Beaches & Resorts

The 21 Unique Things to Do and See in Virginia Beach

Welcome to the vibrant city life in Virginia, where the sand, sun and sea meet with each other. There are a bunch of fun things to do in Virginia Beach for adults and people of all-ages – bringing a wave of adventure in your leisure time.

Get yourself up for a thrilling and fun-filled adventure on the shores of Virginia beach.

Virginia beach is a full package of entertainment for you and your loved ones. Around 5 to 10% of retirees choose Virginia for its idyllic beaches to fascinating historical places. Here’s a glimpse to one of the best places to visit in Virginia beach for an incredibly adventurous trip.

Beaches

The stunning oceanfront of Virginia Beach gives you a serene beachside experience. Now, all the excursionists out there may catch the breathtaking waves at the beaches of Virginia. It hosts multiple white sand beaches with turquoise waters like Miami.

Let’s explore more things to do in Virginia beach this weekend and experience the unique characteristics of each sandy stretch, alongside Virginia’s beautiful beachy sides.

Virginia Beach Boardwalk

A beautiful view of Virginia Beach boardwalk

Virginia Beach Boardwalk offers something for its visitors regardless of the season in which you’re visiting there. It feels incomplete without a walk on this iconic boardwalk. Stretched 3-miles down the coastline is the hub of activities and attractions. It hosts shops, restaurants along with live entertainment in line, throughout the day and night.

Live performances from local to national levels are performing regularly at the Boardwalk venue. You can also find some good spots for your photographs by crossing through the renowned and historic monuments, like the statue of King Neptune.

Sandbridge Beach

Sandbridge is a less crowded and relaxing vacation spot

Whether you are struggling to find a less crowded and relaxing vacation spot, then a hidden gem is awaiting for you which is none other than the Sandbridge Beach. The beach is located 15 miles from the south of the resort area with immense beauty and a serene environment.

Avail the chance to enjoy a relaxing day by the seashore with a number of various activities such as paddle-boarding, kayaking and surfing. Sandbridge offers residency to its visitors by offering vacation homes and rented properties. It is the best opportunity for those looking for a calming vacation.

Croatan Beach

Croatan beach has the best waves

For an enjoyable surfing experience, Croatan Beach has the best waves in Virginia Beach. People who are looking towards less-crowded surfing spots, this beach for sure serves them a quieter alternative among the main beachy areas. Experienced surfers and the locals find Croatan their favorites of all in the bucket list.

The beach has a surfing division for both the experienced surfers and the beginners. You may easily find lifeguard stations, parking and restrooms at this beach, which makes it convenient for a nice and enjoyable sunny day along the beachfront.

Historic Sites and Museums

Take a few steps back and put yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Virginia’s Beach. The historical sites and museums in US give you an insight of its rich history.

You can learn from these well-preserved and fascinating heritage sites by discovering them.

Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum

The museum mainly showcases the history of maritime and the role of Virginia Beach in it

The museum mainly showcases the history of maritime and the role of Virginia Beach in it. It gives you an appealing look into challenges faced by the early lifesavers in the past.

This museum is located in a 1903 historic Life-Saving Station giving its visitors an exploration of the remnants of wrecked ships, historical rescue techniques and how the culture of surfing changed over the past years.

First Landing State Park

First landing state park which has a great history along with its beauty

This is the first place where the English colonists arrived in 1607. It has a great historical importance along with its beauty. The park is scattered on 2,800 acres of land having numerous outdoor activities including, kayaking, hiking and biking.

The walking pathways take you across different natural environments such as freshwater ponds, swamps, and maritime forests, which makes it a great destination spot for exploring wildlife and birdwatching. The Landing State Park is covered with natural beauty which is eye-catching for the visitors.

Adam Thoroughgood House

Adam Thoroughgood is one of the oldest colonial homes

One of the oldest colonial homes which was built in the year 1719. You can still find this house in Virginia. People who are eager to discover colonial history can make a visit to this heritage spot of Virginia. There are gardens surrounding the house which bring peaceful vibes.

Visitors or tourists can have a glimpse of antique furniture and other stuff depicting the lives of people from the past. The family of Adam Thoroughgood and the colonial era is clearly displayed in this house, which is a highlighted feature for the tourists coming here.

Family Attractions

Now you can have fun things to do and see in Virginia Beach with your family and friends. If you are in search of trying out aerial courses or enjoying at a waterpark, and marine life at an aquarium; there are numerous entertaining and exciting options for you.

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

It is one of the largest and famous spots for families that portrays all about aquatic/marine life

It is one of the largest and famous beach spots for families that portrays all about aquatic/marine life, a large outdoor aviary, and a touch tank. The specialties at this center includes a 300,000-gallon Norfolk Canyon Aquarium, having sharks and other marine creatures; along with the Marsh Pavilion from where you can learn more about the local ecological system.

You can spot different sea animals through a boat tour offered by the center. These sea animals include the sea turtles, dolphins and sometimes whales too. Explore more here.

Ocean Breeze Waterpark

A great family holiday spot with more than 30 rides, having a wave pool, water slides

A great family holiday spot with more than 30 rides, having a wave pool, water slides, along with a lazy pool which serves to be a perfect cooling option in summers. Ocean Breeze is a fun place for you which is just a short drive away from the main resort’s area.

There are some other specially equipped areas for children which consist of small slides and splash zones. It also has numerous shaded areas, rental cabanas, and plenty of options in eateries, which makes it a splendid holiday spot with your family.

The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium

The Adventure Park is located inside the Virginia Aquarium

The Adventure Park is located inside the Virginia Aquarium and has different tree-top courses varying upon different difficulty levels, so it may help in building up your skill levels. It offers zip-lining and aerial courses for adults and kids as well.

You may be new to climbing or either an experienced climber, you can easily try out these courses in accordance with your skill levels. Have an adventurous tour at this amazingly wonderful place with your families.

Nature and Parks

Flee from the City’s life and enjoy the calming beauty of Virginia’s nature spots and parks. Explore the outdoors highlighting the natural beauty of these areas along with the beautiful and diverse landscapes.

Let’s go down below to study more about them;

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

For the nature lovers, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit

For the nature lovers, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit. It covers a large area above 9,000 acres of dunes, forests, and marshes. It is a home to a range of wildlife which may include the migratory birds, deer and occasionally black bears too.

Have an enjoyable day in the calming water of Back Bay by engaging in activities such as canoeing, biking and kayaking. Throughout the whole year, there are numerous kinds of the bird species seen at this spot, which makes it an enchanting spot for the birdwatchers.

Mount Trashmore Park

Mount Trashmore is a park in Virginia

Mount Trashmore is a park covering 165 acres, which has two hills that are formed from the layers of waste materials and clean soil. It is popular among the recreational areas in Virginia displaying great views for the tourists.

You can consider this park as a perfect place to fly kites. There are many events arranged by this park including different concerts, festivals and fitness programs during the entire year. It also has playgrounds, picnic shelters, skate parks, and walking pathways for people visiting here.

False Cape State Park

The False Cape State Park has a quiet and peaceful view

The False Cape State Park covers an area of 4,000 acres of dunes, forests and untouched beaches. The park has a quiet and peaceful nature giving you pleasant views to have a memorable time here.

Outdoor lovers can look up to this park for some relaxation and adventure. It helps you in escaping from the hectic and busy life of the city. You are provided here with camping sites to enjoy camping under the starry sky. Other activities are offered as well including watching wildlife, fishing, and hiking.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Just after the sunset, Virginia Beach comes alive with entertainment and lively nightlife. You may have plenty of options to choose from in order to keep your evenings fun and exciting. You may go and catch a live concert, night stay at trendy bars, and restaurants at Virginia’s beach.

So, hurry up and discover these highly exciting packages of entertainment.

Virginia Beach Town Center

Virginia beach town center is recognized as a famous area for nightlife and entertainment

The Town Center is recognized as a famous area for nightlife and entertainment at the Beach of Virginia. You may consider it as a great option to spend an evening out here. Here, you may find a mix of fancy dine out options, bars, live performances, festivals and much more.

Moreover, you can enjoy a show at Sandler Center for the Arts performances, munch a meal or simply walk around and absorb in the cheerful atmosphere.

Neptune’s Park

Neptune park and the main attraction for photography is the statue of king Neptune

Neptune’s Park was founded on 31st Street by the beachfront. It is famous for live music along with many other festivals and events. A main attraction known as a favorite spot for photography is the statue of King Neptune, which is 34-foot-tall made up from bronze.

There are free concerts and events which are arranged for the visitors and locals coming here in the summer season. It gives stunning views of the Atlantic, where you can relax and enjoy the beach waves.

Virginia Beach Amphitheater

Virginia Beach Amphitheater is the place for live music nights and big concerts

Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater or also known as Virginia Beach Amphitheater is one of the top-most places for live music nights and big concerts. It hosts concerts by welcoming famous artists with a variety of music genres, such as pop, rock, hip hop etc.

This place is the perfect outdoor spot to enjoy a musical night under the starry sky in summer, followed with a nicely cooling breeze in evening time. For more updated information and scheduled shows, you may look into their official webpage.

Shopping

Enjoy a spree of shopping in Virginia, have a range of shopping options for a fulfilling shopping experience. You may come across fancy shopping malls to pleasant local markets, the area offers something for you all.

Hilltop Shopping Center

Hilltop Shopping Center in Virginia

Enjoy your shopping trip with an extravagant shopping experience at the Hilltop Shopping Center, offering you with moderns and stylish boutique outlets. It also gives you a variety of local restaurants and famous retailers. This Shopping Center gives you a comfortable and sophisticated environment while shopping and walking around for the entire day.

You can also grab a meal of your choice at one of the cafes and restaurants, serving you delicious food options from casual to gourmet meals. Have a trendy shopping session at this lavish shopping spot.

Lynnhaven Mall

Lynnhaven mall is the largest mall in Virginia

If you are looking for trendy shopping fun, then Lynnhaven Mall is for you. Being the largest mall of Virginia, it has high-end branded stores to famous chain stores. The mall has more than 150 stores, some of the big brands are Marcy’s, Nordstorm and many more.

Fulfill your shopping thrusts here with other exciting stuff as well, such as exquisite dining options. Throughout the year, there are events hosted by the mall, including community activities, fashion shows and sales.

Virginia Beach Farmers Market

The Virginia Beach farmers Market is a great place for a local shopping

The Virginia Beach farmers Market is a great place for a local shopping experience, where you may easily get fresh vegetables, fruits and handmade crafts. Located at the corner of Dam Neck and Princess Anne Roads – a perfect place to buy unique souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones. Each visit to this market definitely offers you something, as it has special deals all around the year.

Dining

Discover the best beach resorts and spots to dine out along with beautiful views surrounding you. There are many choices which you can make in picking up your food at Virginia’s Beach.

The Boardwalk’s Oceanfront Restaurants

The boardwalk's oceanfront restaurants with magnificent views

Eating at Boardwalk’s Oceanfront is for you, if you are in search of good savory along with the amazingly beautiful views. The Broadway features a large number of food choices from casual to exquisite eateries.

Whether you are in a mood to have fresh food with a view at the famous Catch 31- a must-visit restaurant known for its specialty in seafood. Other than seafood, you may also grab a pizza or a burger as per your mood and taste.

Seafood Restaurants

seafood restaurants popular for their fresh dishes, having she-crab, crab cakes, and variety in seafood platters

Being famous for its seafood, Virginia Beach has spots, such as the well-known Waterman’s Surfside Grille popular for their fresh dishes, having she-crab, crab cakes, and variety in seafood platters. You can enjoy a casual meal here with either your family or friends.

There are other known options as well, like the popular Mahi Mah’s Seafood Restaurant and Raw Bar, serving you a range of seafood platters with delicacy and friendly services. You may gain a wonderful experience from these best seafood dining experiences at Virginia’s Beach.

Local Eateries and Cafés

A Cafe in Virginia

Places like The Bee & The Biscuit, famous for its hearty breakfasts, and The Royal Chocolate, which serves tasty chocolate treats and coffee, are local favorites. Visiting these spots lets you enjoy the city’s food diversity and meals made with care and local ingredients.

There are many other local eateries and cafes at Virginia Beach, ranging from southern comfort food to global cuisines. It is a great option to get a taste of the city’s savory scene. The Bee & The Biscuit is popular for its specialties in breakfast. The Royal Chocolate is another option, which offers tempting chocolate delights and coffee. A visit to these eateries will allow you to indulge in the ample variety of cuisines and flavors prepared with delicacy.

Conclusion

Virginia Beach guarantees a memorable and enjoyable trip for all its visitors regardless of age. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural spots, and heritage, Virginia proves to be a worthwhile experience.

So, without any further delay, just grab your luggage and land onto this cheerful and vibrant destination, which will make your vacations more exciting.

Enjoy this ideal spot with your family and friends with stunning views of the beach, along with the rich cultural history of Virginia.

Zaib un Nisa Khalid

Zaib un Nisa, a Chief Editor, Writer and Clinical Psychology post-grad, specializes in school and adult mental health. Her consultations aid countless individuals. Collaborating with non-profits, she champions mental health awareness. She blends her passion for travel, lifestyle, and fitness into mental strength, psychology, and healthy living.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button