Last Year, I was on a spree to cover all of the East Coast states in the US, and Virginia just hit my checklist. Virginia Beach wasn’t in the plans until it was. Sometimes, the best getaways are the ones you put together quickly, pack light for, and let unfold without a strict itinerary. That’s exactly how this trip played out.
I started my trip from Boston and flew directly to Norfolk, VA, on the afternoon of July 3rd. My friends and I picked up our rental car booked via Turo from the Airport itself and headed to our Airbnb apartment which was about 15 minutes drive from the beach. The skies started to turn gray when we left the airport, and rain drizzled over the windshield, which was not an ideal beach weather we expected.
By evening, the rain let up just enough to tempt us out. The Boardwalk was calling.
Evening by the Boardwalk
Strolling on a beach boardwalk hits different: the mix of ocean breeze, street music, people on bikes, and small shops stacked with t-shirts and fudge. As the skies cleared up, we headed straight there, and it didn’t disappoint.
Virginia Beach Boardwalk runs for about three miles, with separate lanes for bikers and pedestrians. It’s wide, clean, and lively in a good way, there’s enough space to stroll without constantly dodging people. We walked along the path with the Atlantic on one side and a row of hotels, restaurants, and souvenir stores on the other.
If you’re hungry, the boardwalk has a little bit of everything: waterfront seafood spots, ice cream counters, pizza slices, and beach bars serving local brews and cocktails. Also, if you’re into bikes or scooters, you can rent beach cruisers or tandem bikes right off the boardwalk.
Aviation & Southern Comfort: Day Two Adventures
Next morning, the weather was finally on our side. We started early and drove out to the Military Aviation Museum, tucked away in the Pungo area, about 30 minutes from the main beach strip. The drive itself takes you through scenic farmland and open stretches that feel different from the buzz of the beach area.
The museum opens at 9:00 AM, and we got there just after that, hoping to beat the crowds. Entry was $15 per adult, and honestly, it was worth every penny.
If you’ve never been, this isn’t your typical museum with aircraft roped off behind glass. The Military Aviation Museum is home to one of the largest private collections of fully restored World War I and II military aircraft in the world, and many of them still fly.
Plan to spend at least 1.5 to 2 hours here, especially if you like reading the exhibit details or watching the short videos throughout. There’s also a small gift shop with cool aviation-themed souvenirs and a few shaded spots to relax if you need a break.
By late afternoon, we were ready for food, and we knew exactly where we were headed.
We drove about 15 minutes to The Bee & The Biscuit, a cozy, farmhouse-style breakfast and brunch café. Be warned: this place is popular. We had to wait about 30 minutes, but they have a shaded patio and a cute garden where you can sip coffee while you wait, which honestly made it part of the charm.
First Landing State Park: Nature Meets History
Afternoon brought us to First Landing State Park, where history and nature blend seamlessly. This is where English settlers first landed in 1607, and now it’s a mix of trails, marshlands, and beach.
We did a short hike, nothing too hard, just enough to feel tucked away in nature before making our way down to the beach section of the park. It was quieter than the main Virginia Beach strip and felt more like a locals’ spot. If you’re looking for a peaceful beach with soft waves and fewer crowds, this is your place.
Back to the Boardwalk: Sunset Rides & Fireworks
We returned to the main boardwalk area in the evening, this time around the famous King Neptune (Aquaman) sculpture, a great landmark to center your visit around. We rented a 4-passenger surrey bike and cruised along the boardwalk as the sun began to dip. Silly, fun, and a little chaotic steering, but totally worth it.
Eventually, we ended up at the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, watched the anglers cast lines, and grabbed a drink while waiting for the night’s main event, Fourth of July fireworks.
And wow. From the boardwalk, with the ocean on one side and the bursts of color lighting up the sky, it was the perfect end to the day.
Travel Tips for Virginia Beach
- Where to Stay: Our Airbnb near the beach was super convenient. Look for one with parking included, street parking can be tricky during holidays.
- When to Visit: Early July brings crowds, but also energy, plus, the fireworks show is a highlight.
- What to Pack: Bring layers. Weather changes fast, and post-rain evenings can get cool.
- Must-Do: Boardwalk, First Landing State Park, Aviation Museum, Cape Henry Lighthouse
- Catch the fireworks at Virginia Beach if you’re around on the 4th
Virginia Beach surprised me. It’s more than just sand and surf, it’s got history, quirky corners, and a laid-back energy that’s easy to settle into. For a short trip, we packed in just enough without burning out. I’d go back, maybe off-season, maybe with a longer itinerary, but for now, this quick getaway was exactly what I needed.
Next up: Our scenic ride through Shenandoah National Park, but I’ll save that for another post.
