Eat: A Culinary Journey Through Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach’s food scene is a love letter to its coastal roots, blending fresh seafood, Southern comfort, and innovative farm-to-table fare. From boardwalk bites to fine dining with ocean views, here’s a curated selection of dining experiences to savor.
Breakfast: Start Your Day Right
Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast at one of Virginia Beach’s beloved spots. Pocahontas Pancake and Waffle House (3420 Atlantic Ave) is a local favorite, serving fluffy pancakes and crispy waffles with a side of Southern hospitality. Try their signature Pecan Waffle, piled high with whipped cream, for a sweet start. Sunnyside Café and Restaurant (2200 Atlantic Ave) offers homestyle classics like biscuits and gravy, paired with strong coffee to fuel your beach day. For a trendy vibe, Java Surf Café (1807 Mediterranean Ave) delivers avocado toast and smoothie bowls, perfect for a lighter, Instagram-worthy meal.
If you’re near the ViBe Creative District, Commune (501 Virginia Beach Blvd) is a must-visit. This farmer-owned eatery crafts its menu from ingredients sourced within 100 miles, ensuring fresh, seasonal dishes. Their breakfast menu might feature a heritage grain bowl with local eggs or house-made kombucha. The ever-changing menu reflects what’s fresh from nearby farms, making every visit unique.
Lunch: Casual and Coastal
For lunch, Virginia Beach offers a mix of quick bites and laid-back waterfront dining. Waterman’s Surfside Grille (415 Atlantic Ave) is an oceanfront staple, known for its Orange Crush cocktail and seafood-heavy menu. Their Crab Cake Sandwich, made with local crab, is a crowd-pleaser. For something grab-and-go, Tautog’s Restaurant (205 23rd St) serves fish tacos bursting with flavor, ideal for a boardwalk stroll.
Craving oysters? Pleasure House Oysters (Hickman Pier, Lynnhaven River) offers a Chef’s Table Tour, where you’ll boat through oyster farms and enjoy a riverside tasting. The Lynnhaven oyster, native to the area, is briny and buttery—perfect with a splash of hot sauce. This experience combines lunch with adventure, making it a standout choice.
Dinner: Fine Dining and Local Flavors
As the sun sets, Virginia Beach’s dinner scene shines. Isle of Capri at the Holiday Inn & Suites North Beach (3900 Atlantic Ave) offers fine Italian cuisine with panoramic ocean views. Their Osso Buco, slow-braised veal shank, melts in your mouth, while the wine list complements the upscale ambiance. Kids under 12 eat free, making it family-friendly despite its elegance.
For a modern twist, Terrapin Restaurant (2800 Pacific Ave) elevates coastal cuisine with dishes like seared scallops over cauliflower puree. Its intimate setting and focus on local ingredients make it ideal for a special night out. If you’re in the mood for Southern comfort, The Porch on Long Creek (2109 W Great Neck Rd) serves fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits with a waterfront view, capturing the soul of Virginia.
Snacks and Sweets
No beach trip is complete without treats. Duck Donuts (3030 Virginia Beach Blvd) lets you customize warm, made-to-order donuts—think maple bacon or cookies and cream. For ice cream, Lolly’s Creamery (414 Virginia Beach Blvd) in the ViBe District offers flights of unique flavors like lavender honey, letting you sample multiple scoops for about $9. These spots are perfect for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
Dining Tips
- Reservations: Popular spots like Terrapin and Waterman’s fill up fast, especially in summer. Book ahead via OpenTable or call directly.
- Seasonal Menus: Restaurants like Commune change offerings daily based on local harvests, so check menus online for the latest.
- Budget Options: Boardwalk food trucks and casual spots like Tautog’s keep costs low without sacrificing flavor.
Virginia Beach’s culinary scene is as diverse as its coastline, offering something for every palate. Whether you’re slurping oysters or savoring pancakes, you’ll taste the city’s coastal charm.
Play: Adventures on Land, Sea, and Air
Virginia Beach is a playground for all ages, with its record-breaking beach, vibrant boardwalk, and endless outdoor and indoor activities. Here’s how to fill your days with fun, from sunrise to sunset.
Beach and Boardwalk: The Heart of Virginia Beach
The Virginia Beach Oceanfront, stretching 35 miles, is the city’s crown jewel. From May to September, the beach buzzes with swimmers, sunbathers, and volleyball players. Rent a stand-up paddleboard from Rudee Inlet (302 24th St) for $30/hour or try skimboarding for a low-cost thrill. The 3-mile Virginia Beach Boardwalk is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride—rent a surrey bike from Cherie’s Bike Rentals (2410 Atlantic Ave) for $25/hour to cruise with friends. Don’t miss the iconic King Neptune Statue at 31st Street, a 34-foot-tall bronze masterpiece that’s a must for photos, especially at sunset.
For water adventures, Rudee Tours (200 Winston Salem Ave) offers dolphin cruises ($25/adult) and fishing charters ($50-$100 depending on duration). Parasailing with Adventure Parasail ($75/person) gives you a bird’s-eye view of the coastline. If you visit from December to March, book a whale-watching tour through the Virginia Aquarium ($35/adult) to spot humpbacks migrating along the coast.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Traveling with kids? Virginia Beach is packed with activities to keep them entertained. The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center (717 General Booth Blvd) is a hit, with over 300,000 gallons of tanks housing sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Kids love the outdoor stingray touch tank and the dinosaur-themed Jurassic Park exhibit. Admission is $29.95/adult, $24.95/child, with discounts via the Get Outdoors Pass.
Ocean Breeze Waterpark (849 General Booth Blvd), just 2 miles from the Oceanfront, features over 30 slides, a million-gallon wave pool, and a kid-friendly pirate-themed lagoon. General admission is $39.99, but parking is free, and you can save by packing a picnic to eat in the lot. Hunt Club Farm (2388 London Bridge Rd) offers a petting zoo, pony rides, and seasonal events like a Halloween haunted house or holiday market. Admission varies ($10-$20 depending on activities).
For active fun, Surge Adventure Park (2720 N Mall Dr) is a trampoline park with obstacle courses and a toddler area. Kids 2 and under jump free with a paid adult ($15.99/hour). FunVille Indoor Playground (4321 Virginia Beach Blvd) is ideal for younger kids, with jungle- and ocean-themed play areas for $12/day.
Outdoor Adventures
Nature lovers will find plenty to explore. First Landing State Park (2500 Shore Dr), where British colonists landed in 1607, offers 19 miles of trails through cypress swamps and dunes. Hike the 6-mile Bald Cypress Trail or rent a kayak ($15/hour) to paddle the bayside. False Cape State Park (4001 Sandpiper Rd) is a remote gem with a mile-wide barrier spit, perfect for hiking, biking, or camping. Bike rentals are available at the campground store ($10/day).
The Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge (4005 Sandpiper Rd) is ideal for birdwatching and kayaking. Join a guided tour with Chesapean Outdoors ($60/person) to paddle alongside dolphins. For a thrill, try zip-lining at the Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium (801 General Booth Blvd), with courses for all ages ($59/adult, $49/child).
Indoor Fun for Rainy Days
When the weather turns, Virginia Beach’s indoor attractions shine. Beachside Social (1910 Atlantic Ave) offers 10,000 square feet of shuffleboard, bocce, and board games, paired with craft cocktails. Courts are first-come, first-serve, and games are $10-$15/hour. Escape Room Virginia (1820 Atlantic Ave) challenges you to solve puzzles in themed rooms ($30/person), perfect for tweens and adults. For a unique experience, Tribal Axe (5070 Virginia Beach Blvd) lets you hurl axes at wooden targets ($20/hour), a surprisingly fun group activity.
Apex Entertainment (4621 Columbus St) is an 85,000-square-foot funplex with bowling, VR experiences, and arcade games. Their “Pick 3 Attractions” deal ($25, Mon-Thurs) includes a free kids’ meal for ages 12 and under. iFLY Indoor Skydiving (2412 Pacific Ave) simulates freefall for ages 4+ ($66 for two flights), a thrilling option for adventurous families.
Cultural and Historical Experiences
Dive into Virginia Beach’s rich history and arts scene. The Virginia Beach Museum of Contemporary Art (2200 Parks Ave) features rotating exhibits ($10/adult), while the ViBe Creative District (Virginia Beach Blvd & 19th St) is a hub of murals, galleries, and seasonal festivals. Download the free Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK app for a GPS-enabled musical stroll through Pleasure House Point Natural Area, blending art and nature.
For history buffs, the Cape Henry Lighthouse (583 Atlantic Ave) offers tours of one of America’s oldest lighthouses ($10/adult). The Military Aviation Museum (1341 Princess Anne Rd) showcases operational WWII planes, with air shows in summer ($15/adult). The drivable African American History Tour covers landmarks like the first Black-owned fire station, offering a deeper look at the city’s heritage.
Play Tips
- Get Outdoors Pass: This pass offers discounted admission to outdoor activities like zip-lining and whale watching. Purchase online at visitvirginiabeach.com.
- Seasonal Timing: Summer is peak season, but October offers warm weather with fewer crowds. Winter brings whale watching and lower hotel rates.
- Kid-Friendly Deals: Many attractions offer free or discounted entry for young kids. Check websites for age-specific policies.
Virginia Beach’s activities cater to every interest, from beachside fun to cultural immersion. Whether you’re soaring above the ocean or exploring a museum, adventure awaits.
Sleep: Restful Retreats by the Sea
After a day of eating and playing, Virginia Beach offers a range of accommodations, from oceanfront resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Here’s where to rest your head for a perfect stay.
Luxury and Oceanfront Stays
For a high-end experience, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront (3001 Atlantic Ave) delivers. Located on the boardwalk, it features a rooftop infinity pool and the acclaimed Catch 31 restaurant. Rooms offer balconies with ocean views, and rates start at $200/night in off-season, climbing to $400 in summer. Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort (4201 Atlantic Ave) is another upscale option, with spacious suites, an indoor pool, and direct beach access. Rates range from $180-$350/night.
Family-Friendly Resorts
The Holiday Inn & Suites Virginia Beach – North Beach (3900 Atlantic Ave) is a family favorite, boasting indoor and outdoor pools, a lazy river, and two 12-foot waterslides. Their Splash Kamp program offers crafts and games for kids, and children under 12 eat free at on-site restaurants like The Greenery Cafe. Rates start at $150/night, with a $10 daily parking fee. Ocean Beach Club (3401 Atlantic Ave) has a Caribbean vibe with four pools and beachfront views, perfect for families who want water without sand. Rates range from $130-$300/night.
Budget and Mid-Range Options
For affordability, Hyatt Place Virginia Beach / Oceanfront (3601 Atlantic Ave) offers modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary breakfast. Its boardwalk location is steps from the beach, with rates from $100-$200/night. The Oceanfront Inn (2900 Atlantic Ave) provides simple, clean rooms with ocean views for $80-$150/night, ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Both are within walking distance of boardwalk attractions.
Unique Stays
For a quieter retreat, consider The Founders Inn and Spa (5641 Indian River Rd), a colonial-inspired hotel with a spa and lush grounds, about 15 minutes from the Oceanfront. Rates start at $120/night, offering a peaceful escape. Alternatively, False Cape State Park offers primitive camping ($20/night) for adventure-seekers, with bike-in or boat-in access to secluded beaches.
Sleep Tips
- Book Early: Summer rates spike, so reserve 3-6 months ahead for the best deals. Check cancellation policies, as they vary.
- Parking Fees: Many oceanfront hotels charge $10-$20/day for parking. Factor this into your budget.
- Off-Season Savings: October and April offer lower rates and mild weather, ideal for budget travelers.
Virginia Beach’s accommodations cater to every style and budget, ensuring a restful end to your day.
Planning Your Trip
Getting There
Virginia Beach is accessible by air, car, or train. Norfolk International Airport (ORF), 20 minutes away, serves flights from major carriers like Breeze Airways (fares from $39 one-way). From the airport, Uber, Lyft, or taxis cost $20-$30 to the Oceanfront. Driving from Washington, D.C., takes 3.5 hours, while Toronto is a 12-hour road trip. Amtrak’s Norfolk Station offers train service, with a short ride to the city.
Getting Around
The boardwalk and Oceanfront are walkable, with many attractions within a 10-minute radius. Rent bikes ($10/hour) or surrey bikes ($25/hour) for longer stretches. For farther destinations like False Cape, rent a car ($40/day) or use Uber/Lyft ($10-$20 per trip). Public buses (HRT) connect to Norfolk but require transfers for the airport.
Seasonal Considerations
- Summer (May-Sep): Peak season with warm weather (70-85°F) and lively boardwalk events. Book hotels early and expect crowds.
- Fall (Oct-Nov): Mild weather (60-75°F), fewer crowds, and lower rates. Ideal for hiking and boardwalk strolls.
- Winter (Dec-Mar): Cool (40-55°F) but perfect for whale watching and indoor attractions. Hotels are cheapest.
- Spring (Apr-May): Warming up (55-70°F) with blooming parks and moderate crowds. Great for outdoor adventures.
Sample Itinerary (3 Days)
Day 1: Oceanfront Fun
- Morning: Breakfast at Pocahontas Pancake House, then hit the beach for swimming or paddleboarding.
- Afternoon: Lunch at Waterman’s Surfside Grille, followed by a dolphin cruise with Rudee Tours.
- Evening: Dinner at Isle of Capri, then a boardwalk stroll to see King Neptune at sunset.
Day 2: Nature and Culture
- Morning: Breakfast at Commune, then hike at First Landing State Park.
- Afternoon: Lunch at Tautog’s, followed by the Virginia Aquarium and stingray touch tank.
- Evening: Dinner at The Porch on Long Creek, then explore the ViBe Creative District’s murals.
Day 3: Adventure and Relaxation
- Morning: Breakfast at Java Surf Café, then zip-lining at Adventure Park.
- Afternoon: Lunch at Pleasure House Oysters (book the Chef’s Table Tour), followed by axe throwing at Tribal Axe.
- Evening: Dinner at Terrapin, then relax at Hilton’s rooftop pool.
Budget Breakdown (Per Person, 3 Days)
- Accommodation: $300-$600 (mid-range hotel, $100-$200/night)
- Food: $150-$250 (mix of casual and fine dining)
- Activities: $100-$200 (beach free, paid attractions like aquarium and tours)
- Transport: $50-$100 (local rides, bike rentals)
- Total: $600-$1,150
Adjust by choosing budget hotels or free activities like beach time to save.
Final Thoughts
Virginia Beach is a destination that delivers on every front: mouthwatering meals, heart-pounding adventures, and serene places to recharge. Whether you’re savoring Lynnhaven oysters, kayaking with dolphins, or sleeping steps from the ocean, this coastal city weaves together relaxation and excitement. Use this guide to craft your perfect trip, and let Virginia Beach’s charm sweep you away. For more details on attractions or bookings, visit visitvirginiabeach.com.