Virginia Beach, VA

Travel Guide

A crowded beach with colorful umbrellas and tents, a sandy shore, and buildings in the background.
A wooden pier extending into calm waters at sunset.
A wooden pier extending into calm waters at sunset.
A teal bicycle parked against a wooden fence on a wooden deck.
A sandy beach with people walking and sitting, a city skyline in the background, and a calm sea.

Inspect the historic monuments, hike through the maze-like trails of the parks and relax on the long and sandy beach.

Virginia Beach has a wide and lively boardwalk at the back of its 3-mile (5-kilometer) stretch of sand. The town contains several state parks and a vast refuge with freshwater lakes and a diverse terrain. Visit Virginia Beach for a combination of dynamic culture, historic landmarks and relaxing parks.

Stroll past the many shops and restaurants of the beachside boulevard and enjoy the vista of the Atlantic Ocean. Reach Neptune’s ParkOpens in a new window, a cultural cornerstone of the city, with regular open-air summer concerts. It is marked by the exceptional King Neptune, a large sculpture of the muscular god of the sea.

For a sense of the history of this oceanfront city, visit the fascinating Old Coast Guard StationOpens in a new window. The museum sheds light on the rescue techniques of the lifesaving service.

Consider how the city also looks toward the future, with innovation exemplified by Mount Trashmore ParkOpens in a new window. The site has been entirely transformed from an abandoned landfill into a green, hilly park flanked by two lakes. Follow the walking trail and pause for a picnic atop a former landfill mountain.

Explore the outer regions of the city for its vast and varied parks. Go to the Back Bay National Wildlife RefugeOpens in a new window to spot deer, horses, snow geese and tundra swans. Ride the tram for a tour through the park toward the picturesque False Cape State ParkOpens in a new window.

Cycle along the trails of First Landing State ParkOpens in a new window. Work on your tan at the beach on one of the area’s typically hot and humid summer days. Winters bring occasional snow flurries, but mostly mild temperatures.

The city is near Cape Henry, which stands at the confluence of Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. It is near the border with North Carolina in Virginia’s southeastern corner. Fly to Norfolk International Airport and drive east for 17 miles (27 kilometers) to reach the city. You can also get around by bus or train.

Virginia Beach is a place with vast parks with varied topography, intriguing museums and a lively beach scene.

Where to stay in Virginia Beach

Find the best Virginia Beach areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Virginia Beach
Learn more about Virginia Beach

Sandbridge

Travelers enjoy Sandbridge for its beaches and parks. Consider checking out Sandbridge Beach while you're in the area.

Virginia Beach Town Center

One reason travelers love spending time in Virginia Beach Town Center is the stunning beaches, and Sandler Center for the Performing Arts is a top place to visit.

Chic's Beach

If you're spending some time in Chic's Beach, Chesapeake Beach and Little Creek Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Northeast Virginia Beach

While visiting Northeast Virginia Beach, you might make a stop by sights like First Landing State Park and Neptune Statue.

Croatan Beach

If you're spending some time in Croatan Beach, Sandbridge Beach and Rudee Inlet are top sights worth seeing.

Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront

3 out of 5
5700 Atlantic Ave Virginia Beach VA
$82 nightly
The price is $96 total per night from Oct 4 to Oct 5
$96 total
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront)

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront)

3 out of 5
1801 Atlantic Ave Virginia Beach VA
$119 nightly
The price is $139 total per night from Sep 28 to Sep 29
$139 total
Sep 28 - Sep 29
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,776 reviews)
"Absolutely no negatives to this stay. Super friendly and accommodating staff. Ample parking in ramp $15/day. Clean rooms, comfortable beds. Boardwalk is right off the back of the hotel and adjacent to the beach. A few shops and bike rentals available everywhere. Travel off the strip a block or two ..."

Reviewed on Sep 18, 2026

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront)
Surfbreak Virginia Beach Oceanfront, an Ascend Collection Hotel

Surfbreak Virginia Beach Oceanfront, an Ascend Collection Hotel

3 out of 5
1101 Atlantic Ave Virginia Beach VA
$76 nightly
The price is $89 total per night from Oct 13 to Oct 14
$89 total
Oct 13 - Oct 14
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
Surfbreak Virginia Beach Oceanfront, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Ocean Key Virginia Beach Resort

The Ocean Key Virginia Beach Resort

3 out of 5
424 Atlantic Avenue Virginia Beach VA
Stay at this aparthotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,654 reviews)
"Really appreciated the kitchen. And the balcony and chairs and small table was nice. We enjoyed seeing all of the planes, boats and cars driving and flying by. The staff is excellent! Plenty of towels and wash cloths for our 5 night stay. Very close to the beach. We were able to use the complementary ..."

Reviewed on Sep 17, 2026

The Ocean Key Virginia Beach Resort
Ocean Sands Resort, Oceanfront, Virginia Beach by Vacatia

Ocean Sands Resort, Oceanfront, Virginia Beach by Vacatia

4 out of 5
2207 Atlantic Avenue Virginia Beach VA
Book a stay at this beach aparthotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,413 reviews)
"Staff are very friendly. The elevator is slow as others have reported. Great ocean view from the balcony. The room was clean on a surface level but there were areas left untouched like behind the nightstand in the bedroom. Things I didn't like were beyond the control of the resort like people chain ..."

Reviewed on Sep 19, 2026

Ocean Sands Resort, Oceanfront, Virginia Beach by Vacatia
The Atrium Resort, Virginia Beach by Vacatia

The Atrium Resort, Virginia Beach by Vacatia

3.5 out of 5
315 21st St Virginia Beach VA
Stay at this aparthotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,670 reviews)
"Awesome spot near the beach and very clean!"

Reviewed on Sep 18, 2026

The Atrium Resort, Virginia Beach by Vacatia
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Virginia Beach attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Virginia Beach worth visiting?
Virginia Beach is worth visiting for its beautiful coastal experiences, including the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and Sandbridge Beach. Travelers can also explore distinct areas like Northeast Virginia Beach and Northwest, and enjoy diverse dining options with Asian and Italian cuisine.
When is the best time to visit Virginia Beach?
The best time to visit Virginia Beach is from May through July, when the weather is warm and inviting for beach activities. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of October through December are a good bet, offering a more relaxed experience.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Virginia Beach?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Virginia Beach depend on what you want to see:

  • Northeast Virginia Beach is home to Pacific Avenue, the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, and First Landing State Park.
  • Northwest offers Virginia Wesleyan University, Lynnhaven House, and Chesapeake Beach.
  • Dam Neck features Rudee Inlet, Dam Neck Beach, and Croatan Beach.

What is Virginia Beach known for?
Virginia Beach, known as 'VA Beach', is known for its Virginia Beach Boardwalk and Sandbridge Beach, perfect for enjoying the humid subtropical climate. Travelers can also explore the Virginia Beach Town Center and discover a strong Asian food culture.
What is a good itinerary length for Virginia Beach?
A good itinerary length for Virginia Beach is three to four days to explore the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Sandbridge Beach, and Virginia Beach Town Center. An extended stay of five to seven days allows travelers to enjoy activities like Tiki Boat Cruises or Strawberry Picking & Picnic, and discover neighborhoods such as Northeast Virginia Beach. See Virginia Beach Activities.
How do you get around Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach travelers will find rental cars available in neighborhoods like Northeast Virginia Beach, Northwest, and North Central, offering flexibility to explore. For those arriving by train, the Virginia Beach Station serves the area. Rideshare services are also a convenient option for getting around the city.
What are the top things to do in and around Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach offers diverse experiences, from scenic shores to unique local adventures:

  • Stroll the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, a popular area for entertainment and views.
  • Relax at Sandbridge Beach, known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Enjoy Private Tiki Boat Cruises in Virginia Beach for a unique water excursion.
  • Experience Strawberry Picking & Picnic for a fun, local agricultural adventure.
  • Discover Neptune Ghouls and Ghost Tours for a spooky exploration of the area.

What cuisines can you find in Virginia Beach?
In Virginia Beach you can find Filipino cuisine, with dishes like adobo, sinigang, lumpia, and pancit. Travelers also get a wide range of options including other Asian varieties, Italian, Latin American, Southern soul food, and fresh seafood.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Virginia Beach?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Virginia Beach by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Virginia Beach with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Virginia Beach trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Virginia Beach?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Virginia Beach can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Virginia Beach trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Virginia Beach trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Virginia Beach trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Virginia Beach trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Virginia Beach?
If it's your first trip to Virginia Beach, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Virginia Beach hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Virginia Beach hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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