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Numerous studies highlight the mental and physical benefits of spending time in nature, particularly near water. The soothing sounds of water have been shown to effectively reduce stress and promote a sense of tranquility. With its extensive 38-mile coastline, Virginia Beach offers a convenient escape to rejuvenate both body and mind.
The area boasts a variety of outdoor activities, from vibrant festivals and scenic hiking trails to opportunities for picking fresh produce and engaging with local wildlife. A world of adventure awaits just a drive away, promising an abundance of joy and relaxation.
Enjoy the Beach
Virginia Beach holds the title of the largest pleasure beach in the world, as recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. The experience of sinking your toes into its soft sand while listening to the rhythmic waves is truly rejuvenating. Access to the beach is free, available around the clock; however, lifeguard supervision is provided only from mid-May to mid-September. Relaxation isn’t the only activity though, as there’s plenty to explore.
The scenic 3-mile Boardwalk is perfect for a leisurely stroll, where you can capture a photo with the famous 26-foot King Neptune Statue or savor a meal with an ocean view. The path accommodates cyclists too, featuring designated lanes for biking; visitors can even rent specialized fat tire bikes to traverse the sandy shoreline.
For those looking to stay overnight, there are numerous camping options available, whether it’s right on the beach at False Cape State Park or in rustic cabins at First Landing State Park. Unique experiences such as campsites with on-site massages at the North Landing Beach RV Resort & Cottages add an extra layer of relaxation. Witnessing both sunrise and sunset over the water is sure to uplift your spirits.
Water Activities Await
Virginia Beach has established itself as a hotspot for surfers of every skill level, thanks to its variety of jetties, piers, and inlets that create diverse surfing conditions. The destination also hosts the East Coast Surfing Championships (August 17–24), distinguishing it as one of the longest-running surfing competitions globally.
If ocean surfing isn’t your style, a new wave park called Atlantic Park Surf is set to open this summer. Spearheaded by Wavegarden and Virginia Beach’s own Pharrell Williams, this venue will cater to both beginners and seasoned surfers.
Virginia Beach is also a hotspot for marine life; bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted off the coast, particularly around Sandbridge Beach from late spring to early fall. Optimal viewing times are early mornings and late afternoons, with opportunities to observe them while kayaking, paddleboarding, or enjoying a boat tour with companies such as Rudee Tours or Atlantic Explorer.
Diners at waterfront restaurants might also enjoy a show from dolphins while indulging in fresh seafood, a nutritious way to revitalize your body. Notably, the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, open from April through October, does not require a fishing license. For those preferring to leave fishing to the experts, Lynnhaven Fishing Company offers fresh, locally caught fish in a welcoming open-air market.
Festivals and Events Galore
Virginia Beach’s calendar is packed with over 40 events each year, encompassing everything from athletic competitions to free concerts and coastal wine tastings. Events such as the East Coast Surfing Championships cater to thrill-seekers, while the Bulls and Barrels Beach Rodeo (April 13–14) showcases the best in bull riding and barrel racing against a scenic backdrop, offering prize money totaling $12,000.
Other highlights include the Jackalope Festival (May 30–June 1), where standout athletes display skills in sports like skateboarding and bouldering. The Oceanfront Concert Series, featuring free summer concerts at various parks along the Boardwalk, has previously hosted artists like Jefferson Starship and Digable Planets, although the lineup for this summer remains to be announced.
The Virginia Beach Neptune Festival (September 26–28) will celebrate its 51st anniversary this year, transforming over 30 blocks of the Boardwalk into a vibrant cultural hub with live music, sand sculpting, races, and arts and crafts exhibitions, promising fun for the whole family.
Explore Scenic Trails
With an impressive network of over 200 parks and natural spaces covering 7,000 acres, Virginia Beach is perfect for those eager to hike or bike. The area offers more than 300 miles of biking trails, accommodating various skill levels. The 6-mile Cape Henry Trail at First Landing State Park provides a scenic ride through lush forests where wildlife such as ospreys and egrets may be spotted.
Those looking for a more rugged experience can explore False Cape State Park’s 20 trails, which meander through marshes, forests, and bay beaches, with the chance of encountering deer and turtles. The 217 acres of West Neck Creek Natural Area are ideal for hiking and birdwatching, and during different seasons, visitors might observe various bird species.
For an active day, consider the 21-mile Pungo Loop Trail, which takes bikers through picturesque rural landscapes dotted with horses and farmland. Alternatively, add an element of challenge with the 1.9-mile Lake Trashmore Loop Trail, which encircles much of Mount Trashmore Park and features 10 outdoor fitness stations for an added workout.
Harvest Your Own Food
Engaging with the earth not only provides therapeutic benefits but also enhances overall well-being. Fortunately, Virginia Beach offers ample opportunities to embrace this connection. Located in Pungo, an expansive 8,000 acres of farmland supply local restaurants with farm-to-table produce and host vibrant farmer’s markets.
Pungo is well-known for its numerous u-pick farms, where visitors can harvest a variety of fruits and vegetables throughout the seasons. Popular spots include Cullipher Farm, Henley Farms, and Flanagan Farm. If you’re fortunate, you may even have the chance to interact with some friendly farm animals.
Are You Ready? Start planning your trip to Virginia Beach!
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