Your Guide to this Unique Coastal Community
Virginia Beach is a unique vacation destination with its pristine beaches and vibrant districts, each offering its own allure. There’s something for everyone and there’s so much to explore from the laid-back vibes of Chesapeake Bay Beach to the bustling boardwalk, and the artistic flair of the ViBe Creative District to the rural charm of Pungo, and everything in between.
Beaches
Oceanfront/Resort Beach
The epicenter of your vacation experience, the Oceanfront boasts shops, restaurants and entertainment with a view of the ocean no matter your location. Whether you plan to enjoy the serenity of the three-mile boardwalk, cast your line off the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, set out on a charter or tour that departs from the Rudee Inlet, lounge on the beach or explore the strip, the opportunities for fun are endless.
Chesapeake Bay Beach
Also known as Chic’s Beach, Chesapeake Bay Beach is a tranquil beach escape with shallow waters that are friendly to kayakers and paddleboarders. Just north of the Oceanfront and off Shore Drive, you can find Pleasure House Point Natural Area, First Landing State Park, the Cape Henry Lighthouse and the Brock Environmental Center.
North End
Visitors can bask in the serenity of uncrowded shores on the North End beaches. You will often find locals strolling along the shoreline and it’s the perfect spot to witness schools of dolphins swimming in the distance. It’s also one of the widest beaches in the city, offering tons of sand space to settle in and enjoy activities.
Croatan
Just south of Rudee Inlet, Croatan is a go-to spot for many surfers.
The beach is typically less crowded and is open to the public with an on-site parking lot and accessible restrooms. Guests can enjoy a quieter retreat without sacrificing the amenities and conveniences of the nearby resort area.
Sandbridge
What was once a local’s secret has become a refuge for visitors with expansive beaches and seaside living. Here you’ll find stunning beachfront properties, rolling sand dunes and miles of pristine beach. The fishing pier is the spot to go to cast a line and you can also go fishing and crabbing in nearby Back Bay. Little Island Park is also a great family-friendly spot that you could spend a whole day enjoying.
Diverse Districts
Resort Area
The heart of Virginia Beach’s tourism scene, the Resort Area is a hub for accommodations, entertainment, dining, shopping and more. It’s brimming with year-round entertainment, allowing guests to experience everything from large-scale beachfront festivals to small intimate events. There is almost always live music at the Oceanfront parks and stages, as well nightly entertainment in the summer months along Atlantic Avenue. Visit one of the local museums, indulge in local cuisine, cool off with a sweet treat at one of the many creameries, go souvenir shopping or hop on an amusement ride at the resort area’s boardwalk fair-style amusement park.Â
ViBe Creative District
A dynamic art scene awaits in this unique neighborhood that is just blocks away from the Oceanfront. The ViBe Creative District features local galleries, studios and street art that create a vibrant cultural hub. Guests will find eclectic boutiques, trendy farm-to-table eateries and more.
Want to know more about the ViBe?
Click here to read about Getting to Know the ViBe
Click here to read about Feelin’ the ViBe
(ViBe Photos below by Chris Murphy)
Shore Drive
Stretching along the Chesapeake Bay and Lynnhaven River, Shore Drive is definitely a hidden gem. Dotted with waterfront restaurants, marinas and outdoor recreational opportunities, there are so many things to do. It is also a popular spot for nightlife, as many restaurants feature live entertainment and many bars and venues are open late-night.
Town Center
Urban living is at its finest in Virginia’s Beach’s Town Center, which features the tallest building in the state of Virginia: The Westin. From upscale boutiques and gourmet restaurants to live performances and cultural events, there’s always something new to discover when in Town Center. And the scene doesn’t quiet down once the sun sets either. There’s a vibrant nightlife thanks to cocktail bars, an Irish pub, late-night pizza, the brewery and the comedy club.
Pungo
The rural charm of Pungo is the epitome of simple living. Amidst the acres of farmland, this area is known for its fresh produce, you-pick opportunities, farm-to-table dining and locally owned shops with southern hospitality. Past the paved roadways are inlets, marshes and the picturesque countryside.
Click here to read more about things to do at the Virginia Bech Town Center.
