Two people kayak on calm water under a bright sky, each paddling in a red and yellow kayak labeled "OCEAN KAYAK." Grassy shoreline is visible in the background.

Virginia Beach Water Activities

With 35 miles of bright-blue coastline, including the Oceanfront and Chesapeake Bay‘s shimmering shores, Virginia Beach is a water lover’s dream. The region’s 120 miles of rushing rivers, calm bays and meandering tributaries offer so many ways to find your flow.

Whether you’re gliding across a lake on a stand-up paddleboard, slicing through waves aboard a jet ski or catching wind in your sail, the water here becomes your playground. Anglers can cast a line from a fishing pier or charter boat, while nature lovers can spot dolphins, birds or sea turtles on a wildlife tour. Even pups are welcome to splash and roam at dog-friendly beaches, so it’s easy to include the whole family.

 Paddle out, reel it in and dive into the salty fun.

Make a Splash in Virginia Beach

Paddle, cruise, surf or sail—Virginia Beach makes it easy to spend the day on the water, no matter how you like to move.

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

Surfing

Catch the perfect wave and experience our legendary surf scene. Hang Ten!

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Two people on a dock by the ocean, smiling as one holds up a freshly caught fish with a fishing pole, while the other holds a net.

Fishing

Reel in unforgettable fishing adventures on our scenic shores and open waters. You’ll be hooked.

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A couple kayaks in First Landing State park on a calm body of water surrounded by greenery, enjoying a sunny day with their paddles and wearing life jackets.

Kayaking and SUP

Paddle our tranquil waterways, on a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard.

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A tiki bar boat with a thatched roof floats on a waterway, heading away from a dock next to a waterside building.

Boat Tours

Ahoy, matey. Embark on a boat tour, whether for deep-sea fishing, a tiki tour or a wildlife cruise.

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Blue and white boat on water with "Whale Trips" and "Virginia Aquarium" signage, a few people onboard, and city skyline in background.

Whale Watching

Set sail for a thrilling winter whale watching adventure off the coast of Virginia Beach.

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A dolphin swims swiftly through blue-green water, creating splashes and ripples in its wake.

Dolphin Tours

Cruise or paddle alongside playful dolphins. Sightings are practically guaranteed.

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Explore

These Virginia Beach water attractions make it easy to jump in, cool off and soak up every kind of coastal fun.

Rudee Tours

Set sail on unforgettable excursions, like wildlife watching boat tours and fishing trips.

Chesapean Outdoors

Get up close with nature on a guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard adventure.

Virginia Beach Watersports

Explore Virginia Beach waters on a jet ski, pontoon boat, kayak or sunset boat cruise.

Pirate Parasail

Experience the thrill of soaring high above the Atlantic Ocean and soaking in the views.

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Unique Boat Tours in Virginia Beach

Explore Virginia Beach’s unique boat tours, from deep-sea fishing to dolphin watching and craft brews, all enriched by its vibrant maritime culture and stunning shorelines.

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Where to See Dolphins in Virginia Beach

Visit Virginia Beach in warmer months to spot bottlenose dolphins! Join boat tours, paddleboard, or enjoy dinner at waterfront restaurants for unforgettable encounters with these friendly marine mammals.

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Fun Ways to Get Out on the Water in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach offers a variety of water-based adventures including dolphin tours, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and surfing, making it a fun destination year-round for water enthusiasts.

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Find More Inspiration

A few ways to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air here in nature’s perfect playground.

Check out our a few of the images from our visitors having fun and adventure outdoors and on the water.