Summer is the season when Virginia Beach puts on its sunniest disposition and abounds with opportunities to soak in the warmth in the best ways. Enjoy miles of vast beaches, coastline and waterways, explore the city’s lush outdoors, bask in delicious fresh seafood and join the locals in celebrating some of the season’s most beloved traditions. From beach days and watersports to dining and events under the stars, here are some favorite ways to savor summer in Virginia Beach.
With more than 35 miles of coastline, including the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay, Virginia Beach is home to the world’s longest stretch of pleasure beaches. You’ll find smooth sand and temperate waters for everything from sunning and swimming to watersports galore and plenty of beachside restaurants to satiate your active appetite. From the popular Oceanfront and its bustling 3-mile-long Boardwalk to the more secluded beach hideaway of Sandbridge to the calm waters of the Chesapeake Bay (known by locals as Chic’s Beach,) you can easily find your favorite stretch of sand for a perfect summer day.
Surfing has been a part of the Virginia Beach lifestyle since 1912, when the first surfboard touched the Atlantic Ocean and East Coast surfing was born. Today, the coastal community is home to the East Coast Surfing Championships and other events, making surfing not only a favorite local pastime, but a world-renowned destination for hanging ten. Head for the shoreline, where you can watch surfers show off their skills, or perhaps catch a wave yourself. If you’re a newbie, you can sign up for a surfing lesson and grab everything you need at local surf shops throughout town.
With over 4,000 acres of city and state parks and a 9,000-acre national refuge, Virginia Beach’s parklands offer something for everyone, locals and visitors alike. From untouched natural habitats to pristine city parks in every far-reaching corner of our city, there’s no shortage of fun to be had in Virginia Beach’s parks.
Take advantage of summertime and join the action at one of the many scenic hiking trails, or head for more than 200 miles of bike trails that offer tour options for exploring breweries, art, history, and family fun. Add in the park trails in over 230 parks and natural areas, 23 miles of unpaved paths in two state parks, and a federal wildlife refuge, and it’s no surprise that Virginia Beach is often listed as one of America’s healthiest cities. So, pick your favorite way to explore nature and hit the trails this summer.
Summer in Virginia Beach brings some of the best events on the East Coast. Its coastal location is ideal for music and entertainment, so enjoy star-studded concerts on the sand and state-of-the-art shows at a variety of performing arts venues. Add in a lineup of summer events and festivals, such as movies-on-the-beach series and beer festivals, plus a steady stream of live music and your summer event schedule is complete.
With an abundance of fresh seafood restaurants, fun bars serving refreshing cocktails like the famous Orange Crush, and endless outdoor dining options with unbeatable views, the food scene comes alive during the summer months. For a quintessential taste of summertime in Virginia Beach, make your way to one of many waterfront restaurants for an al fresco meal or take in ocean views from a rooftop while savoring sushi, then top it all off with a visit to a quaint local ice cream shop to satisfy your sweet tooth. After all, what is summer without it?
Feel the destination’s warm welcome as you browse photos from other visitors' unforgettable vacations, then start planning your escape to Virginia Beach.
