Beautiful beaches on the East Coast are two a penny – but none do it like Virginia Beach, where the Atlantic Ocean meets Chesapeake Bay. Recognised by Guinness World Records as the longest pleasure beach in the world, it’s divided into multiple shorelines, each with its own personality and attraction. Whether that’s coastal relaxation or outdoor adventure, no two weekends at Virginia Beach are the same. Located a convenient 20 miles from Norfolk International Airport, you can rent a car or get a taxi into the heart of the action.
On the water
With 38 miles (61km) of coastline, all this real estate means there’s a spot for every kind of wave chaser. Chic’s Beach has gentle waves, ideal for little ones looking to dip their toes while the Rudee Inlet Marina District has a faster pace, suited to bigger kids and their jet skis.
Broad Bay and Linkhorn Bay offer calm shores and beautiful views, great for beginners getting to grips with their paddleboards while Sandbridge is one of the best kayak-launching spots.
A taste of the outdoors
Aside from water sports, Virginia Beach is brimming with adventure. False Cape State Park is a six mile (10km) long unspoilt shoreline packed with wildlife – you’ll find 300 bird species, wild horses, white-tailed deer and more here. From April to October, you can book a tram tour throughout this terrain, or you can go one step further and camp out right on the beach. Nearby Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers a similar immersive experience, with more than 9,000 acres (3,642 hectares) of forests, ponds and freshwater marshes to explore.
On the other side of the city, another stand-out is First Landing State Park. Not only is it one of Virginia’s most popular state parks, but its sprawling 2,888 acre-size (1,170 hectares) means you can truly get away from it all. You’re free to roam more than 20 miles (32km) of hiking and biking trails at your own pace.
Coastal cuisine
The coast is peppered with a range of eateries, each chalking up fresh seafood and farm-to-table produce on their specials boards. During the warm summer months, outdoor dining is a must, so why not soak in the ocean views as you savour some of its delectable creations? Classic Lynnhaven oysters are a must-try, available at The Atlantic on Pacific or Catch 31, as is she-crab soup, a signature at Mannino’s Italian Bistro in Oceanfront.
Attractions for everyone
As a self-declared family destination, the fun at Virginia Beach is never over. Where better to rally the atmosphere than Adventure Park? Immerse the whole family in five acres (two hectares) of forestland draped with rope courses, hang bridges and zip lines. This place is suitable for guests aged five and up, but there’s plenty for the younger kids, too. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center houses nearly a dozen species, and a range of interactive exhibits and play areas. Plus, weekly toddler events get the little ones involved from the get-go.
One for them, one for you. The Cape Henry Lighthouse is huge for history buffs – it’s stood here since 1792. Catch the shuttle at the base gate and line up to climb all 191 winding steps. The view across the bay is incredible – but you can find that out for yourself. Just remember to bring photo ID with you; the Lighthouse is on an active military base so you’ll need it to get through security.
Year-round events
A bit of entertainment never goes amiss – and Virginia Beach knows that all too well. Neptune Festival turns the sand into a stage with a range of concerts, tastings and a 36-block-long celebration on the Boardwalk. Beginning on the last Friday of September, this is definitely one to plan around.
Point Break Music Festival amps up the mood for a weekend of reggae and rock music under the June sun. And new for Virginia Beach this September, SuperGirl Festival is the largest women’s sports, music and lifestyle platform. This year’s line-up is coming soon, so keep your eyes peeled for that.
Where to stay
Whether you’re travelling alone or in a pack, Virginia Beach has a range of affordable accommodations to fit your needs. If walkability and nightlife access comes in top, you’ll want to explore your options of oceanfront hotels, while vacation rentals are best for families and groups. Cabins and cottages are ideal for immersing in the natural side of things, while historical luxury resorts offer best-in-class amenities and full-on relaxation opportunities.
