If you’re looking for an underrated East Coast summer destination that feels a little off the beaten track, Virginia Beach just might be your spot. Beyond its well-known boardwalk and nightlife scene, there’s another side to Virginia Beach – somewhere between coastal and country, with charming farms, fresh seafood, serene beaches, and plenty of ways to slow down and savor the season. For those seeking a refined coastal getaway without the overdone resort atmosphere, here’s how to experience Virginia Beach at its most elevated.
A Refined Guide to Virginia Beach: Things to Do
First Landing State Park
Comprising 2,888 acres and more than 20 miles of hiking and cycling trails, it’s no surprise that this historic reserve is the most visited state park in Virginia. Salt marshes, cypress swamps, maritime forests, and Chesapeake Bay beach access create a remarkably diverse ecosystem and a peaceful escape from the more developed parts of Virginia Beach.
Spend a day beneath a canopy of Spanish moss, lounging along unspoilt shoreline or journeying to Cape Henry Lighthouse. I’d recommend starting at the 64th Street entrance and following the Cape Henry Trail to The Narrows, where pristine stretches of beach are enveloped by nature and an immense sense of tranquillity.
ViBe Creative District
For art lovers and creatives, the ViBe District is an essential stop for experiencing a more wholesome and polished side of Virginia Beach. The cultural hub is home to dozens of independent galleries, studios, boutiques, and locally owned businesses, making it the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon exploring the city. The walkable neighbourhood is teeming with colourful murals painted by hundreds of artists from around the world, bringing an unmistakable sense of creativity and character to the area.
The city even hosts an annual Mural Festival, where 10 new murals are painted by 10 different artists over the course of 10 days. Truly a centre for community and creative expression, be sure to visit the Virginia Beach Art Center, which showcases the work of hundreds of local artists. From paintings and sculptures to an array of other mediums, there’s something to admire around every corner.
Surf
Home to the Coastal Edge East Coast Surfing Championships, Virginia Beach is one of the East Coast’s most celebrated, yet still relatively understated surf destinations. Whether you’re looking to take a lesson or simply hire a board and wetsuit for the afternoon, there are countless local outfitters within walking distance that make this beloved, year-round activity highly accessible.
For some of the area’s most consistent waves, head to the 1st Street Jetty. For a more curated and refined surf experience, make sure to check out Atlantic Park Surf. Built in 2025 by Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams, this surf spot is popular with professional surfers and beginners alike. With the ability to control the waves based on experience and goals, this artificial surf park has rapidly become one of Virginia Beach’s most engaging hot spots.
Drinks at the The Raleigh Room or Hunt Room in the Cavalier Hotel
If you’re looking for a more elevated approach to a weekend night, head to The Raleigh Room at the Cavalier Hotel for curated cocktails and live music. Jazz and acoustic covers fill the elegantly appointed social space, its décor combining a world old and anew. Downstairs, the Hunt Room is the perfect place for a nightcap, and this dimly lit den is even more inviting during the winter months, with a roaring fireplace anchoring the intimate space.
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and Dolphin Tour
Just south of Rudee Inlet, only a short drive from the bustling strip of Virginia Beach, the Virginia Beach Aquarium is home to an immersive world of underwater discovery. Perfect for children, but equally enjoyable for animal lovers and adults, this aquarium is a worthwhile stop for anyone looking to experience another side of Virginia Beach. Home to thousands of animals across hundreds of species, the aquarium offers an intimate look at sea turtles, sharks, seals, stingrays, and marine life from Virginia and around the world.
Floor-to-ceiling tanks provide fantastic views of the animals, while hands-on activities, such as touching stingrays, make the experience both fun and educational. The aquarium’s beautiful grounds also offer a deeper understanding of Virginia’s diverse ecosystems and natural habitats.
Beyond its expansive exhibits, the aquarium’s focus on conservation and marine research makes it a particularly meaningful way to experience the region’s unique relationship with the ocean. For an even closer look at local wildlife, embark on a dolphin-watching tour from spring through autumn or a whale-watching excursion during the winter season. Sailing aboard a catamaran-style vessel for nearly two hours, you’ll travel through the bay and out into the Atlantic in search of some of nature’s most unique and treasured wildlife.
New Realm Brewing Co.
A bit south and inland from the coast, New Realm Brewery is a Virginia Beach hotspot and local favourite. This easygoing brewery and distillery offers a wide selection of thoughtfully crafted beers, ciders, and more, alongside classic American fare served in its full-service restaurant, which is particularly known for its burgers.
Its expansive beer garden, complete with picnic tables, lounge chairs, and fire pits, makes for a leisurely yet lively way to spend a late afternoon in Virginia Beach. Often accompanied by live music and weekend events, New Realm welcomes young adults, families, and pets alike, making it an ideal spot for a boozy day with friends or a laid-back family outing.
Farmers Markets
Every Saturday from 9am to 12pm, the Old Beach Farmers Market takes over 18th Street in the ViBe Creative District, bringing together an array of local vendors and artisans. The lively pop-up offers everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to meats, flowers, local art, clothing, sweet treats, and more.
With live music often playing nearby, the street comes alive with a mix of locals and visitors enjoying a leisurely morning. For a more local experience with an emphasis on fresh produce, head about 20 minutes inland to the Virginia Beach Farmers Market, a longtime favourite for locally grown fruits, vegetables, and other regional goods.
A Refined Guide to Virginia Beach: Where to Eat
Chick’s Oyster Bar
Think surf shack meets Chesapeake Bay charm. Located along the bay, Chick’s Oyster Bar is a local favourite known for its lively yet laid-back atmosphere, waterfront setting, and incredible food and drinks. The seafood is the star here, with an array of Chesapeake favourites and fresh-from-the-water specialities – the crab cake was delicious and paired perfectly with my fresh oysters to start.
It’s essential to order an Orange Crush, a Virginia Beach speciality made with orange vodka, triple sec, orange juice, and a splash of lemon-lime soda. While it’s also a popular night-out spot, Chick’s is equally bustling during the day. You can pull up by boat or arrive by land, making it an easygoing place to spend an afternoon with friends or family. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of coastal-country living, this is it.
The Atlantic on Pacific
Recommended by locals as one of the best spots in Virginia Beach for oysters, The Atlantic on Pacific quickly lived up to the hype. The thoughtfully designed space pairs elegant beach-inspired decor with a lively oyster bar, where guests can watch their oysters being shucked to order. I treated myself to a refreshing frosé alongside the Oysters Rockefeller, one of the restaurant’s signature dishes, and both made for a memorable introduction to Virginia Beach’s seafood scene.
The Pink Dinghy
Located in the heart of the ViBe District, this playful pink-hued establishment is a local favourite for coffee and brunch. With décor that’s just as memorable as the food, The Pink Dinghy is known for its freshly made doughnuts on weekend mornings, while evenings bring small plates and natural wines in a more relaxed setting.
The Hampton Social
Paying tribute to the Hamptons and the East Coast at large, this seafood and social hotspot has recently become one of Virginia Beach’s most coveted dining destinations. With its main dining room opening in June 2026 and rooftop patio set to open later this year, the expansive restaurant overlooks Atlantic Park and offers an impressive setting to enjoy some truly incredible food.
Paired with a refreshing Hugo Spritz, an essential for summer, in my opinion, I’d recommend starting with the Calabrian Mussels to share before indulging in the Truffle Lobster Melt & Bisque for your main. The sandwich was truly a life-changing experience.
Nami Nori
Known for its signature open-style temaki, or hand-rolled sushi, Nami Nori has locations across New York City, New Jersey, and Florida and has quickly become a notable dining experience for Virginia Beach visitors and food enthusiasts. Classic yet elegant décor fills the space overlooking Atlantic Park, creating a sophisticated setting to enjoy some of the freshest sushi in Virginia Beach. For sushi lovers, Nami Nori is an essential stop.
Java Surf Cafe & Espresso Bar
This centrally located spot is perfect for a light bite, a quick to-go order, or a delicious morning coffee. The staff was incredibly kind, and the surf-inspired café was packed with locals during my visit – a true testament to its popularity. Known for its incredible breakfast sandwiches, Java Surf is an easygoing local favourite and a great place to start your morning in Virginia Beach.
A Refined Guide to Virginia Beach: Where to Stay
The Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, Autograph Collection
For a more sophisticated splurge, I’d encourage accommodation at The Cavalier Hotel. Located on the north end of Virginia Beach and surrounded by private residences in a gated community, the property is ideal for travellers prioritising privacy, exclusivity, and history.
Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2027, the property served as an opulent Roaring Twenties retreat and has hosted many notable figures, such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Muhammad Ali, Jimmy Carter, John F. Kennedy, Richard M. Nixon, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, as well as the US Navy during the Second World War.
With expansive, well-kept grounds overlooking the ocean, an indoor pool and spa, and dining destinations including The Hunt Room, Becca Restaurant & Garden, and The Raleigh Room, The Cavalier seamlessly blends historic grandeur with modern comforts, making it a standout for history lovers and luxury travellers alike.
The Sitio
In the heart of Atlantic Park, The Sitio is a new 20-room, surf-focused boutique hotel. Opening in March 2026, this highly anticipated addition to Virginia Beach has already attracted travellers from near and far. Each room features its own distinct décor, while incredible dining options are available both on property and nearby. Fun and vibrant, this hotel is perfect for young couples looking to spend a long weekend in the area.
The Moxy Hotel
If you’re looking for a more family-friendly, affordable option in the heart of all the action, The Moxy Hotel offers a great combination of style, comfort, and convenience. The seven-storey beachfront property features trendy, comfortable rooms, some of which are compact, adjoining, or complete with beachfront balconies. With an expansive, surf-themed lobby featuring arcade games and a slide, the hotel is an especially fun option for those travelling with children.
The small but appreciated saltwater pool is ideal for taking a break from the ocean while still enjoying a swim, all within close proximity to the hotel’s amenities. Located in the heart of downtown Virginia Beach, The Moxy is within walking distance of the beach, boardwalk, shops, restaurants, and nightlife, making it an easy home base for exploring the area.
Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort
Another high-end option, the Marriott is located right on the beach and has become a popular destination for travellers and families looking for incredible amenities, beautiful views, and a more elevated experience. The property is most notably known for Orion’s Roof, an elegant Asian-fusion rooftop restaurant with floor-to-ceiling, 360-degree windows offering incredible panoramic views of Virginia Beach from 23 storeys above. Sleek and modern interiors and décor, expansive pools, and private beach and beach club access set this property apart, making it a great option for those looking for a more luxurious stay.
Photography by Clare McDonough
