A group of people enjoying a sunset at a beach boardwalk with the King Neptune statue in the background.

Virginia Beach: Named One of The New York Times’ Top Places to Visit in 2026

Named one of The New York Times’ top places to visit in 2026, Virginia Beach is in the spotlight — and it’s no wonder why. Surf culture runs deep here, from the high-energy Super Girl Festival, a free action sports weekend celebrating women’s surfing, to Atlantic Park Surf, the groundbreaking wave park backed by Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams.

This is a place where the beach lifestyle fuels creativity. Along our wide Atlantic shoreline and iconic three-mile Boardwalk, you’ll find year-round outdoor adventure — surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating — alongside world-class events that bring the community together on the sand and on the water.

Just beyond the waves, the ViBe Creative District adds to the city’s dynamic spirit with bold murals, local art and a distinctly coastal vibe. For a glimpse into the area’s roots, step inside the beautifully restored Francis Land House and explore a piece of Virginia Beach history.

In Virginia Beach, surf, art, energy and the outdoors come together effortlessly — exactly the kind of momentum that caught the attention of The New York Times.

Come catch the vibe — and maybe a wave or two.

Signature Virginia Beach Experiences

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A surfer in a red jersey performs an aerial maneuver on a wave, with a boat visible in the background on a sunny day.

Virginia Beach Surf Culture

From sunrise sessions to storm-driven swells, Virginia Beach is built for riders of every level. Grab a board, find your balance and see why surf culture here isn’t just a hobby — it’s a way of life.

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A colorful mural depicting two dogs, one holding a hammer and the other a paintbrush, against a vibrant background of paint drips located in the Vibe district.

Things to Do in ViBe Creative District

Murals that stop you mid-stride. Indie shops you’ll want to wander. Studios buzzing with creativity. Just steps from the Oceanfront, this is where Virginia Beach shows off its bold, artsy side.

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Four people stand near a vintage airplane with a yellow and black checkered nose inside an aircraft hangar, observing and discussing the exhibit at The Military Aviation Museum.

History and Museums in Virginia Beach

From early coastal settlers to military milestones, Virginia Beach has stories that soar. Explore museums, historic sites and legends that shaped the shoreline — and still echo today.

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A couple relaxes under a beach cabana on sandy shores, with a modern hotel in the background.

Miles of Coastline

Beaches for Every Escape

Wide sandy shores, rolling surf and breathtaking sunrises define the Virginia Beach experience. Explore iconic Oceanfront sands and hidden coastal gems alike.

Explore Our Beaches

Mark Your Calendar

From high-flying stunts to beachside beats and iconic races, these events bring the energy all year long.

Jackalope Festival

Extreme sports, live music and oceanfront energy collide at Jackalope, a free three-day adrenaline rush on the sand.

Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend

A Virginia Beach tradition: art, music, sand sculptures and pure oceanfront vibes at this can’t-miss fall festival.

Yuengling Shamrock Marathon

Lace up for a festive weekend of racing, cheering and green (yes, green) beer at this legendary springtime race event.

Stars, Stripes and Spurs : Virginia Beach Military Weekend

Military pride, live beachfront performances, rodeo thrills and family-friendly fun come together for a patriotic weekend honoring service and community at the oceanfront.

North American Sand Soccer Championship

Feel the thrill of fast-paced beach soccer as top teams from around the world compete right on the sand.

Point Break Music Festival

Catch live music across genres at this beachside fest where every set comes with a salty breeze and a killer view.

Explore All Events

There’s plenty more to explore — find where to stay, what to savor and how to dive into every moment by the coast.

Explore These Hidden Gems in Virginia Beach

With so many celebrated sights to explore in our charming coastal city, it would be easy to stick to straightforward classics like strolling the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and taking a dolphin-watching cruise before digging into a dinner of fresh-caught seafood at Waterman’s Surfside Grille. They’re popular for…

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Atlantic Park: Your Surf Getaway in Virginia Beach

Spanning just over 10 acres in one of the most sought-after areas of Virginia Beach — right between the bustling activity of Oceanfront and the eclectic artistry of the The ViBe Creative District — Atlantic Park is a mixed-use community that’s poised to become a key cultural…

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3-Day Art and Culture Itinerary for Virginia Beach

Enjoy a memorable three-day weekend in Virginia Beach, exploring outdoor adventures, coastal cuisine, vibrant art, and unique installations throughout our beautiful coastal city.

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24-Hour Itinerary: Your Guide to the Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Experience a perfect day at Virginia Beach Oceanfront with sunrise views, yoga on the beach, delectable local food, shopping, and evening bike rides along the scenic boardwalk.

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Top Seafood Restaurants in Virginia Beach

Explore Virginia Beach’s vibrant seafood scene, featuring restaurants like Catch 31 and Mahi’s, offering fresh catches and innovative dishes with stunning oceanfront views.

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Surf’s Up: Where to Find Surf Lessons in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach, known as the birthplace of East Coast surfing, offers surf camps for all ages, making it a perfect spot for beginners to learn and enjoy the thrill of surfing.

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All Smiles

Picture Yourself in Virginia Beach

Our sunny coastal culture looks great on everyone.