If you’re looking for a great beach vacation in the Mid-Atlantic area, make sure to check out Virginia Beach, VA. In this picturesque coastal city, you can take in not only the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, but the Chesapeake Bay as well. With seven different districts, each with its own unique vibe, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy here from art and shopping, to sports and relaxation. And of course, there’s always the beach!
Stroll on the Boardwalk
If you want to be in the center of the action, then the boardwalk is the place to be. The oceanfront district of Virginia Beach is where everything is happening – street performers, live music, food vendors, rollerbladers, joggers, bikers and of course, sunbathers soaking up the rays on the sandy beach. And there’s no better place to take it all in then the 28 foot wide boardwalk that stretches along the oceanfront, all the way from 2nd Street to 40th Street. Enjoy it by foot or rent a bike or surrey from one of the many vendors along the way. Then, relax with a meal at one of the many quaint outdoor restaurants.
Enjoy Some Fresh Seafood
If you prefer a quieter, more laid back atmosphere, then head over to the Chesapeake Bay side of town, known affectionately by locals as Chic’s Beach. Here, you’ll find calmer waters and more serene beaches, as well as a welcoming local vibe. You’ll also find some of the area’s best seafood, like Chick’s Oyster Bar, a staple of the area for over 25 years. Watch the sunset over Lynnhaven Inlet as you enjoy a bowl of Hatteras Clam Chowder or Creamy She Crab Soup, Fried Oysters, Fish Tacos or Chick’s Signature Lump Crab Cakes. Wash it all down with one of their signature “crushes” like the Creamsicle Crush or the Skinny Margarita Crush, and you’ll have the perfect end to your beach day.
Take a Kayak Ride
Just south of the busy Oceanfront district of Virginia Beach, is Sandbridge – a secluded beach area with pristine dunes and calm waters. It’s the perfect place for a serene kayak ride, whether you want to rent one from a local vendor and venture out on your own or you want to take part in a guided tour. For the latter, check out Adventure Kayak Tours and their Back Bay Wildlife Refuge tour. The flatwater tour takes you through several diverse eco-environments including “Cypress Alley” – one of the most scenic areas in the North Bay area.
Watch a Variety Show or Cabaret
Located right in the heart of Virginia Beach, the area known as Town Center is the place to go for nightlife, entertainment, high end shopping and first class dining. Check out a comedy show at the Funny Bone Comedy Club, catch a Broadway production at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts or go for something a little more unique at Zeider’s American Dream Theater, where you can watch a variety show, an improv jam or a full-blown, revue-style cabaret.
Relax at the Spa
The Inland Virginia Beach area is also home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants and attractions like the Lynnhaven Mall and the Virginia Beach Farmer’s Market. It’s also where you’ll find the Founder’s Inn and Spa – a luxury resort that combines modern conveniences with traditional charm. The on-site spa, The Flowering Almond Spa, offers a wide variety of services including manicures and pedicures, massages, facials, body scrubs and more. On the day of your service, you also get unlimited access to the relaxing nature conservatory, the fitness center, saltwater pool and hot tub.
Pick Your Own Strawberries
Believe it or not, just a few minutes away from all the hustle and bustle is a serene countryside known to the locals as Pungo. This sweeping agricultural community stretches across 8,000 acres of farmland and is not only a great spot for photographs, but is also full of opportunities to buy fresh produce or wildflowers from roadside vendors or pick your own. Henley Farms allows you to pick your own berries like strawberries and blackberries, as well as your own produce including cabbage, broccoli and pumpkins. There’s also a farm market on the property with already-picked produce, as well as other treasures like local honey, fresh rolls and homemade sausage.
Check Out Some Local Art
Located in the creative arts district known as “Vibe,” the Old Beach Art Market has been a venue for local artists since 2010. Held each Saturday morning, you never know what you’ll find, but some of the selections include unique yard art, jewelry, mixed media paintings, photography and glassworks. The market is open year-round, but switches to once a month during the Winter and Spring seasons.
