A fun and relaxed coastal city, Virginia Beach is home to a variety of activities. Nature lovers enjoy pristine beaches, parks and miles of trails for hiking and biking.
Thrill seekers dive into exciting water sports, while culture vultures visit museums and galleries. Each season offers unique opportunities, from summer beach days and festivals to autumn trail exploration and winter cozy seaside moments.
Events
Whether you want to rock out at a concert on the beach or enjoy a kaleidoscope of kites in the sky, Virginia beach offers year-round events that are sure to impress. From hotel and restaurant weeks to the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon, Neptune Festival events and more, there’s something for everyone here.
Various sports camps and classes, as well as summer camp and birthday parties for kids. Public park with ADA compliant playground, multi-use trail, lakes, fishing, picnic areas, therapeutic cradle swing seats and more.
Free to the public, walk-ins welcome. Identify dinosaur sculptures in Jerrasic Park and earn a puzzle prize!
Beaches
From bustling boardwalks to secluded shorelines, beaches have something for everyone. Soak up the sun, explore unique shops and restaurants, or get active on the water with a kayaking tour or fishing trip.
The Atlantic Ocean takes center stage in the beach city. Stroll the ever-popular Oceanfront Boardwalk and snap a photo of the iconic King Neptune statue. Enjoy a variety of family-friendly attractions, big-name concerts and community festivals throughout the year.
If you’re looking for a little peace and quiet, find your spot along the quiet shores of Mason Neck State Park or Tangier Island. Or, head a bit north of 38th Street and discover Broad Bay, a picturesque spot that’s a favorite among local surfers. Here, the waters are calmer and the beach is wider.
Museums
Millions visit Virginia Beach for its pristine beaches and relaxed lifestyle, but the city has plenty to discover beyond the shoreline. Take a deep dive into science, history and art at one of the city's museums.
The Museum of Coastal Virginia explores the coastal heritage of this region through exhibits and educational programs. Discover the story of how local Native Americans and European settlers coexisted, and view historic houses like the Thoroughgood House and Riddick's Folly.
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center showcases ocean life like sharks and rays in globally themed habitats. Observe harbor seals as they sunbathe on rocks and swim through the water, or enter a 360-degree underwater tunnel to see the fishy action up close.
Dining
With miles of wide-open beaches and a flourishing culinary scene, Virginia Beach is an entertainment hub. Discover local art in the eclectic ViBe creative district, dine at welcoming restaurants with waterfront views and find family-friendly attractions and big-name concerts.
Ocean-fresh seafood and farm-to-table cuisine are a highlight of this colorful coastal destination. Local catches are complemented by seasonal produce, and menus feature everything from fried chicken sandwiches to she-crab soup.
For a laid-back meal with breathtaking water views, head to Tulu Seaside Bar & Grille for dishes like quinoa-crusted rainbow trout and charred cauliflower florets. Pair your dish with a refreshing craft cocktail and a cool ocean breeze on the breezy patio. You can also enjoy an oceanfront view and casual upscale dining at Catch 31, which overlooks Neptune Park and hosts live music in the summer.
Shopping
Discover one-of-a-kind treasures and souvenirs at beachwear boutiques, swimwear stores and local gift shops. Browse unique creations by local artists in the ViBe Creative District, and stock up on traditional leather craft pieces, woodwork and jewelry at local artisan galleries.
Find the perfect outfit for a night on the town at the trendy sexy boutique Golden Hour, which features a size-inclusive selection of handpicked styles and accessories. The Shops at Hilltop is a popular strip mall, just 10-minutes from the oceanfront, where you can browse curated brands and local retailers and restaurants, and shop for everything from beach-ready accessories to groceries and homeware.
Enjoy an evening of high-end shopping, dining and entertainment at Town Center, featuring top hotels, a world-class theater and a thrilling arcade. This exciting destination offers a range of retail, dining and entertainment experiences for all ages, and is a short drive from the scenic Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
