1. Explore 500 sq mi of Fun!
Spanning an impressive 500 square miles, Virginia Beach is the 39th largest city in the United States. It is a popular tourist destination, boasting miles of sandy beaches, a vibrant boardwalk, and a variety of attractions and activities. From the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center to the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this bustling coastal city.
Also → "Virginia Beach: Millions of Annual Visitors"
Advertisement2. 35 Miles of Endless Fun in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is a popular tourist destination, and it's no wonder why - it holds the record for the longest pleasure beach in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Spanning a whopping 35 miles of coastline, Virginia Beach is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. With plenty of activities to choose from, such as swimming, fishing, and kayaking, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a fun family vacation, Virginia Beach is the perfect destination.
Also → 40 Attractions in Long Beach for Tourists and Area Residents to Enjoy
3. Trashmore's 4th of July Celebration
Every year, Virginia Beach's Mount Trashmore, one of the largest landfills in the United States, is transformed into a festive celebration for the 4th of July. Fireworks light up the night sky, and carnivals fill the area with rides, games, and food. It's a unique way to celebrate America's independence and a great way to spend the holiday with family and friends.
Also → South Beach: The Best Beach in the United States
4. A Unique Coastal City Close to North Carolina
Virginia Beach is a unique coastal city located in the southeastern corner of Virginia, making it much closer to many cities in North Carolina than other cities in Virginia. For example, it is only a two-hour drive from Virginia Beach to Raleigh, North Carolina, while it is a four-hour drive to Richmond, Virginia. This proximity to North Carolina makes Virginia Beach an ideal destination for those looking to explore the region.
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Advertisement5. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
Virginia Beach is connected to the Delmarva Peninsula by the iconic Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, a 17.6 mile long engineering marvel that opened in 1964. Spanning the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, the bridge-tunnel is comprised of two 1-mile long tunnels, two 12-mile long bridges, four man-made islands, and two high-level trestle bridges. It is the only bridge-tunnel complex of its kind in the world and is a major tourist attraction for the area.
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6. The East Coast Surfing Championships: A Surfing Event for All Levels
Every year, Virginia Beach plays host to the East Coast Surfing Championships, an event that draws in thousands of surfers from all over the world. The competition is held on the beach's 3-mile stretch of sand, which provides the perfect backdrop for the event. The competition is open to all levels of surfers, from beginners to professionals, and features a variety of divisions, including longboard, shortboard, and stand-up paddleboard. The event also includes a variety of activities for spectators, such as live music, food vendors, and art displays.
Also → Fort Lauderdale: A Beach Lover's Paradise
7. A Destination for All Occasions
Virginia Beach is a popular travel destination, renowned for its stunning oceanfront views and abundance of accommodation options. With hundreds of hotels, resorts and motels, visitors can choose from a wide variety of accommodation styles to suit their needs. From luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy motels, Virginia Beach has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Virginia Beach is the perfect destination.
Also → Richmond, Virginia: A Unique City in a Unique Location
Advertisement8. A City steeped in History
Virginia Beach is a city steeped in history, with numerous historical sites located within a short drive. One of the most significant of these is Cape Henry, where the first English colonists landed in 1607. This momentous event marked the beginning of the British colonization of the United States, and the site is now a National Historic Landmark. Visitors to Virginia Beach can take a short drive to Cape Henry and explore the area, gaining a deeper appreciation of the city's rich history.
Also → Cape Coral: A Paradise for Beach-goers and Birders
9. The Chesepians: A Tribe That Shaped the Landscape of Virginia Beach
The city of Virginia Beach has a long and storied history, with the Chesepians being the first inhabitants. The Chesepians were a Native American tribe that lived in the area for centuries before the arrival of European settlers. They were known for their fishing and hunting skills, and their presence in the area is still evident today in the many archaeological sites that have been discovered. The Chesepians were also responsible for introducing the first crops to the area, which helped to shape the agricultural landscape of Virginia Beach.
Also → The History of Beach Volleyball
10. NAS Oceana: A Major Contributor to the Virginia Beach Economy
Virginia Beach is a bustling city with a thriving economy, largely driven by tourism. However, the city also benefits from the agribusiness and military sectors, with several US military bases located in the area, including the NAS Oceana, a US Navy base. This base is a major contributor to the city's economy, providing jobs and other economic benefits to the local community.
