Virginia Beach is a haven in southeastern Virginia. It is where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Chesapeake Bay. According to the Guinness World Record, it is the planet’s longest pleasure beach, with 35-miles compromising three popular beaches. These include Chesapeake Bay Beach, Virginia Beach, and Sandbridge Beach. Known for its popular 3-mile boardwalk, it is a destination for tourists all year round.
Being a coastal city, Virginia Beach offers a variety of things to enjoy that don’t involve sunscreen. You can enjoy some for free or avail of expensive offers to get the most out of your stay. Aside from its wonderful beaches, it is known for its local seafood dining, historical landmarks and museums, splendid underwater aquariums, and water adventures that are perfect for families and friends.
Here is a list of things that you can do in Virginia Beach that don’t involve sunscreen:
10 Visit The Cape Henry Lighthouse
The Cape Henry Lighthouse allows visitors to climb the stairs to the top and get a spectacular view of the Virginia Beach coast. Originally authorized by George Washington, this standing landmark was built in 1792 on the Chesapeake Bay.
9 Underwater Visit At The Virginia Aquarium And Marine Science Center
An underwater experience would beat a fun day at the beach. Virginia Aquarium is home to various marine species, like sea turtles, sharks, and even a Komodo Dragon! The aquarium is located in Owls Creek and is surrounded by glass roofs.
Even more exciting than this underwater aquarium is the extra trip to check out some whales and dolphins. You would need to ride a boat to visit the natural environment of these animals.
8 Learn State History At The First Landing State Park
This historic park represents the area the English colonists first arrived on the shores of the U.S. It stretches up to 1.5 miles and provides recreational activities for many tourists. These activities include walking around the park, hiking in the forest, paddling on its waters, and staying overnight in rental cabins.
You can even try some water adventures that the park offers! The park usually rents equipment for jet skis, boats, kayaks, paddleboards, floating jackets, and more.
7 Visit Art Exhibit At ViBe Creative District
If you are a huge fan of art, this art hub is something you do not want to miss. The ViBe Creative District is home to many art designs incorporated into the street walls and shops. Here, many artists share their passion while inspiring other locals in discovering their own passions.
This district is perfect for a quick stroll because of its quaint boutiques and coffee shops that you can just visit one after the other. Don’t forget to take Insta-worthy photos of this district’s vintage vibe.
6 Enjoy The Sandbridge Beach
A relaxing day at the beach could suffice a quick visit to Virginia Beach. Sandbridge Beach is the perfect place to experience a relaxing getaway. You can plan a picnic on the beach and enjoy a beach walk, especially during summer.
The beach is located quite far from the noise of the city, so you won’t feel like you’re in a city at all. If you are alone, you can definitely enjoy a quiet time.
5 Tour The Oyster Farm
Virginia Beach is also known for its seafood farms, namely, the oyster farms. They allow tourists and guests to get a peek of their local food and culture that fuels the seafood industry of the town. Those who get on the tour can also get off the boat and explore the diverse marine biodiversity of Virginia Beach. You can even get a chance to personally shuck and pull oysters fresh from the reef!
4 Challenge Yourself At The Adventure Park
The town is not only known for its shores and plates of seafood, but also as the host of the perfect adventure for those who want a little adrenaline. Adventure Park offers challenging aerial platforms that you can dangle and swing on with your friends and family.
The ropes and aerial loops are tied to the huge trees of the park, which adds challenge to the course. Although spotters are always on the lookout, it is important to read manuals and follow instructions to avoid a fall or injury.
3 Visit The Military Aviation Museum
With approximately 60 aircraft displays, tourists won’t have a chance to be bored at the Military Aviation Museum. Since it is located right at the airport of the town, it is extremely accessible and a great choice for entertainment. This museum shows aircraft that are still in flying condition and even has some amazing replicas of aircraft models used by the U.S., Germany, France, and other involved countries in WWI and WWII. With some additional fees, it is possible to get a ride in one of these aircraft!
2 Experience Some Water Adventures
Some water adventures would complete a lovely getaway at Virginia Beach. With its lengthy coastal areas, it’s the perfect place to experience some kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and even whale-watching. Jet skis and paddleboards can be rented out from various local shops available at the beach.
1 Try Some Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab
Chesapeake Bay blue crab is a delicacy in Virginia Beach, and a visit would not be complete without dining at one of the local crab shacks. These crabs are small in size compared to other crabs, like king-size ones, so they can be hard to dissect and eat. Make sure to ready your napkins because they can get messy!