Virginia Beach: Oceanfront, Nature and History

Virginia Beach combines a beach atmosphere, protected natural areas and distinctive historic sites. At the Oceanfront, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk runs for three miles from 2nd Street to 40th Street. On one side are beach hotels, shops and restaurants; on the other is the Oceanfront Beach. In the morning, you can walk, jog or cycle there. During the summer months, „Live! On Atlantic“ brings music and other entertainment to four stages on the beach; most events are free.

Between the Boardwalk and the Coastal Landscape

Those looking for a vacation rental in Virginia Beach can first consider which type of travel rhythm should be the focus. The Oceanfront stands for walks along the beach, activity and summer stage programs. For nature-focused days, the various landscapes of the protected areas and state parks are a good choice. First Landing State Park encompasses more than 19 miles of trails through protected salt marshes, freshwater ponds, dunes, tidal marshes and cypress swamps. The park also includes a 1.25-mile-long beach on Chesapeake Bay.

First Landing State Park is named after the historic landing of the three ships Discovery, Susan Constant and Godspeed at Cape Henry, directly next to the park, in 1607. This makes it possible to combine a stay in nature with a historical theme without every activity having to be of the same character. Cape Henry Lighthouse began operating in October 1792. It was the first lighthouse to be approved, fully completed and illuminated by the newly founded federal government. A scheduled visit with general admission includes a climb to the top of the tower and a 45-minute tour of Cape Henry.

Nature Experiences with Different Areas of Focus

At Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, habitats for migratory and wintering waterfowl are the main focus. The protected area was established in 1938 and encompasses beach, freshwater marshes, dunes, scrubland and higher-elevation forests. Activities available there include hiking, cycling, wildlife observation and photography, kayaking, environmental education, guided programs, and freshwater and surf fishing. The central visitor area, with a visitor center, trails, fishing spots, photography platforms and an associated kayak launch, is located at 4005 Sandpiper Road in Virginia Beach, Virginia 23456.

Another option is West Neck Creek Natural Area. It offers approximately 2.5 miles of soft-surface trails and 0.3 miles of paved, ADA-compliant trails. Activities include hiking, fishing, birdwatching, horseback riding, nature observation and photography. The different trail surfaces and activities help you tailor your outing plans to the interests of your travel group.

Aquarium, Dolphins and Historic Aircraft

Virginia Beach also offers special destinations for days without longer hikes. The North Building of the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is home to sea turtles, sharks, seals and Komodo dragons. The aquarium also offers interactive exhibits about the Stranding Response Program, as well as a live look into the sea turtle rehabilitation facility. Atlantic Explorer offers family-friendly dolphin-watching cruises lasting approximately 90 minutes.

At the Military Aviation Museum, you can experience a 30-minute flight in a Stearman from 1941, including 20 minutes of flight time. In Virginia Beach, the range of options therefore extends from walks by the water and wildlife observation to historic sites and unusual excursions. When looking for accommodation, it is best to first decide whether the focus of your trip should be on the Oceanfront, nature experiences, or a combination of the coast, history and family activities.

For the higher-level travel overview: Virginia Beach.