What I truly admire about Virginia is the incredible diversity packed into this small state. The ambiance and experiences in Williamsburg starkly contrast those in Virginia Beach, even though they are less than two hours apart. The differences become even more pronounced when you consider the cities of Wytheville and Luray on the western side along Interstate 81.
Virginia Beach, the largest coastal city in the state, boasts an abundance of outdoor activities, superb dining options, and a large number of attractions—too many to fully experience in just 48 hours! A weekend in Virginia Beach offers just the right amount of time to sample the city, leaving you eager to return for more.
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A Little Bit About Virginia Beach
Nestled along Virginia’s southeastern border, where Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia Beach spans 1,288 square kilometers for visitors to explore. While it is primarily known as a resort city, it offers much more for both locals and national and international visitors alike.
Long before the arrival of the first English settlers at Cape Henry in April 1607, this land was home to Indigenous tribes such as the Chesepians, members of the Powhatan Confederacy, and the federally recognized Nansemond Indian Nation. The establishment of the permanent Jamestown settlement near Williamsburg significantly impacted the lives of these Indigenous nations, a historical context worth remembering while exploring what is now Virginia Beach.
In the late 1800s, Virginia Beach began to expand with the arrival of the Norfolk Southern Railway, which ushered in tourism and led to new hotels being established throughout the 19th Century. Over time, it transformed into a family-oriented seasonal vacation destination. Following the World Wars, the city experienced a construction boom, further augmenting its growth.
Today, Virginia Beach is a beloved destination for visitors of all ages looking to bask in the sun. Continue reading to discover what the area has in store for you!
King Neptune Along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
Top Things to Do For Your Weekend in Virginia Beach
Whether you seek a relaxing getaway or an action-packed weekend of sightseeing (like me!) in Virginia Beach, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Here are my top recommendations based on my visit!
Explore the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
Stretching nearly 5 kilometers from 2nd Street to 40th Street, the Virginia Beach boardwalk is brimming with activities. You could easily spend a good portion of your visit enjoying the local highlights found along this scenic path!
Take a few hours to walk along this paved path during your trip. As you explore, you’ll encounter multiple plazas filled with public sculptures and monuments, including local favorites like King Neptune—a stunning 8-meter tall statue crafted by artist Paul DiPasquale located at 31st and Atlantic. This iconic statue is a popular photo spot and is surrounded by one of four oceanfront stages that often hosts live performances during the warmer months.
Additionally, you’ll come across the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum, housed in a former U.S. Life Saving Station, dedicated to preserving Virginia’s maritime history. A few blocks to the south, you’ll discover the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum in the historic De Witt House, dating back to 1895. Here, visitors can learn about decoy carving and the diverse habitats along Coastal Virginia teeming with various waterfowl. At the southern end of the boardwalk, Grommet Island Park stands out with its 15,000-square-foot playground, recognized as the first fully accessible oceanfront park in the United States.
And this is only the tip of the iceberg of what you’ll find along the Virginia Beach boardwalk! No visit to Virginia Beach is complete without exploring it; I’ve walked countless sections and loved every moment.
INSIDER TIP: If you find yourself getting overheated further inland, make a beeline for the boardwalk! The ocean breeze keeps the temperature pleasantly cooler, making for a much more enjoyable walk!
Check Out the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier
At the heart of the boardwalk lies the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, a favorite spot for anglers of all skill levels. You’ll find people catching various fish, including croakers, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and even sharks! If fishing isn’t your thing, the end of the pier offers stunning views of the beach, and the gift shop and restaurant are worth a visit.
The pier operates from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM during the shoulder season (April, May, September, October) and from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM from June through August, with extended hours until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays during the summer.
Soak Up the Sun Along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront
Chances are you’ll spend time exploring the boardwalk and pier, so don’t forget to pack your swimwear! The oceanfront in Virginia Beach is exceptional, providing plenty of space for sunbathing. Bring along your beach towel and a good book while you relax and listen to the waves wash ashore.
At the southern end near Grommet Island Park, beach chairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you’re visiting on a weekend during the summer, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure one!
Catch Sunrise At Least Once
The timing of your visit could mean catching sunrise before 6:00 AM, which can be tough for some. However, because Virginia Beach is positioned on the east coast, it offers fantastic sunrise views—so it’s worth considering that early start!
Exceptional sunrise spots can be found all along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. You can enjoy the view from several areas, including King Neptune, but my personal favorite spot is beneath the Fishing Pier. Witnessing the light filter through the pillars creates a magical moment, especially as the waves lap the shore.
INSIDER TIP: The easiest way to catch the sunrise is to book accommodations along the Virginia Beach oceanfront. Luckily, there are various options to choose from, which you can explore here. If you’re curious, I share my hotel experience below, so keep reading!
Under the Virginia Beach Pier at Sunrise
Hunt for Virginia LOVEworks
One of my favorite aspects of Virginia is the LOVEworks initiative, launched in 2013 to promote the state as a travel destination and raise awareness for the branding, “Virginia is for Lovers.” These unique photo opportunities are crafted throughout the state, often by local artists, to represent what love means to them—reflecting local characteristics and iconic spots perfect for memorable photos. Click here to learn more about the campaign.
Currently, there are over 350 LOVEworks installations throughout Virginia, with nine located in Virginia Beach. Some are easy to find close to the boardwalk while others are spread farther out. Whatever your level of enthusiasm for hunting them down, these installations are sure to bring a smile to your face! Check out this map to locate all the LOVEworks across the Commonwealth.
This topic segues nicely into the next area you must explore during your Virginia Beach vacation.
Wander the ViBe Creative District
A few blocks inland from the oceanfront, the ViBe Creative District is a bustling arts and culture hub in Virginia Beach. This area brings together artists of all kinds to inspire and create.
The district encompasses the blocks around Virginia Beach Boulevard, Cypress Avenue, 22nd Street, and Pacific Avenue. Spend some time wandering through and enjoy the incredible murals and public art sculptures that greet you at almost every turn. Since 2015, the ViBe Creative District’s non-profit has helped over 350 artists create public art through more than 100 free events. One notable event is the annual ViBe Mural Festival, which takes place from late September to early October, where attendees can watch artists in action as ten new murals are created each year.
You’ll also find a variety of eateries and coffee shops within this vibrant neighborhood. A must-visit is Three Ships Coffee Roasters, a small-batch roaster committed to sustainability. Their seasonal Pungo syrups are crafted from produce sourced from local Virginia farmers. Depending on the season, you can delight in flavors like apple, blackberry, blueberry, peach, strawberry, and sweet potato in one of their lattes. When I visited, the strawberry syrup added a delicious twist to my white mocha latte!
INSIDER TIP: Many places in Virginia Beach charge for parking, but ViBe is an area where free parking is plentiful, allowing you to save your legs and time by driving there. I learned this the hard way!
Explore First Landing State Park
For outdoor enthusiasts among my followers (I know there are many!), a visit to First Landing State Park is a must when in Virginia Beach. Situated on Cape Henry, the park spans 2,888 acres and offers various activities. You can hike, swim, bike, fish, and even pack a picnic—there are endless ways to enjoy First Landing State Park!
The park is divided into three distinct areas, all worth exploring. The first area is accessible from 64th Street, featuring a mix of beaches and hiking trails, and is a favorite spot for boaters. Don’t forget your beach towel and picnic gear for a lovely day at The Narrows! The Visitors Centre is where campers can find amenities, including the campground and First Landing State Beach—a fantastic location for sunbathing and swimming.
The last area is my personal fave: the Trail Centre, where you can hike ten different trails, some of which connect to the 64th Street area and The Narrows. If you’re looking for a thorough experience of the park and are up for several hours of hiking, consider taking the Cape Henry Trail, or extend your trek by exploring the Osprey and Long Creek Trails.
However, one trail should not be missed at First Landing State Park: the Bald Cypress Trail. This stunning trail takes you on a boardwalk through towering Cypress trees, and the Spanish Moss hanging from the branches adds an enchanting touch. As the sunlight filters through, reflecting off the swamp waters, it feels like stepping into a storybook! While the term “swamp” sometimes carries a negative connotation, I was astounded by its beauty. Be sure to check out my Instagram stories from Virginia Beach to see what I mean!
Lindz Walking Along the Bald Cypress Trail in First Landing State Park
Paddle with Dolphins on a Kayaking Tour
Yes, you read that right—dolphins can be found in Chesapeake Bay, and you have the chance to paddle alongside them in Virginia Beach! Head over to the Lynnhaven Boat Ramp and Beach Facility to meet Bryan from GoKayakVB for a guided experience. He provides everything you need for an enjoyable time on the water.
With nearly a decade of guiding experience, Bryan is well-versed in the local spots where Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins thrive near Lynnhaven Bay at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay. As you paddle toward the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, you’ll explore the tidal salt marsh and maritime forest, while Bryan shares the rich history of the Chesapean Indigenous peoples who have navigated these waters for centuries, emphasizing the changes brought about by the arrival of English settlers.
While the objective is to glimpse dolphins, you may also encounter other local wildlife, including bald eagles, osprey, herons, and even whales, sea turtles, and sting rays! Unfortunately, my tour didn’t yield many wildlife sightings; however, we reveled in the brilliant colors of golden hour—one of the best ways to enjoy a sunset in Virginia Beach.
The waters here are generally calm, but there is some current to consider, so be prepared for a workout at times! This was one of the more challenging kayaking tours I’ve participated in, but I still had a blast, even without seeing any dolphins. If you’re hoping to paddle alongside these magnificent creatures, this tour with Bryan is your best option. Click here to book your dolphin kayaking adventure.
SOMETHING TO NOTE: As with all wild animals, there’s no guarantee you’ll spot dolphins during your tour. Bryan is exceptionally skilled at guiding and maximizing your chances, but ultimately they are wild creatures. Fingers crossed you’ll see them, but regardless, you’re likely to enjoy the paddle, especially during the 6:00 PM adventure!
Experience Orion’s Roof
While Orion’s Roof is indeed a restaurant, it truly offers a memorable experience. As the tallest restaurant in Virginia Beach, it boasts Virginia Beach’s highest rooftop patio! Located on the 23rd floor of the Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort, the restaurant treats guests to breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from approximately 55 meters (183 feet) high. The modern interior is stunning, featuring several rooms with a chic ambiance and diverse décor.
The menu is a delightful array of Asian-fusion dishes. You may find it challenging to choose from their extensive offerings, which include hot and cold appetizers, wok dishes, main courses from both land and sea, and a tempting selection of sushi rolls. I opted for the wagyu tataki as my starter—an exquisite harmony of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. Although the portion size is on the smaller side, it’s premium wagyu beef, so it makes sense.
For my main course, I tried two sushi rolls: the spicy lobster and shrimp roll, featuring shrimp tempura and avocado topped with a shrimp and lobster salad, complemented by wasabi and spicy mayo. The dish is rounded out with eel sauce, orange tobiko, and green onion. The second roll, the surf and turf roll, has become one of my all-time favorites. It includes tempura lobster tail and avocado topped with torched wagyu beef, drizzled with horseradish aioli, truffle carpaccio, and pearls.
Each dish was beautifully presented, and the combination of a high-end ambiance and unparalleled views elevates this meal into an experience. Reservations are highly recommended, as the restaurant fills up quickly—especially around sunset. Even though I had a 5:45 reservation, I was still able to enjoy golden hour and the beginning of sunset during my May visit. Don’t forget to take a stroll around the restaurant and enjoy the views from the patio while you wait for your meal!
INSIDER TIP: Dining at Orion’s Roof can be pricey, which might not suit every budget. They do have a section called O Bar, offering a limited menu at a fraction of the cost. The cocktail list features a number of exclusive drinks. This option allows you to enjoy the incredible views without overspending!
Delectable Sushi Rolls at Orion’s Roof
Delicious Virginia Beach Restaurants
With a plethora of restaurants in Virginia Beach, it can feel overwhelming to choose where to dine. Although I haven’t been to every spot, I can confidently recommend the following Virginia Beach restaurants—they’re fantastic choices that are definitely worth a visit!
May’s Parlor
Step into the charming cottage on Pacific Avenue to kickstart your day at May’s Parlor. This locally owned bakery-cafe is famed for its delectable pastries and fantastic breakfast options. As soon as you walk through the door, a delightful array of baked goods—from croissants to cookies—awaits you. Be prepared to be tempted by the dozen choices!
For those craving something more substantial, May’s Parlor offers hearty breakfast plates as well. I tried their Roasted Veg breakfast sandwich, which was bursting with flavor—a baked egg frittata topped with roasted sweet potato, sun-dried tomatoes, red onion, portobello mushrooms, and white cheddar, all accompanied by chipotle aioli on a house-made everything brioche bun. It pairs wonderfully with their mocha lattes!
If you’re fortunate to visit during strawberry season, make sure to grab one of their famous strawberry croissants. These pastries are made from scratch using European butter and are generously filled with fresh vanilla bean chantilly cream, homemade strawberry compote, and sliced strawberries, dusted with powdered sugar. There’s a reason customers are limited to three per order—once you try one bite, you’ll want a dozen more!
Doc Taylor’s
What once served as a historic doctor’s office has been transformed into one of the best diner-style breakfast spots on the Eastern Seaboard. Built in 1939, it retains a cozy cottage feel adorned with photos and memorabilia that tell the story of its past life before becoming Doc Taylor’s.
The menu features classic breakfast items, including a variety of egg dishes, pancakes, and more, with some lunch offerings as well. I decided to try the Dr. Killen’s Killer Crab Cake Sandwich. This sandwich features a fresh lump crab cake served on a flavorful onion roll with lettuce, tomato, and granny smith apple tartar sauce. I can’t say who Dr. Killen is, but he definitely makes an impressive crab cake sandwich! Don’t forget to add provolone cheese—it makes everything taste even better! Oh, and definitely grab a glass of sweet tea.
Doc Taylor’s is an excellent choice for a quick, affordable bite to eat. On weekends, you can also swing by the Seaside Market Lounge next door, which often hosts live music featuring bands from across the country. Plus, it is dog-friendly—so you can bring your furry friends along as well!
Bubba’s Seafood Restaurant & Crabhouse
What started as a small bait and tackle shop over 30 years ago has blossomed into one of the top seafood restaurants in Virginia Beach. Bubba’s sources its seafood from the Lynnhaven Fishing Company, which operates right in Chesapeake Bay, ensuring fresh fish delivered in the early morning!
On their menu, you’ll find a wide range of seafood dishes, including handhelds and many crab options. If you appreciate variety, I highly recommend the broiled seafood platter, featuring a crab-stuffed mushroom, an oyster rockefeller baked with spinach, bacon, and cheese, sea scallops, fresh fish, and crab imperial topped with shrimp, alongside your choice of two sides. Everything was absolutely scrumptious, and I can confidently say it was the best oyster rockefeller I’ve ever experienced. I’ve heard their she-crab soup is incredibly popular and will definitely try that on my next visit!
While indoor dining is available, one of the biggest attractions at Bubba’s is their stunning outdoor patio. It’s the perfect place to watch boats moving in and out of the marina and catch a breathtaking sunset.
Lovesong
Lovesong is a newer addition to Virginia Beach’s culinary scene, offering a unique dining experience. A bit fancy yet funky, this restaurant boasts a farm-forward approach, sourcing ingredients from local farms and fishermen, and offers a drink selection that complements the dishes while standing on its own. While the menu is small, with a limited number of dishes, a few larger portioned options are also available.
I started with the mushroom tartine, featuring sautéed mushrooms, spring peas, ginger, and radish atop a slice of sourdough bread, followed by their scallop dish, featuring sunchokes and king trumpet mushrooms in a tomato sauce américaine. Both dishes were incredibly flavorful and, while small, were rich and satisfying.
Since this was my last stop on a long day of adventures in Virginia Beach, I longed for the comfort of my bed, so I cut my visit a bit shorter than planned. However, I couldn’t resist dessert and decided to take the olive oil cake to go. A delightful combination of sweet and salty, this cake was incredibly moist, and the buttercream frosting was extraordinary. Be sure to save room for dessert or grab a piece to take with you—it’s a must-try!
My Room at the Hyatt Place Oceanfront Hotel
Stay at This Amazing Virginia Beach Hotel
For your Virginia Beach weekend getaway, staying at an oceanfront hotel is essential. There are numerous options available, making it relatively easy to secure a room with a water view, but selecting the right one can be a bit overwhelming. After all, a bad hotel experience can really put a damper on a vacation! Fortunately, staying at the Hyatt Place Virginia Beach Oceanfront is a choice I’m happy to recommend and will surely enhance your trip!
The hotel is impressively spacious, from the common areas to the guest rooms. I enjoyed a two queen oceanfront room on one of the hotel’s upper floors. I slept soundly in the comfortable beds, and as someone who loves fluffy pillows, I enjoyed sinking into them at night. Each room features a seating area with large couches, perfect for unwinding with a coffee while soaking up the natural light streaming in through the floor-to-ceiling windows. However, nothing quite beats enjoying the vibrant Virginia Beach atmosphere from your private balcony!
All rooms come equipped with standard amenities such as blackout curtains, a hairdryer, and a coffee maker, with some notable upgrades. In the bathrooms, guests are treated to premium KenetMD products—a noticeable difference compared to other hotels. After staying here, I found my hair remained hydrated, a rarity when using hotel amenities! I also appreciated having both a refrigerator and a microwave—an increasingly difficult find in hotel rooms these days! While I didn’t use it myself, many guests would likely appreciate the 55” flat-screen television.
Another standout feature of the Hyatt Place is their breakfast bar, included with your stay. It offers a wide range of choices, including hot items like eggs, bacon, and breakfast potatoes, along with lighter fare such as fruit, yogurt, and granola. Of course, there’s plenty of coffee available, with a coffee station open 24/7 for whenever the craving strikes.
Situated directly on the Virginia Beach boardwalk, the ocean is just a few steps away, allowing you to immerse yourself in the summer vibes for as long as possible during your stay. If salty water isn’t your thing, the hotel also features both an indoor and outdoor pool to keep cool.
From check-in to check-out, my experience was fantastic. The staff were among the best I’ve encountered at hotels—I’ve stayed in many, and Dalton and his team go above and beyond to make your stay special. Thank you for making my visit so unforgettable!
Click here to check availability at the Hyatt Place Virginia Beach Oceanfront, or take a look at guest reviews before you make a reservation.
Sunset Paddle on Lynnhaven Bay with GoKayakVB in Virginia Beach
More Things to Do in Virginia Beach
As you may expect, a weekend in Virginia Beach isn’t nearly sufficient to take in everything. For those planning a longer stay or interested in exploring additional attractions, here are some recommendations that are definitely on my radar for my next visit!
Catch a Live Show
One of the highlights of Virginia Beach is the abundance of live entertainment during the summer months. From June to September, the Oceanfront Concert Series features a variety of musical performances weekly, and you can also find nightlife entertainment along Atlantic Avenue from late May until Labor Day!
Whether you’re searching for free events in Virginia Beach this weekend or for future dates, check out the upcoming lineup here.
Enjoy Some of the Local Craft Beer
Unfortunately, I missed the chance to indulge in some local craft brews during my visit, but that’s one of many reasons to return to Virginia Beach! With 13 craft breweries scattered throughout the area, I’ve set my sights on Vibrant Shore Brewing Company in the ViBe Creative District, where I can sip on tropical seltzers in their concealed rooftop beer garden.
If you’re a craft beer lover, the VA Beach Beer Trail should be on your radar. It features not only the breweries but also more than a dozen restaurants that serve a variety of local beers on tap, perfect for sampling.
Visit the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Established in 1938, the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge protects habitats essential for migrating and wintering waterfowl. The reserve offers various hiking trails, biking routes, and plenty of paddling opportunities, in addition to both freshwater and surf fishing. Wildlife photographers will enjoy the abundance of viewing stations scattered across the park.
You can also access False Cape State Park from the refuge, as it is only reachable via hiking, biking, or boat. It’s one of the last untouched coastal areas along the Atlantic. You can catch the tram from Back Bay to visit or hike the East Dike or West Dike trails to reach it.
Trek to the Top of the Cape Henry Lighthouse
This unique stop is located on the grounds of the active Fort Story Military Base. Visitors must show identification and have their vehicles screened for security before gaining entry. Once inside, you can access the lighthouse and designated lookout areas—straying beyond these could lead to potential consequences!
There are two lighthouses here, but only the original one, built in 1791, is open to the public, making it the fourth oldest lighthouse in the United States. Climbing up provides breathtaking 360-degree views of Virginia Beach, where you might spot aircraft carriers or U.S. Navy vessels.
Just a Taste of the Fun Public Art You’ll Find in Virginia Beach
Things to Know For Your Virginia Beach Getaway
Now that you’re armed with information, I bet you’re excited to plan your trip to Virginia Beach! I know I can’t wait to return. Here are some critical tips I learned during my visit to ensure yours goes smoothly.
I Recommend Having a Car in Virginia Beach
While you can easily walk to many attractions during your Virginia Beach vacation, you’ll miss out on some excellent spots if you don’t have a car. If you’re road-tripping from somewhere else in Virginia or from neighboring states, you’re set! But if, like me, you’re flying in, booking a rental car is the way to go.
I picked up my rental from Enterprise at Norfolk Airport, and the experience was seamless. All the staff I interacted with were incredibly friendly, and the pickup/drop-off process was straightforward. While this adds some cost to your trip, the freedom to go wherever you like, whenever you like, makes it worth every penny. Plus, it lets you add a visit to Williamsburg, which I highly recommend for extended stays in Virginia Beach!
Click here to see available car rentals in Virginia Beach.
Check For Parking Fees at Your Hotel
Similar to hotels in Niagara Falls, keep an eye out for parking fees if you plan on having a car during your stay. Some hotels charge up to $25 a night for parking (yes, that’s USD, my fellow Canadians) or possibly even more. This is another reason I loved staying at the Hyatt Place Virginia Beach Oceanfront—they only charge $9 a night, which is incredibly reasonable, especially for valet!
Make Sure You Have the Correct Hotel
This may seem trivial, but it’s vital for your Virginia Beach trip. Several hotels have similar names that often get mixed up, like the Hyatt Place Oceanfront and the Hyatt House Oceanfront. Take it from me—you’ll want to double-check the address and reservation details to avoid arriving at the wrong hotel after wasting time!
Canadians, Cash In on the Loonie Saver!
It’s well-known that the Canadian dollar doesn’t stretch as far as we’d like in the United States. Fortunately, Virginia Beach offers a promotion for Canadians to save up to 15% on accommodations and attractions! The process is simple. Head to the Virginia Beach tourism site, sign up for the Loonie Saver program, and you’ll receive your discounts via text and email. Just remember to have your Canadian passport for verification when making reservations.
Looking for More Interesting Places in Virginia to Visit?
Extend Your Virginia Visit with a Road Trip to Williamsburg
The Ultimate Guide to One Epic Virginia Road Trip Along Interstate 81
Don’t Miss These Top 10+ Virginia Views Along the I-81 Corridor!
15 Unique Places to Visit in Virginia Along Interstate 81
Everything You Need to See, Do & Eat in the Quirky Town of Wytheville
History, Caverns & Parks – Oh My! Check Out My Stellar Guide to Luray VA
Stay Fuelled with These Best Eats Along the I-81
Disclaimer:
This article was created in collaboration with Visit Virginia Beach and Visit Virginia. However, the content and opinions shared are, as always, honest and reflect my personal experiences.
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