Atlantic Avenue Virginia Beach at night

Be a Local on Atlantic Avenue

Our favorite finds on Atlantic Avenue include entertainment, excitement and culinary delights.

Updated by Chris Murphy. Coastal Virginia Magazine’s Favorite Finds on Atlantic Avenue.

Whether you’re with family, a significant other or flying solo, Virginia Beach’s Atlantic Avenue area has it all. From local hotspots to hidden gems, the following recommendations will make your experience a memorable one. Use these ideas to get started, then see what else you can discover—there’s much to explore.

Iconic Attractions

There is so much to see in and around Atlantic Avenue, and most attractions are available year-round.

  • Honor Virginia Beach’s coastal history at the newly renovated Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum.
  • Many of the side streets and areas leading to the beach offer photo opportunities with nautical, military, police and other monuments and sculptures.
  • The Virginia Legends Walk at 13th Street Park includes Virginia history legends, from Thomas Jefferson and Captain John Smith to Ella Fitzgerald and Patsy Cline.
  • Visit the oldest structure at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum.

Scenic Views

For those looking to people watch or to take in stunning scenery, Atlantic Avenue has lots of memorable options.

  • Enjoy Atlantic Avenue views from the outdoor bar at Dough Boy’s pizza.
  • Just off Atlantic Avenue, Rockafeller’s Restaurant boasts scenic views of Rudee Inlet.
  • Take in boardwalk views from Ocean 27’s second level deck or from their gliding tables.

Must-Do Activities

Activities are available for all ages and ambition levels. Below are several options to get your juices flowing.

Must-Stop Shops

Whether you’re looking to purchase some new attire, souvenirs or items to enhance your visit, this area is brimming with options.

  • Resort apparel, jewelry and accessories can all be found at Coastal Edge Surf Shop.
  • Beach essentials, souvenirs, summer clothing and more await you at Sunsations locations.
  • Find your favorite college or pro sport merchandise at Sports Alley.

Dining Destinations

Area restaurants proudly serve the region’s freshest food, from land to sea. Overall, the restaurants along Atlantic Avenue are award winning and offer a bit of uniqueness that visitors won’t find elsewhere.

Virginia Beach restaurant

Sweet Treats

Morning, noon or night, there’s nothing like satisfying your sweet tooth.

  • Get a scoop of I Scream Ice Cream, Virginia Beach’s only full-service ice cream parlor.
  • Have a famous Dairy Queen Blizzard while taking in the breeze of the Atlantic Ocean.

A special thanks to the Atlantic Avenue Association for their recent efforts. As part of their mission, they have been instrumental in assisting, creating and promoting a positive experience for Virginia Beach residents, visitors and businesses along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and specifically Atlantic Avenue. To learn more about the Atlantic Avenue Association, visit AtlanticAveVB.com.

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