Virginia Beach is a gem tucked away on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, right next to Chesapeake Bay. When here, you get to enjoy the coastal city vibe and easy access to gorgeous beaches. Nothing beats dipping your toes in the cool Atlantic surf while soaking up some beautiful rays!
So you can see why it’s a great location for when you just want to forget about the rest of the world for a few weeks. Chill-vibes day in and day out? Check! Fancy endless beaches? Check! Scrumptious seafood? Check! A treasure trove of history and culture waiting to be explored? You betcha’!
Whether you’re here for downtime or party time, there’s something for anyone. In today’s guide, we’ll walk you through this slice of heaven and let you know where to stay, what to eat, and where to start your exploration.
Where to Stay
Where can you hang your hat in Virginia Beach? The lodgings here are as varied as the shells on its shoreline, offering something for every budget and taste.
If you feel like splurging, luxury hotels such as The Historic Cavalier Hotel & Beach Club or The Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront guarantee a stay of unparalleled sophistication and comfort. These high-end spots come with swanky suites, refreshing pools, spas, and stunning ocean views.
If your pocket strings are pulling a little tighter, mid-range accommodations like Comfort Suites Beachfront or Best Western Plus Sandcastle Beachfront Hotel offer value without compromising on convenience or quality.
In case your budget is even tighter, you can find many cheerful hostels or vacation rentals through Airbnb or Booking.com. These options allow you to live like a local and might even include a cozy kitchen to whip up meals when you fancy staying in.
Bonus Tip: Buy a Vacation Home
If you fall in love with Virginia Beach and plan on returning regularly, investing in a vacation home can be quite a smart move. You can also rent it when you’re not there, so you’ll be able to profit from your investment.
There’s a wide variety of options on the real estate market, from beachfront condos to sprawling family homes tucked away in quieter neighborhoods. But if the call of the ocean tugs at your heartstrings, it’s best to go for a breezy beach house.
Just remember to check the heating system and schedule a heating installation job as soon as possible if needed. The weather gets quite chilly during the winter months, and the high humidity from the ocean doesn’t make things better.
But, if you have a good heating system, you’ll be all toasty by the fireplace while admiring the ocean. It’s definitely a worthy investment!
What to Eat
Virginia Beach is highly celebrated for its fresh-from-the-ocean fare, so if you like seafood, you’re in the right place. Start with the Waterman’s Surfside Grille, where you can enjoy a delicious Crab Soup. If you want more, check out Margie and Ray’s Seafood for some of the best steamed crabs in town.
The city also sports an array of international cuisine houses offering everything from sushi to Mexican tacos, Middle Eastern shawarma to Italian pasta al dente. If seafood is not your thing, you should try out Terrapin Restaurant or Zoes Steak & Seafood for a luxe dining experience.
Virginia Beach also has a selection of bakeries and coffee shops where you can enjoy delightful pastries and caffeine fixes at pocket-friendly budgets.
Explore Your Heart’s Content
There’s a lot to see and enjoy in terms of tourist attractions and historical landmarks, so we recommend getting out there and exploring as soon as possible. For instance, if you’re passionate about history, you should visit First Landing State Park. The exact spot where the English colonists first landed in 1607, it’s also an exceptional venue for hiking and picnicking.
If marine life intrigues you, pay a visit to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. It houses over 800 sea creatures, so adults and youngsters have a lot to see and learn. When you have the time and disposition, take a hike to the Cape Henry Lighthouse. You’ll get amazing panoramic views of the entire region!
Virginia Beach also has a strong cultural and artistic scene, with street artworks, museums, and galleries. And let’s not forget the most obvious of attractions – water sports! You can try a wide range of sports like surfing, parasailing, or paddleboarding.
Wrap Up
We hope that, by now, you’re convinced to spend your long vacation in Virginia Beach. You’ll have access to plush accommodations, delectable seafood, and history-packed spots (among other attractions).
Regardless of how you choose to spend your vacation, one thing is sure – Virginia Beach has the knack for making anybody fall head over heels with its charm.
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