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Virginia Beach is not just about sparkling sand or glittering waters. While these would make any travel destination worthwhile, Virginia Beach is much more than a beach. For starters, Virginia Beach packs a lot of interesting colonial history. History buffs will be thrilled to enjoy fascinating stories about one of the earliest settlement areas in the US. It’s also featured in the Guinness Book of World Records as having the world's longest stretch of pleasure beach.

Yet, contrary to what many might suppose, Virginia Beach is not one beach. Or, to put it more accurately, it’s one beach with two sections - namely, North Virginia Beach and South Virginia Beach. While these sections share a beautiful shoreline, they are not exactly the same in look and feel. In this article, we discuss the differences between North Virginia Beach and South Virginia Beach—and pass a verdict on which is truly better.

UPDATE: 2023/09/20 17:43 EST BY AARON SPRAY

More About North Virginia Beach & South Virginia Beach

North Virginia Beach and South Virginia Beach are some of the best beaches to explore in Virginia. They are quite different and offer different attractions as well as different Virginia Beach oceanfront hotels. This article was updated and expanded with more of the attractions at North Virginia Beach as well as what to do at South Virginia Beach.

The Difference Between North Virginia Beach And South Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach coastline
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Virginia Beach coastline with ocean and hotels

Any traveler to both sides of Virginia Beach will be struck by the contrast before his eyes. These two sections of the beach are different in many ways. For starters, North Virginia Beach is quieter—and, therefore, perfect for couples or families. On the flip side, South Virginia Beach is noisier and livelier. Of course, there are those who find silence livelier. Virginia Beach hotels will come a dime a dozen, North or South, which is a bonus.

However, South Beach has a party-like vibe and pulse that one can’t fail to notice immediately. Also, South Beach features a waterfront food scene that’s broader in range, taste, and cuisine. Of course, there are many hotels in North Virginia Beach. However, hotels and restaurants in North Virginia Beach are more exclusive and luxurious. Naturally, that comes at a cost. That’s the reason hotels in North Beach are more likely to be pricey than their South Beach counterparts.

Then, South Beach is almost always more crowded than North Beach. And even the crowds at these two beaches will not be the same. South Beach is patronized by a younger, gung-ho crowd that enjoys a vibe that’s fun, fast, and furious. At the other end of the spectrum, North Beach’s crowd is a little older—or of a different temper and disposition.

East Coast Surfing Championship in VA
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Surfer at the East Coast Surfing Championship in Virginia Beach

The area around the 3-mile Virginia Beach Boardwalk is particularly a bee-hive. Both Pacific and Atlantic Avenues can also be crammed up. For beachgoers who want to pick one or two items on the go, South Beach has an obvious edge. There are many shops on South Beach for making purchases—or for renting stuff like umbrellas, chairs, or bikes.

Related: A Guide To Virginia’s Most Beautiful Natural Wonders.

Other Differences Between North Virginia Beach And South Virginia Beach

Talking about a beach vacation without mentioning water is like talking about the sky—with not a mention of the sun. Here’s the difference: The waters on North Virginia Beach, especially in the Chesapeake Bay area, are rarely troubled by waves. Instead, beautiful, glittering ripples— placidly move on the serene surface of the waters.

One other difference is entertainment and nightlife. Again, the palm goes to South Beach. South Beach has more nightclubs and bars than North Beach. Virginia Beach Winery, Tripadvisor’s Travelers Favorite—offers free wine tasting every weekend—if one is making a purchase. South Virginia Beach also has more restrooms than North Virginia Beach. But there are other attractions as well. South Virginia Beach has more museums, art galleries, and exhibitions.

King Neptune statue on the Virginia Beach oceanfront boardwalk
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King Neptune statue on the Virginia Beach oceanfront boardwalk

Attractions & Things To Do At North Virginia Beach & South Virginia Beach

There are plenty of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy at both North Virginia Beach and South Virginia Beach. And when it is time to call it a night, there are also plenty of great Virginia Beach hotels to select from.

North Virginia Beach Attractions:

  • Naval Aviation Monument Park
  • Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum
  • Virginia Beach Fishing Pier
  • The Virginia Legends Wall
  • The Virginia Beach Boardwalk
  • Neptune's Park
  • Atlantic Fun Park

Of these attractions, perhaps the best place to get an Instagram photo is at Neptune Park. The impressive sculpture, called King Neptune, is perhaps the most recognizable landmark. It is a large bronze statue at the entrance to Neptune Park and depicts the mythological god Neptune. Around the god are various fish, lobsters, octopuses, and dolphins. Neptune holds a trident and a loggerhead turtle.

Virginia Beach boardwalk sunrise
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Sunrise over wooden boardwalk on Virginia Beach

South Virginia Beach has far fewer such attractions and activities. Here people can just flop on the beach and enjoy the view and the pounding of the waves. There is also the stunning False Cape State Park to explore - a great oceanfront and coastal state park. Spend the afternoon strolling along the beach and sunbathing while looking out to the Atlantic Ocean. People can even follow this beach and split all the way down into North Carolina.

Related: 10 Most Beautiful Destinations To Visit In Virginia This Spring

Between North Virginia Beach And South Virginia Beach, Which Is Better?

Here’s the verdict. On an overall aggregated score, South Virginia Beach beats North Virginia Beach. In the range of activities, including shopping, dining options, and nightlife, South Beach has an obvious edge. Also, South Virginia Beach comes with considerable convenience. Unlike North Virginia Beach, a car may not be necessary for South Virginia Beach. The area can be covered on foot. Then there are more restrooms and more shops where one can quickly dash into to pick an item that he has immediate need of. This could be an umbrella or even just a roll of toilet paper.

Related: How To Spend 48 Hours In Virginia.

Yet North Virginia Beach has its own unique charm and allure. For those who want a quiet vacation experience away from much noise and bustle—South Virginia Beach is the place to go. Sitting down on the sand, and looking at the blue skies or the calm ocean, is better experienced in North Virginia Beach. That’s the reason those who have children may prefer South Virginia Beach. It’s easier to keep your eyes on them.

  • Where does South Beach, Virginia, start and end? The dividing line between north and south is Laskin Road. Laskin Road meets Atlantic Avenue at 31st St.
Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, Virginia Beach, Virginia
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Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, Virginia Beach, Virginia

Here’s the take-home. Virginia Beach has two contrasting sides to it—the north and south. Many would say the south side is better for its range of activities, while the north side is better for a calmer, quieter experience. Regardless of which visitors choose, they are some of the best beaches to have on the USA beach bucket list. While in Norfolk, take the time to cruise and explore the Norfolk Naval Base - the largest naval base in the world.