Every year, thousands of people visit Virginia Beach, a vibrant seaside resort known for its natural beauty, stunning beaches, and fantastic festival scene along the U.S. east coast. It’s easy to see why Virginia Beach is such a popular destination. Here are a few reasons why we love it!
The Beach
One of the main attractions of Virginia Beach is its gorgeous beaches. Stretching for miles, the golden sand meets the Atlantic Ocean, with the Virginia Beach Boardwalk running alongside. This boardwalk extends three miles and is perfect for activities like cycling, running, and rollerblading. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy. A great way to experience the beach is by waking up early to catch the sunrise over the ocean and maybe even spot a dolphin in the distance.
If you’re looking for an affordable hotel near the beach and boardwalk, consider staying at the Sundial Inn, located at the corner of 21st and Pacific Avenue. It’s just minutes away from all the action!
Climb a Historic Lighthouse
Get a unique view of Virginia Beach by climbing the Cape Henry Lighthouse. Although modern-day Virginia Beach is filled with high-rise hotels and buildings, you can still find a touch of history at Fort Story military base, home to two lighthouses. The original Cape Henry Lighthouse is the fourth oldest in the country, and the newer lighthouse next to it still guides ships today. The original lighthouse is open to the public and offers 360-degree views of Virginia Beach.
Beer Scene
Virginia Beach is known for its vibrant craft beer scene. With over 10 breweries in the area, including popular spots like Back Bay Brewing, Pleasure House Brewing, and Commonwealth Brewing Company, there’s no shortage of great beer. You can also discover new favorites at one of the many beer festivals held in Virginia Beach.
Oysters and Crabs
Given its coastal location, Virginia Beach is famous for its delicious oysters and crabs. The city produces some of the best oysters on the Atlantic, which are featured in many local restaurants. Another favorite is the soft-shell blue crab, which is abundant from May to September in the Chesapeake Bay. You can enjoy these seafood delicacies in various ways, from deep-fried to surf and turf with burgers and steaks. Try starting your seafood adventure at Waterman’s or Chix on the Beach.
Music Festivals
Virginia Beach always has something going on, whether it’s a music festival, art festival, or a sand-sculpting contest. One of the biggest events is the Neptune Festival, which celebrates beach life with a weekend full of live music, food, art, and the International Sand Sculpting Competition.
Scenic State Parks
Another reason to love Virginia Beach is its pristine natural landscapes, particularly in its state parks. First Landing State Park and False Cape State Park offer miles of natural coastline, including marshes, lagoons, aquatic forests, and sandy beaches. These parks provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking.
In summary, Virginia Beach is a fantastic destination with something for everyone, from beautiful beaches and historic lighthouses to a thriving beer scene, delicious seafood, lively festivals, and stunning state parks. It’s no surprise that so many people love visiting this seaside gem.