Dreaming up a summer vacation to Virginia Beach? You’re in for a treat! You can swim and surf, hike and kayak, savor fresh soft shell crab and watch movies under the stars, just to start. Without further ado, here’s your ultimate Virginia Beach summer bucket list.
Best Outdoor Things to Do in Virginia Beach This Summer
Spend a day at the beach
Virginia Beach is lined with miles of soft sand beaches, so you’ll have more than your fair share of shorelines to choose from. Keep things simple and enjoy the popular Virginia Beach Oceanfront, where the iconic three-mile boardwalk and plenty of water sport rental vendors make it easy to dive right in. Looking for something a little quieter? Venture down to peaceful Sandbridge Beach, or north to the calm waters of the Chesapeake Bay Beaches.
Go bird watching at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
From marshes and woodlands to beaches and open waters, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a gem. The many habitats attract all sorts of bird species throughout the year, both settled and migratory. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, falcons, osprey, plovers and more.
Claim your piece of paradise hiking through False Cape State Park
Running from the Atlantic Coast inland, False Cape State Park is a dream for hikers looking to immerse themselves in Virginia’s coastal wilderness. Enjoy exploring six miles of pristine beaches that are only accessible by bike or by foot, or simply wander along the park’s nine miles of peaceful trails.
Hike (or bike) in the footsteps of history at First Landing State Park
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Virginia’s coast. Named for the arrival of English colonists in 1607 who landed here before continuing on to Jamestown, First Landing State Park is not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts but also a living testament to the rich heritage of the region. An adventure through maritime forests, serene freshwater marshes and pristine sandy beaches awaits. With over 19 miles of trails winding through the park’s 2,888 acres, there’s something for every skill level and interest.
Get out on the water
Virginia Beach is framed by waterways, with both the Atlantic Ocean in the east and the Chesapeake Bay in the north. As if that weren’t enough, there are inland rivers, streams and marshes winding through the city too. It’s almost impossible not to be by the water wherever you are in Virginia Beach, which means it’s a fantastic place to try all sorts of water activities. Take it easy with fishing and dolphin-watching, or get in a little workout with a kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) or surfing adventure.
Summer Eats in Virginia Beach
Dine on bay-to-table seafood
With its miles of waterfront, it should come as no surprise that Virginia Beach has some of the best seafood in the country. Oysters, blue crab, soft shell crab and fresh fish are just a few of the locally harvested seafood specialties.
Wondering where to eat exactly? Blue Seafood & Spirits in Pungo, Waterman’s Surfside Grill on the Oceanfront and Bubba’s Seafood Restaurant in Chesapeake Bay are favorites that won’t disappoint.
Enjoy a waterfront sunset dinner
Even if you’re not big on seafood, you won’t want to write off the Virginia Beach food scene just yet. A waterfront sunset dinner is sure to win you over. Of course, seafood is the primary cuisine at these restaurants, with spots like Chick’s Oyster Bar and Rudee’s Restaurant and Cabana Bar. But if you’re craving something a little different to go with the picture-perfect views, the Asian fusion restaurant Orion’s Roof and the surf-and-turf menu of The Porch on Long Creek are both great choices.
Try an iconic Orange Crush
While technically originating in Ocean City, Maryland, orange crushes have become a staple of Virginia Beach. These boozy orange juice-based drinks are sweet, refreshing and tangy – everything you could want on a summer day on the beach. Waterman’s Surfside Grill was the first place to serve an orange crush in Virginia Beach, but you can find the concoction at several other restaurants and bars around the city, including The Shack and Hot Tuna.
Family-Friendly Summer Activities in Virginia Beach
Stroll along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk
The heart of Virginia Beach, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is lined with three miles of hotels, restaurants, shops, sculptures and beautiful Atlantic Ocean views all along the way. Enjoy the thriving atmosphere, pop into small businesses that catch your eye or simply take a leisurely stroll amidst the salty air.
Touch a stingray at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The must-visit Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center offers two buildings, along with quite a few scenic trails full of marine life. Don’t miss the Ray Touch Pool, where you can get up close and personal with three species of stingrays, perfect for all ages. It’s a fantastic place to learn about marine animals and environments, where you can see otters, turtles, rays and sharks.
Zip-line through the trees at The Adventure Park
Located within the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, The Adventure Park is the first-of-its kind aerial challenge course in Virginia. With over 258 treetop platforms and 33 ziplines, the park offers varying levels of difficulties and climbing platforms for thrill-seekers of all ages. Feel the rush of wind as you glide high with a bird’s-eye view of Virginia Beach marine life.
Best Historic Experiences in Virginia Beach This Summer
Dive into American history with VA250 celebrations
2026 is the 250th anniversary of the United States, and Virginia Beach, one of the first places that European settlers set foot, is going all out to commemorate it. Watch historic boats sail in during the Parade of Sail, or take a day trip to nearby Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg for historical reenactments.
Take a photo of the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse
Standing tall since its construction in 1792, the original lighthouse has witnessed centuries of history and guided countless ships safely to shore. You will have to take in the lighthouse views from afar, as the lighthouse isn’t currently accessible to the public.
Before visiting Cape Henry Lighthouse, be sure to read additional information on location, arrival, rules and regulations.
Free Summer Activities in Virginia Beach
Listen to free live music with the Oceanfront Concert Series
Take advantage of the annual Oceanfront Concert Series, a summer staple of weekly outdoor musical performances loved by locals and visitors alike. Musicians of all genres take to the 17th, 24th or 31st Street Park stages to show off their skills in rock, pop, country and R&B. Bring your beach chairs and blankets, grab some snacks from the nearby vendors and settle in for a wonderful night of music. The concerts typically run from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Watch family-friendly movies with Beach Blanket Cinema
On select Thursday evenings throughout the summer, Beach Blanket Cinema puts on free, family-friendly movies right on the golden sands of Virginia Beach. All you have to do is bring your beach blanket or chair and some snacks to the beach at 29th Street. Movies start at 8:30 p.m.
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- Summer
Written by Sarah Etinas
As a full-time freelance travel writer and editor, Sarah Etinas is always on the lookout for her next adventure. With a passion for exploring new destinations, she's covered everything from the vibrant food scene in Hawaii to the stunning outdoor landscapes of Florida. Her work has been featured in renowned publications like TimeOut, TripAdvisor, Thrillist, and Lonely Planet. When she's not writing, Sarah practices what she preaches by hiking to beautiful waterfalls, visiting local markets, and dining on the most unique dishes she can find.
