Virginia Beach is a coastal gem that offers much more than just a beautiful shoreline. Known for its wide range of activities and attractions, the city is a perfect destination for food lovers, nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those simply looking to enjoy a good time. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, Virginia Beach has something for everyone. So whether you are a long-term resident looking for a fun way to spend your next free weekend or a prospective resident exploring the pros and cons of moving to the area, here are some of the most unique things to do in Virginia Beach.
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Fuel up: Coffee shops
If coffee is your thing, Virginia Beach delivers some great spots to get your caffeine fix. Java Surf is a laid-back coffee shop where you can grab a cup of locally roasted coffee while browsing surfboards and beach gear. For something a little different, check out Aromas Coffeehouse & Cafe, which serves a variety of unique coffee drinks alongside pastries and light bites. The cozy, artsy ambiance here makes it a great place to relax or catch up with friends.
If you’re looking to explore the creative side of Virginia Beach, head to the Vibe Creative District. This area is known for its growing arts community, and you’ll find galleries, murals, and performance spaces alongside coffee shops and local boutiques. It’s an artistic and vibrant area, and you’ll be able to enjoy your coffee in a neighborhood brimming with creativity.
Savor the flavors: Top restaurants
Virginia Beach is home to a thriving culinary scene, with plenty of unique dining spots that cater to every taste. When beginning your culinary journey in the coastal city, there’s no better place to start than with a delectable brunch. Check out the below brunch spots recommended by Diane from Diane Grace Photography:
“The one thing you cannot miss in Virginia Beach is brunch. We do brunch so well that you can get it any day of the week. Don’t miss everyday favorites like Bay Local and Citrus, and if you want to get a little Sunday fancy don’t miss a stop at the Cavelier to dine at Becca. Virginia Beach has you covered whether you are looking for something casual or a little more fabulous.”
After you’ve gotten your brunch fix, don’t miss out on the other amazing culinary experiences that Virginia Beach has to offer. Our local experts have shared their favorite dining spots to help you find diverse, flavor-rich food to satisfy your appetite:
“My favorite unique restaurant in Virginia Beach and a must-try is Quemar. The atmosphere and food are upscale, boujee Mexican, perfect for any special occasion, date night, or drink spot. Their happy hour has great deals, especially on their margaritas which are the best in town. A few must-try dishes are the grilled carrots, short rib burrito, loaded yuca frita, and the churros. This place is by far my favorite restaurant!”— Long-time resident and local expert Jordyn Schnell
“One of the best-hidden secrets in Virginia Beach is The Bee and The Biscuit. This place is popular, and we waited for 45 minutes to be seated, but it was absolutely worth it. Also, they serve cocktails while you wait, so the time totally flies by! Their staff was helpful, kind, and so accommodating.
Another great local spot is Prosperity Kitchen & Pantry. As soon as you step foot into the pantry, you are greeted by kind faces, a wide array of pizza options, and fresh baked goods. Everything is made on site, and with the best ingredients. I was super eager to try their food, and their unique slices are like no other pizza place.” — Analise Gregory from Vine + Butcher
There’s nothing like relaxing with a nice beverage after a tasty meal. Analise shared one last recommendation for a great gastropub that is well worth a visit while in the Virginia Beach area:
“The contemporary gastropub, Esoteric, features craft beers on tap and a specialized wine menu. Also, this spot has the cutest indoor and outdoor seating. Located near the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, it is an attraction to everyone around. There is stunning artwork located right on the property, and it’s bright signage on top of the building, make it visually appealing to all guests.”
Outdoor adventures: Exploring nature
Virginia Beach isn’t just about sun and surf — it also offers plenty of outdoor activities due to its varied natural landscape. See the below recommendations from our local experts detailing must-experience outdoor adventures:
First Landing State Park: For a scenic hike or bike ride, visit First Landing State Park, one of the oldest and most popular state parks in Virginia. Karryn Peterson from Transcendent Stays shared her take on the historic park, noting that one of her “favorite unique experiences in Virginia Beach is exploring First Landing State Park. It’s a historical and scenic gem where you can hike along trails through coastal dunes, beautiful trees, and serene waterways. The park also features a beautiful, less-crowded beach along the waterway out to the ocean, perfect for a peaceful gathering or enjoying the waterway in a more private setting. Whether you’re taking in the natural beauty or learning about the area’s rich history as the landing site of early settlers, it’s a must-see for visitors.”
The Narrows Beach and Boat Launch: Jane Bloodworth Rowe from Princess Anne Locavore is also a fan of the area, noting that one must-see waterway, “The Narrows Beach and Boat Launch, is located at the dead end of the 64th Street Park Road First Landing State Park. This gentle, scenic waterway connects Broad Bay and Linkhorn Bay. It’s a popular destination for boaters, and its calm waters are also a perfect spot for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. You might also enjoy a leisurely swim in the warm, salty waters. It’s a perfect spot for children to play or for adults to kick back, float, and enjoy!
False Cape State Park: For a more secluded experience, False Cape State Park provides a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure. This recommendation also comes to us from Jane, who shared that the “4,300-acre wilderness park is on a mile-wide buffer between the Atlantic Ocean and Back Bay, and it boasts one of the few wilderness beaches on the East Coast. There is no vehicular access to the park, so visitors must hike or bike the scenic four miles through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge or kayak down the flat, fresh waters of Back Bay. Inside the park, they can swim, sun, surf, or fish on the ocean beach, fish in Back Bay, or hike down the trails leading through the maritime forest, where they’ll see live oak trees and overhanging Spanish moss. This park, which borders on North Carolina, offers visitors a wilderness experience in Virginia’s largest city.”
Sandbridge Beach: While Virginia Beach’s main beach can get crowded, Sandbridge Beach is the perfect escape. Coming in as one of the top recommended outdoor locations from our experts, take a deeper dive into what makes the quiet stretch of coastline well worth a visit: “Out of everything and every place in Virginia Beach, our favorite thing to do is hang out in Sandbridge Beach in the morning in September. Our ideal day would be waking up early, getting in the golf cart, and grabbing warm donuts at the Sandbridge market. We’d eat our donuts on our ride over to the Backbay Wildlife Refuge at the very end of the south end of Sandbridge. It has to be a cool yet still warm enough morning in September because the beach is a little less crowded than normal, but the weather is ideal. We’d walk around the wildlife preserve and enjoy where the maritime forest and beach collide. We’d then head back to a more central location at the beach with our cooler, chairs, and tent where we would remain for the majority of the day.”- Local experts, Sean And Ann
Not a planner? Check out these recommendations courtesy of Badria and Jay from Sea La Vie for how to sequence a day out at Virginia Beach’s local outdoor hotspots: “Virginia Beach is full of hidden gems we can’t get enough of. Watching sunsets in Sandbridge is pure magic, with colors lighting up the sky and water. We love the peaceful trails and birdwatching in Back Bay Wildlife Refuge, where nature feels untouched. For a bite to eat, Baja Sandbridge is a must for its laid-back vibe and fresh seafood, while Blue Pete’s in Pungo serves up local favorites in a cozy setting. And when we’re up for some adventure, kayaking on Linkhorn Bay always makes us feel connected to the beauty of this city.”
History and heritage
Virginia Beach’s history is just as intriguing as its modern-day charm. A visit to The Cavalier Hotel is a step back in time, and we were lucky enough to get the scoop on the landmark hotel’s best highlights from Swim History Girl:
“Want to swim in Jazz Age splendor and plunge into history? Check out my favorite Virginia Beach resort! From a commanding perch at the north end of the oceanfront, the stately Historic Cavalier Hotel offers the perfect luxury accommodations for beach and history lovers of all ages. Built in 1927, it underwent spectacular renovations and reopened in 2018 with a listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, you’ll discover a sparkling blue gem of a saltwater pool, a world-class spa, gourmet cuisine, and a distillery! It is no wonder that numerous famous people have flocked to the Cavalier over its 97 years! (As a Parrothead, my favorite former guest is Jimmy Buffett!) Happy historic swimming!”
For aviation enthusiasts, the Military Aviation Museum is an unmissable attraction. It’s a great way to dive into military aviation history and get up close with some incredible aircraft. Jennifer Borgstrom, CEO of Military Bridge shared more details below:
“For military families, the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach is a must-visit. The museum houses one of the world’s largest private collections of warbirds still in flying condition. It offers a fascinating look at historic aircraft and connects visitors to the stories of aviation and military history. Kids will love seeing the planes up close, and the scenic grounds provide a beautiful spot for a family outing. It’s a unique way to honor military heritage while enjoying an educational and memorable experience together.”
For those seeking to brighten their Virginia Beach experience with a bit of antique flair, make sure to drop by Tautog’s Restaurant on 23rd Street near the boardwalk:
“Endeavoring to find vintage charm on our first trip to Virginia Beach, we nailed it upon our discovery of Tautog’s Restaurant, a cute 1920s beach house quaintly styled as a coastal dining experience. Keeping the historic charm of the original structure, this family-run business adds a personal touch of friendly and efficient service.
While sitting on the porch on a moonlight night, we were bathed in the atmospheric lights strung about the property. Our delicious food and amazing wine were uniquely topped by one of the wait staff who regaled us with fascinating details of the historical story of how different the view looked in the 1920s from our porch seating. Completely intrigued by the atmosphere, we toured the inside then walked around the property to continue enjoying the ambiance after dinner.” — Laurie from Teacups in the Garden
Creativity, culture, and entertainment
For those looking for more creative and cultural inspiration, the Vibe Creative District is a must-see. This area is known for its growing arts community, and it’s an excellent spot to see the creative energy of the city come to life. Karryn Peterson from Transcendent Stays describes it as a “vibrant hub filled with local art, unique shops, and cozy coffee spots. Walking through this area feels like a treasure hunt of murals and installations that make for great photo opportunities.”
Maggie Kerrigan from The Book Artist is also a fan of the area, sharing that “One of my favorite things in Virginia Beach is the ViBe Creative District and especially the big purple building, the Virginia Beach Art Center. Inside you’ll find artists’ studios (including mine). The artists are making art and just waiting to chat with you. The pottery studio is pretty amazing too. Outside, there are murals on buildings everywhere you look and you feel that the ViBe is the heart and soul of creative culture in VB. Locally owned businesses, craft food and beverage, art, and great people.” This hub for local artists and culture is a spectacular place to find rotating art exhibitions, workshops, and performances. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem on your Virginia Beach adventure!
In the vein of entertainment, Virginia Beach has so very much to offer visitors and residents alike. While we’ve already detailed some great ways to pass the time in the area, Shannon Paschall, local realtor and Virginia Beach native, has highlighted her top recommendations for how to spend your time in the beautiful, coastal city:
“As a local realtor born and raised in Virginia Beach, I can confidently say there’s something for everyone here. For nature lovers, First Landing State Park offers beautiful trails and stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay, perfect for a peaceful escape. One of my favorite hidden gems is Q-Master Billiards, the largest billiards room in America — a must-visit for a fun, laid-back time with friends.
Foodies will love the variety, from fresh seafood at Blue Seafood to incredible steaks at Black Angus and the Mediterranean-American fusion at Eurasia. I also love that Virginia Beach offers access to so many unique beaches — within just 20 minutes of my home, I can visit three different beaches, each with its own special vibe. These local gems are just a few of the reasons why Virginia Beach is such a great place to call home!”
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day, a deep dive into the local arts and culture, or a fun night out shooting pool, you’re sure to find a unique experience in Virginia Beach. So the next time you’re in the area, don’t just stick to the usual spots — explore the diverse and creative side of Virginia Beach.
The Virginia Beach experience
Virginia Beach is a dynamic destination with something to offer everyone. From its exceptional dining scene to its peaceful beaches and neighborhoods filled with rich history, there’s always something unique to explore. From outdoor adventures in First Landing State Park to soaking in the local art scene in the Vibe Creative District, Virginia Beach is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, make sure to venture beyond the typical tourist activities and experience the many facets of this charming coastal city.
