This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we will receive a small commission at no addition cost to you. Please read our disclaimer for more information.
Image via Flickr by Jeff Self
There’s nothing like a summer beach holiday where you pack up the car with your friends or family for a relaxing vacation of sun, sand, and surf, plus all the fun things that go with it. Virginia Beach is one of those idyllic summer beach destinations, located at the point where Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic. The long, wide stretch of sand just calls for long days of sun baking, swimming, and walks on the beach, along with the amazing boardwalk that follows along. But there’s a lot more to Virginia Beach than just the beach. This is a city of history, shopping, family-friendly activities, and attractions, plus so much more. There’s also an excellent range of hotels in Virginia Beach, making it the perfect spot for your next summer beach vacation. Need some more reasons to visit? Here are some fun things to do in Virginia Beach in the summer.
Virginia Beach Boardwalk
Image via Flickr by Michael Buck
Following along the entire length of the main part of Virginia Beach is the famous Virginia Beach Boardwalk, which separates the beachfront strip from the beach itself. This is the perfect place to take a walk or a bike ride, enjoying the many monuments and statues along the way, or just sit at one of the benches and watch the waves roll in on the beach. Along the boardwalk, you’ll find an excellent range of cafes, restaurants, and bars overlooking the beach. The boardwalk area is also home to several festivals and events that happen throughout the year, many of which occur in the popular summer months.
Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
Image via Flickr by Phong Nguyen
The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center is home to over 12,000 animals from 200 different marine species, covering a large area of land adjacent to the Owl Creek Salt Marshes. This unique marine environment provides an ideal setting for a diverse range of aquatic life. If you have kids, they will love this attraction as they view the marine animals and enjoy the interactive exhibits.
First Landing State Park
Image via Flickr by phi1317
If you’re a history buff, Virginia Beach has you covered with one of the earliest historic sites in the United States. First Landing State Park, just outside Virginia Beach, is the site where the Jamestown settlers first landed when they came to settle the New World in 1607. The park is the most-visited state park in Virginia and is the perfect spot to combine history with nature. First Landing State Park has over 20 miles of trails through picturesque forest, with views of Chesapeake Bay, perfect for hiking and biking. Enjoy a peaceful picnic and visit the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse.
Ocean Breeze Waterpark
Image via Flickr by kellyv
The kids (even big kids) will be in heaven at the Ocean Breeze Waterpark in the heart of Virginia Beach. This park is full of water slides, rides, and water activities, as well as entertainment that will keep the entire family entertained.
A summer vacation to Virginia Beach is sure to be one that you’ll remember. There’s no doubt you’ll want to return again and again to this fantastic summer beach destination.
