How to Spend a Day Trip to Virginia Beach
I lived in San Diego, California, for about five minutes (see: two years) of my adult life, before my husband and I decided on the River City for some root-planting. Being close to family was the main draw when it came to heading home to Virginia, but according to our research, Richmond had the best of everything else, too — city living, nearby mountains, and nearby beaches.
I recently took advantage of our proximity to Virginia Beach for a quick overnight and can now (officially) confirm, Richmond locals easily get *a bit* of a West Coast fix when we drive about two hours toward the water. “Thank God,” said my mother and mother-in-law (probably).
Read on for some of our favorite ways to spend time a little bit to our right on the map.
— by Kelsey Heintz, Managing Editor
PS: While you’re out and about, take a peek at our Cape Charles guide! Cape Charles is only about an hour from Virginia Beach, and the drive takes you on and through the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, which makes for some fun travel on the road.
Where to eat & drink
Ocean Eddie’s
I tried this spot on the pier on a whim — and then proceeded to think about my meal for the next 24 hours. The OE’s Fish Tacos (with blackened tuna) were unREAL, and I paired them with a Chesapeake Pale Ale (each) from Alewerks Brewing Company. If I’d closed my eyes, I would’ve guessed I’d somehow transported back to the West Coast, truly. Snag a spot outside and watch the waves, as you try to decide if you should ask for an order of Hot Crab Dip to take back to your hotel. (Hint: You should.)
Location: 1415 Atlantic Ave
Hours: Found here
The Pink Dinghy
This extremely cute restaurant is equal parts delish for your mouth and for your eyes. Order something like the Smashburger (brioche, American chz, pickled onions, Duke’s, served with fries) and something from the spot’s extensive drink menu featuring *three pages* of options, from natural wines to cocktails to non-alcoholic bevs, and enjoy all the pink, whimsical decor while you snack and sip.
Location: 609 19th St
Hours: Found here
Vibrant Shore Brewing Company
Vibrant Shore fits into VB’s Vibe Creative District well; it’s, in fact, a vibe. Start with an easy sipper like Hefe-Impressions, and put in an order at the visiting food truck, while you listen to live music and take in the beach breeze from the large windows.
Location: 505 18th St
Hours: Found here
Three Ships Coffee Roasters
When you need a pick-me-up before or during your beach-bumming, head to local favorite Three Ships. This cafe serves drinks and baked goods, all in a cozy, nautical setting.
Location: 607 19th St
Hours: Found here
>> OTHER MUST-MENTIONS <<
If you’re looking for even more where that (👆) came from, we’ve got some ideas:
Back Bay Brew House Farmhouse | Crispy drinks and adorable setting; a Paige Poprocky favorite
Bay Local | A go-to for brunch
Commonwealth Brewing Co. | Craft beer and laid-back vibes
Hunt Room | Nestled within swanky The Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club; known for its cocktails
Love Song | Mouth-watering plates and desserts, and exciting natural and biodynamic wines
Mermaid Winery | Especially fun tourist destination
New Realm Brewing Company | Modern and spacious place for cold ones
Orion’s Roof | Great views and sushi, in partic
Smartmouth Brewing Company | Perfect option for great beer, food trucks, and peaceful feels
Three Notch’d Brewing Company | A taste of home in VB
Wasserhund Brewing Company | Particularly good pizza (and beer, ofc!)
Watermen’s Bar & Grill | Known for its Signature Crushes
What to do
First Landing State Park
This is Virginia's most-visited state park, offering 20 miles of trails and 1.5 miles of sandy beach along the Chesapeake Bay. Enjoy its many available recreational and educational activities or scope out the many unusual habitats, including bald cypress swamps, lagoons and maritime forest, as well as rare plants and wildlife.
Location: 3001 Atlantic Ave
Hours: Found here
Neptune’s Park
Walk along the boardwalk to reach this grassy beachfront park that often hosts live music and, of course, features the iconic statue of the Roman god Neptune.
Location: 3001 Atlantic Ave
Hours: Found here
Chic’s Beach
If you’re looking for fewer crowds and tourists, take a trip to Chic’s Beach while you’re in town. It’s about 20 minutes from the city, but the neighborhood features lots of bars, restaurants, and to-dos that’ll make you feel much more like a local.
Location: Found here
For more out-and-about ideas:
