Introduction
I still remember that first early-morning walk along the shore at Virginia Beach—the salt air in my lungs, seagulls squawking, tide gently rolling in. I had come for a beach getaway; instead I found surprise after surprise: quirky parks, vibrant street-art districts, nature trails, and little moments of joy that turned a simple vacation into one of my most memorable trips. If you’re planning a visit, here are 12 of the best & fun things to do in Virginia Beach, VA, each one a little jewel of experience.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Virginia Beach, VA (2026)
1. Stroll (or Ride) the Iconic Boardwalk
One of the first things I did was walk the 3-mile long Virginia Beach Boardwalk—it stretches along the oceanfront and gives you that immediate “welcome to the beach life” feeling. According to VisitVirginiaBeach.com, the boardwalk runs from 2nd to 40th Streets and features ocean views, hotels, restaurants and more.
Why go: It’s classic beach-town fun: morning jogs, sunset walks, people-watching, live music stages in the summer.
Tip: Early morning is magic—fewer crowds, soft light, peaceful. Then later on you can linger for cocktails or dinner with a view.
2. Visit the Famous King Neptune Statue
Right on the boardwalk at 31st Street stands the bronze King Neptune (statue)—34 feet tall, 12.5 tons, holding his trident and gazing out to sea. It’s iconic and a perfect photo stop.
Why go: A symbol of the area, fun for selfies, and part of the boardwalk’s identity.
Tip: Visit at dusk if you want golden-hour light, or early before crowd builds.
See Also: 53 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In New Hampshire
3. Dive Into Marine Life at the Aquarium
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center was one of my favourite indoor stops—especially if the weather turns. It’s home to more than 300 species, interactive exhibits and outdoor nature trails.
Why go: Good for all ages, fun and educational, and gives you a break from sun & sand.
Tip: Pair it with the adjacent outdoor nature trail around Owl Creek for a full experience.
4. Hike & Explore at First Landing State Park
Escape the crowds at the oceanfront by heading to First Landing State Park—19 miles of trails through salt marshes, dunes and forest, and historically the landing site of the first English colonists.
Why go: Nature immersion, less hustle, great photo ops and a sense of history.
Tip: Bring bug spray, wear comfortable shoes and go early for quiet.
5. Discover the Creative Vibe in the ViBe District
One afternoon I wandered into the ViBe Creative District in Virginia Beach—a colourful neighbourhood filled with murals, street art and local cafés. According to the tourism website, it’s full of creative energy.
Why go: A change of pace from the beach; stylish, local, artsy.
Tip: Grab a coffee, follow a mural walk, and keep your camera ready.
6. Visit the Historic Cape Henry Lighthouse
For a bit of historic adventure, climb the Cape Henry Lighthouse, commissioned by George Washington and Alexander Hamilton and offering sweeping views of Chesapeake Bay.
Why go: Unique vantage point, historic significance, photo worthy.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes (the stairs are narrow) and bring ID if required at the military base entrance.
7. Spend Time at Mount Trashmore Park
This one surprised me: Mount Trashmore Park—once a landfill turned into a gorgeous 165-acre park with hills, lakes, playgrounds and a skate park.
Why go: Great for families, picnics, a change of scene beyond beach and boardwalk.
Tip: Go early to find parking and stake out good views of the hill tops.
8. Take a Nature Break at Back Bay or False Cape
For a quieter coastal experience, consider the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge or False Cape State Park—both noted for dunes, marsh habitats and fewer crowds.
Why go: Untouched nature, peace, and a chance to reconnect.
Tip: Bring binoculars for bird watching, and check access times/parking (some areas reachable by bike or tram only).
9. Check Out the Military Aviation Museum
If you love history and aviation, the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach is a treat: one of the largest private collections of warbirds in flight condition from WWI/WWII.
Why go: For plane fans and history buffs; something totally different from beach time.
Tip: Check if there’s a live air show scheduled—it adds big wow-factor.
10. Enjoy Local Cuisine & Craft Beer
What’s a trip without great food and drink? I found that Virginia Beach has a lively craft-beer scene and plenty of fresh seafood—low-country style dishes, oysters, shrimp and grits.
Why go: Savoring local flavours anchors the trip.
Tip: Ask locals for their favourite hidden-gem spot; avoid only touristy restaurants.
11. Take a Sunset or Sunrise Walk on the Beach
One of my most peaceful moments was early morning by the sea, with the sun rising, silence around, only the surf. The beaches around Virginia Beach—especially if you venture a little off the main drag—offer calm moments like that.
Why go: It’s the tip of outdoor relaxation; the sea hums, the light changes, you breathe a little slower.
Tip: Bring a blanket or a light jacket (mornings can be cool); explore beyond the busiest beach zones.
12. Ride a Bike or Tandem Along the Shore
By the third day I rented a beach cruiser and rode along the boardwalk’s bike path—so much fun. The boardwalk is designed for pedestrians and cyclists.
Why go: It’s energetic, joyful, and lets you see more in less time.
Tip: Watch out for pedestrians, stick to the bike-lane where marked, and consider a tandem ride for couples or friends.
Final Thoughts
Leaving Virginia Beach, I realized that the memories I’m bringing home aren’t just Instagram-friendly—they are moments of real joy.
- I found balance: beaches and nature trails, boardwalk lights and forest hush.
- I found surprise: that a former landfill becomes a hill park (Mount Trashmore), that a boardwalk has serious street-art cred (ViBe District).
- I found connection: with the sea, history, good food, and friendly people.
If you go, here’s something I learned: don’t rush. Let a morning coffee stretch, let an unplanned detour surprise you. Virginia Beach isn’t just about sun and sand—it’s about the little layers underneath the familiar, too.
So pack your flip-flops, but also your comfy walking shoes. Bring your appetite, curiosity, and a relaxed schedule. And above all, leave a little room for the unexpected—because that’s where the best moments often hide.
Safe travels—and may your own Virginia Beach story be as rich and surprising as mine.