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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
