Discover the 5 Unique Regions of Virginia Beach

Spanning nearly 500 square miles, Virginia Beach is the largest city in the state. And, despite the fact that nearly half of that area is water, we still cover a lot of ground. Virginia Beach is made up of five distinct regions, each with its own personality and endless things to explore. Whether you’re craving adventure, relaxation or a little bit of both, there’s a perfect spot for you.

Oceanfront

Neptune’s Playground. Yours, Too.

Anchored by the 34-foot-tall statue of King Neptune at 31st and Atlantic Avenue, Oceanfront is home to some of the most iconic sights in Virginia Beach. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk offers three delightful miles of paved coastal terrain for walking, running, rollerblading or cycling with the wide, sandy Oceanfront Beach just beyond. Nearby First Landing State Park also offers a popular network of nine hiking trails, covering 20 miles of varied mild-to-moderate terrain.

 Oceanfront is also home to The ViBe Creative District, known for being “a little off the main drag and a lot off kilter.” Whether you’re touring an independent studio or exploring the world-class collections on view at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, ViBe always promises an eyeful! Both the Virginia Beach Arts Center and Brock Gallery make their homes here; be sure to check their schedules for access to the best local and regional artists have to offer.

Once you’ve caught those ViBe vibes, you’ll also want to shop the local wares at the North End Bag Company and Jars of Dust ceramic studio; both outfits make and sell their goods onsite. Swing by Gypsy Soul Boutique for the perfect upcycled Levi’s or vintage bowling shoes, or Wave Riding Vehicles for one of the shop’s iconic “lucky duck” tees. Then adjourn to Yorkie’s Modern Deli for possibly the best sandwich of your life — made with ingredients from the on-site garden — or opt for a unique bite at the aesthetically pleasing Pink Dinghy. Top it off with a caffeine fix at Java Surf Café & Espresso Bar.

The Artery District, which stretches from good ol’ King Neptune down the Laskin Corridor, is one of the best places in the city to get a taste of local independent businesses. Every trip to Thanks for Listening record shop is a music-lover’s dream, thanks to a carefully curated stash of vintage vinyl, cassettes and CDs covering every conceivable genre. Mid-century modern enthusiasts will want to hit up Coastal Mod for an astounding selection of mid-century furniture, art and artifacts crafted by the era’s most celebrated makers. And discerning foodies will thrill at the chance to savor a James Beard-acclaimed dinner at Terrapin Restaurant. 

Just off the beach, Atlantic Avenue is the area’s primary hub for shopping, dining and entertainment. Swing by Lager Heads for a casual bite — or Orion’s Roof Garden & Dining, on the top floor of the The Cavalier Resort Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront, for elevated drinks and sushi with an unforgettable view. Cruising for a nightcap? Stop in for a hunting-themed cocktail at the aptly named Hunt Room, also at the Cavalier Resort.

At the south end, you’ll find bustling Rudee Inlet: your HQ for all kinds of watersports, including fishing charters, jet ski rentals and parasailing adventures. Want to learn what’s under the water without actually being in it? The nearby Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is a must-see during your visit, with thousands of finny friends to meet, a steady stream of rotating exhibits — and even an adventure park for fun lovers over five.

Chesapeake Bay

Maritime Memories in the Making

Just around Cape Henry from Oceanfront, Chesapeake Bay moves at a slightly slower pace — but that doesn’t mean your agenda won’t be packed. If you’ve already transitioned to Beach Time, the community affectionately known as Chic’s Beach is a great place to relax in the sun, build sandcastles with your little ones or wade in the lapping waves.

Rather get out on the water? With its balmy breezes and glassy surface, the Bay is ideal for boat tours. Hop aboard the Atlantic Explorer for a 90-minute dolphin-watching excursion operated by the Virginia Aquarium for up-close sightings of the charismatic creatures. Tours run throughout the spring, summer and fall; during the winter months, they shift gears for whale-watching tours, offering the chance to spot majestic humpback and fin whales along the coast. Or, if you’re the independent type, hit up Bay Venture Boat Rentals and explore the inland waters at your own pace.

If there’s a history buff in your crew, you’ll want to set aside a few hours for The Cape Henry Lighthouse, the first such structure authorized by the U.S. government in 1792. Today, the lighthouse sits on the active Fort Story Military Base. To visit — and climb the 191 narrow, winding steps to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Bay — catch the shuttle at the base gate.

When you’re ready to refuel, Bay Local Eatery and HK on the Bay are solid choices for fresh-caught seafood; Citrus serves breakfast and brunch standards on its dog-and-kid friendly, booze-forward patio. We especially love Session for its houseplant jungle setting, vintage hip-hop soundtrack and vegetarian-, vegan-, celiac- and omnivore-friendly menu.

Sandbridge

Your Beachfront Wilderness Escape

Located just south of Oceanfront, laid-back Sandbridge is a quiet haven just minutes away from the action. It’s home to the wonderfully uncrowded shoreline of Sandbridge Beach as well as the homey charm of its Sandbridge Seaside Market — serving everything from fresh-made doughnuts to hand-cut ribeye steaks. Even better: this quiet community of charming beach houses, perfect for family vacations or a peaceful getaway, is also surrounded by some of the most precious natural wonders in Virginia Beach.

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a 9,108-acre haven for migratory birds established by President Roosevelt in 1938, is home to more than 300 wildlife species. There are seven hiking trails to explore, along with access to the refuge’s pristine, uncrowded beach; due to the area’s protected status, swimming and sunbathing are prohibited, but it’s an absolute paradise for nature photographers and shell collectors.

Just southeast of the Refuge (and accessed from within its borders,) False Cape State Park is a barrier spit with six miles of unspoiled coastline and nine miles of easy-to-moderate hiking trails — including the wooded, 6.5-mile Interior Trail and plenty of shorter spurs connecting the Atlantic Ocean with the Back Bay. After your adventures, refuel at Margie & Ray’s Seafood Restaurant; its ample menu offers generous portions of the freshest local seafood available. 

Just across the road from the restaurant, you’ll find the unassuming entrance to Lotus Garden Park, a hidden gem that’s a favorite with experienced kayakers, canoers and paddle boarders. Heading over later in the day? The park’s unusual foliage also helps co-create extraordinary sunset photos. On your way home, you may want to swing by another hidden gem — Rigoletto Italian Bakery and Cafe — for a traditional dinner followed by memorable housemade sweets.

Pungo

Fresh Air, Farm Stands and Laid-Back Exploring

Pungo, the tranquil rural community just a few miles inland from Sandbridge, is full of unexpected treasures, including farms like Cullipher Farm, where you can pick your own – from strawberries in the spring to other seasonal gems – skipping the grocery store for the freshest kind of adventure.

Amongst the lush farmlands and fields, you’ll find the Virginia Military Aviation Museum — home to one of the largest private collections of World War I- and II-era military aircraft in the world.

Working on your swing? Spend a tranquil morning at Heron Ridge Golf Club — 14 beautiful holes, including lakes, water hazards and natural wetlands shaded by mature oak, beech and elm trees. Make your 15th hole The Bee & the Biscuit, for munching on brunch and sipping cool mimosas in the shady garden.

While Virginia Beach is known for both kayaking and waterfront dining, Pungo is the best place to combine the two. The Blue Pete’s Dinner Tour, suitable for all levels, is an evening kayak adventure taking you through the glassy waters and tree-shaded inlets of the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to Blue Pete’s: a Pungo favorite since 1972. Talk about a dinner on the go. 

Inland

Entertainment and Shopping Beyond the Sea

With soft sandy beaches and warm, rolling waves, Virginia Beach is as coastal as it gets. But when you’re not in the mood for sun and sand (it does happen) and in the mood for shopping and entertainment, Inland is your go-to. 

The vibrant heart of the region, the Town Center District offers the highest concentration of shopping, dining and entertainment options in the city. There’s no shortage of name-brand retail therapy here, with shops to suit every taste and budget. If it’s culture you’re after, catch a performance at Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, the city’s largest arts and education facility — or the intimate community arts flagship, Zeiders American Dream Theater. And for those who like to pair a meal with artisan cocktails and live music, tuck in for the evening at Twist Martini & Associates.

Hoping to get your heart rate up a bit? Start your day with a run around (or up and down) Mount Trashmore, a former landfill reimagined as a 165-acre open-space park. There are three trails to choose from, all under two miles. If you’ve caught the pickleball bug, Pickleball Virginia Beach has 25 dedicated courts with fees starting at $5, plus lessons and friendly pickup games on offer. There’s even a Topgolf facility, with games for every skill level.

Afterward, choose your reward. A massage at Flowering Almond Spa — or exploring the creative offerings at the always-intriguing Stravitz Sculpture & Fine Art Gallery? Browsing or buying at the something-for-everyone Lynnhaven Mall? A handcrafted brew (or two) at Wasserhund Brewing Company? Or a Neopolitan pizza from Reginella’s Italian Ristorante, made with love by pizzaiolo (pizza chef) and owner, Vincenzo? The choice, as always, is yours.