Virginia Beach

Day 1: Coastal Relaxation and Exploration

Morning Activity: Virginia Beach Boardwalk

• Description: Stroll along the iconic 3-mile boardwalk, lined with shops, cafes, and stunning ocean views. You can enjoy the ocean breeze and take in the local art installations.
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful morning vibe.

Lunch Suggestion: The Waterman's Surfside Grille

• Description: Enjoy fresh seafood with oceanfront views. Try their famous crab cakes or the classic fish tacos.
• Location: 415 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach
• Tip: Reservations recommended during peak season.

Afternoon Activity: Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

• Description: Discover marine life through interactive exhibits and a nature trail. Don't miss the sea turtle rescue center!
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Tip: Arrive by 2 PM to catch the 3 PM feeding session for the otters.

Evening Activity: Sunset at First Landing State Park

• Description: Watch a stunning sunset while walking along the beach or hiking one of the park’s trails.
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Tip: Pack a light snack for a perfect picnic experience.

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning Activity: Cape Henry Lighthouse

• Description: Climb the historic lighthouse for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay.
• Duration: 1 hour
• Tip: Check the opening hours before visiting as they can vary seasonally.

Lunch Suggestion: The Hunt Room

• Description: Dine at this upscale restaurant offering local dishes with a modern twist.
• Location: 2650 E Main St, Norfolk (short drive from the lighthouse)
• Tip: Try the seasonal seafood specials.

Afternoon Activity: Virginia Beach Historical Museum

• Description: Learn about the rich history of Virginia Beach, from its founding to its development as a tourist destination.
• Duration: 1-1.5 hours
• Tip: Look for guided tours for deeper insights.

Evening Activity: Virginia Beach Farmers Market

• Description: Explore local produce, crafts, and food from local vendors. Enjoy live music on certain evenings.
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Tip: Bring cash for local artisans.

Day 3: Adventure and Nature

Morning Activity: Kayaking at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

• Description: Experience the beauty of Virginia's wetlands while kayaking through serene waters.
• Duration: 3 hours
• Tip: Book a guided tour for the best experience.

Lunch Suggestion: The Black Pelican

• Description: A local favorite known for its seafood with a twist. Try the shrimp and grits.
• Location: 1 Atlantic Avenue
• Tip: Outdoor seating available for a great view.

Afternoon Activity: Beaches and Relaxation

• Description: Spend time unwinding on the beach. Bring a book or simply enjoy the sun.
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Tip: Pack sunscreen and a beach umbrella for comfort.

Evening Activity: Live Music at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts

• Description: Check out a live performance, ranging from concerts to theater shows.
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Tip: Purchase tickets in advance to secure your spot.

Day 4: Art and Community

Morning Activity: Art Walk on the Boardwalk

• Description: Discover local art installations and murals along the boardwalk. Don’t forget your camera!
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Tip: Start at the north end to experience it all.

Lunch Suggestion: Tautog's Restaurant

• Description: Enjoy a casual dining atmosphere with delicious seafood and Southern cuisine.
• Location: 205 23rd Street
• Tip: Their brunch is popular, so arrive early.

Afternoon Activity: Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art

• Description: Explore rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, including local artists.
• Duration: 1.5-2 hours
• Tip: Check the museum's calendar for special events and workshops.

Evening Activity: Dinner at Waterman's Surfside Grille

• Description: Enjoy a relaxed dinner with great views, featuring local seafood and a lively atmosphere.
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tip: Arrive early for the best seating.

Day 5: Day Trip to Norfolk

Morning Activity: Visit the Norfolk Botanical Garden

• Description: Wander through beautiful gardens, including a butterfly garden and seasonal displays.
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Tip: Rent a bike to explore the gardens more easily.

Lunch Suggestion: Freemason Abbey Restaurant & Brewery

• Description: Housed in a historic church, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with delicious local brews.
• Location: 209 W Freemason St, Norfolk
• Tip: Try their signature beer paired with a sandwich.

Afternoon Activity: Nauticus & the Battleship Wisconsin

• Description: Explore maritime history and the interactive exhibits at Nauticus, and tour the USS Wisconsin.
• Duration: 3 hours
• Tip: Purchase a combo ticket for both attractions.

Evening Activity: Dinner in Ghent Neighborhood

• Description: Explore this vibrant area with numerous dining options. Try a trendy spot like The Cellars at the Vines.
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tip: Enjoy a stroll after dinner to see the historic architecture.

Day 6: Relaxation and Local Flavors

Morning Activity: Fishing or Dolphin Watching Tour

• Description: Join a local tour for a morning of fishing or spotting dolphins off the coast.
• Duration: 4 hours
• Tip: Book in advance and bring a light jacket.

Lunch Suggestion: Croc's 19th Street Bistro

• Description: Enjoy a relaxed lunch with a menu featuring farm-to-table ingredients.
• Location: 19th Street
• Tip: Their brunch is popular on weekends.

Afternoon Activity: Beach Day at Sandbridge

• Description: Enjoy the quieter, family-friendly beaches of Sandbridge. Perfect for relaxation or beach games.
• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Tip: Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks.

Evening Activity: Bonfire on the Beach

• Description: End your day by enjoying a beach bonfire (check local regulations for fire permits).
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tip: Bring s'mores supplies for a classic beach treat!

Day 7: Farewell Virginia Beach

Morning Activity: Visit the Military Aviation Museum

• Description: Discover an extensive collection of vintage military aircraft and learn about their history.
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tip: Plan to arrive by 10 AM to enjoy a guided tour.

Lunch Suggestion: Back Bay Brewing Company

• Description: Relish local craft beers and pub fare in a relaxed setting.
• Location: 614 Norfolk Ave
• Tip: Try the brewery's flight to sample various local brews.

Afternoon Activity: Independence Day at the Beach (Seasonal)

• Description: If visiting during the summer, enjoy the local festivities, including fireworks or beach games.
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Tip: Check local event calendars for specific activities.

Evening Activity: Final Dinner at Catch 31 Fishhouse & Bar

• Description: Celebrate your last night with a memorable dinner featuring ocean-fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
• Duration: 2 hours
• Tip: Make a reservation for a beachfront table.

Summary

This 7-day itinerary in Virginia Beach captures the essence of coastal relaxation, local culture, and historical exploration. You’ll enjoy the vibrant boardwalk, delve into the region's rich history, and experience unique local flavors, all while having time to unwind on the beautiful beaches. From kayaking through wetlands to immersive art experiences, this trip offers a well-rounded glimpse into the heart of Virginia Beach.