafood platter while boats drifted past the windows. Super casual, super fresh.
7. Unique Tours & Experiences
Sure, the beach is the main draw, but Virginia Beach really shines when you explore beyond it. I found a mix of tours and activities that added texture to the trip some I booked in advance, others I just stumbled upon.
- Dolphin-Watching Boat Tour – This was pure magic. I joined a small group boat at Rudee Inlet, and about 30 minutes in, we were surrounded by dolphins, leaping and racing beside us. The guide shared facts about the bay ecosystem, but honestly, I was just soaking in the moment camera forgotten in my lap.
- Boardwalk Ghost Tour – I joined this one on a whim after dinner and didn’t regret it. The stories were cheesy in the best way, mixing real local lore with just enough drama to keep us all guessing. We stopped at old hotels, listened to creepy legends, and even did a little EMF ghost hunting (no spirits, but plenty of laughs).
- Surf Lessons – I wasn’t brave enough this time, but I watched a group taking beginner surf lessons near 8th Street. Instructors were patient, and everyone looked like they were having a blast definitely on my list for next visit.
- Jet Ski & Parasailing at Rudee Inlet – If you’re into adventure, this is the spot. Outfitters line the marina and offer everything from banana boat rides to parasailing high above the coastline. I watched a couple take off tandem, their feet dangling as they soared over the waves.
- Kayaking in First Landing or Back Bay – I rented a solo kayak and launched at First Landing State Park just after sunrise. The water was glassy, and I felt like I had the whole marsh to myself just the occasional osprey overhead and the rustle of reeds in the breeze.
8. Peaceful Escapes & Hidden Gems
There were moments on this trip when I just needed to unplug and find a quieter corner of town. Luckily, Virginia Beach has plenty of peaceful escapes if you know where to look.
- Chesapeake Bay Beach (aka Chic’s Beach) – I spent a lazy afternoon here reading under an umbrella while the water lapped gently onshore. It’s where locals go to avoid the crowds, with calm waves and a more relaxed vibe. The sand isn’t as wide as the main beach, but it felt almost private in places.
- Lotus Garden Park – This one was a Zee Tip from a local I met at a coffee shop. I drove out one morning just as the sun hit the water and the lotus flowers started opening. It’s small, but there’s something meditative about sitting by the pond and watching the petals move with the breeze.
- Sandbridge Beach – It takes a bit of a drive, but this quiet stretch of beach is perfect if you’re craving space. I walked nearly a mile without seeing more than a handful of people. No big hotels or boardwalk noise just dunes, sea oats, and the sound of the surf.
Zee Tip: If you’re visiting during summer, plan your peaceful spots in the early morning or near sunset they’re even more special when the light’s soft and the crowds are minimal.
9. Neighborhoods to Explore
Virginia Beach isn’t just one stretch of sand it’s a patchwork of neighborhoods, each with its own flavor. I tried to explore as many as I could, and every area gave me a slightly different vibe.
- Oceanfront – This is where you’ll find the iconic boardwalk, hotels, street performers, and most of the action. It’s busy, fun, and walkable. Great for a first-time visitor or if you want everything within reach.
- ViBe Creative District – Artistic, walkable, and full of indie energy. I could’ve spent hours here hopping between murals, plant shops, and cafés. If you’re into photography or street art, this is your spot.
- Chic’s Beach (Chesapeake Bay side) – More local, less touristy. Think paddleboards, beach cruisers, and neighbors waving from their porches. Great for calm beach days and sunset swims.
- Town Center – Totally different feel here: it’s upscale, more urban, and packed with shopping, rooftop bars, and comedy clubs. I came for dinner and ended up staying for a live music set at Zeiders Theater.
- Sandbridge – If I had a week to unplug completely, this is where I’d rent a beach house. It’s scenic and remote, with access to both the ocean and Back Bay. Ideal for families or anyone needing space and solitude.
10. When to Visit + Seasonal Zee Tips
Virginia Beach changes with the seasons in the best way. I went in early fall and loved how mellow everything felt still warm enough to swim, but no lines at brunch or beach crowds to dodge. Depending on your travel style, here’s what each season brings:
Spring (March–May)
Spring is one of the most underrated times to visit. Flowers bloom across the parks, the weather warms up fast, and the crowds haven’t fully arrived yet. You’ll catch cherry blossoms at Mount Trashmore, quiet trails in First Landing, and brunch patios just starting to buzz.
- Average temps: 60s–70s°F (15–24°C)
- Perks: Lower hotel rates, fewer tourists, perfect weather for biking or walking
- Best for: Couples, solo travelers, nature lovers
Summer (June–August)
This is peak season, and you’ll feel it. The boardwalk is alive with street performers, concerts, festivals, and fireworks. It’s hot, lively, and the ocean is perfect for swimming. Just be ready for traffic and higher hotel prices book early.
- Average temps: 80s–90s°F (27–34°C)
- Perks: Full schedule of events, all attractions open, beach vibes at their best
- Best for: Families, first-timers, nightlife seekers
Fall (September–November)
My personal favorite. You get the tail-end of summer warmth in September, plus all the perks of fewer people and cheaper stays. The water’s still swimmable into early October, and the sunsets start getting that dreamy golden hue.
- Average temps: 60s–80s°F (16–28°C)
- Perks: Comfortable weather, calm beaches, fall foliage in the parks
- Best for: Budget travelers, couples, photographers
Winter (December–February)
Quiet and peaceful, winter in Virginia Beach is all about cozy cafés, empty beaches, and maybe a surprise dusting of snow. It’s not ideal for swimming, but perfect for unplugging, walking along foggy dunes, or catching the Holiday Lights at the Beach display.
- Average temps: 40s–50s°F (4–12°C)
- Perks: Lowest hotel rates, no crowds, seasonal light displays
- Best for: Relaxation, writers, winter beach walkers
Final Thoughts: Why I’d Go Back
By the time I left Virginia Beach, I had sand in my shoes, a few new freckles, and that happy-tired feeling you get after a good trip. It wasn’t just the beach that made it memorable it was the rhythm of slow mornings, unexpected dolphin sightings, colorful art-filled afternoons, and the way locals seemed to genuinely enjoy where they lived.
It’s the kind of place that doesn’t scream for attention but quietly offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a mural-chaser, a seafood lover, a parent looking for kid-friendly fun, or someone who just wants to hear the ocean for a few days, Virginia Beach delivers.
I know I’ll be back probably in early fall again when the weather is perfect and the crowds have thinned. And next time, I’ll finally make it to False Cape by kayak and spend more time wandering the ViBe District’s coffee shops.
If you’re headed to Virginia Beach, I hope this guide helps you plan something unforgettable. And if you stumble on a hidden gem I missed, come back and tell me I’m always looking for an excuse to return.
