Virginia Beach is a vibrant and diverse destination that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for all ages and interests. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family-friendly fun, Virginia Beach has something for everyone.
Outdoor Activities
Virginia Beach is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with 38 miles of beachfront, state parks, and numerous waterways. Here are some of the top outdoor activities to enjoy:
Beaches and Water Sports: Find your perfect beach and engage in various water activities such as surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet-skiing. The Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, the Back Bay, and the Lynnhaven River provide ample opportunities for water sports[5].
Hiking and Biking: Explore the vast parks and nature trails, including those in First Landing State Park and other city parks. These trails offer scenic views and are suitable for all activity levels[2][5].
Parasailing: Experience the thrill of parasailing, either over land or water, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Virginia Beach coast. Companies like Pirate Parasail and Air America offer safe and fun parasailing experiences[3].
Fishing and Boating: From saltwater to freshwater fishing, and from marinas to kayak launches, Virginia Beach is a paradise for fishing and boating enthusiasts[4].
Family-Friendly Attractions
Virginia Beach is an ideal destination for families, with a variety of attractions designed to keep both kids and adults entertained:
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center: This aquarium features thousands of animals and hands-on exhibits, making it a great place for families to learn and have fun[4].
Ocean Breeze Waterpark: Cool off during the summer months at this waterpark, which offers a range of slides and water attractions[1].
Grommet Island: Located along the Boardwalk, Grommet Island is a beach designed for children, complete with a playground and other kid-friendly amenities[1].
Military Aviation Museum: Explore historic aircraft and enjoy the museum’s interactive exhibits[1].
Cultural and Historical Attractions
For those interested in history, culture, and local landmarks, Virginia Beach has a lot to offer:
Cape Henry Lighthouse: Visit this historic lighthouse, which is one of the oldest in the United States[1].
Surf and Rescue Museum: Learn about the history of surfing and rescue operations along the Virginia Beach coast[1].
Atlantic Wildfowl Museum: Discover the art and history of wildfowl carving at this unique museum[1].
Historic Landmarks: Explore various historical sites and museums across Virginia Beach, which provide insights into the city’s rich history[4].
Nightlife and Entertainment
Virginia Beach is not just about daytime activities; it also offers a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene:
Boardwalk Entertainment: Enjoy free summertime street performers, local and national musical performances, and theatrical shows along the Boardwalk[4].
Brewery Tours: Explore the local craft beer scene with brewery tours, a great way to spend an evening[1].
Live Shows: Catch your favorite band or artist at one of the many live music venues in the area[3].
Shopping and Dining
For those who love shopping and dining, Virginia Beach offers a diverse range of options:
Shopping: From surf shops and farmer’s markets to well-known brand names and local goods, the shopping experience in Virginia Beach is unique and varied[4].
Boardwalk Restaurants: Dine at one of the many restaurants along the Boardwalk, offering a range of cuisines and stunning ocean views[1].
Getting Around and Planning Your Visit
Getting to Virginia Beach: The city is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including flights, cars, and public transport[1].
Getting Around: Use alternative transportation options or find the best parking spots to navigate the city conveniently[1].
Most Important Facts About Things to Do in Virginia Beach
Diverse Outdoor Activities: Virginia Beach offers a wide range of outdoor activities including surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, parasailing, hiking, and biking[2][5].
Family-Friendly Attractions: Key attractions include the Virginia Aquarium, Ocean Breeze Waterpark, Grommet Island, and the Military Aviation Museum[1].
Historical and Cultural Sites: Visit the Cape Henry Lighthouse, Surf and Rescue Museum, Atlantic Wildfowl Museum, and other historical landmarks[1][4].
Vibrant Nightlife and Entertainment: Enjoy street performers, live music, brewery tours, and theatrical shows[1][4].
Shopping and Dining Options: Explore surf shops, farmer’s markets, local goods, and dine at Boardwalk restaurants[1][4].
Accessibility: Easy to get to and navigate around the city with various transportation options[1].
Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Virginia Beach has something to offer for every visitor.
