Introduction
Holiday Travel Park Virginia Beach is a unique blend of experiences, catering to various interests and travelers. It’s a city that wears many hats – one-third vibrant party destination for local college students, one-third idyllic haven for families with little ones, and one-third a reinvigorated beach town. Positioned strategically along the East Coast, Virginia Beach aims to draw in beach enthusiasts from Ocean City, the Outer Banks, and Myrtle Beach to experience its revitalized shores and lively boardwalk.
Much like its coastal counterparts, “VA Beach” offers stunning vistas of the shoreline, ample sandy shores to keep the kids delighted, and a wallet-friendly array of evening entertainment to please those seeking uncomplicated fun. While the accommodations, dining options, and attractions here may not be extravagantly luxurious, that’s precisely the charm – they don’t need to be. Virginia Beach is a place where you can relax and have a great time without any unnecessary fuss or frills. It’s the destination of choice for those seeking a laid-back yet thoroughly enjoyable experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Virginia Beach
Arrive at Norfolk International Airport.
The seven-mile-long Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is located seven miles northeast of Norfolk’s centre. The FAA classifies the airport, which is owned and run by the Norfolk Airport Authority, as a medium hub airport. While it holds the term “International,” it doesn’t offer nonstop foreign flights. After Dulles International Airport and Reagan National Airport, it was the third busiest airport in Virginia in 2021 with 1,658,000 passengers handled, ranking it as the 65th busiest airport in the United States. The three main airlines at ORF are American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.
Check-in to your hotel or vacation rental in Virginia Beach.
Spend the evening exploring the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, known for its lively atmosphere
A beautiful beach experience is provided by the 3 miles (5 kilometres) long Virginia Beach Boardwalk. It features a parallel cycle route for cyclists and skateboarders as well as a colourful assortment of pubs, restaurants, and motels. You can enjoy restaurants with an ocean view, catch busker performances, and take in sculptures and monuments as you wander along this concrete promenade.
The boardwalk was built in 1888 and began as a small, five-block promenade with wooden planks. Today, it has a gorgeous concrete surface with white street lamps in the Colonial style. On one of the many seats dotted along the trail, take a moment to unwind. Four beachside stages provide live music every night in the summer, and there are frequently street performers to keep people entertained.
The Discov-QR Boardwalk Walking Tour is an interactive experience with educational movies available via QR codes placed at notable sites. It allows you to explore the boardwalk’s highlights. The well-known Virginia Beach Pier, open from April to October, is located at 14th Street. Here, you can pay a fee to fish or just take in the views of the ocean. The Atlantic Fun Park across the street has several fun rides for youngsters.
Don’t forget to take a picture with the well-known King Neptune statue, which is located at Neptune Festival Park’s entrance. This bronze monument, which is an astounding 34 feet (10 metres) tall, is decorated with images of dolphins, fish, a lobster, and an octopus.
Visit the Old Coast Guard Station, a historic structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places, to learn more about the area’s nautical history. You’ll find a comprehensive collection of more than 1,800 artefacts and 1,000 photos within that are related to the Coast Guard, World War II, and many facets of the local coastal history.
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is situated in the centre of Virginia Beach’s tourist district and extends 40 blocks from Rudee Inlet to 40th Street. On the weekends during the summer, the atmosphere is the liveliest. During your trip to Virginia Beach, make sure to visit this famous boardwalk.
Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant
Waterman’s Surfside Grille
Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM (seasonal variations).
Specialties: Famous for their “Original Orange Crush” cocktail and seafood dishes like crab cakes and fresh catches of the day.
The Shack on 8th
Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Specialties: Offers a diverse menu with seafood, tacos, burgers, and creative cocktails. Known for their seafood nachos.
Mahi Mah’s Seafood Restaurant
Hours: Open daily from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM (seasonal variations).
Specialties: Specializes in fresh seafood, including Mahi Mahi, crab legs, and oysters. Offers outdoor seating with ocean views.
Catch 31 Fish House and Bar
Hours: Open daily from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
Specialties: Known for its extensive seafood menu, including the “Hook & Cook” option where you choose your fish, preparation, and sauce.
Chix on the Beach
Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Specialties: Offers a casual beachfront dining experience with seafood, burgers, and sandwiches. Try their “Chix Crush” cocktails.
Rudee’s Restaurant & Cabana Bar
Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Specialties: Waterfront dining with a focus on seafood. Known for their fresh catches and outdoor cabana bar.
Rockafeller’s Restaurant
Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Specialties: Seafood and Southern cuisine, including shrimp and grits, oysters Rockefeller, and their signature “Rockafeller’s She-Crab Soup.”
Fish Bones Restaurant and Seafood Buffet
Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Specialties: Offers a seafood buffet with a wide variety of dishes, including crab legs, shrimp, and more.
The Back Deck
Hours: Open daily from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
Specialties: Casual outdoor dining with seafood favorites like fish tacos, crab dip, and shrimp po’boys.
Tautog’s Restaurant
Hours: Open daily from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
Specialties: Known for their upscale seafood dishes, including pan-seared tuna, crab-stuffed flounder, and a variety of fresh catches.
Please note that operating hours and specialties may vary seasonally or due to changes in the restaurant’s policies. It’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant or visit their official website for the most up-to-date information before planning your visit.
Day 2: Beach Day (Travel Park Virginia)
Start your day with a hearty breakfast.
Spend the day relaxing on the sandy shores of Virginia Beach.
Try water activities like swimming, beach volleyball, or paddleboarding
The varied terrain of Virginia includes slopes, valleys, mountains, and coastal plains. You may unwind on a sandy beach one day and go on a mountain walk the next thanks to the geographic variety. There are many chances for recreation, including swimming, given the variety of terrains. Virginia has it all, whether you enjoy the exhilaration of the beach, the peace of a secret swimming hole, a leisurely float down a river, a lakeside sunbathing session, or the excitement of a water park. Discover the state’s best swimming holes, from lakes and rivers to beaches and beyond.
The humid subtropical climate of Virginia is distinguished by scorching summers and mild winters. However, depending on where you are in the state, the weather can change. While the western mountain ranges might occasionally suffer colder temperatures, coastal regions are often more humid and warmer. However, Virginia as a whole enjoys a climate that is neither oppressively hot nor bitterly cold—many would refer to it as a “Goldilocks climate,” which is ideal for a variety of outdoor activities and experiences.
Have a picnic lunch on the beach.
In the evening, take a stroll along the Boardwalk and enjoy street performances.
Day 3: Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
Visit the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center
At the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Centre, which has over 800,000 gallons of fascinating aquariums and real animal habitats, you may explore an amazing aquatic world. As you become lost in the wonder of our many interactive displays, explore our outdoor aviary, wander along the nature trail, and meander through the enticing marshlands. Don’t forget to enjoy the excitement of our 3D IMAX Theatre, where a massive screen that is eight stories wide and six stories tall offers an extraordinary cinematic trip!
717 General Booth Blvd Virginia Beach, VA 23451
757-385-3474
Hours:
Every Day 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Region: General Booth, Virginia Beach
Explore the various marine exhibits, including a touch tank and a walk-through tunnel in the shark tank.
Have lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant.
In the afternoon, head to First Landing State Park for a nature hike or a bike ride
Explore the First Landing State Park’s natural marvels on a thrilling 10-mile excursion while traversing five of its stunning paths. This walk is ideal for year-round exploration since it promises an immersive experience across several coastal ecosystems.
Following the Cape Henry Trail will take you eastward into a tranquil coastal woodland covered in the mesmerising beauty of Spanish moss, where your adventure begins. It’s nearly impossible to take a terrible picture because the scenery is so alluring. The trail reveals the shoreline after 3.5 kilometres and leads you short along a lovely boardwalk. You’ll pass by First Landing State Park Pond and a few sandy beaches along the way, all of which provide breathtaking views of the vast Broad Bay.
Your journey easily transitions onto the First Landing Trail as you reach the end of the Cape Henry Trail. You reach this section of the route after a quick 0.9-mile jog to the east on the highway. You’ll once more be submerged in the enchanted world of moss-draped forests here. The walk will lead you back to the trailhead via a number of scenic trailside beaches, tranquil wetland clearings, and exquisite marsh lakes. You may actually connect with nature through this truly immersive experience.
Return to the Boardwalk for dinner and perhaps some live music at a local venue.
Day 4: Historic Sites and Museums
Begin your day with breakfast.
Visit the Cape Henry Lighthouse and explore the historic Fort Story area
The Cape Henry Lighthouse, with its storied history dating back to around 1792, stands tall as a silent guardian overlooking the entrance to the majestic Chesapeake Bay. It holds a special place in our heritage, as it gazes upon the very spot known as the “First Landing.” Here, in 1607, Captain Newport erected a cross, an act of gratitude for the safe journey of the Jamestown settlers across the vast Atlantic. This iconic lighthouse has been a steadfast sentinel since its completion in 1792.
In the year 1872, vigilant caretakers noticed cracks in the lighthouse’s sturdy masonry. This prompted the construction of a new lighthouse, which proudly saw its lantern illuminate the night sky on December 15, 1881.
Traditionally, lighthouses met their fate with demolition once they fulfilled their duties. But in a remarkable twist of fate, Preservation Virginia assumed guardianship of the Cape Henry Lighthouse in 1930. This remarkable handover occurred when Congress officially deeded the lighthouse and a parcel of 1.77 acres of land to this esteemed organization. The noble intention behind this transfer was to safeguard and cherish this historic beacon, ensuring it remained accessible to the public. This act allows us all to revel in the lighthouse’s rich history and appreciate its significance for generations to come.
Have lunch at a charming café in the nearby Cape Henry area.
Spend your afternoon at the Military Aviation Museum, home to a vast collection of vintage aircraft
Investigate the Museum
Family vacationers will enjoy exploring Virginia Beach’s Military Aviation Museum. It has an excellent private collection of painstakingly restored World War I and II military aircraft. The fact that these legendary planes are brought to life during thrilling flying demonstrations and exhilarating air shows presented all year round distinguishes this museum.
Interested Activities
The Military Aviation Museum has a tonne of family-friendly activities. Visit the fascinating displays on a leisurely self-guided tour or amp up the thrill with a historic aircraft trip. Families with young explorers can go on a fun dinosaur scavenger hunt. The museum also maintains its events calendar jam-packed with seasonal workshops, a kid-focused summer camp, and a wide variety of other activities to make sure there’s always something fun going on.
Exploration is to Come
Explore four distinct hangars—the Army, Navy, WWI, and Cottbus—each with its own special collection as you delve into history. Historic aircraft from the first 50 years of military aviation are stored in these hangars. Don’t forget to stop by the Fighter Factory, where you can learn how these amazing aircraft are meticulously restored and maintained. Goxhill Tower, an accurate reconstruction of America’s first airfield control tower with a balcony affording amazing views of the museum’s environs, is where you should go for a truly breathtaking experience.
Fun in Jerrassic Park
Be sure to tour Jerrassic Park before you enter or leave the museum. Dinosaur sculptures can be found at this fascinating public attraction. If you are successful in recognising them all, you might even win something.
Taking Off
During the flight season, which lasts from April to late October, take to the skies in a genuine WWII aircraft for an amazing experience. You will have the chance to board a vintage aircraft with a professional pilot and fly over the scenic countryside, quiet streams, and serene sand dunes of the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge in Virginia Beach. Choose between a flight of 15 or 30 minutes on a 1989 Waco YMF-5 or a 1941 Boeing Stearman. Easily make a flight reservation by going to the museum’s website or give their gift shop a call at 757-721-7767.
Useful Information
Find the museum in Virginia Beach at 1341 Princess Anne Road. Visit MilitaryAviationMuseum.org for more information on the Military Aviation Museum and its services.
Operation Times
Except on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, the museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., making it easy for you to schedule your visit.
Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local favorite.
Day 5: Water Adventures
Today is all about water adventures.
Book a dolphin-watching boat tour in the morning
Embarking on a morning dolphin-watching boat tour in Virginia Beach is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the ocean and observe these playful marine wonders. Here’s your step-by-step guide on how to make it happen:
Scout Tour Operators:
Start your journey by researching the various tour operators in Virginia Beach that offer dolphin-watching boat tours. Seek out reputable companies with glowing reviews and a strong safety track record.
Availability Check:
Pay a visit to the websites of these tour operators or give them a ring to confirm the availability of morning dolphin-watching tours. These early-hour tours are strategically scheduled to increase your chances of spotting dolphins.
Dive into Tour Details:
Dive into the details of each tour to get a clear picture of what they offer. Take note of essential factors like the tour’s duration, departure point, and the type of boat they use.
Secure Your Spot:
Dolphin-watching tours tend to be quite popular, particularly during the peak tourist season. To secure your spot, it’s wise to book your tour in advance, especially if you have a specific date and time in mind.
Go Morning:
Dolphins tend to be more active in the morning, so opt for a tour slot during those hours. Typically, morning tours set sail between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
Group Size Matters:
Some tours limit the number of participants for a more intimate experience. Consider your preference when selecting a group size.
Know the Cancellation Policies:
Familiarize yourself with the tour operator’s cancellation policies. Understand the terms and conditions related to cancellations and rescheduling in case unexpected situations arise.
Pack Your Essentials:
Get ready for your adventure by packing essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable attire, and a camera to capture the mesmerizing dolphins and scenic views.
Arrive Early:
Ensure you arrive at the designated departure location a bit ahead of time. Follow any specific instructions provided by the tour operator regarding parking and boarding the boat.
Enjoy the Experience:
Once you’re onboard, relax and savor every moment of the experience. Listen attentively to the onboard naturalists or guides who will share fascinating insights into the local marine life and assist you in spotting dolphins.
Respect the Wildlife:
While on the tour, always remember to treat the wildlife with respect and follow any guidelines given by the crew regarding interaction with dolphins and other marine animals.
Share Your Experience:
After the tour, consider sharing your wonderful experience by leaving an online review. Your opinions will be extremely helpful in assisting future visitors in selecting the ideal dolphin-watching excursion in Virginia Beach.
Booking a morning dolphin-watching tour in Virginia Beach promises an exciting and memorable adventure .By making cautious preparations and early reservations, you can maximise your chances of viewing these interesting aquatic creatures in their natural habitat.
- Rudee Tours (Official Website):
- Rudee Tours
- Rudee Tours is a well-established tour operator in Virginia Beach that offers a variety of boat tours, including dolphin-watching tours. Their website provides detailed information on tour options, schedules, and booking.
- Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center (Official Website):
- Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
- The Virginia Aquarium often collaborates with tour operators to offer educational and eco-friendly dolphin-watching tours. You can check their website for information on tours and availability.
- TripAdvisor (Online Travel Platform):
- TripAdvisor – Virginia Beach Dolphin & Whale Watching
- TripAdvisor provides user reviews and ratings for various dolphin-watching tours in Virginia Beach. You can browse through the options, read reviews, and book tours directly through the platform.
- Visit Virginia Beach (Official Tourism Website):
- Visit Virginia Beach – Dolphin Tours
- The official tourism website of Virginia Beach offers information on dolphin-watching tours in the area. You can find links to tour operators and explore different options.
- Virginia Beach Fishing Center (Official Website):
- Virginia Beach Fishing Center
- This center often offers dolphin-watching tours along with fishing charters. You can visit their website for details on tours and contact information.
- Local Tour Operators and Marinas:
- Many local tour operators and marinas in Virginia Beach offer dolphin-watching tours. Consider reaching out to them directly for information on availability, pricing, and booking options.
Have lunch at a waterside restaurant.
Spend your afternoon parasailing or jet skiing
Embark on a Family Adventure with Rudee Inlet Jet Ski!
For an action-packed day out, look no further than Rudee Inlet Jet Ski. Located at 5th and Pacific, they offer jet ski rentals, sports boats, and ocean kayaks. Give them a call at 757-428-4614 for more details.
Soar to New Heights with Adventure Parasail!
Adventure Parasail, the Beach’s most experienced parasailing company, promises a thrilling adventure with a spotless safety record. They operate their patented Skyrider®, capable of accommodating 1, 2, or more parasailors for an unforgettable ride! You can also opt for tandem and single harness rides. Reach out to them at 757-428-4614.
Take Flight with Air America Parasail!
For the ultimate beach view, head to Air America Parasail at the end of Mediterranean, Rudee Inlet. Their expert crew handles one and two-person flights that will have you soaring over the beachfront. Embrace the challenge and greet the birds by giving them a ring at 757-428-1240.”
In the evening, dine at a seafood restaurant with sunset views over the Chesapeake Bay.
Day 6: Day Trip to Colonial Williamsburg
Take a day trip to Colonial Williamsburg, a historic living museum
Step into the Cradle of American History
Venture through time in the heart of the Historic Triangle, where Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown converge to bring more than four centuries of American history to life. Here’s a glimpse of the remarkable journey that awaits:
Jamestown Exploration:
Transport yourself to the era of John Smith’s Virginia colony as you delve into the captivating museum exhibits and intricately reconstructed historical settings at Jamestown Settlement. Stand in awe at ongoing archaeological excavations and set foot on the sacred ground where the original fort once stood at Historic Jamestowne.
Colonial Williamsburg Experience:
Experience history come alive in Colonial Williamsburg, where adept historical interpreters and actors breathe vitality into the eve of the Revolutionary War. Stroll through streets that magically transport you to a bygone era.
Yorktown’s Triumph:
Embark on a visit to the Yorktown Battlefield, where the surrender of the British forces marked a pivotal juncture, ultimately securing the independence of the United States. This is where history itself underwent a profound transformation.
Yorktown Victory Center:
Delve even deeper into the origins of our great nation at the Yorktown Victory Center. Here, you can immerse yourself in re-creations of a Continental Army encampment and a 1780s farm, gaining a profound appreciation for the foundational roots of our remarkable nation.
In the Historic Triangle, history isn’t confined to textbooks; it lives and breathes, beckoning you to follow in the footsteps of those who forged the destiny of the United States.
Discover the Magic of Colonial Williamsburg: Your Ultimate Vacation Getaway
Colonial Williamsburg is more than just a vacation; it’s an immersive experience that caters to every member of your family. Step back in time to the enchanting 18th-century charm of the Historic Area, then return to the modern comforts of hotels, shops, restaurants, golf courses, and a rejuvenating spa. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits:
Revolutionary City Drama:
Prepare to be swept into the captivating drama of Revolutionary City. As the east end of the Historic Area transforms into a lively stage, you’ll enjoy two hours of interactive street performances. Witness the vibrant life of Williamsburg’s spirited inhabitants as they passionately reenact the struggle for nationhood. Engage with iconic figures like Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and more as they immerse you in spirited debates at the heart of the Revolution.
Tavern Delights:
Indulge your taste buds in the historic taverns, where family-friendly balladeers and entertainers serenade you with their talents. Be prepared for uproarious comedic plays that encourage enthusiastic audience participation with boos and cheers.
Candlelit Capitol Dancing:
Step onto the dance floor bathed in the warm glow of candlelight at the Capitol. Embark on a thrilling journey into the realm of ghost hunting as you seek out the spirits that may still linger amongst us. And for those feeling especially daring, join in the rebellion that helped shape our great nation.
Cresset-Guided Adventures:
Allow the gentle light of cressets to guide your way through the Historic Area, leading you to the very heart of the action.
At Colonial Williamsburg, history comes alive, offering an unforgettable vacation that seamlessly blends the past and the present. Your ultimate getaway awaits!”
Have lunch in one of the colonial-style taverns.
Return to Virginia Beach in the late afternoon.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 7: Sandbridge Beach Relaxation
Drive to Sandbridge Beach, a quieter and more secluded area south of Virginia Beach.
Sandbridge Beach: A Fascinating Journey Through Time
The evolution of Sandbridge Beach over the years is nothing short of extraordinary.
In the distant past, this pristine stretch of land was the exclusive domain of coastal seabirds and wildlife. Then, the rich tapestry of history began to unfurl, starting with the presence of Native Americans. From Paleo-Indian to Archaic tribes, followed by Algonquian-speaking communities like the Chesapeake and Powhattan, the land bore witness to the passage of time.
The European chapter commenced when the first English settlers arrived at Cape Henry in 1607, later establishing Jamestown, their inaugural permanent settlement, just weeks later. Over the ensuing decades, a wave of British adventurers explored the region we now know as Virginia Beach. Yet, Sandbridge, nestled away and secluded, remained relatively untouched.
The Emergence of a Hunter’s and Angler’s Paradise
The late 1800s brought about a significant transformation, largely thanks to Back Bay, the expansive 25,000-acre water body bordering Sandbridge to the west.
Positioned along the Atlantic Flyway, Back Bay became a magnet for numerous ducks and geese, drawn to its abundant feeding and nesting grounds. Before long, it also captured the attention of hunters and anglers. Around 1870, duck hunting clubs began to erect blinds throughout the Sandbridge area. Interestingly, Sandbridge Beach itself was once owned by one of these clubs, known as the Sandbridge Gunning Club.
However, these hunters were not permanent residents; they flocked to the area during specific seasons, typically from fall through winter, before returning to their homes, often located far from the state. It wasn’t until the early 1950s that permanent year-round homes began to emerge in Sandbridge Beach.”
Spend the day sunbathing, beachcombing, and swimming.
Pack a picnic lunch.
Take a nature walk in the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
Return to Virginia Beach for your final dinner, perhaps at a fine dining establishment.
Day 8: Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
Take your time packing and checking out of your accommodation.
Depending on your departure time, you might have a few hours for some last-minute shopping or a final walk on the beach.
Head to Norfolk International Airport for your return flight home, bidding farewell to your Virginia Beach holiday.
Crafting Your Perfect Virginia Beach Getaway
Prepare for an unforgettable holiday in Virginia Beach with this flexible itinerary that blends beachside relaxation, historical exploration, and thrilling water adventures. Feel free to tailor the activities to suit your interests and the length of your stay