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Numerous studies over the years underscore the positive impact that nature and water can have on well-being. Just the sound of water is effective in reducing stress and promoting relaxation. With its expansive 38 miles of coastline, Virginia Beach provides a perfect setting to rejuvenate both mind and body.
The area is rich in outdoor experiences, ranging from lively festivals and scenic hiking trails to opportunities for picking fresh produce and engaging with marine life. Virginia Beach offers myriad adventures that can uplift your spirits and keep you entertained – all within a manageable drive.
Relax by the Beach
Virginia Beach, recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest pleasure beach, provides an inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re watching the waves or basking in the sun, it’s a delightful experience that can be enjoyed for free around the clock, although lifeguard services are available only from mid-May to mid-September. However, there are plenty of activities to enjoy beyond simply lounging on the sand.
Visitors can explore the scenic 3-mile Boardwalk, where they can capture a photo with the iconic 26-foot King Neptune Statue, or grab a meal with a view of the ocean. The Boardwalk caters to cyclists too, featuring designated bike paths, and even offers rentals for fat tire bikes that can traverse the beach.
For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, various camping options are available. Choose to camp on the sand at False Cape State Park, stay in a rustic cabin at First Landing State Park, or find a camping site that features amenities like on-site massage therapy at North Landing Beach RV Resort & Cottages. No matter your choice, the sight of a sunrise or sunset over the water promises to elevate your mood.
Engage with the Ocean
Virginia Beach is well-regarded among surfers, thanks to its jetties, piers, and inlets which create diverse surfing conditions. The beach hosts the East Coast Surfing Championships, running from August 17 to 24, recognized as one of the oldest surfing competitions globally.
If you’re a novice in surfing, a new facility known as Atlantic Park Surf, which will launch this summer, promises to cater to all skill levels. Backed by Wavegarden and local star Pharrell Williams, it aims to provide a welcoming environment for surfers of all abilities.
Beyond surfing, the waters off Virginia Beach are home to friendly bottlenose dolphins, which can often be spotted near Sandbridge Beach between late spring and early fall. The best times for dolphin watching are early morning or late afternoon; consider getting closer through kayaking, paddleboarding, or boat tours offered by companies like Rudee Tours or Atlantic Explorer.
If you dine at one of the many waterfront establishments, don’t be surprised if dolphins make an appearance while you enjoy fresh local seafood, packed with essential nutrients. It’s worth noting that fishing at the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, open from April through October, requires no fishing license, allowing for easy access to the sport. For those preferring not to fish, the Lynnhaven Fishing Company is an open-air market where you can purchase freshly caught seafood directly.
Celebrate Local Events
The vibrant calendar of Virginia Beach features over 40 annual events, ranging from high-energy competitions to free concerts and wine-tasting events. Some notable events include the East Coast Surfing Championships, and the Bulls and Barrels Beach Rodeo taking place on April 13-14, where top bull riders and barrel racers will compete for a $12,000 prize. At the Jackalope Festival from May 30 to June 1, attendees can witness some of the world’s best athletes showcase their skills across various extreme sports.
The lineup for the summer Oceanfront Concert Series, held at various parks along the Boardwalk from June through September, has yet to be announced, but past performances have included celebrated artists like Jefferson Starship and Ace Frehley. For larger gatherings, the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater accommodates approximately 20,000 attendees, with upcoming concerts featuring artists such as Rufus du Sol and Styx.
One of the standout annual events is the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival, which celebrates its 51st anniversary from September 26 to 28. This vibrant festival will occupy over 30 blocks of the Boardwalk, offering a mix of live music, sand sculpting, athletic races, arts and crafts displays, and plenty of additional activities to enjoy.
Explore Nature Trails
With over 200 parks and natural areas spanning 7,000 acres, Virginia Beach is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts. Offering more than 300 miles of biking trails, there are options suitable for riders of all skill levels. For instance, the Cape Henry Trail offers a scenic 6-mile route through the beautiful woods of First Landing State Park, providing the chance to see various bird species along the way.
False Cape State Park features 20 hiking and biking trails that allow for exploration of unique marshes and forests, and perhaps a glimpse of deer or turtles. For birdwatchers, the 217-acre West Neck Creek Natural Area provides a wonderful habitat for various species, while the Pungo Loop Trail offers a 21-mile adventure that showcases picturesque rural landscapes filled with vineyards and fields of fresh produce.
For a bit of cardiovascular fun, the Lake Trashmore Loop Trail spans 1.9 miles around Mount Trashmore Park, equipped with ten outdoor exercise stations to maintain a challenging workout.
Harvest Fresh Produce
While enjoying the gentle sensation of sand could be refreshing, getting your hands into the earth is also a fantastic way to uplift your mood and enhance serotonin levels. Virginia Beach provides wonderful opportunities for both experiences. Nearby Pungo boasts 8,000 acres of farmland supplying farm-to-table produce to local restaurants, as well as fresh goods available at farmers’ markets.
The Pungo area includes several u-pick farms, where seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, pumpkins, and apples can be harvested. Popular destinations include Cullipher Farm, Henley Farms, and Flanagan Farm, where visitors may even meet friendly farm animals.
Ready for Adventure? Start planning your trip to Virginia Beach.
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