Virginia Beach, Virginia
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Region
Hampton Roads
Type
Coastal city
Setting
Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay
Known for
Beaches, boardwalk, First Landing State Park and Cape Henry
Virginia Beach offers more than one kind of shore. The Oceanfront pairs a broad Atlantic beach with restaurants, attractions and the three-mile boardwalk; elsewhere, the city’s shoreline includes Chesapeake Bay beaches, the quieter stretch at Sandbridge and beach parks such as Little Island Park. The experience varies by neighborhood, so it helps to choose a base around the sort of beach day you want. [1][2]
The city’s coastal appeal also reaches into history and nature. At Cape Henry, a National Park Service memorial marks the approximate landing place of English colonists in 1607; nearby, First Landing State Park brings trails, shoreline and wooded habitats together in a large protected landscape. These sites offer a quieter counterpoint to the activity of the Oceanfront. [3][4]
Why visit Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach is a good choice for a trip built around the coast, whether that means a classic Oceanfront beach day, a walk or ride along the boardwalk, or time outdoors at a state park. Its distinct beach areas make it possible to trade the bustle of the resort district for bay-side scenery or a more secluded-feeling stretch of shore.
The city’s identity is not just beachfront. Cape Henry connects the coast to the early history of English settlement in Virginia, while First Landing State Park offers a chance to explore the region’s natural landscape. Together, these places make Virginia Beach a destination for both a relaxed seaside break and a broader coastal-Virginia itinerary.
What to see and do
Oceanfront beaches
The Atlantic-facing resort area brings the beach close to hotels, dining and boardwalk attractions. For different scenery, consider the Chesapeake Bay shoreline, Croatan or Sandbridge; check the city’s current beach-access information and local conditions before heading out. [5]
Virginia Beach Boardwalk
The Oceanfront boardwalk runs for three miles between 2nd and 40th Streets, with the beach on one side and places to eat, shop and stop along the way. It is a natural centerpiece for a stroll, bike ride or evening out; seasonal events and services can change, so confirm current details when planning. [6]
First Landing State Park
On the Chesapeake Bay side, First Landing State Park combines shoreline with trails through varied coastal habitats. The park also provides camping, picnicking and boating opportunities. Check Virginia State Parks for current access, programs and visitor information before setting out. [7]
Cape Henry Memorial
This small National Park Service site commemorates the 1607 landing of the Jamestown colonists. Visitors can see a memorial cross and interpretive features, and look toward the ocean and entrance to Chesapeake Bay. Confirm current access information before visiting. [8]
History and character
Cape Henry’s place in Virginia history reaches back to April 1607, when English colonists came ashore, planted a wooden cross and named the cape. They went on to establish Jamestown several weeks later. The Cape Henry Memorial marks the approximate landing site, linking Virginia Beach’s coastline with the early history of English settlement in the region. [9]
The coast has also shaped the city’s character as a place of recreation and outdoor life. At the Oceanfront, the boardwalk and beach form a lively public-facing center; elsewhere, bay shores, parkland and the more open landscapes around Sandbridge offer a different pace. First Landing State Park preserves a large area of coastal environment, with trails and shoreline that invite visitors to experience more than the city’s built-up resort district. [10][11]
Planning a visit
Pick the beach area that suits your plans: the Oceanfront for the boardwalk and nearby attractions, Chesapeake Bay beaches for a different shoreline setting, or Sandbridge for a quieter coastal stay. The city lists beach access points and facilities by area; check its current information for parking, access, amenities and beach rules. [12][13]
For First Landing State Park and Cape Henry Memorial, confirm current visitor guidance with the park agencies before you go. Park access, programs, seasonal services and other visit details can change. At the Oceanfront, event schedules and seasonal activities also vary; the official visitor organization’s boardwalk information is a useful starting point. [14][15]
Nearby places and attractions
Norfolk, Virginia
A neighboring Hampton Roads city with its own waterfront, cultural attractions and maritime character.
Colonial Parkway
A scenic route connecting major historic sites on the Virginia Peninsula.
Historic Triangle
Explore the connected history destinations of Jamestown, Williamsburg and Yorktown.
Yorktown, Virginia
A historic waterfront community associated with the final major campaign of the American Revolution.
References
- ↑ Discover the Beaches and Regions of Virginia Beach, Visit Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ Our Beaches, City of Virginia Beach, City of Virginia Beach. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ History & Culture, National Park Service, National Park Service. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ First Landing State Park, National Park Service, National Park Service. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ Our Beaches, City of Virginia Beach, City of Virginia Beach. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Visit Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ First Landing State Park, National Park Service, National Park Service. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ History & Culture, National Park Service, National Park Service. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ History & Culture, National Park Service, National Park Service. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ Discover the Beaches and Regions of Virginia Beach, Visit Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ First Landing State Park, National Park Service, National Park Service. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ Our Beaches, City of Virginia Beach, City of Virginia Beach. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ Beach Rules & Safety, City of Virginia Beach, City of Virginia Beach. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ History & Culture, National Park Service, National Park Service. Retrieved 2026-10-01.
- ↑ Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Visit Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau. Retrieved 2026-10-01.