Virginia Beach is a dynamic coastal city that offers a plethora of activities for visitors and residents alike. Whether you're looking to relax on the sandy shores or explore the vibrant local culture, there are numerous things to do in Virginia Beach this weekend that cater to all interests and age groups.
From exhilarating water sports to serene beach yoga, this guide covers the best weekend activities to ensure you make the most of your time in this beautiful destination.
Virginia Beach is a haven for beach and water activities, offering a wide range of experiences for both adventure enthusiasts and those looking for relaxation. One of the standout activities is parasailing, which allows visitors to soar up to 800 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and marine life.
This thrilling experience can be enjoyed alone or with friends, and participants can choose to stay dry or opt for a few exciting dips in the water. Local outfitters near the Oceanfront offer various parasailing packages, making it an accessible and exhilarating activity for all ages.
For those who prefer water-based activities closer to the surface, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking are popular choices. The calm waters of the Chesapeake Bay make it an ideal location for these activities, with local outfitters providing rentals and guided tours.
Additionally, SUP enthusiasts can participate in fitness and yoga classes on their boards, adding a unique workout element to the experience. Fishing is another major draw, with Virginia Beach being known as the "Rockfish Capital of the World."
Anglers can enjoy year-round fishing opportunities from piers, charter boats, or even personal watercraft, targeting a variety of species including flounder, striped bass, and tuna.
Virginia Beach offers a vibrant array of cultural and artistic events throughout the year, making it a hub for art enthusiasts and culture seekers. One of the most anticipated events is the Neptune Festival, held from September 27-29, 2024.
This festival is a celebration of the coastal community’s spirit, featuring a diverse range of activities such as sand sculpting championships, live music, local cuisine, and various sporting events along the boardwalk. Additionally, the Boardwalk Art Show, from October 4-6, 2024, is a major attraction that draws artists and art lovers from across the nation.
This juried art show showcases a wide array of fine art, including paintings, photography, sculpture, and jewelry, offering attendees a chance to engage directly with artists and even participate in interactive art activities.
Another highlight in Virginia Beach’s cultural calendar is the Beyond Monet immersive art experience, running from July 5 to September 5, 2024, at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.
This exhibit features over 400 works by Claude Monet, projected across a 50,000-square-foot space and accompanied by music and sound effects, providing a deeply immersive experience.
Music lovers can enjoy the Oceanfront Concert Series, which begins on June 5, 2024, and features a diverse lineup of musical genres performed against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.
Additionally, the SonRise Music Festival, taking place on August 17-18, 2024, celebrates Christian music with live performances, beach games, and special guest appearances, making it a family-friendly event.
These events highlight the city’s commitment to fostering a rich cultural environment that caters to diverse interests and brings the community together.
Virginia Beach is a fantastic destination for family-friendly activities, offering a plethora of options to keep children and parents entertained. One of the top attractions is the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, where families can explore interactive exhibits and witness diverse marine life, including sharks, turtles, and stingrays.
Adjacent to the aquarium, the Adventure Park offers an adrenaline-pumping aerial obstacle course with over 250 platforms and 33 ziplines, suitable for adventurous families.
For those interested in a more laid-back experience, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride along its three-mile stretch, complete with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Another must-visit is Mount Trashmore Park, a 165-acre park transformed from a landfill into a recreational haven. It features two man-made mountains, serene lakes, skate parks, and playgrounds, making it ideal for picnics and outdoor activities.
For thrill-seekers, Motor World Thrill Park offers various go-kart tracks and rides like Skycoaster and Bumper Boats, ensuring fun for kids of all ages. Additionally, Ocean Breeze Waterpark is a popular choice with its extensive water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
These attractions, along with the beautiful beaches like Sandbridge and the historical charm of the Military Aviation Museum, make Virginia Beach a premier family vacation spot.
Virginia Beach is renowned for its vibrant festivals and celebrations that take place throughout the year, attracting visitors from all over. One of the most iconic events is the Neptune Festival, scheduled for September 27-29, 2024.
This festival transforms the Virginia Beach Oceanfront into a bustling hub of activities including daily concerts, art and craft shows, and the impressive Neptune's International Sandsculpting Championship, where artists create stunning sand sculptures.
The festival also features a grand parade, volleyball tournaments, and a range of food and shopping vendors, making it a must-visit event for both locals and tourists.
Summer in Virginia Beach is packed with events, such as the Oceanfront Concert Series starting on June 5, 2024.
This series offers free live music against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, with genres ranging from rock to jazz, providing a family-friendly atmosphere. Another highlight is the SonRise Music Festival on August 17-18, 2024, celebrating its tenth anniversary with live Christian music and beach games.
The Coastal Edge East Coast Surfing Championships from August 18-25, 2024, is another major event, featuring competitive surfing along with beach volleyball and skate contests. These festivals and celebrations not only showcase the cultural diversity of Virginia Beach but also create a lively and engaging environment for all ages.
Virginia Beach is a prime destination for outdoor adventures, offering a variety of activities that allow visitors to explore its natural beauty and coastal charm. One of the top spots is First Landing State Park, which provides over 20 miles of trails perfect for hiking and biking.
This park, rich in history and scenic beauty, also offers opportunities for birdwatching and exploring the diverse ecosystems ranging from maritime forests to freshwater ponds.
For those interested in water activities, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular options at the park’s numerous launch points along the Chesapeake Bay and the park’s inland waterways.
For a more secluded outdoor experience, False Cape State Park offers an untouched natural environment ideal for hiking, biking, and primitive camping. Accessible only by foot, bike, or boat, this park ensures a peaceful escape into nature, with over 15 miles of trails and a unique coastal habitat.
Additionally, the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge provides guided eco-tours and wildlife safaris that allow visitors to observe local flora and fauna, including bobcats, foxes, and numerous bird species.
For those seeking adventure on the water, dolphin-watching tours and winter whale-watching excursions are available through local operators like the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and Rudee Tours, offering unforgettable encounters with marine wildlife.
Virginia Beach offers a dynamic nightlife and entertainment scene that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The Oceanfront District is the epicenter of nightlife, featuring numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants along the boardwalk.
Popular spots include Sky Bar at the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, which offers stunning views of the city and ocean, and Peabody’s Nightclub, known for its high-energy dance floor and themed party nights. For a more laid-back atmosphere, venues like The Shack and Waterman’s Surfside Grille provide a cozy setting to enjoy a drink and live music.
Live music is a significant part of Virginia Beach’s nightlife, with venues like the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater hosting major acts and local bars such as Elevation27 showcasing regional talent.
The ViBe Creative District is another hotspot, featuring trendy wine bars and craft breweries that draw a creative crowd. For those who enjoy a mix of craft cocktails and rooftop views, Catch 31 and the Hunt Room offer elegant settings and expertly crafted drinks.
Whether you're looking to dance the night away, enjoy a casual drink, or take in a live show, Virginia Beach's nightlife scene promises an unforgettable experience.
Virginia Beach is a culinary hotspot, offering a diverse array of food and drink experiences that highlight both local and international flavors. One of the standout events is the annual Virginia Beach Restaurant Week, which will take place from January 15-21, 2024.
This event showcases the city's culinary talent, with participating restaurants offering special prix fixe menus that celebrate coastal cuisine. Notable participants include Waterman’s Surfside Grille, known for its famous Orange Crush cocktail, and Esoteric, which features a creative menu in a historic building in the ViBe Creative District.
During this week, diners can enjoy multi-course meals at attractive prices, making it an excellent opportunity to sample some of the best dishes Virginia Beach has to offer.
In addition to Restaurant Week, Virginia Beach hosts a variety of other food-centric events and experiences. The city's vibrant brewery scene is a major draw, with the Virginia Beach Beer Trail guiding visitors through some of the best local breweries.
Esoteric, a popular spot for both food and craft beer, offers an eclectic menu and a wide selection of brews, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. For those who enjoy unique dining experiences, the Chesapeake Bay Distillery provides a vodka tasting room where guests can sample locally crafted spirits.
Another must-try is the Hearth Wood Fired Cuisine, renowned for its wood-fired pizzas and inventive dishes like fried deviled eggs. These experiences, along with many others, ensure that food and drink enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Virginia Beach.
With so many exciting things to do in Virginia Beach this weekend, you’ll be sure to create unforgettable memories. From cultural festivals to outdoor adventures, this coastal city has something for everyone.
So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore all that Virginia Beach has to offer.
Moving to Virginia Beach offers an exceptional lifestyle characterized by a blend of urban and coastal living. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and diverse cultural scene, Virginia Beach is an ideal place for families, professionals, and retirees.
The city boasts excellent schools, a robust job market, and a variety of recreational activities, making it a desirable destination for many.
However, relocating to Virginia Beach requires careful planning and execution, especially when it comes to transporting your belongings safely and efficiently.
Hiring a professional moving company is crucial when relocating to Virginia Beach. A reputable moving company ensures that your possessions are handled with care, reducing the risk of damage during transit.
They offer expertise in packing, loading, and unloading, making the moving process smoother and less stressful. Additionally, a reliable Virginia Beach moving company can provide valuable services such as storage solutions and insurance coverage, giving you peace of mind throughout your move. By entrusting your relocation to experienced movers, you can focus on settling into your new home and enjoying all that Virginia Beach has to offer.
