Virginia Beach holds the title from Guinness World Records as the world’s longest pleasured beach, spanning about 35 miles and made up of three beaches: Virginia Beach, Chesapeake Bay Beach, and the ever-popular Sandbridge Beach. The area offers a variety of attractions, including giant gorillas, a 30-foot Neptune statue, and sea serpents. If you’re looking for a classic beach escape close to home, this place has something for everyone. Whether you’re into museums, parks, or just lounging on the beach, there’s plenty to do here.
For those wanting to break free from their busy routines or enjoy quality family time, Virginia Beach is the ideal destination. In 2001, the beach underwent a significant reconstruction known as the Big Beach Project. The shoreline was expanded to 300 feet using about 3.2 million yards of sand, enough to fill roughly 15,000 swimming pools. One of the highlights is the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, which stretches about three miles and has a separate bike path. Originally built in 1888, the boardwalk is now a concrete path running from Rudee Inlet to 40th Street, perfect for activities like strolling, biking, and jogging.
The area also features acres of state parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Don’t miss the Virginia Marine Science Museum, one of the country’s top-visited maritime museums, containing around 800,000 gallons of water and over 350 exhibits. It even boasts a 3D IMAX theater and is a summer home to bottlenose dolphins.
Virginia Beach is steeped in history, being a landing site for Capt. John Smith in 1607 before heading to Jamestown. Make sure to visit the First Landing Cross, a memorial of this event, and climb the Cape Henry Lighthouse, the oldest government-built lighthouse in America. There are several small museums along the beach, including The Old Coast Guard Station and the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum, which are worth a visit.
The beach is also home to annual events like the American Music Festival, the Neptune Festival, the East Coast Surfing Championship, and the Boardwalk Art Show, among others. Check the calendar of events before planning your trip to make the most of your visit.