Best Cruise Destinations in Virginia Beach, United States
1. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Explore underwater life at this expansive aquarium, featuring a 3D theater and sea turtle hospital.
- Marine Life Variety: Offers a wide variety of marine species including sharks, seals, jellyfish, and sea turtles.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs to learn about conservation efforts and marine life.
- Unique Exhibits: Features unique exhibits like the 3D theater, sea turtle hospital, and the Shark Cage exhibit.
2. Adventure Park at the Virginia Aquarium
Experience zip-lines, ropes courses, and tree climbs while enjoying scenic views of the Chesapeake Bay.
- Adrenaline Activities: Offers thrilling activities such as zip-lines, ropes courses, and tree climbs.
- Family-Friendly: Caters to families with age-appropriate challenges for kids.
- Natural Beauty: Located within the beautiful surroundings of the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.
3. Rudee Inlet
Embark on a fishing charter, dolphin watching tour, or sunset cruise from this bustling waterfront.
- Water Activities: Offers various water activities like fishing charters, boat tours, and kayaking.
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities to spot dolphins, birds, and other marine life during boat tours.
- Sunset Views: Offers beautiful sunset views during evening cruises.
4. First Landing State Park
Discover the site of the first English settlers in Virginia Beach on a hike or bike ride.
- Historical Significance: Showcases the landing site of the first English settlers in Virginia.
- Nature Trails: Provides scenic nature trails for hiking and biking.
- Beach Access: Offers access to a beautiful sandy beach within the park.
5. Cape Henry Lighthouse
Visit the oldest lighthouse in Virginia, located at the site where the first English colonists landed.
- Historical Landmark: Serves as a historical landmark commemorating the landing of the first English colonists.
- Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the Cape Henry Bridge and Chesapeake Bay.
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours to learn about its history and restoration process.
6. Virginia Beach Boardwalk
Stroll along this iconic boardwalk, lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
- Scenic Walk: Offers a scenic walk along the oceanfront.
- Shopping & Dining: Provides numerous shopping and dining options.
- Entertainment Venues: Hosts a variety of entertainment venues for live music and shows.
7. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Explore the diverse wildlife habitats within this pristine coastal reserve.
- Wildlife Viewing: Offers opportunities to view a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and wild ponies.
- Hiking Trails: Provides hiking trails that lead through various habitats.
- Coastal Scenery: Features stunning coastal scenery and dunes.
8. Fisherman's Wharf Pier
Fish, relax, or enjoy a meal at this popular pier offering stunning ocean views.
- Fishing Opportunities: Provides opportunities to fish from the pier.
- Relaxation Spot: Serves as a peaceful relaxation spot to enjoy ocean views.
- Dining Options: Offers dining options for fresh seafood and snacks.
9. Lynnhaven Pier
Cast a line at this historic pier, built in the early 1900s and offering beautiful ocean views.
- Historical Landmark: Built in the early 1900s, it is a historical landmark in Virginia Beach.
- Fishing Opportunities: Provides fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
10. Virginia Beach Fishing Fleet Seafood Restaurant
Savor fresh seafood at this restaurant located on Rudee Inlet, overlooking the harbor.
- Fresh Seafood: Serves freshly caught seafood daily.
- Harbor Views: Offers stunning views of Rudee Inlet and the harbor.
- Seafood Variety: Features a variety of seafood dishes, including crab, shrimp, and fish.
11. Croatan Beach
Relax on this uncrowded beach, known for its beautiful dunes and coastal wildlife.
- Uncrowded Beach: Less crowded compared to other Virginia Beach beaches.
- Beautiful Dunes: Features stunning sand dunes and coastal wildlife.
- Secluded Feel: Offers a secluded feel, perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.
12. False Cape State Park
Experience untouched coastal beauty by taking a shuttle bus and bike ride to the park.
- Untouched Beauty: Offers an unspoiled stretch of coastline with pristine sand dunes.
- Nature Trails: Provides nature trails for biking and hiking.
- Wildlife Viewing: Allows opportunities to view wildlife, including birds, deer, and wild ponies.
13. First Landing State Park Campground
Enjoy the beauty of Virginia Beach by staying at this campground within First Landing State Park.
- Camping Options: Offers tent and RV campsites.
- Nature Trails: Provides access to nature trails for hiking.
- Beach Access: Offers direct access to a beautiful sandy beach.
14. Sandbridge Beach
Discover this secluded beach known for its calm waters and picturesque dunes.
- Secluded Feel: Offers a secluded, peaceful atmosphere.
- Calm Waters: Features calm waters perfect for swimming and wading.
- Picturesque Dunes: Showcases beautiful sand dunes along the coastline.
15. Norfolk Ocean View Ferry
Take a scenic ferry ride from Virginia Beach to downtown Norfolk for a unique experience.
- Scenic Ride: Offers a scenic, relaxing boat ride.
- Downtown Access: Provides easy access to downtown Norfolk's attractions and dining options.
- Waterfront Views: Offers stunning views of the harbor and waterfront.