Virginia Beach is a hugely popular destination for a lot of reasons, but truthfully, where locals frequent is a huge factor. So, if you are planning a trip there, then you might want to start thinking about your itinerary. Virginia Beach is pretty big, with a few different areas to explore depending on your vibe, which is why we have put together a guide outlining your options, so let’s get into it.
Oceanfront Boardwalk
The Oceanfront Boardwalk is largely seen as the center of nightlife in Virginia Beach. It stretches on for almost three miles and boasts a huge number of bars, clubs, and restaurants. The Boardwalk is also bustling with food stalls and street performers, which can make bar hopping that much more fun. Admittedly, some of the clubs do have dress codes which you might want to look up before packing just in case you need to buy anything new; depending on the vibe and your budget, you could check out designer menswear online from SSENSE.
ViBe Creative District
Technically, the ViBe Creative District is within the Oceanfront Boardwalk area, but it does merit its own mention. It is arguably the coolest, artsiest district in Virginia Beach. It’s a hipster’s paradise full of locally owned kitschy restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. The street art is also truly something to behold.
Dam Neck
Dam Neck is the next entry on the list, and it again is one of the rowdier locations. However, it isn’t as busy as the Oceanfront Boardwalk. During the day, Dam Neck is a lakeside community with great outdoor sports offerings. At night, there are several bars that offer delicious comfort food options and boast live entertainment too. So, if you are looking for a lively but simple night out, then Dam Neck is a must.
Rudee Inlet
Rudee Inlet can be found somewhere between Dam Neck and the Oceanfront Boardwalk. The small community boasts a huge number of water-based activities, including some of the best fishing spots in all of Virginia Beach. Unfortunately, the nightlife options are a little scant, but you can still find a couple of seafood eateries, including a tiki-themed bar that stays open until the early hours of the morning.
Chesapeake Bay
Chesapeake Bay offers a much more relaxed approach to nightlife than the hustle and bustle of the Oceanfront Boardwalk. There are laidback restaurants, bars and even breweries for beer lovers to tour. Think about your vibe and whether you want a quiet night. Chesapeake Bay also boasts some excellent seafood too.
Chic’s Beach
Chic’s Beach is perhaps better suited for those looking for a nature-centric getaway. During the day you can explore beaches, lakes, and forests. At night you can experience some of the best surf ‘n’ turf in all of Virginia Beach. There are also a few bars to welcome you and ply you with cocktails until the early hours.
Town Center
The next place on the list is Town Center. Again, Town Center represents a much different vibe than the other options on the list. It is a little more high-end than some of the other options on the list, housing a number of luxury cocktail bars and restaurants. There are also a number of events and activities to choose from too, like comedy clubs.
Pungo
Pungo is arguably more of a residential community than a tourist-heavy destination. However, you could check out the Military Aviation Museum or one of the fresh fruit picking farms during the day. At night, there are a few local haunts that everyone should check out should they find themselves in Pungo. You can find a bar to watch the game, more seafood eateries or even cocktails with the girls.
Sandbridge
Sandbridge is a great destination for those looking for a beachy, relaxed night. The coastline is stunning and has a huge number of water sports activities to explore during the day. At night, there are a number of cute little bars and restaurants dotted along the shoreline. You are unlikely to find a wild, raucous night here, but it does get pretty lively, especially if you find the local’s favorite bars.
Woodhouse Corner
Finally, to round out the list is Woodhouse Corner. It is a cute, quaint little area that is, again, best suited for a more chilled evening. There are also a number of breweries here to visit, so it is a must for beer lovers, but fear not, there are choices for those who love a cocktail or a bourbon too! A great restaurant to check out while here is the Lucky Oyster!
Summing Up
Virginia Beach is a popular destination for a reason; there truly is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are looking for a wild, debauched evening, a more civilized and sophisticated night or anything in between. Remember to keep this list in mind when coming up with the itinerary for your Virginia Beach vacation.