For years, I heard the same line about Virginia Beach: “It’s just a beach with a boardwalk.” And for years, I believed it. But after spending more time exploring the area, I realized that couldn’t be further from the truth. The city is a vibrant, exciting destination brimming with unique attractions, delicious food, and a sense of adventure that’s perfect for any traveler.
So, if you’re asking yourself, “Is there anything fun to do in Virginia Beach?”, let me be the first to tell you: you’re in for a treat. The answer is a resounding yes! Forget the boring beach vacation you might be picturing. This isn’t just a place to lay on the sand—it’s a destination where you can create lasting memories. From the iconic boardwalk to hidden inland gems, this guide has everything you need to plan your perfect trip.
The Must-Visit Beaches and Waterfronts
While the boardwalk gets all the attention, Virginia Beach has a diverse coastline with different vibes for every type of visitor. Whether you’re looking for a party or a peaceful escape, there’s a spot for you.
Virginia Beach Boardwalk – The Heart of the Action
This is where the magic happens. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a three-mile-long stretch of concrete perfection that runs parallel to the Atlantic Ocean. It’s lined with hotels, restaurants, shops, and a bike path. You’ll see everyone here, from seasoned cyclists and skateboarders to families pushing strollers. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an entire day and still not see everything.
Sandbridge Beach – Peace and Serenity Away from the Crowds
Just south of the main resort area, you’ll find Sandbridge Beach. This is the complete opposite of the boardwalk. It’s a quiet, residential stretch of coastline, often called “Outer Banks light” by locals. Here, you can truly relax, listen to the waves, and enjoy a peaceful day without the hustle and bustle. It’s the perfect spot for families with young children or anyone who wants a tranquil beach experience.
Chic’s Beach – A Local Favorite with Stunning Views
Located on the Chesapeake Bay, Chic’s Beach (or Chesapeake Beach) is where the locals go. The bay’s calm waters are perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming, making it ideal for families. The beach faces west, which means you can catch some of the most stunning sunsets in the area. Plus, there are plenty of great restaurants and bars nearby.
The Best Things to Do Right on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
The boardwalk isn’t just for walking! It’s a hub of activity with plenty of classic and unique attractions that make for a perfect day out.
Rent a Surrey Bike for a Classic Boardwalk Ride
My family loves this! Renting a colorful surrey bike is a classic Virginia Beach experience. These multi-person bikes are a fun, social way to pedal up and down the boardwalk. It’s a great workout and a guaranteed source of laughter.
Snap a Selfie with the King Neptune Statue
You can’t visit the boardwalk without seeing the iconic King Neptune Statue. This impressive, 34-foot-tall bronze sculpture stands at 31st Street and is a popular photo op for visitors. Pose with the mighty sea god and you’ll have a great souvenir photo.
Explore the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum
Learn about the city’s coastal history at the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum. Housed in a historic life-saving station, this museum tells the stories of shipwrecks, brave rescuers, and the evolution of surfing in the area. It’s a small but fascinating stop.
Catch a Free Live Concert at Neptune’s Park
During the summer, Neptune’s Park at 31st Street hosts free concerts and festivals. Grab a spot on the lawn and enjoy live music, often with the sound of the ocean in the background. It’s a low-key, fun evening activity.
Relax and Play at Grommet Island Park, a Beach for Everyone
Located at 2nd Street, Grommet Island Park is a fully accessible beach playground. With ramps, a sensory-friendly boardwalk, and unique play equipment, it’s designed to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy a day at the beach.
Unique & Adventurous Activities Off the Beaten Path
Don’t just stay at the beach! A short drive inland reveals a whole new side of Virginia Beach that will surprise you.
Go on a Dolphin or Whale Watching Boat Tour
Head out onto the open ocean for an unforgettable wildlife encounter. Companies like the Rudee Flipper offer dolphin watching tours in the summer and whale watching tours in the winter. Seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a truly breathtaking experience.
Hike or Bike Through First Landing State Park
First Landing State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. With 20 miles of trails, you can hike through ancient cypress swamps, maritime forests, and along the bay. It’s a beautiful, peaceful escape that feels a world away from the city. This is also where the English colonists first landed in 1607, so you’re literally walking through history.
Explore the ViBe Creative District’s Murals and Art
Nestled between the oceanfront and the city, the ViBe Creative District is an eclectic neighborhood filled with colorful murals, art galleries, and unique shops. It’s the perfect place to stroll, take some photos, and discover the city’s vibrant arts scene.
Get Your Thrills at The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium
Looking for an adrenaline rush? The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium features ziplines, rope courses, and climbing challenges set high in the trees. It’s an exciting activity for families, friends, or anyone looking to test their limits.
Discover History at the Military Aviation Museum
A short drive from the main strip, the Military Aviation Museum houses one of the largest collections of WWI and WWII-era aircraft in the world. Many of these planes are still in flying condition. It’s an incredible, immersive experience for aviation buffs and history lovers.
Family-Friendly Fun That Kids (and Adults) Will Love
Virginia Beach is a fantastic family destination. There are countless activities designed to keep kids of all ages entertained, and they’re so much fun that adults will love them too.
Get Hands-On at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is a world-class aquarium with a massive collection of marine life. You can walk through a sea turtle aquarium, see sharks in a huge tank, and even touch stingrays. It’s an educational and engaging experience for all ages.
Make a Splash at Ocean Breeze Waterpark
On a hot summer day, Ocean Breeze Waterpark is the place to be. With water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, it’s the perfect spot to cool off and have some high-energy fun.
Conquer the Go-Karts and Rides at Motor World
If you have a need for speed, head to Motor World. This large outdoor amusement park features go-kart tracks for different skill levels, as well as bumper cars and other thrill rides.
Feed the Animals at Hunt Club Farm
For a more relaxed, rustic experience, visit Hunt Club Farm. This petting farm has a variety of animals, a farm market, and seasonal events like a pumpkin patch and a haunted attraction in the fall.
Fly a Kite on the Unique Hills of Mount Trashmore Park
Mount Trashmore Park is a fascinating and beautiful spot. Built on a former landfill, it now features two hills (one for flying kites and one for climbing), skate parks, playgrounds, and a lake. It’s a great place for a picnic or a walk.
Top Virginia Beach Nightlife & Entertainment
When the sun goes down, Virginia Beach comes alive with a variety of options for nightlife and entertainment.
Enjoy a Craft Cocktail at a Rooftop Bar with an Ocean View
For a sophisticated night out, head to a rooftop bar like The Raleigh Room or Sky Bar at the Hilton. You can enjoy a craft cocktail, socialize with friends, and take in a beautiful ocean view from above.
See a Show at a Local Venue like Elevation 27
Elevation 27 is a premier music venue that hosts a wide range of national and local acts. Check their calendar to see if your favorite band is in town—it’s a great way to experience the local music scene.
Solve a Mystery at a Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show
Looking for something different? The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show offers an interactive, hilarious, and suspenseful evening where you get to solve a murder mystery while enjoying a delicious meal.
Listen to Live Music at a Local Pub or Bar
From Irish pubs to beachside bars, you’ll find plenty of spots with live music throughout the week. Grab a drink, enjoy some tunes, and soak up the local atmosphere.
Dance the Night Away at a Popular Nightclub
If you’re looking to hit the dance floor, Virginia Beach has several nightclubs where you can dance until the early hours of the morning.
Free Things to Do That Won’t Break the Bank
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a great time. Virginia Beach has plenty of free activities that are just as fun as the paid ones.
Stroll the Chesapeake Bay Beach for Calmer Waters
As mentioned earlier, the Chesapeake Bay beaches offer a calmer experience. Just walking along the shoreline here is a peaceful, free activity.
Visit the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum (Donations Welcome)
This small museum, housed in the historic DeWitt Cottage, celebrates the art of decoy carving and the area’s rich waterfowl hunting history. While admission is free, donations are welcomed and encouraged.
Take a Walk on the Virginia Legends Walk
Located in front of the Virginia Beach Convention Center, the Virginia Legends Walk honors famous Virginians who have made a significant impact. It’s a fun and educational walk that you can do at your own pace.
Explore the Old Beach Farmers Market
On Saturday mornings, the Old Beach Farmers Market is a great place to browse local produce, crafts, and food. Even if you don’t buy anything, the atmosphere is vibrant and fun.
Watch the Sunrise or Sunset Over the Water
This is the ultimate free activity. Wake up early to catch a breathtaking sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean or head to the Chesapeake Bay for an unforgettable sunset.
Looking for Labor Day vacation ideas and packages for the perfect long weekend? Read this guide and get great plans Conclusion,
So, let’s put the question to rest: Is there anything fun to do in Virginia Beach? Absolutely! This city offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every type of traveler. From the high-energy boardwalk and adventurous offshore excursions to peaceful nature walks and vibrant nightlife, you now have a definitive list of answers.
No matter your interests or budget, Virginia Beach is ready to surprise you with its endless possibilities. It’s time to stop asking and start planning.
