Along the Atlantic coast, this active beach destination spans miles of sandy shores, hosts annual surfing championships, and includes marine research centers.
Virginia Beach stretches along 35 miles of Atlantic coastline, where the Chesapeake Bay meets the ocean. You can walk the three-mile boardwalk, watch sharks swim overhead at the Virginia Aquarium, or join half a million people at the September Neptune Festival. Hike through cypress swamps at First Landing State Park, explore art studios in the ViBe Creative District, or pick strawberries at family farms in Pungo during summer months.
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk Experience
Walk, jog, or people-watch along the three-mile concrete boardwalk that spans 40 city blocks. The Atlantic Ocean waves crash on one side while shops, restaurants, and hotels line the other. You'll find a dedicated bike path running parallel to the main walkway for cycling and rollerblading. Stop at 31st Street to see the 34-foot King Neptune statue, and from June through August, watch street musicians and artists perform along your walk.
Virginia Beach Districts
Walk through the ViBe Creative District to watch glassblowers and painters at work in the Virginia Beach Art Center, or purchase ceramics and jewelry directly from local makers. Head 15 miles south to find Sandbridge Beach, a quieter stretch of shoreline with beach houses and fewer crowds. In Pungo, pick your own strawberries from May to June, or stop at roadside stands selling tomatoes, corn, and peaches throughout summer.
Marine Life and Nature
At the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, 10,000 animals swim and crawl in recreated natural habitats. Run your hands along stingrays in touch pools, walk through an underwater tunnel as sea turtles glide above, or take a boat tour to spot wild dolphins. First Landing State Park encompasses 2,888 acres where you can explore cypress swamps and maritime forest on 19 miles of trails. Take guided kayak tours through the wetlands or stay overnight in one of the park's cabins.
Transportation in Virginia Beach
Reach Virginia Beach from Norfolk International Airport in about 30 minutes by taxi, rental car, or airport shuttle. Hampton Roads Transit buses connect the oceanfront with Town Center and surrounding areas. During summer months, catch the VB Wave shuttle running every 15 minutes along Atlantic Avenue to remote parking lots.
Year-Round Events
Watch professional sand sculptors create elaborate artwork during the three-day Neptune Festival in September, which includes an air show with military aircraft. In August, professional and amateur surfers compete in the East Coast Surfing Championships. Winter brings holiday light displays along the boardwalk from November to January. Starting in April, shop for local produce and crafts at the Old Beach Farmers Market, open Saturday mornings in the ViBe District.
