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Affordable Summer Adventures: Visit Virginia Beach!

Virginia Beach VA Oceanfront

Looking for a summer getaway that won’t cost an arm and a leg? Virginia Beach is the perfect spot for you.

Whether you’re in the mood for some chill beach time, fun outdoor activities, or delicious food, this coastal town has it all—without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into why Virginia Beach should be at the top of your list for an affordable summer adventure.

Beach Bliss Without the Price Tag

First things first—let’s talk about the beach. Virginia Beach offers 35 miles of sandy shoreline, and guess what? It’s free! You can spend your days lounging by the ocean, catching some rays, and dipping your toes in the water without spending a dime. If you’re anything like me, you’ll love taking those long walks along the shore. There’s something about feeling the sand between your toes and hearing the waves crash that just melts all your worries away.

And if you’re in the mood for a little romance? Try hitting the beach at sunset. Seriously, watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in stunning shades of pink and orange—chef’s kiss.

Read More: The Top Six Resorts in Virginia Beach for a Perfect Stay

Adventure Awaits (And It Won’t Break the Bank)

For the adventurers out there, Virginia Beach has plenty of budget-friendly options to get your adrenaline pumping. Take a hike in First Landing State Park, where you’ll find more than 19 miles of trails through forests, swamps, and beaches. It’s the perfect mix of nature and history, and for just a small entry fee, you get access to some incredible views.

Prefer something a little more laid back? Rent a kayak and paddle through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. You’ll be surrounded by nature and might even spot some wildlife along the way. It’s the kind of peaceful escape that makes you forget you’re even on a budget.

Read More: The 10 Best Tourist Destinations in Virginia Beach

Eats You’ll Love Without the Guilt

You don’t have to shell out big bucks to eat well in Virginia Beach. There are plenty of places that’ll satisfy your taste buds without draining your wallet. For a casual spot, check out The Shack on 8th. This beachy hangout is the perfect place to grab a cold drink and a bite to eat after a long day in the sun.

And of course, you can’t visit Virginia Beach without trying some local seafood. The area is known for its fresh fish, crabs, and oysters. Hit up one of the local seafood joints for a taste of the ocean. Trust me, those crab cakes are worth it!

Free Fun, All Summer Long

One of the best parts about Virginia Beach in the summer? The free entertainment. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is where it all happens—live music, street performers, outdoor movies, you name it. You can spend the whole evening just wandering around, taking in the sights and sounds, and it won’t cost you a thing.

If you’re into art, check out the ViBe Creative District. It’s full of colorful murals, galleries, and local shops. Walking through the district is like discovering a new piece of art around every corner, and the best part is, it’s all free to enjoy.

Read More: Here’s Where Nature Lovers Should Go When Visiting Virginia Beach

Explore Like a Local

Virginia Beach is packed with lesser-known spots that offer unique experiences without the big price tag. Venture beyond the main beach to find secluded coves, quiet nature trails, and quaint coffee shops that locals swear by.

Check out places like the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel for scenic views or Pleasure House Point Natural Area for peaceful kayaking spots. Exploring these hidden gems will give you a fresh perspective on Virginia Beach and unforgettable memories—all without splurging.

Read More: The 7 Reasons Why Charleston, WV Is a Great Place to Spend Your Vacation

Make Virginia Beach Your Summer Adventure

So, what are you waiting for? Virginia Beach is the perfect place to get your summer adventure on without spending a fortune. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the outdoors, or enjoy some great food, this charming coastal town has it all. Grab your sunscreen, pack your bags, and get ready to make some memories without worrying about your bank account.

Trip Ideas

The Top Six Resorts in Virginia Beach for a Perfect Stay

An ideal vacation needs the perfect accommodations, and there’s plenty to choose from in Virginia Beach.

Resorts in Virginia Beach are as diverse as the surrounding nature. There are options for every budget and taste. You can choose among those located on the famous Oceanfront, the Town Center, Chesapeake Bay, and other city districts.

Families on vacation and solitary nature explorers alike can find the resort that fits their needs. Take a look at our list of the six top resorts in Virginia Beach and decide on the perfect one.

Turtle Cay Resort

Located at the south end of the city and right between the ocean and Lake Holly, this resort has a range of accommodations. Here you can choose between studios and suites of different sizes. Since Turtle Cay Resort is further away from the most active areas, it’s relatively peaceful and quiet.

The resort features two swimming pools and the city beach is very near. The swimming pools are very nice looking, with plenty of greenery and rock-like decorations. There are kid sections and even a mini-waterfall.

If you’re up for some relaxing and fishing, you can go to the small yet charming Lake Holly right across the road.

Hyatt House Virginia Beach

The Hyatt House is on the Boardwalk, overlooking the ocean. The Oceanfront hotel offers rooms with a perfect view. All balconies face the water, and the rooms are spacious and comfortable. 

Hyatt House Virginia Beach focuses on going green and offers optional services to that end.

The hotel has an indoor swimming pool, a fitness room, an excellent restaurant, and a store. It’s also worth mentioning that the hotel is pet-friendly. And the central location of Hyatt House guarantees you’ll always be just minutes away from the city attractions.

Belvedere Beach Resort

For the ideal family vacation, there are not many hotels as convenient as Belvedere Beach Resort. While it’s on the Boardwalk, the more relaxed northern-end location means the area’s less crowded. At the same time, the beach is right there, as are the restaurants, cafes, and shops. If you like golfing, the Princess Anne Country Club is in close proximity.

The retro-styled rooms are cozy and very functional. While some have a real kitchen area, all of the rooms have mini-fridges and microwave ovens. Depending on the room, you’ll be able to see more or less of the ocean from the balcony. 

There’s also a heated pool outside, and guests can take the hotel bikes out for a ride.

The Founders Inn and Spa

The Founders Inn and Spa offers a different experience compared to other popular resorts. It’s far away from the ocean, located in the countryside. 

Rather than the Atlantic, there are several gorgeous, small lakes and the Elizabeth River nearby. A lovely English garden surrounds the resort that overlooks a clear lake. The resort is pet-friendly, and there’s a dedicated dog park within the estate.

The rooms are stylish and comfortable, as is the entire resort interior. You can get accommodations with a view of either the lake or the garden. In any case, a beautiful sight will be there every time you take a look outside. And if you happen to get one of the rooms with a fireplace, you’ll enjoy the time spent inside even more.

The Founders Inn and Spa features two excellent restaurants. And the eponymous spa is worth mentioning, as it has many special treatments available. This resort is a great opportunity for rest and relaxation for those who don’t need to spend every day at the beach.

Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront

This resort is one of many near the Boardwalk. It’s right next to Neptune’s Park and the famous Neptune Statue. The resort is modern and luxurious, banking on the world-renowned level guaranteed by the Hilton brand. While not all rooms have an ocean view, all are still very enjoyable with cozy beds and flat-screen TVs.

The infinity swimming pool at the rooftop overlooks the Atlantic. There’s a hot tub right next to it offering the same amazing view. The hotel has an indoor pool as well and a gym to satisfy every fitness enthusiast. 

You’ll also find a restaurant and a top-class steakhouse in Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront. So make sure to try the phenomenal Wagyu steaks there – it’s a memorable culinary experience.

Talking about Hilton, there’s another resort of the same brand a minute’s walk away. The Hilton Garden Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront offers similar amenities. The style of this hotel is slightly different, though. If you’re up for the Hilton experience, check out both resorts to find out which one suits you better.

Four Sails Resort

Located at the north of the Boardwalk, the Four Sails Resort is right in the center of Virginia Beach activity. This resort is best suited for group vacations. The rooms have a scaled-down, very tasteful decor, which is the overall style of the hotel. Its spacious living rooms and kitchens featured in the suites make them perfect for families.

You can enjoy a wonderful view of the ocean as well as Jacuzzi tubs in some suites. If you’d like to sit down for refreshments, the resort has a cafe on the very Boardwalk. Breakfast and Wi-Fi are, of course, a given. The hotel also features a fitness center and an indoor swimming pool.

Choose the Best Place to Enjoy Your Virginia Beach Vacation

Your stay in Virginia Beach will undoubtedly be pleasant and fun. There’s nature to explore, plenty of places to visit, and various activities to engage in. Once you pick the perfect accommodation, you’re guaranteed to have the best experience possible. 

Our list of the best resorts in Virginia Beach will point you in the right direction and you’ll enjoy a memorable vacation.

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Trip Ideas

Here’s Where Nature Lovers Should Go When Visiting Virginia Beach

In Virginia Beach, nature waits for you to discover it.

Located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia Beach is an ideal place for an exploration of nature. There are beaches and parks, all with a distinct charm. And the gorgeous outdoor areas can be places for adventure, fun, and relaxation.

Among the things to do in Virginia Beach are hiking, kayaking, and various other activities. If you decide to experience the most of Virginia Beach nature, every day will be full of enjoyment. 

Check out our list of the most inviting areas to see on your next visit to Virginia Beach.

1. The Virginia Beach Oceanfront

The very coast of the Atlantic features long stretches of beaches. There’s no sight more reminiscent of an ideal vacation than the golden sand meeting clear, blue water. 

In Virginia Beach, the sandy shore doesn’t seem to end. Whether you want a serene piece of the beach or want to enjoy a fun day at the oceanside, you’ll find it all here.

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is three miles long and follows the beach. You can traverse it on foot, on a bicycle, skateboard, or skates. There are benches throughout the boardwalk if you want to rest for a bit and take in the mesmerizing scenery. 

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk separates the beach from Atlantic Avenue. Across the street, you’ll find the long streak of hotels, restaurants, and shops.

2. First Landing State Park

This park is the location where the first English colonists landed in America four centuries ago. However, the historical significance gets overshadowed by the splendor of nature. It’s because the First Landing State Park has beautiful forested areas, several small lakes, and a majestic beach. There’s even a camping area, and wood cabins are available for rent.

The beach stretches long and wide, and you can enjoy plenty of water sports. You can also rent a boat or a kayak, or take a jet ski for a spin. Inland, there’s a whole network of trails going through the forest and throughout the park. 

If you like to get immersed in nature, First Landing State Park is the perfect place to spend the day.

3. Back Bay Wildlife Refuge

The Back Bay Wildlife Refuge is a vast area of diverse biomes with beaches, marshes, sand dunes, and forests. The main animal species sheltered here are migratory birds, so the occasional ornithologist is sure to get something extra from the visit. But, the birds aren’t the only wildlife you can see in the refuge. There are also otters, bobcats, deer, and other animals that inhabit the area.

The existing paths are ideal for scouring the refuge. They are the best way to spot wildlife and you can find dedicated scopes for just that alongside. When you’ve had enough of animal and bird spotting, you can take a relaxing walk or paddleboard on the water.

4. Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center

If instead of heading north to the Back Bay you decide to go south, the road will take you across Lake Rudee. On the lakeshore, you’ll find the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. This is the perfect location to marvel at the sea life, with species both local and from around the world.

With over 300 exhibits, you’ll get a chance to see turtles, sharks, stingrays, and even Komodo dragons. Of course, that’s not all that the Aquarium has to offer. There are touch pools, various pavilions, and a 3-D theater. For nature lovers not interested in watching movies, there are screenings of educational films as well.

If you continue to follow the shore past the center, you’ll get to the Adventure Park at the very tip of the lake. Here you can indulge in fun activities in the forest. There are aerial walks, stairs, and platforms suspended high up. You’ll get instructions and any required help from the staff. But if you’re not up for the adrenaline rush, feel free to just take in the forest atmosphere.

5. False Cape State Park

The False Cape State Park lies further south of Virginia Beach. This is a preserved, undeveloped location best visited by bike or boat. The location feels remote, like you’ve left the city far behind. The primitive camping site only makes that impression stronger.

Similar to the Back Bay, this park features a beach, sand dunes, marshes, and forested areas. It also has both hiking and biking trails, stretched all through the amazing natural environment. The beach is six miles long, making it ideal for walks, peaceful rests, and fun activities.

Since there’s no road access to the park proper, you should plan your stay with this in mind. The sense of seclusion is quite unexpected, especially for a place so close to the city. If that’s something you’d like to experience, False Cape State Park is a must-see.

6. Boat Tours

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to boat trips in Virginia Beach. Plenty of operators will take you dolphin and whale watching on the ocean. Besides individual kayak renting, organized tours will provide a couple of hours of kayaking. Depending on the operator, doing so might also provide you an opportunity to see dolphins near the shore.

Fishing and oyster-farming tours offer different but unique experiences. The oyster-farming tour is especially notable since it’s a hands-on adventure. 

Exploring the Virginia Beach coastal waters by boat is a one-of-a-kind activity. The water and the wonderful sights will refill your energy and leave an unforgettable impression.

Get in Touch with the Impressive Virginia Beach Nature

Virginia Beach has beaches and the usual vacation attractions. But there are gorgeous natural landscapes as well. If you crave this food for the soul, the contact with the natural riches will satisfy you to the fullest. 

Don’t miss the sights, experiences, different biomes, and wildlife. An exploration of the diverse, wonderful environment will make a lasting memory you take back home.

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USA

The 10 Best Tourist Destinations in Virginia Beach

The 10 Best Tourist Destinations in Virginia Beach

As one of the top tourist spots on the Atlantic coast, Virginia Beach offers a unique experience. Expect not just beaches but also stunning nature, history, and more.

Located in southeastern Virginia, the coastal city of Virginia Beach is one of the state’s most popular destinations. It’s ideal for a summer vacation due to its golden sand beaches. With the city’s vibrant charm, however, you can find tourists exploring Virginia Beach all year long.

If you’d like to visit this beautiful place, here are the tourist attractions in Virginia Beach you can’t afford to miss.

1. First Landing State Park

This park is an important historical site for the whole state. That’s because in 1607, Christopher Newport’s ship landed here. And it’s where he founded the first English settlement, which he named Jamestown.

In this gorgeous park, you can enjoy outdoor activities such as biking or hiking. In fact, there’s an impressive 20-mile-long hiking trail through the woodlands of Virginia.

For those interested in water sports, there are kayak rentals and tours and canoeing. You can also try fishing or camping if you’re a nature lover.

2. Military Aviation Museum

Are you a history lover? A visit to the Military Aviation Museum can be an excellent way to spend an afternoon in this beautiful city. The planes on display are from both World Wars and are beyond fascinating!

This museum is such a popular tourist location in Virginia Beach that even locals visit it. And the staff is dedicated to aircraft restoration, that’s why many of the planes are in working condition and form a regular part of airshows.

If you pay a fee, you can even take a ride in one of the airplanes!

3. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk

The most popular paved walkway along the ocean is the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. It runs parallel to Atlantic Avenue, the city’s busiest street filled with hotels and shopping and dining areas.

The Boardwalk runs along the Oceanfront for three miles and has many pleasant restaurants, cafés, shops, and beach stores. It’s also the favorite running and biking spot of both locals and tourists.

Those who hang out on the park benches contribute to the relaxed atmosphere of this walkway.

4. Sandbridge Beach

If you visit Virginia Beach during the peak season, you may find the Oceanfront a bit crowded. So if you prefer the paths less traveled, make sure you stop by Sandbridge Beach. It’s just a quick drive away from the Boardwalk.

This beach is ideal for recharging your batteries and enjoying the silence away from the city’s hustle and bustle. And if you still want to stay active, you can try hiking, kayaking, fishing tours, and visiting the nearby wildlife refuges and parks.

5. Great Dismal Swamp

Are you ready for some chills? The Great Dismal Swamp is one of the best places to see in Virginia Beach, if you want to experience something different. Note that it’s an hour away from Virginia Beach, but it’s undoubtedly worth your while.

This foggy swamp looks mysterious and has great historical significance for the state of Virginia. That’s because escaped slaves of the time used the swamp as a refuge. Today, it’s become a National Wildlife Refuge.

6. Virginia Aquarium

The Virginia Aquarium is a delight for those who find the underwater world fascinating. The colossal aquarium was once a museum dedicated to marine life. It’s now home to more than 300 species of not just fishes but also otters, turtles, and seals.

The aquarium staff also organizes many themed exhibits where you can learn about the natural habitats of these animals. You’ll get to know more about the Red Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and a volcanic island in Indonesia, for instance.

7. ViBe Creative District

Virginia Beach’s creative neighborhood is near the epicenter of the city. A few minutes away from the Oceanfront, you have a chance to soak in the artistic side of Virginia by visiting the ViBe Creative District.

It’s a colorful community where you can observe local artists immersed in their work or visit the Old Beach Farmers Market. When you’ve had enough, you can enjoy a cup of coffee in one of their cozy cafés. Don’t forget to buy handmade souvenirs, like handbags or wood pieces.

8. Captain Jack’s Pirate Ship

One of the most thrilling things to do in Virginia Beach is to board a pirate ship. How? By visiting the city’s unique tourist attraction Captain Jack’s Lost Pearl.

Although the shipbuilders tried to make a replica of a Spanish Galleon, they still needed to follow the US Coast Guard’s guidelines. So, it’s perfectly safe to board the ship.

You can go for a cruise or even celebrate your birthday on board. Sailing on the Lost Pearl is a fun activity both for children and adults.

9. Old Cape Henry Lighthouse

It’s time to visit a significant cultural landmark in Virginia Beach. The original Cape Henry Lighthouse has a long history that goes back to 1792 and George Washington personally authorized it. Today, there’s a new lighthouse built a few blocks away.

As the area is part of the Fort Story US Army base, you need to pass a security check before approaching the lighthouse. The Old Cape Henry is open for visitors and you’re allowed to climb all the way to the top. From there, you can enjoy sensational views and beautiful sunsets.

10. Harrison Opera House

Here’s another sight that’s worth your while.

While you’ll need to take a short car ride to get to the Harrison Opera House, you won’t regret it. Not only does it feature splendid architecture, but the inside of the building is just as impressive.

The elegant venue has a capacity of more than 1,600 guests. The staircases and chandeliers are even certified masterpieces.

The Classy, Charming Beach City

It’s easy to fall in love with Virginia Beach. Whatever you have in mind, it can deliver.

Wildlife resorts, historical sites, gorgeous beaches, and fantastic views amaze tourists every year. There are also beautiful places in plain sight and more discrete hideaways when you’re longing for peace and quiet.

Above all, the unique tourist attractions in Virginia Beach will make you want to come back for more.

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