Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach, a coastal city in southeastern Virginia, lies where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. A 3-mile boardwalk stretches along its beach-lined oceanfront. The bayside First Landing State Park marks the 1607 arrival of the Jamestown colonists from England. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center exhibits ocean life including sharks, rays and sea turtles in globally themed habitats.

When is your trip?

–

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Virginia Beach Trip Planner

Ready to plan your trip to Virginia Beach? Organize and map your itinerary with our free trip planner.

Top attractions in Virginia Beach

1. Virginia Beach Boardwalk

4.6

(470)

Sights & Landmarks

Piers & Boardwalks

Lined with hotels & eateries, this expansive walkway hosts numerous summer events & concerts.

Slide 1 of 8

I love love this Boardwalk/ Beach , the entire area is beautiful, great people I met here during my vacation, they have great restaurants and gift shops

Karen — Google review

This is one of my favorite beaches in the USA. It's beautiful, clean, pet friendly and a very free, kind and non-judgemental atmosphere. They even have workout equipment on the beach.

Rebecca H — Google review

I highly recommend taking this walk. So many things to see and do.

May B — Google review

Virginia Beach Boardwalk is one of the best going around. It is completely paved and runs for a couple of miles. There is a separate lane on the boardwalk for bicycles and carts. People in the beach condos overlooking the ocean can hit the boardwalk and go biking or walking. The Neptune statue is a huge attraction

Gautham V — Google review

Beautiful beach, safe

Dawn G — Google review

Just came back from VA Beach, refreshed & recharged ! Although I had a GREAT time it was early June, so it rained for a good portion of our trip. And VA Beach does NOT have a "boardwalk" in the true, classic definition that other beach towns such as Ocean City MD, Rehoboth Beach DE, Myrtle Beach SC, Atlantic City NJ, Coney Island NYC etc, etc VA Beach has more of a 3-mile "promenade" which is PAVED rather that the historic WOOD PLANKS of the traditional beach BOARDwalk. Virginia Beach also loses points for its oceanside's lack of businesses and activities on oceanfront property, with only exception are the hotels and resorts and a few restaurants here and there. All the same shopping, dining, beach activities etc Hotels pretty much take up the vast majority (90%+) of prime oceanfront lots Instead of the countless shops, restaurants, amusement thrill parks, etc found in places like Ocean City and Rehoboth. VA Beach has insane # of mobile venders who only stay for seasonal timeframe. Not a lot of shops, just hotels and restaurants on the "boardwalk" that's not even a boardwalk but concrete path ... But to each its own and it was peaceful...

Rashea L — Google review

Love this place! What a boardwalk! I just can't believe they built the ocean so close to the shops.

David N — Google review

Great boardwalk & beach. Especially on a sunny day. Lots bars clubs & entertainment.

John M — Google review

2. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

4.4

(16177)

Aquarium

Zoos & Aquariums

Aquarium focused on Virginia marine life, past & present, with an IMAX theater, boat tour & aviary.

Slide 1 of 8

My family and I had a nice visit to the Virginia Beach Aquarium, a charming and family-friendly spot that’s perfect for a day out with kids. This cute little aquarium is split into two buildings, connected by a scenic 10-minute trail walk (or a quick 2-minute drive), which adds a nice touch of adventure to the experience. We explored the building housing the sharks and sea turtles, and it was a hit, especially with the kiddos! The aquarium offers plenty to see, do, and—most importantly for my kids—touch. For children who thrive on hands-on experiences, this place delivers with numerous interactive touch exhibits that kept my little ones engaged and excited. The fish walkway was favorite, with cute fish swimming all around us. We had a blast using a chart to identify different species, turning it into a fun family game. The shark tank was another highlight, with a sea turtle stealing the show whenever it made an appearance. Sitting and watching the sharks glide by was nice. I loved how the aquarium seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor elements. You can step outside for stunning scenic views or take a leisurely stroll along the nature trail, which adds a refreshing break from the exhibits. The outdoor areas are thoughtfully incorporated, with spots to sit and soak in the surroundings. The café was cute, though it can get hectic during peak lunch hours, so plan accordingly. Overall, the Virginia Beach Aquarium is a fantastic destination for families. With interactive exhibits, engaging displays, and a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor experiences, it’s a great museum that left us all smiling. Highly recommend for a fun, hands-on adventure!

Dominique B — Google review

Nicely organized, friendly staff, and interesting exhibits. My son enjoyed the touch tanks and submarine control room, but it didn’t take long to get through the entire aquarium (about 2 hours moving pretty slowly). Could use something inside that’s more interactive like the seals at the entrance. Penguins would be a great addition. Not sure if the $35+/ticket is justified for another trip if in the area. Not disappointed in our trip, but not sure I would visit again. The gift shop prices are also insane. $70 for a long sleeve shirt tops all prices for gift shops I’ve been in before, and we’ve been to 10+ aquariums. Left without buying anything from the gift shop for the first time.

Danielle L — Google review

Very nice staff. Pet the sting rays was cool. Got a little taken back when they started playing, be prepared to get wet should they start to play again when you are near. Didn't eat at the cafe but seemed to have plenty to choose from. Boat ride wasn't available on a Monday I was there. Due to it was after Labor Day. Bathrooms are clean. 10/10

Melissa C — Google review

Nice Aquarium we came from up north. Love the seal right outside before you get it very unique touch. I was very surprised to see reptiles but the surprise was pleasant. We did go on a Saturday which was crowded but organized. Only negative was the parking meters had to go to multiple before we found one that actually worked so that definitely needs to be fixed it was a bit of a hassle. Make sure you take the walk on the scenic nature route the the south building where the otter and jelly fish are. Be warned the walk is about 13 minutes from one building to the other then you have to walk the same way back. They also have zip lining you can pay to do in that area a bit pricey but looked fun. Overall it is worth it if you take the scenic walk as well. They did have a theater but they said it was not ready and it was well into the afternoon so that was disappointing. But overall I recommend and it’s worth price ended up spending 2.5 hours which is way more than we planned but fun

Cici C — Google review

We were in Virginia Beach for a family vacation with the whole family, 10 people ages 12 to 80, and saw the good reviews of this aquarium so we thought it would be a nice place to spend the afternoon on a day with a good chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Overall, it was very disappointing. We have been to a lot of aquariums and this one was by far the least interesting and impressive, and one of the more expensive and crowded. There was not a lot of actual aquarium stuff and it only took about 2-2.5 hours to go through the entire thing, which at $35/person was not worth the cost. Many of the exhibits were closed or missing their animals and we all left disappointed. I wouldn’t recommend it.

Rebecca F — Google review

I’m a big fan of aquariums and this by far is one of the best ones. We arrived around noon, there was no line to go in. I love how they have everything in separate sections, place was clean, staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. We went with 3 little ones and they enjoy every minute of it, being able to touch and play with stingrays was the highlight for sure. Great place for families. I’d definitely recommend. We enjoyed it so much.

SQ — Google review

After seeing how my baby watched the fish tanks at petco, we decided to take her to the aquarium. She loved it! The animals were all well cared for, staff were friendly, and plenty of parking. We will definitely be coming back to make a full day out of it when she’s older to take advantage of the trails and restaurants outside.

Ciera M — Google review

Beautiful place to visit if you vacationing in VA Beach to experience marine life! The best part was patting the sting rays. The hike to South building was also very pleasant. Will definitely do this again! If you have kids be prepared to go to the water park after 😂

Sean D — Google review

3. Virginia Beach

Nature & Parks

Beaches

4. Sandbridge

Nature & Parks

Beaches

Sandbridge, in the U.S. state of Virginia, is a coastal community of Virginia Beach, located along the coastline on the Currituck Banks Peninsula at the northern end of the Outer Banks. Wikipedia.

5. Cape Henry Lighthouse

4.4

(2321)

Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

Historic 18th-century lighthouse featuring tower climbs with ocean vistas, a gift shop & more.

Slide 1 of 8

This site offers a comprehensive overview of the country's history. The vantage point from the historic lighthouse provides breathtaking views. The stairwells are easily accessible. Interior temperatures can be elevated. Please note that the site is located on a military base. Consequently, all visitors must present a valid driver's license or alternative form of identification. The entry process is expedited. The shuttle service from the entrance to the lighthouse grounds is prompt. We recommend allocating approximately 49 minutes for your visit.😀

Cristina S — Google review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Must-Visit Historic Gem with Stunning Coastal Views Visiting the Cape Henry Lighthouse was a memorable and enriching experience. Located within the secure perimeter of Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, it’s important to note that access requires a valid photo ID for everyone over the age of 16. The process is very organized — after a quick ID check at the gate, a shuttle transports visitors from the front entrance directly to the lighthouse area. The lighthouse itself is a beautiful and well-preserved piece of American history. We learned a lot about its significance — it was the first federal construction project authorized by the U.S. government in 1792 and offers incredible insight into early coastal navigation and maritime heritage. The staff and volunteers were friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share fascinating facts about the area and its historical context. Climbing to the top of the lighthouse rewarded us with absolutely breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the entrance to the Chesapeake Bay. It’s the perfect spot for photos, reflection, or just enjoying the scenery. Highly recommend this experience for history lovers, families, and anyone looking to soak in panoramic coastal views while learning about early American history. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for the climb, and don’t forget your ID

Brian B — Google review

Worth the extra effort to get on the military base. Climb to the top of the lighthouse is not nearly as daunting as it sounds if heights aren't an issue for you, the view is worth it! See where the Jamestown colony landed. Interpretive signs are helpful.

Lynn D — Google review

Cape Henry Lighthouse is such a cool piece of history and a great little adventure right in Virginia Beach. It’s located on Fort Story Navy Base, so you do need to show your ID at the gate and let them know you’re there to visit the lighthouse. After that, you pay a small entry fee and you’re good to go. The walk up is relatively easy not a mountain by any means, just a climb up the lighthouse stairs. When I went with my students, all but one made it to the top, so it’s definitely doable for most people. The view from the top is beautiful, looking out over the ocean and the surrounding coastline. Plus, it’s amazing to stand in a place that’s tied to where America truly began, right next to the First Landing site. A nice bit of local history, a short but fun climb, and a great view definitely worth visiting if you’re in Virginia Beach.

Rachel F — Google review

Located on a military base. You must enter at gate 8 and they will escort you to where you need to go. You will exchange your ID for a base pass. There are rules to abide, like where the boundaries are and what you can pictures of. Then you will shuttled back to the lighthouse area. If you pay for the lighthouse there are a bunch of stairs to get to the lighthouse in addition to the lighthouse stairs. You can only climb the older lighthouse (brick), not the newer one (black & white iron). The overview of the Chesapeake Bay & monuments provided some history. Walking in the boundaries could be hot during summer months since there is little to no shade.

Roxanne M — Google review

This place is pretty neat! We love history, so we were excited to explore this site, which was touched by Washington and Hamilton. It's worth it to walk all the way up the lighthouse, for a great 360° view. It's also worth it to take the civilian walk to the shoreline area. One item of note is, this is located on an active navy base. You have to go through a checkpoint and a briefing. What you take with you to that briefing is ALL you can take with you to the lighthouse. That briefing clears you to take the shuttle that will take you to the lighthouse area. If you go through the briefing, then remember you need something else in your vehicle (which you leave at that parking lot), you have to go through the briefing again. So make sure you bring everything you need, the first time, to help you and your family avoid the hassle of going through the briefing multiple times. We did not know this when we were there, as it was our first time, and NO ONE, not even the military people at the checkpoint, prepared us for that. All they said was, "Park there, walk into that building, get briefed, then you wait for the shuttle." THAT was all they said. We left our backpack, waistpacks, water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, everything, in the vehicle, and went to the lighthouse without anything except what we carried into the briefing building. Not the most informative crew at the vehicle entrance checkpoint. So now you know. Other than that, it was a good day trip!

A D — Google review

The staff here are amazing, passionate, and knowledgeable about the facility as well as the greater lighthouse ecosystem around the country! A truly memorable and enjoyable experience of our summer! Please note, the lighthouse is located on an active military site so please check requirements before hand and it will be an worthwhile visit!

Robert S — Google review

A must go if you're in the area. This is a truly magnificent structure that you can climb all the way to the top. The history on this lighthouse and how long ago it was built is very surprising. A park guide will explain the history. There's even a bucket that simulates the oil that had to be carried up to the light each day and you can pick that up and carry it.

Curt — Google review

6. Military Aviation Museum

4.8

(3407)

Museum

Event venue

Vintage WWI & WWII military planes, many still in flying shape, are housed in this hangar museum.

Slide 1 of 8

What a cool place! So many planes to see and learn about. Recommend a tour if you can catch one. Lots of extra details and stories you wouldn't get if touring alone! Even the bathrooms have history lessons on the walls.

Beckie S — Google review

I'm giving five stars, because the fact of the matter is the individuals that volunteered here or work here. Actually cared, and we're glad to be there. That's huge for me, because if you're gonna have a place like this, be enthusiastic about it, be glad you're there, which everybody was. Not to mention the information that they had about different things were also plentiful. The hangers could be a little more interactive where you could get up closer to the planes maybe in look into some of them, but they were still very cool. I did disagree with the $350 price tag to get a quick flight in one of the planes, which to me fuel costs are not that high. I mean, who in the world can afford that amount of money? They gotta change that or not. Because that's just outrageous and screams we cater to a certain sect of folk...I mean we the little people are helping keeping this place going to, by buying regular tickets and merchandise, I wanted to go so bad, but oh well... Anyway, It's a pretty big area and we spent three hours there total. It's definitely worth going, and I am a critic as you can see from the things that I review. So again, it's definitely worth going✌🏼

Joseph C — Google review

My son and I went to the mseum not knowing what to expect. My son loves military planes, their engines and overall operations. We were so impressed with the quality of the planes and thoroughly enjoyed the staff that were available in the hangers for questions and answers. The free tour to an operations tower and 2 more hangers was amazing! It is a mere $17 for adults but there is also military discount, children and senior rates. The museum operates on donations and grants, so the price is a bargain. The gift shop is small but packed with some great memorabilia. We can't wait to go back, hopefully for the upcoming airshow. Its a must see for the whole family!

Lisa — Google review

We went to the museum for an after hours special event and got to see both of the WWII hangars with the aircraft. It was amazing. There were volunteers there to tell us about the planes. They are all pristine and fully restored. You literally walk amongst these planes around, under and can see them up close! Very cool place!

Gwen D — Google review

We drove to VA Beach to check this Museum off our "adventure" list. So glad we did, the staff was great! The gentleman that greeted us was very knowledgeable and gave us a backstory of some of the planes and history. They have quite a few planes there and upstairs is a cool collection of items. We definitely enjoyed our time there and the gift shop has alot of cool things as well!

Cathy A — Google review

This was a FANTASTIC museum with very knowable and passionate staff who answered all our questions and gave us the run down about the different aircraft. Both the Army and Navy hangers were stellar; perfectly maintained. Our tour of the watchtower and WWI hanger was also wonderful, we learned so much about the war and the origins of flight from our guide! Can’t wait to come back to see more of their figures projects!

Jenn L — Google review

The museum is always a good time and the staff there is friendly and really eager to tell stories and share information! We were lucky enough to catch the tail end of one of the guided tours and Tim was an excellent guide who brought us through a section of the museum I hadn't seen before. You could tell he had a passion for what he did, and the final piece of the tour really made the whole experience worth it.

Chris H — Google review

We LOVED this experience!!! We went at 9:30 on a Wednesday morning. My brother & dad love this kind of stuff, but my mom & I were pleasantly surprised by how much WE enjoyed it! At 10:30 we did a guided tour with Flash - and that made it all worth it!!! He is amazing, so excited to teach, and knew everything about it all!!! He made our experience so great! I will be back to bring my husband! If you have the opportunity, go!

Jess K — Google review

Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Learn more

What users say about the app

Love love love! ❤️ Planning travel has actually been fun instead of tedious because of this app.

Julie G.

Exactly what I needed to plan a trip. I can’t imagine anyone not loving this app!

Jen S.

Wanderlog makes planning a trip so effortless. Seriously, this app does it all!

Brad C.

This site and app let me do all the planning for our 15 day trip in a little over 6 hours! I can’t recommend it enough!

Amanda W.

Amazing!! The organization this app provides has taken a huge weight off my shoulders.

Garrett V.

This is the crème de la crème of planning apps! Don’t think about it - just click download right this minute.

Chris C.

Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Other notable attractions

First Landing State Park

State park

Sights & Landmarks

Cape Henry beachfront park & historic site with marshes, maritime forest, hiking & canoe trails.

Neptune's Park

Park

Nature & Parks

This grassy beachfront park with frequent live music has large statue of the Roman god Neptune.

Mount Trashmore Park

Park

Sights & Landmarks

Former landfill now a city recreational area with a skate park, picnicking & sports facilities.

Ocean Breeze

Water park

Water & Amusement Parks

Water slides, a tubing river & a wave pool headline this sprawling water park with 30+ rides.

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Wildlife refuge

Nature & Parks

Wetlands refuge that hosts thousands of migratory waterfowl, including snow geese & tundra swans.

Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum

History museum

Museums

White clapboard museum devoted to coastal rescue missions & shipwrecks plus a nautical gift shop.

Virginia Beach Convention Center

Convention center

Meeting planning service

Edgar Cayce's A.R.E. Association for Research and Enlightenment

Non-profit organization

Sights & Landmarks

Hunt Club Farm

Children's farm

Sights & Landmarks

Farm with seasonal markets & family-friendly attractions including a petting zoo & bird aviary.

Motor World

Amusement center

Water & Amusement Parks

While go carts are the main attraction here, there's also paintball, small rides & mini-golf.

Best-of categories in Virginia Beach

Popular road trips from Virginia Beach

All road trips from Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach throughout the year

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Virginia Beach?

Get inspired for your trip to Virginia Beach with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

Q&A about Virginia Beach

View more questions

Where to go for day trips near Virginia Beach?

It’s really nice over here in Charlottesville! We have some awesome wineries let me know if you come over here, I have some recs! :):)

Kelsi Douglas

View 31 responses

Where can a couple have a weekend trip that's within three hours of the East Cost?

Charleston SC is a favorite, and while I haven't been, I hear the outer banks in NC are pretty cool.

Barton Considine

View 3 responses

Weather in Virginia Beach

Here's the historical average temperature in Virginia Beach over a full year based on data compiled by NASA: for more details by month, see the weather in Virginia Beach in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or December

Monthly temperature highs and lows in Virginia Beach

Ready to plan your trip to Virginia Beach?

Use our free trip planner for the easiest way to plan your vacation. No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Add places from guides with 1 click

We crawled the web so you don’t have to. Easily save mentioned places.

Collaborate with friends in real time

Plan along with your friends with live syncing and collaborative editing.

Import flight and hotel reservations

Connect or forward your emails to get them magically added into your trip plan.

Expense tracking and splitting

Keep track of your budget and split the cost between your tripmates.

Checklists for anything

Stay organized with a packing list, to-do list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Get personalized suggestions

Find the best places to visit with smart recommendations based on your itinerary.

Plan on the go with our free travel app

With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline.

Access and edit your trips wherever you go — even without a connection.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Plan on the go with our free travel app

With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline.

Access and edit your trips wherever you go — even without a connection.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach Trip Planner

Virginia Beach Trip Planner

Top attractions in Virginia Beach

Your itinerary and your map in one view

Other notable attractions

Top searches in Virginia Beach

Popular road trips from Virginia Beach

All road trips from Virginia Beach

Explore nearby places

All related maps of Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach throughout the year

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Virginia Beach?

Q&A about Virginia Beach

Weather in Virginia Beach

Add places from guides with 1 click

Collaborate with friends in real time

Import flight and hotel reservations

Expense tracking and splitting

Checklists for anything

Get personalized suggestions