Steeped in history and full of beautiful environment, Virginia Beach is the best-liked vacation resort on Virginia’s east coast and also the state’s largest city. Besides, it is a navy town where more than a quarter of the navy’s ships are docked. The oceanfront is relatively over-developed and commercialized but the lovely beach is still a pleasant spot for sunbathing and swimming, while the city itself is a rather laid-back and peaceful destination.
The state’s most renowned museum, the recently renovated Virginia Marine Science Museum is situated in Virginia Beach; it ranks among the chief marine science facilities in the United States and is a must-go for visitors. The city’s 59-block-long Boardwalk was built in 1888 and boasts impeccable landscaping, small parks, a bike-skating pathway as well as the finest dining and night life entertainment.
First Landing State Park is Virginia’s most visited state park and presents far-reaching sand dunes, swamps, forests and lakes in the middle of the city. Close by, visitors will hit upon the Battle off the Capes monument in remembrance of a crucial combat in the War of Independence. Those traveling with kids should head to Ocean Breeze Fun Park and take pleasure in the various activities this nine-acre water park has to offer.
Highlights
Virginia Marine Science Museum: packed with several marine habitats including an outdoor aviary and a river otter habitat, this top facility provides extensive nature trails and boardwalks and offers a boat service for dolphin and whale watching.
First Landing State Park: located in the midst of the city, this unusual area was named as a tribute to the first English who landed here in 1607 and includes a great variety of recreational activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, hiking and camping.
Ocean Breeze Fun Park: the nine-acre park has several slides and pools, a 130-foot bungee tower, a six-acre motor park and a 36-hole miniature golf course.
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge: situated a couple of miles south of Virginia Beach, this 7,800-acre area comprises protected beach and marshlands that catch the attention of migrating birds, making it an outstanding place for bird watching, hiking and nature photography.