Virginia Beach attractions and things to do
More actions
Region
Hampton Roads
Setting
Atlantic coast and Chesapeake Bay
Best known for
Beaches and the Oceanfront Boardwalk
Good for
Beach days, nature and family outings
Virginia Beach is a coastal city with more to offer than a day on the sand. The busy Atlantic Oceanfront pairs public beaches with the Boardwalk, restaurants and seasonal entertainment, while the Chesapeake Bay, Sandbridge and inland parks offer quieter ways to explore the water and landscape. Add the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, trails and coastal history for a trip that can shift easily between beach time and other activities.[1]
Plan a trip to Virginia Beach attractions and things to do
Why go
The main draw is variety. Visitors can spend the day swimming or walking the shore, take in the activity around the Oceanfront, then trade the crowds for wooded trails, bay beaches or the more open coast near Sandbridge. The city’s official beach guide covers several distinct stretches of shoreline, including the Atlantic Oceanfront, Chesapeake Bay beaches, Croatan and Sandbridge; access, facilities and conditions vary by location.[2]
Highlights
Walk or bike the three-mile Oceanfront promenade, with the beach on one side and places to eat, shop and find entertainment along the other.
Explore Chesapeake Bay shoreline, varied habitats and more than 20 miles of trails in a large coastal park.
See marine and other wildlife in aquarium exhibits, with touch pools and play areas in the South Building.
Add a landmark visit to a day exploring Cape Henry and the entrance to the Chesapeake Bay. Check current visitor access before you go.
Head south for protected coastal habitats and a quieter nature-focused outing.
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk runs from 2nd to 40th streets and offers an easy way to combine a shoreline stroll with nearby attractions. Along the route, look for the King Neptune statue and Grommet Island Park; events and other seasonal offerings vary, so check local listings before planning around them.[3]
For a change of pace from the Atlantic, explore the Chesapeake Bay side of the city. First Landing State Park has Bay shoreline and extensive trails, while city beach facilities include options in Sandbridge and at Little Island Park. Little Island Park offers beach access and facilities including picnic areas and a fishing pier; confirm current conditions and availability before setting out.[4][5]
The aquarium makes a useful indoor stop or rainy-day alternative. Its exhibits include sharks, sea turtles and seals, and its South Building features jellies, touch pools and play areas. Check the aquarium’s visitor information for current hours, admission and exhibit updates before visiting.[6]
History and character
Virginia Beach’s coastal setting has shaped both its recreation and its history. At Cape Henry, the National Park Service identifies the approximate landing site of the Jamestown settlers in 1607. The memorial also interprets the 1781 Battle of the Capes, a naval engagement connected to the later British surrender at Yorktown. The site is part of Colonial National Historical Park.[7]
The city’s character shifts from the busy, visitor-oriented Oceanfront to quieter stretches of coast, parks and inland communities. That contrast is part of the appeal: a trip can center on the classic boardwalk-and-beach experience or use it as a starting point for exploring the wider coastal landscape.
Planning a trip
Choose your shoreline to match the day you want. The Oceanfront is the most convenient base for the Boardwalk and nearby dining and entertainment; Sandbridge and Little Island Park suit visitors looking for a different beach setting, while Chesapeake Bay beaches offer a change from the open Atlantic. Review the city’s beach information for access points, facilities and swimming advisories, and confirm local conditions before traveling.[8]
For an outdoors-focused visit, pair beach time with a walk or hike at First Landing State Park or a visit to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. For a flexible itinerary, combine the Boardwalk with the aquarium, then leave time for a meal or an evening stroll. Seasonal events, access arrangements, parking rules, hours and admission can change; confirm current details with the city or attraction before setting out.
Explore nearby
Norfolk, Virginia
Explore a neighboring Hampton Roads city with museums, waterfront attractions and a distinct urban character.
Chesapeake, Virginia
Discover another Hampton Roads destination, with waterways, parks and natural areas.
Hampton, Virginia
Continue along the coast to explore Hampton’s waterfront and regional history.
Travel books and maps: Browse related Virginia travel books and maps on Amazon
References
- ↑ Virginia Beach Attractions, Visit Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau. Retrieved October 28, 2026.
- ↑ Our Beaches, VirginiaBeach.gov, City of Virginia Beach. Retrieved October 28, 2026.
- ↑ Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Visit Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau. Retrieved October 28, 2026.
- ↑ First Landing State Park, National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior. Retrieved October 28, 2026.
- ↑ Beach & Boat Facilities, Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation, City of Virginia Beach. Retrieved October 28, 2026.
- ↑ Aquarium Maps, Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. Retrieved October 28, 2026.
- ↑ History & Culture: Cape Henry Memorial, National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior. Retrieved October 28, 2026.
- ↑ Our Beaches, VirginiaBeach.gov, City of Virginia Beach. Retrieved October 28, 2026.