So, have you just booked your stay, or are you still deciding on the perfect destination for your next vacation? No worries—our friendly team is here to help you craft the ultimate seven-day Virginia Beach itinerary to make the most of your time on and off the sand. With insights from locals who know the city best, we’ll guide you to must-see hotspots and hidden gems that will keep you coming back for more!
Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation
Afternoon: Welcome to Virginia Beach!
Check-in at Atkinson Realty Vacations is at 3 PM, but if you arrive early, make the most of your time by heading to the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. Start at 31st Street, park in a city garage, and enjoy the sunshine.
- Stop by Neptune Park and snap a photo with the 26-foot bronze King Neptune statue—your first vacation memory!
- Breathe in the salty ocean air and stroll along the three-mile-long Boardwalk.
- Share your adventure with friends and family by posting your first vacation picture!
Evening: Dinner with a View
Once you've checked in and unpacked, it’s time to satisfy those travel-day hunger pangs. Kick off your vacation with a delicious meal by the water at Waterman’s Surfside Grille (415 Atlantic Avenue).
- Why Waterman’s? This popular local spot offers fresh seafood and its famous Orange Crush cocktail.
- Tip: Make reservations in advance—this place fills up quickly!
Nighttime Essentials: Beach Gear Shopping
Before heading back, stop by Sunsations, a go-to beach shop, to grab anything you need for the upcoming beach days.
Pick Beach Gear:
- Sandcastle-building supplies
- Boogie boards for wave riding
- Sunscreen to stay protected
Then, head back to your Virginia Beach vacation rental and rest up—the real adventure begins tomorrow!
Day 2: Beach Day & Bayfront Dining
Morning: Sun & Surf
Kick off your first full day with beach time—boogie boards, beach games, and sunshine. Don’t forget sunscreen!
Midday: Beachside Lunch from Taste
Order from Taste, a local favorite, and enjoy their Dune Delivery service (Memorial to Labor Day). Staying in the North End? Try the North End sandwich with crab chips and apricot tea.
Afternoon: Recharge & Relax
After some fun in the sun, take that perfect post-beach nap—warm skin, fabulous hair, and total relaxation.
Evening: Dinner at Chick’s Oyster Bar
Head to Chick’s Oyster Bar for fresh seafood, happy hour specials, and stunning bay views. End the night laughing about that epic boogie board wipeout.
Tomorrow, more Virginia Beach adventures await!
Day 3: Surf & Seafood
Morning: Learn to Surf at Croatan Beach
No beach trip is complete without surf lessons! Head to Seth Broudy’s School of Surf at Croatan Beach, known for its great waves and scenic beachfront. You'll be standing up and riding waves like a pro by the end!
Afternoon: Rest & Recharge
After a thrilling morning, take a break—nap, relax, or stroll along the beach.
Evening: Dinner at Catch 31
Wrap up the day with an oceanfront dinner at Catch 31 on the boardwalk. Enjoy fresh seafood, grilled steaks, and wine while overlooking Neptune Park and the iconic King Neptune statue.
Day 4: Trails, Shopping & Stunning Views
Morning: Explore First Landing State Park
Hike or bike through First Landing State Park, where scenic trails wind through lush forests and coastal wetlands. Afterward, unwind at the beach or book a luxurious spa treatment at Seahill Spa at the Cavalier Hotel.
Afternoon: Shopping & Local Finds
Need a pick-me-up? Head to Virginia Beach Town Center for shopping and dining, or explore the ViBe District for unique surf shops like Wave Riding Vehicles, known for its bold t-shirt designs.
Evening: Seafood Feast with a View
For dinner, pick up fresh seafood from Welton’s Seafood Market—think softshell crabs and their famous tomato pie—or indulge in a rooftop dining experience at Orion’s Roof, which offers breathtaking aerial views of Virginia Beach. Either way, it’s a win!
Day 5: Fishing Adventure
Morning: Charter Fishing Trip
Set out for an unforgettable charter fishing adventure! Choose between deep-sea fishing for an all-day offshore excursion or a near-shore trip for a shorter, calmer experience. Either way, you'll reel in great memories along with your catch.
Evening: Dinner, a Movie & Live Entertainment
After a long day on the water, unwind at Beach Cinema Alehouse, where you can enjoy dinner, drinks, and a movie from the comfort of your seat. Still up for fun? Head to the Boardwalk’s oceanfront concert series for live music, and treat yourself to something sweet from a local dessert shop in the Resort District.
Day 6: Marine Life
Morning: Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Break from the sun and explore the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. See Virginia’s aquatic wildlife up close and learn about the watershed you’ve been experiencing all week. Book tickets in advance and opt for an early entry time to make the most of your visit.
Afternoon: Cape Henry Lighthouse
End your trip with a visit to the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse, the fourth oldest in the U.S. and the first authorized by the government in 1792. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and North End, the perfect way to reflect on an unforgettable Virginia Beach vacation.
Day 7: Farewell Breakfast
Morning: Breakfast at Ray Rays at the Mayflower
Before heading home, enjoy one last meal at Ray Rays at the Mayflower, a funky breakfast spot with a Filipino twist. Indulge in Ube pancakes, house-made hot sauces, or a hearty plate of pancit for a unique send-off.
Reflect & Plan Your Next Virginia Beach Vacation
Virginia Beach always has something new to explore, whether it’s your first time or an annual tradition. Start planning your next unforgettable getaway by booking your Virginia Beach vacation rental today! If you need recommendations or assistance, give us a call—we love sharing the best of our city. Until next time, safe travels!