Virginia Beach is a destination that offers a little of everything—from family-friendly attractions to arts & culture to a foodie-approved dining scene—but its beaches are undeniably a main reason why it is one of the East Coast’s top vacation spots. Located in gorgeous Coastal Virginia, Virginia Beach is brimming with marvelous bodies of water throughout its various sections. Along with miles of beautiful wide-open beaches bordering the Atlantic Ocean, the resort city is fortunate to have the Chesapeake Bay and a number of additional waterways, from inlets to rivers, on its front door step. Grab your sunscreen, your swimsuit and prepare to spend some time in and around the water while in town.
Whether you are looking for laid-back activities or exciting excursions, or something in between, Virginia Beach is a haven for water recreation. With numerous beaches, each having a unique personality, the City offers endless possibilities when it comes to opportunities to hang near the water and stick your toes in the sand.
With a vibrant 3-mile Virginia Beach Boardwalk along the Atlantic Ocean, the Virginia Beach Oceanfront is a central hub with activities for the whole family. Here you will see surfers in the waves during the early morning, and beachgoers set up along the coast, particularly visitors staying in close by hotels. North of the oceanfront are several less crowded beaches along the Chesapeake Bay including North End Beach, Chic’s Beach and First Landing State Park’s beach. South of the oceanfront area, along the Atlantic Ocean, are Croatan Beach, a favorite hangout for local surfers, and Sandbridge Beach, where many Coastal Virginia families like to go due to all of the convenient amenities including a playground and picnic areas. At all of these beaches, water activities of all sorts are happening from swimming and surfing to paddling and boarding.
Relaxation Mode
With less crowds and little to no waves, the Chesapeake Bay beaches offer a laid-back atmosphere, which is perfect for wading around, floating on rafts or doing any kind of paddling in the water. Sandbridge Beach, with its semi-remote location to the south of the busy oceanfront, is also an outstanding beach spot to enjoy an ocean setting with less tourist traffic.
Moderate Activity
Virginia Beach is full of opportunities to rent water equipment such as stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and canoes, which is an especially incredible at local nature parks like First Landing State Park and nature areas such as Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and Pleasure House Point Natural Area due to the scenic coastlines and wildlife sightings. Why not also consider taking a boat tour during your visit? A number of tour options are available including dolphin and whale sightseeing tours to fishing charters and sunset cruises.
Thrill Seekers
While in town, consider trying something completely new and exciting for your summer bucket list. How about parasailing above the resort city’s waters or signing up for a surfing lesson? Or renting a jet ski or wave runner for an exhilarating ride on the water? Rudee Inlet, a short distance from the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, is where you’ll discover several water sports outfitters offering an array of rental services. Tour and rental businesses can also be found throughout the oceanfront. In addition, spending the day at a nearby waterpark is a fun time for kids of all ages.