2024 Virginia Beach Vacation Guide
Virginia Beach has it all. Warm sunny summers and mild winters offer just about anything you are looking for in a vacation spot. Long sand-covered beaches, beautiful waterways, beautiful landscapes, and breathtaking seascapes are all within your reach. You will find exciting nightlife, plenty to eat, and many exciting attractions to choose from. If you are looking for a relaxing getaway or plenty to do, you will surely find it here. Come spend one day or three weeks at beautiful Virginia Beach, you will be glad you did.
Virginia Beach has many local activities & attractions. Amusement parks, deep-sea fishing, boat rides, sightseeing, fine dining, AAA basketball, dolphin watching, marine museums, and that is not all. You can spend hours, days, or weeks entertaining yourselves and your family without having to travel more than a few minutes in any direction. Nighttime entertainment includes music and dance clubs with music ranging from smooth-sounding jazz to lively disco, comedy clubs, concerts, theater, opera, symphony, and movies. Even with all that to do, virtually no one comes to Virginia Beach without taking a stroll on the boardwalk. Come, have fun, and enjoy it.
Virginia Beach Visitors Guide
Whether you’re on a budget or not, you should be able to find affordable accommodations in Virginia Beach at any time of the year. Virginia’s online reservations system offers many hotels & resorts to choose from with discounted rates. You can view individual hotel web pages with pictures and information. Check rates, and availability and make secure online reservations. If you would prefer a little more space, then you’ll want to check out the vacation rentals that we offer. All About Virginia Beach also offers the guaranteed lowest rates on car rentals anywhere in the city from major companies like Enterprise & Thrifty. Our online services are easy to use and very secure. We provide quality service to all of our customers.
While visiting Virginia Beach you’ll never go hungry for quality food or shopping. Virginia Beach offers lots of great restaurants that will please anyone’s appetite. You can eat everything from seafood to sushi and do it with a fantastic ocean view. Restaurants serving Italian, French, American, and Seafood can all be found close by. If shopping is what you are looking for you are in luck. Virginia Beach has everything from your department store chain to local gift shops. Shopping here is great for everyday items as well as the special gift items you are looking for.
What to See & Do in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is packed with things to see and do. There are everything from scenic walks on nature trails to fast-moving rides at exciting amusement parks. Whatever your reason for visiting Virginia Beach we are sure you will find what you are looking for. Below we have put together a sample of what Virginia Beach has to offer. Please feel free to look around and don’t forget to browse our site for other information about Virginia Beach we have assembled just for you.
Historical and seasonal activities only serve to elevate the activities in Virginia Beach. Tours of historical sights, such as Cape Henry Lighthouse and Ferry Plantation Station, educate as well as entertain spectators with the rich American history that is prevalent in the city. Throughout the year, several different celebrations mark American holidays. Among the most popular attractions are The Chick-fil-A Holiday Lights at the Beach, The Fourth of July celebration Stars and Stripes Explosion, and The Easter Eggstravaganza. Complete with a Shakespeare festival, planetarium, and a marine science center, tourists and residents always have many activities from which to choose.
Busch Gardens
One of the best amusement parks in the country. Busch Gardens has it all from animal shows and interaction to some of the best roller coasters in the world.
The Boardwalk
Virginia Beach’s famous 3-mile oceanfront promenade is the place to see and be seen. Newly renovated with larger than life sculptures and landscaped park areas.
Ocean Breeze Fun Park
Four parks in one. Wild Water Rapids, Shipwrecked Miniature Golf, Motorworld with 1/4 Grand Prix cars, and Strike Zone with major league batting cages. You and the family will certainly all be entertained here.
Ocean Front Entertainment
Walk along the boardwalk and stop where there is over 100 days of entertainment each year. Each show is a special event.
Virginia Beach Sportsplex
Home to the Hampton Roads Mariners Professional Soccer Team and regional sporting events, this stadium was the first in the U.S. built primarily for soccer.
Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
Acclaimed as one of the 7 Engineering Wonders of the Modern World. Both a travel convenience and a tourist attraction, it spans 20 miles and connects Virginia Beach/Norfolk with the Virginia Eastern Shore.
First Landing Cross
The Jamestown Colonists first touched the shores of the New World on April 26, 1607. The cross marks this very spot they first landed. Their landing was 13 years before the pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock.
Old Cape Henry Lighthouse
Put up and funded by America’s first Congress in 1791 to replace inland fires lighted by the colonists to warn mariners entering Virginia’s capes. This lighthouse provided light for nearly a century. You can climb the winding stairway and enjoy the beautiful picturesque view of the Bay.
Seashore State Park
Over 2700 acres of woodland bordering Lynnhaven Inlet. You’ll find tons of different trees and plants and enjoy hiking on scenic nature trails.
Virginia Zoological Park
The largest municipal zoo in Virginia. The zoo has over 400 animals for your viewing pleasure. Right next to the zoo is a beautiful 50-acre park for a picnic or play.
Read more >> Virginia Beach Family Attractions & Things to Do
Where to Eat in Virginia Beach
Time for dinner? Virginia Beach has plenty to offer, ranging from seafood to steaks and from Cajun to Deli. Make no mistake Virginia Beach has more to offer than just dinner. Look for great restaurants serving outstanding breakfasts, great lunches as well as savory dinners. Please look below for some of Virginia Beach’s various types of restaurants, cafes, and pubs. You will surely find something you like.
Selecting a place to dine is never difficult, or maybe it is always difficult, because of the array of fabulous restaurants serving the Virginia Beach area. The area plays host to almost every variety of cuisine that exists from Asian to Irish, from bakeries to steakhouses. Among the restaurants that are unique to Virginia Beach are Angelo’s by the Sea, The Swan Terrace, and Virginia’s Jewel. Together, the three restaurants range from $10 to above $21 a meal. Angelo’s boasts a full buffet, as well as cook-to-order meals. The Swan Terrace adds ambiance to a meal when customers are able to dine fireside or lakeside. Finally, Virginia’s Jewel invites customers to dine aboard a yacht that cruises the eastern seaboard.
Where to Stay in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach offers hotels, resorts, motels, and inns for almost any budget. Whether you need a room downtown or on the beach, the selection is enormous. By clicking on the “Hotel Information & Rates” link next to the corresponding hotel name below, you can view individual hotel web pages with pictures and information. Check rates, availability and make secure online reservations and save.
The Beaches of Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach, Virginia offers some of the most spectacular beaches in the world. From the densely populated for the social butterfly to the very secluded for a romantic getaway. Virginia Beach beaches will surely satisfy anyone’s desire for fun under the sun. Below we have listed some of the most popular beaches in the Virginia Beach area! Feel free to browse around and find the beach that fits your getaway plans while you’re in Virginia Beach.
In addition to 33 miles of beach, Virginia Beach boasts a thick mix of The Arts and sports. “The city has 194 tennis courts, 198 city parks, 54 marinas, 10 campgrounds, and nine public golf courses,” reports the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. Lovers of the sport of golf will especially enjoy Virginia Beach, as it possesses many spectacular golf courses. The Signature at West Neck was designed by Arnold Palmer and featured in many top golf publications. The Virginia Golf Guide describes The Signature as, “Equal parts beauty and challenge.” Part of the PGA tour, The TPC of Virginia Beach is a course where the public may play where the pros play!
Aquatics abound in the beachfront town. Scuba diving and snorkeling through shipwrecks are among the most popular activities. Also, favorites among tourists and residents are pier fishing, boating, deep-sea fishing, and surfing!
Nightlife in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach has everything you are looking for. After a day at the beaches or attractions, you may want to relax at one of Virginia Beach’s many jazz clubs. You have more energy! Visit night clubs ranging from hard rock to the blues for a night of dancing and entertainment. Comedy clubs are also on the menu for visitors who need to finish their day with a smile. No matter what you are looking for when the sun goes down, Virginia Beach has it to offer.
Golf Courses in Virginia Beach
Looking for a game of golf? Virginia Beach has many courses to choose from. These courses designed by some of the greatest minds in golf today are sure to offer everything for every skill level. If you are a beginner or an advanced player you will enjoy your golf vacation at Virginia Beach. Below we have outlined some of the local courses for you to browse through. Please feel free to look around and don’t forget to check out our online reservation service for your hotel and car rental needs.
| Golf Course | Phone | City | Holes | Green Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heron Ridge Golf Club | 757-426-3800 | Virginia Beach | 18 | $35. – $58. (Cart Included) |
| Hells Point Golf Club | 757-721-3400 | Virginia Beach | 18 | $35. – $58. (Cart Included) |
| Kiln Creek Golf & Country Club | 757-988-3222 | Newport News | 18 | $40. – $60. |
| Cahoon Plantation Golf Course | 757-393-8600 | Chesapeake | 18 | $39. – $69. |
| Bide-A-Wee Golf Course | 760-749-2422 | Portsmouth | 18 | $18 – $30. |
| Cypress Point Golf Club | 757-490-8822 | Virginia Beach | 18 | $38. – $45. (Cart Included) |
| Honey Bee Golf Club | 757-471-2768 | Virginia Beach | 18 | $29. – $45. |
| Redwing Golf Course | 757-437-4845 | Virginia Beach | 18 | $10. – $40. (Cart Included) |
| Cypress Creek Golfers’ Club | 757-365-4774 | Smithfield | 18 | $38. – $55. (Cart Included) |
| Newport News Golf Club | 757-886-4725 | Newport News | 18 | $14. – $45. (Cart Included) |
| The Hamptons Golf Course | 757-766-9148 | Hampton | 18 | $15. – $28. |
| Sleepy Hole Golf Course | 757-538-4100 | Suffolk | 18 | $24. – $38. (Cart Included) |
Parks & Guided Tours in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach has it all for the nature lover. Guided boat tours nature parks and vistas for all to enjoy are just part of the beautiful sights Virginia Beach has to offer. You can hike, bike, boat or take a ride on the tram to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of some of America’s best seascapes and landscapes. Whatever your pleasure Virginia Beach is sure to please. Below we have highlighted some of the main scenic parks and tours available to you while visiting Virginia Beach. Please take advantage of our discounted hotel and car rental rates and make your reservations right now online!
Nature Parks & Vistas
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a 7700-acre beach, woodland, and marsh refuge for a wide variety of migratory birds, endangered species, and other wildlife, including snow geese, marsh hawks, red foxes, loggerhead turtles, and American Bald Eagles. Bike, hike, or take the tram.
4005 Sandpiper Rd. (757) 412-2331
Chesapeake Bay Center
The informative visitor center features aquariums, environmental and historical exhibits, and displays, classroom space and information on nature-based tourism activities in the area. 2500 Shore Drive (757) 412-2331
False Cape State Park
A pristine, ocean to freshwater bay habitat. Only accessible by boat or five-mile trip by bike or on foot.
4001 Sandpiper Road. (757) 426-7128
Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
More mammals call this home than any other local preserve. The refuge covers 750 square miles and includes Lake Drummond, a 3000-acre natural lake. Off Route 642, Suffolk. (757) 986-3705
Guided Tours
Coastal Explorer
Half hour pontoon boat tours through Owls Creek Marsh, the last undeveloped salt marsh in Virginia Beach.
(757) 437-BOAT
Dolphin Watch Boat Trip
Two-hour ocean excursion to observe bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.
(757) 437-BOAT
Ocean Collection Boat Trip
Professionals trawl the ocean floor for samples of sea life to bring on boar during the 90-minute boat trip sponsored by Virginia Marine Science Museum.
(757) 437-BOAT
Whale Watch Boat Trip
Two-hour excursion off the coast of Virginia Beach will search for juvenile humpback and fin whales, for observation. Professionals from Virginia Marine Science Museum will also point out other water wildlife as well as local landmarks, including the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse, international shipping traffic and U.S. Navy maneuvers.
(757) 437-BOAT
Boating & Fishing in Virginia Beach
If you are looking for a relaxing trip on the water, Virginia Beach has something for everyone. Take your own boat to one of the many marinas or choose to take a guided tour. Virginia Beach also has it all for the sports enthusiast. Fishing, scuba diving, jet ski rentals, and much more are all on the menu for fun.
Chesapeake Bay
Virginia Beach has an excellent selection of kayaking areas. Inshore kayakers will find ponds, lakes, marshes, creeks, and other areas to explore. For advanced paddlers, there are plenty of launch areas nearby with the Chesapeake Bay or access to enjoy ocean kayaking.
Many of the marshes, swamps, and creeks surrounding Virginia Beach are home to stunning arrays of birdlife. Among commonly seen birds are eagles, ospreys, kingfishers, herons, egrets, ibises, rails, plovers, oystercatchers, gulls, terns, and other aquatic species.
Tidewater area
Wildlife photographers will find a wealth of subjects in local waters. The backwaters of the Tidewater area are surrounded not only birds and wildlife, but historical landmarks, spectacular beaches, and other sites.
Kayak fishing
Virginia Beach has a thriving kayak fishing community. Recreational anglers fish not only in freshwater lakes and brackish creeks but in the waters of the Chesapeake, sometimes fishing as far out as the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel and beyond.
Saltwater anglers
For saltwater anglers that prefer saltwater fishing in quieter areas, there is the Lynhaven River, Back Bay, and other areas. Many of these overlooked flats, creeks and backwater coves are home to striped bass, seatrout, flounder, bluefish, redfish, croakers, spot, and other species of saltwater fish.
Historic Tours & Landmarks in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is where America’s first English settlers landed. There are some of the oldest statues, landmarks, and buildings in the country. Virginia Beach has tours and landmarks ranging from the first place English settlers landed to the most sophisticated United States naval base. Please look below at some of the landmarks and tour information we have assembled for you. Don’t forget to use our online reservation service for your hotel and car rental needs.
Adam Thoroughgood House
Adam Thoroughgood House is a 17th century English cottage and is one of the oldest brick homes in America.
(757) 431-4000
Battle Off The Capes Monument
Battle Off The Capes Monument commemorates the French fleet’s brave stand against the British in 1781 that helped ensure the capture of General Cornwallis and seventy-five hundred troops at Yorktown.
Cape Henry Lighthouse
The oldest lighthouse in America built by the government in 1791. The “new” lighthouse was built in 1881 and is the tallest fully enclosed lighthouse in the U.S. (757) 422-9421
First Landing Cross
First Landing Cross is where America’s first English settlers reached shore in the New World in 1607.
Francis Land House
Francis Land House has exhibits, period furnishings, gardens and costumed guides at this gracious 18th-century plantation home. (757) 431-4000
Lynnhaven House
Lynnhaven House is an 18th-century brick house that features lovely grounds, period furniture, and tours by costumed guides. (757) 460-1688
Upper Wolfsnare
Built by the prominent Wake family in 1759, this brick Georgian house includes mementos of 18th-century family life. (757) 491-3490
Virginia Legends Walk
Virginia Legends Walk is a new state attraction that honors Virginians who have made a significant contribution to the nation and the world. (757) 491-7866
Virginia Beach Communities
After merging with Princess Anne County, in 1963, the 2-mile city became a vast 255 square mile city. Virginia Beach is the largest city in the state of Virginia, spanning from the Chesapeake Bay to the border of North Carolina. Also known as part of the Hampton Roads Area, Virginia Beach is divided into seven boroughs: Bayside, Blackwater, Kempsville, Lynnhaven, Princess Anne, Pungo, and Virginia Beach.
Virginia Beach Resorts
Beach Quarters Resort Virginia Beach
Located on a wide section of Virginia Beach coastline, Beach Quarters Resort offers family-friendly accommodations, all with private oceanfront balconies that overlook the boardwalk and the Atlantic Ocean. Some suites with full kitchens are available. The resort boasts a wide range of amenities, including on-site dining, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a hot tub, an athletic club, a children’s activity center and much more. Address: 501 Atlantic Avenue | Virginia Beach, VA | 23451. Telephone: 1 757 422-3186
Cavalier Hotel Virginia Beach
Renowned for its historic architecture, sophisticated ambiance and impeccable Virginia Beach location, the Cavalier Hotel offers a wide range of services and activities, including a library, a gymnasium, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, four restaurants and a tennis court. Built in 1927, the Cavalier maintains its historic charm in its elegant guest rooms and suites. Address: 42nd Street and Atlantic Avenue | Virginia Beach, VA | 23451. Telephone: 1 757 425-8555
Belvedere Beach Resort Virginia Beach
Open from April to mid-October, this hotel features guest rooms with ocean views and limited room service. There is a popular cafe on the premises and an outdoor pool for guest use. Also available are complimentary bike rentals, free parking, and 24-hour guest service. Address: 3603 Atlantic Ave | Virginia Beach, VA | 23451. Telephone: 1 757 425-0612