Virginia Beach, Virginia, offers a wide range of attractions beyond its well-known boardwalk. The Oceanfront District has outdoor dining, family entertainment and walks along the boardwalk, with live music and the King Neptune statue. For a quieter beach day, head to Sandbridge Beach. The ViBe Creative District is known for murals and street art, along with independent shops, local businesses and interactive art spaces. You can also see contemporary art at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art and stop at local cafes and bistros. Southern Living: Virginia Beach
Top attractions in Virginia Beach
- Virginia Beach Boardwalk
- Location: Along the Oceanfront
- Highlights: A 3-mile stretch with shops, restaurants and live entertainment.
- Tip: See the King Neptune statue and enjoy the ocean views. Virginia Beach Vacation Guide
- Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
- Location: 717 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA
- Features: More than 800,000 gallons of aquariums, interactive exhibits and a nature trail.
- Website: Virginia Aquarium
- Sandbridge Beach
- Location: South of the main resort area
- Highlights: A quieter beach with kayaking and paddleboarding.
- Military Aviation Museum
- Location: 1341 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, VA
- Features: One of the world’s largest collections of World War I and World War II aircraft.
- Website: Military Aviation Museum · Wikipedia
- First Landing State Park
- Location: 2500 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA
- Activities: Hiking, biking and about 20 miles of trails through varied habitats.
- Cape Henry Lighthouse
- Location: 583 Atlantic Ave, Fort Story, VA
- Highlights: Climb the historic lighthouse for panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay. The site is on a military base, so check visitor entry rules before you go.
- ViBe Creative District
- Location: Near 18th Street and Mediterranean Ave
- Features: Art galleries, murals, local shops and eateries.
- Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
- Location: 2200 Parks Ave, Virginia Beach, VA
- Exhibits: Rotating exhibitions of contemporary art in many mediums.
- Website: Virginia MOCA
- Rudee Inlet
- Location: South end of the Oceanfront
- Activities: Jet skiing, parasailing, fishing charters and waterfront dining. virginiabeach.guide
- Ocean Breeze Waterpark
- Location: 849 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA
- Features: More than 30 rides, slides and attractions for all ages.
- Website: Ocean Breeze Waterpark
Annual events and festivals
- Something in the Water Music Festival
- When: Spring
- Description: A multi-day music festival with national and local artists. Check whether it is scheduled in Virginia Beach in the year you plan to travel.
- Neptune Festival
- When: September
- Highlights: Art shows, sand sculpting competitions and parades along the boardwalk.
- Holiday Lights at the Beach
- When: November to January
- Experience: Drive along the boardwalk past holiday light displays. Video on YouTube
Travel tips for Virginia Beach
- Getting around: The city has a trolley service (verify seasonal schedule) and bike rentals for easy travel along the Oceanfront.
- Where to stay: Options range from oceanfront resorts to budget-friendly hotels inland.
- Dining: Seafood is a staple; try local favorites like soft-shell crab and oysters.
- Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for beach activities. The off-season brings fewer crowds and lower hotel rates.
Ready to explore Virginia Beach?
For more on attractions, events and places to stay, visit the official Virginia Beach tourism website: Visit Virginia Beach.
Whether you want time on the beach, outdoor activities or culture, Virginia Beach offers something for every traveler.
Traveling as a group? CharterMyBus can arrange a charter bus with a driver for your Virginia Beach trip; see our guide to choosing the right bus or call (929) 831-5150.
