Places to Visit in Virginia Beach
Enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation with family-friendly attractions, from swimming and kayaking to scenic trails, parks, and museums. Stroll the boardwalk, explore local history, and connect with our welcoming Jewish community. There’s something for everyone—enjoy your stay!
Kid's Activities
Family Attraction
Amusement Parks
Surfing
(757) 428-0202
Water Activities
One of the best places for surfing in Virginia Beach is The 17th Street Surf Shop, a local favorite that has been serving surfers of all levels for years. Located just a short walk from the beach, this surf shop offers a wide variety of surfboards for rent, from beginner boards to high-performance options. They also provide expert surf lessons for those new to the sport or looking to refine their skills, as well as guided surf sessions to help you make the most of the waves.
The 17th Street Surf Shop is known for its close connection to the local surf community and its access to some of the best surf spots along the Virginia Beach coastline. Whether you’re looking to catch some small waves or challenge yourself with bigger surf, this spot is ideal for surfers seeking a fun and supportive environment.
This is the perfect place to gear up for a day of surfing in Virginia Beach!
Paddle Boarding
One of the best places for surfing in Virginia Beach is The 17th Street Surf Shop, a local favorite that has been serving surfers of all levels for years. Located just a short walk from the beach, this surf shop offers a wide variety of surfboards for rent, from beginner boards to high-performance options. They also provide expert surf lessons for those new to the sport or looking to refine their skills, as well as guided surf sessions to help you make the most of the waves.
The 17th Street Surf Shop is known for its close connection to the local surf community and its access to some of the best surf spots along the Virginia Beach coastline. Whether you’re looking to catch some small waves or challenge yourself with bigger surf, this spot is ideal for surfers seeking a fun and supportive environment.
This is the perfect place to gear up for a day of surfing in Virginia Beach!
adventurepaddleboarding.com (757) 422-7777
Paddle Boarding
One of the best places for surfing in Virginia Beach is The 17th Street Surf Shop, a local favorite that has been serving surfers of all levels for years. Located just a short walk from the beach, this surf shop offers a wide variety of surfboards for rent, from beginner boards to high-performance options. They also provide expert surf lessons for those new to the sport or looking to refine their skills, as well as guided surf sessions to help you make the most of the waves.
The 17th Street Surf Shop is known for its close connection to the local surf community and its access to some of the best surf spots along the Virginia Beach coastline. Whether you’re looking to catch some small waves or challenge yourself with bigger surf, this spot is ideal for surfers seeking a fun and supportive environment.
This is the perfect place to gear up for a day of surfing in Virginia Beach!
adventurepaddleboarding.com (757) 422-7777
Jet Skiing
One of the best places for jet skiing in Virginia Beach is Rudee Inlet Jet Ski Rentals. They offer jet ski rentals for both guided tours and self-guided adventures, allowing you to explore Virginia Beach’s waters, including the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, they provide the equipment and instructions necessary to have a safe and fun experience.
This location is ideal for those seeking an exciting jet skiing adventure with stunning views of Virginia Beach’s coastline!
https://www.rudeeinlet.com/ (757) 437-9463
Para Sailing
One of the best places for parasailing in Virginia Beach is Rudee Inlet Parasailing. They offer thrilling parasailing experiences that give you a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful Virginia Beach coastline, including the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. With experienced crew members, you can enjoy a safe and exhilarating ride as you soar high above the water
This is a great option for anyone looking to add a bit of adventure to their Virginia Beach experience while enjoying breathtaking views from the sky!
https://www.rudeeinlet.com/ (757) 437-9463
Snorkling and Scuba Diving
One of the best places for snorkeling and scuba diving in Virginia Beach is Virginia Beach Dive Center. They offer a wide range of services, including scuba diving lessons, guided dives, equipment rentals, and more. The dive center organizes trips to local wrecks, reefs, and other exciting dive spots in the Virginia Beach area, perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. Their knowledgeable staff ensures a safe and enjoyable experience while you explore the underwater world.
This dive center is an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience the vibrant marine life and underwater landscapes of Virginia Beach!
https://www.vbdivecenter.com/ (757) 428-0311
Coastal Cruises and Dolphin Watching
One of the best places for coastal cruises and dolphin watching in Virginia Beach is Rudee Tours. They offer a variety of boat tours, including dolphin watching cruises, where you can see local dolphin pods in their natural habitat. The tours also showcase the beautiful Virginia Beach coastline, making it a great experience for nature lovers and families.
This is an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing cruise while spotting dolphins and other wildlife in Virginia Beach’s waters!
https://www.rudeetours.com/ (757) 425-3400
Public Beaches
Virginia Beach Oceanfront
The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is the most popular and well-known beach area in the city, offering miles of sandy shores, a vibrant boardwalk, restaurants, and activities for all ages. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/ (757) 385-4700 (Virginia Beach Visitor Center)
Sandbridge Beach
Located south of the main Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Sandbridge Beach offers a more relaxed and quieter atmosphere. It’s perfect for those looking for a peaceful day by the ocean, ideal for families and beachgoers who prefer less crowded spaces.
https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/ (757) 385-4700 (Virginia Beach Visitor Center)
Chesapeake Bay Beach (Chick's Beach
A peaceful, family-friendly beach located on the Chesapeake Bay, perfect for those who prefer calmer waters for swimming, paddleboarding, or picnicking. It’s also a great place to enjoy spectacular sunsets.
https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/ (757) 385-4700 (Virginia Beach Visitor Center)
Nature Parks
First Landing State Park
A beautiful state park offering hiking, biking, swimming, and picnicking. The park features diverse ecosystems, including salt marshes, freshwater wetlands, and maritime forests, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
https://www.first-landing-state-park.org/ (757) 412-2300
Back Bay National Refuge
A peaceful nature reserve offering hiking trails, bird watching, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. This refuge is perfect for those seeking to explore Virginia Beach’s natural habitats and observe various species of wildlife.
https://www.fws.gov/refuge/back-bay/visit-us (757) 301-7329
Virginia Beach Arboretum & Botanical Garden
A lush and tranquil space featuring themed gardens, walking trails, and various plant species. This arboretum is ideal for a relaxing walk while enjoying the beauty of Virginia Beach’s flora.
https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/ (757) 385-4700 (Virginia Beach Visitor Center)
False Cape State Park
A remote and pristine state park, perfect for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. It’s accessible only by foot, bike, or boat, offering a true wilderness experience.
https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/false-cape (757) 426-7128
Great Neck Park
A serene park featuring nature trails, picnic areas, and diverse wildlife. It’s a great spot for hiking and bird watching in a peaceful setting away from the bustle of the city.
https://parks.virginiabeach.gov/outdoors/city-parks/great-neck-park (757) 385-0400 (Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation)
Kids's Activities and Family Attractions
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
A fun and educational place for kids, featuring interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and live animal demonstrations. Families can also enjoy nature trails and boat tours.
https://www.virginiaaquarium.com/ (757) 385-3474
Ocean Breeze Waterpark
A family-friendly water park with water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and areas designed for young children. It’s perfect for families to cool off and enjoy a day of fun.
https://www.oceanbreezewaterpark.com/ (757) 422-4444
The Children's Museum of Virginia
Located near Virginia Beach, this interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits that engage kids in learning through play. It’s a great place for families to bond while exploring science, art, and more.
https://www.childrensmuseumva.com/ (757) 393-5258
Hunt Club Farm
A family-friendly farm featuring animals to visit, feed, and pet, as well as seasonal events like pumpkin patches and hayrides. It’s an ideal location for families to enjoy outdoor activities and connect with nature.
https://www.huntclubfarm.com/ (757) 427-6765
The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium
A treetop adventure park offering zip lines, aerial obstacle courses, and climbing challenges for the entire family. It’s a great way to enjoy outdoor adventure and have fun together.
https://myadventurepark.com (757) 385-4947
Motor World
An exciting family destination featuring go-kart racing, bumper cars, mini-golf, and more. Motor World is perfect for families looking for outdoor fun and friendly competition.
https://www.motorworldvb.com/ (757) 491-0000
Virginia Beach BoardWalk
An exciting family destination featuring go-kart racing, bumper cars, mini-golf, and more. Motor World is perfect for families looking for outdoor fun and friendly competition.
https://www.motorworldvb.com/ (757) 491-0000
Surge Adventure Park
Surge Adventure Park in Virginia Beach offers a wide range of fun activities for the entire family, including trampolines, ninja obstacle courses, dodgeball, foam pits, and a rock-climbing wall. It's a great spot for kids and adults alike to have active fun and bond through friendly challenges.
https://surgefun.com/locations/virginiabeach/ (757) 500-3600
Military Aviation Museum
For families interested in history, this museum features vintage military aircraft and offers a chance to learn about aviation in an interactive way.
https://www.militaryaviationmuseum.org/ (757) 721-7767