Virginia Beach isn’t just a beach town – it’s a coastal playground full of sun, sand, adventure and history. Locals know it’s the perfect place for family fun, solo trips & romantic getaways. As a longtime resident of the city, I know what visitors enjoy as well as local “secret” spots.
From exploring the boardwalk and discovering hidden gems to hiking nature trails or taking the kids to interactive museums, this guide will help you plan the perfect Virginia Beach adventure. Take a look at my ultimate Virginia Beach travel guide to find the activities to create your perfect visit.
Beaches & Oceanfront Fun
Of course, no trip to Virginia Beach is complete without a day on the sand:
- Oceanfront & Boardwalk: Build sandcastles, swim, bike or enjoy weekend events at Neptune Park. You even find lots of free event during the summer to keep those travel costs down!
- JT’s Grommet Island Playground: Perfect for little travelers and its 100% handicap accessible.
- Sandbridge Beach & Little Island Park: Family-friendly, less crowded beaches with playgrounds and sports.
- Chicks Beach & Chesapeake Bay: Quieter, calm bays for relaxation and wildlife exploration. The is where the locals like to relax and soak up the sun.
Related article with more details: Best beaches in Virginia
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
VA Beach is more than just the beach. Explore beyond the Oceanfront at these favorite spots:
- ViBe Creative District: Find murals, art galleries, boutique shops and tasty restaurants.
- Marshview Park & Little Island Park: Charming hidden beaches, playgrounds and bike trails.
- First Landing State Park: Trails, forest and sandy bays plus camping spots for those wanting more of the great outdoors.
Related article: Hidden Gems in Virginia Beach
Family-Friendly Virginia Beach
For families, Virginia Beach is packed with activities to suit all ages:
- Beaches & playgrounds: I can’t mention ideas for kids without making the beach #1.
- First Landing State Park: Hiking, biking and beach fun for the entire family.
- Virginia Aquarium & Adventure Park: You can’t ge much better than marine life and zipline adventures.
- Cape Henry Lighthouse & Adam Thoroughgood House: Let kids learn a bit of history while taking in scenic views.
- MOCA: Interactive art and classes for kids.
Related article with more details: 15 Things to Do in Virginia Beach with Kids
Outdoor Adventures
Getting outside and enjoying nature is another must-do when visiting Virginia Beach.
- First Landing State Park: Trails for hiking, biking, and forest/beach exploration.
- Mount Trashmore Park: Playgrounds, skate park, picnic areas.
- Red Wing Park: Gardens, trails, and pickle ball.
- Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge: Hiking, biking, fishing and a great spot for wildlife photography.
Related article with more details: Exploring First Landing State Park
Restaurants & Local Flavor
A few of our favorite restaurant include:
- Bay Local Eatery: Brunch and local favorites – try the sorbet mimosas!
- Tautog’s: Cozy seafood spot located in a Victorian cottage.
- Pink Dinghy: Seasonal menu serving brunch and dinner.
- Waterman’s Surfside Grille: Iconic coastal dining with excellent oceanfront views.
- Big Sam’s: This is a must for breakfast.
- Atlantic on Pacific: Great spot if you like oysters and don’t miss happy hour.
- Leaping Lizard: Locals favorite and even featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.
Where to Stay in VA Beach
These best places to stay in the city are:
- Oceanfront Hotels: Sunrise views and direct beach access with a variety of hotels to fit all budgets.
- Airbnbs in ViBe Creative District & Sandbridge: Local charm and convenience can be especially great for families.
- Eco-Lodges near First Landing State Park: Nature focused stays perfect for families and solo travelers.
Tip: Staying off the Oceanfront (ie. Sandbridge) offers a more peaceful experience, local flavor and better prices. That doesn’t mean the rentals are cheap during peak season, you just may find better rates overall.
Personally, Derrick & I like to stay at either the Cavalier or Embassy Suites at the Oceanfront because they are at the far end of the strip but still close to the bars, restaurants and activities.
Weekend Getaways
Just a few hours from Virginia Beach, you can explore these great cities:
- Fredericksburg: Historic charm, great restaurants & cute inn’s.
- Harrisonburg: Shenandoah Valley adventures plus JMU football.
- Charlottesville: Wine trails and mountains make a great outdoor getaway.
- Cape Charles & Chincoteague: Quiet coastal escapes just over the Bay Bridge Tunnel.
Related article with more details: Weekend Getaways Near Virginia Beach
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April-June): Mild temperatures with fewer crowds.
- Summer (July-August): Festivals and peak beach season which comes with higher prices.
- Fall (September-October): Perfect for hikes and quieter beaches.
- Winter: Peaceful beaches and indoor activities plus great hotel deals. This is when Derrick and I head out for a date overnight at the Oceanfront.
Virginia Beach FAQ: Know Before You Go
Is Virginia Beach open to the public?
Yes! Virginia Beach is a public beach open year-round for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re at the Oceanfront, Sandbridge or Chick’s Beach on Shore Drive, there’s a perfect spot for every visitor.
- Oceanfront: Bustling boardwalk, live music and easy access to shops and restaurants.
- Sandbridge: Quieter, more natural and great for families who want space to unwind.
- Chick’s Beach (Chesapeake Bay Beach): Calm waves and a local vibe, perfect for little ones and paddleboarding.
Where can I access the beach and boardwalk?
There are public access points all along the coast, especially near major parking areas.
- Virginia Beach Boardwalk: Stretches from 2nd to 40th Street, lined with ramps, restrooms, and shops.
Fishing Piers in VA Beach
- Virginia Beach Fishing Pier (15th Street at the Oceanfront) – great for views and people-watching.
- Little Island Park Pier (Sandbridge) – quieter and great for families.
Are pets allowed on the beach?
Yes, but there are seasonal restrictions:
- Memorial Day-Labor Day: Pets are welcome before 10 a. and after 6 pm on public beaches and the boardwalk.
- Off-season: Pets can visit any time of day.
Remember to keep them leashed and clean up after your pet.
Can I bring alcohol or fireworks to the beach?
No – alcohol is not allowed on any public beach or the boardwalk unless you’re attending a permitted special event. If you’d like a drink, many nearby beachfront restaurants and bars offering great ocean views where you can enjoy one responsibly.
Fireworks are also prohibited on all beaches.
Are lifeguards on duty?
Yes! Lifeguards keep the beaches safe during the summer season (Memorial Day-Labor Day).
- Oceanfront: Lifeguards are on duty daily from 2nd-40th Street.
- Croatan Beach: Lifeguards are stationed during the summer especially in the main surfer zones.
- Sandbridge Beach: Lifeguards are based at Little Island Park with patrols during peak times.
- Chick’s Beach: No lifeguard coverage so swim close to shore and with a buddy.
Where can I park near the Oceanfront and Sandbridge?
Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends.
- Oceanfront: City lots and garages are available on 2nd, 4th, and 25th Streets with easy access to the boardwalk. Most accept credit cards and mobile payments. Please note that fees can get steep during peak season.
- Sandbridge: The Little Island Park lot is your best bet, offering restrooms, showers and picnic shelters just steps from the sand.
Are there fees or restrictions for public access?
The beaches themselves are free, but parking may have a daily fee in the summer. Always check for residential or private access signs before entering smaller neighborhood paths.
What are the top things to do in Virginia Beach?
Explore beaches, museums, parks and hidden gems. Families will love my 15 Things to Do in Virginia Beach with Kids.
What are the best beaches for families?
Sandbridge is a quieter, locals beach while Chicks Beach has calmer water for little ones.
When is the best time to visit Virginia Beach?
Spring and fall are ideal for smaller crowds; summer is peak for festivals and beach fun.
Are there kid-friendly museums and adventure parks?
Virginia Aquarium, Adventure Park, Adam Thoroughgood House, Aviation Museum. See Family Fun Post.
Where should I stay in Virginia Beach?
Oceanfront hotels, ViBe or Sandbridge Airbnbs or eco-lodges near First Landing.
Where are the best restaurants in VA Beach?
Bay Local Eatery, Tautog’s, Chick’s, Waterman’s Surfside Grille, plus ViBe Creative District spots.
Virginia Beach has something for everyone from hidden gems and historic sites to nature trails, beaches, restaurants and easy weekend getaways. With this Virginia Beach travel guide, you’ll create memories your whole family will treasure.
What are your favorite spots in VA Beach?
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