A visit to Virginia Beach can easily look vastly different from traveler-to-traveler and from day-to-day. One major perk of the City is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money in order to have a fun, memorable visit. In fact, there are many free things to do around town, from art museums to live music on the boardwalk and much more, so it is a very family-friendly area. Furthermore, Virginia Beach is loaded with entertaining activities year-round, not just during the summer months.
The resort area has activities for people of all ages and interests, and it is a wonderful choice whether you are looking for high thrills or low key—or maybe a little of both! Check out these sample itineraries.
Day of Adventure
Whether by water, by air or by foot, exploring Virginia always makes for a great time. While in the area consider taking a boat tour to see the coastline and possibly some marine life, or renting watersports equipment such as jet skis or wave runners. Fishing enthusiasts have many opportunities, including a fishing charter, to cast a reel in this coastal town. If you enjoy heights, take flight on a parasailing excursion or head over to the ziplining and climbing courses not far from the oceanfront area, or try indoor skydiving, which is a boost on a rainy day or anytime!
Meal idea: Grab a casual lunch or dinner at Rudee Inlet, a charming marina community a short distance away from the boardwalk and full of fishing and sporting boats, water sports outfitters and excellent restaurants, many of which are longtime local favorites and offer amazing water views.
Day of Relaxation
When thinking of a visit to Virginia Beach, many folks dream about a beach day with their toes in the sand while watching the waves crash. Along with the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, other wonderful beaches in the area include Chic’s Beach (also known as Chesapeake Beach), First Landing Beach, North End Beach, Croatan Beach and Sandbridge Beach. While a day at the beach is one way to relax, other calming activities might include a spa treatment, a day on the green, or dinner and drinks on an outdoor patio.
Meal idea: Start the day off with a delicious brunch, and see where the day takes you.
Day of Recreation
There are countless ways to get out and be active in Virginia Beach. Unsurprisingly, water activities are big in the resort city. Head outdoors to one of the area’s outstanding parks and go hiking, biking or paddling. Some key parks to have on your radar include First Landing State Park, False Cape State Park and Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Also be sure to stop by Mt. Trashmore Park and let the kids burn off some extra energy.
Meal idea: Grab an early breakfast and get a jumpstart on the day’s plans. Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of the parks and then treat yourself to a nice dinner out.
Day of Attractions
Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s fun to be a tourist, even in your home town. Virginia Beach is full of amazing things to do, from strolling the boardwalk and beach shops to checking out various museums. Be sure to take a ride on the trolley that runs through the oceanfront area along Atlantic Avenue to Shore Drive, which is a fun sightseeing experience for the whole family.
Meal idea: Grab a casual meal, such as pizza or burgers, from one of Virginia Beach’s numerous restaurants offering a laid-back vibe.
Day of Enrichment
Virginia Beach celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2023, and there is so much to learn about its history and heritage. Take time to visit some of the area’s historical treasures such as the Cape Henry Lighthouse, as well as the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum and Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum.
Meal idea: Dine at one of Virginia’s long-running establishments and learn about the restaurant’s story. This is a fascinating way to learn about the locals and the area’s history.
Day of Art
Coastal Virginia is a premier destination for arts & culture, and this is certainly true for Virginia Beach. Walk around the ViBe Creative District and discover all of the interesting murals and other public art in the neighborhood. A visit to the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is a must-do.
Meal idea: In the morning grab coffee or a smoothie at one of the local cafes and later in the day grab a tasty lunch at one of the ViBe Creative District’s great restaurants, offering diverse menus including many farm-to-table meal options.
Day of “Coastal”
For the ultimate coastal experience, enjoy a leisure day on or near the water. Play on one of Virginia’s Beaches and then dine on fresh seafood while soaking in stunning water views, whether ocean or bay side.
Meal idea: Grab a fresh seafood lunch or dinner at a table offering a nice water view. The boardwalk has many restaurants with outdoor seating, and if you are looking for a marina setting head over to Rudee Inlet.