
Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Virginia Beach, United States
1. First Landing State Park
Historic site featuring a variety of wildlife, including birds and deer, with beautiful coastal views.
- Coastal Wildlife: Abundant bird species and marine life in the nearby ocean
- Historic Value: Rich in colonial history with monuments and interpretive programs
- Beautiful Coastal Scenery: Breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean
2. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Protects crucial habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife, offering diverse trails and scenic views.
- Important Migratory Bird Habitat: Serves as a stopover for thousands of migrating birds
- Varied Wildlife Species: Home to many mammal, reptile, and amphibian species
- Scenic Coastal Trails: Offers hiking trails for observing wildlife up-close
3. False Cape State Park
Remote barrier island park with pristine beaches and abundant wildlife, including horses.
- Pristine Barrier Island: One of the last remaining undeveloped barrier islands on the east coast
- Wild Horses: Home to a herd of wild Banker horses roaming freely
- Nature Programs: Ranger-led programs and guided tours available
4. Chic's Beach Wildlife Management Area
Wetland habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife, with opportunities for hunting and fishing.
- Migratory Bird Habitat: Key stopover for waterfowl during migration
- Hunting & Fishing Opportunities: Managed hunt programs and fishing access points available
- Wildlife Observation Blinds: Observation blinds for wildlife viewing without disturbance
5. Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Educational facility featuring a variety of marine life exhibits and conservation programs.
- Marine Life Exhibits: Includes sharks, seals, sea turtles, and jellyfish
- Conservation Efforts: Active in rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine wildlife
- Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on experiences for visitors, including touch tanks
6. Virginia Zoological Park
Home to a diverse array of animals from around the world, with educational programs and exhibits.
- Diverse Animal Species: Houses over 500 animals representing 135 species
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, tours, and demonstrations for visitors
- Animal Conservation: Participates in species survival programs worldwide
7. Norfolk Botanical Garden
Beautiful gardens with diverse plant life and a variety of wildlife, including butterflies.
- Diverse Plant Species: Contains over 60 different types of gardens
- Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography
- Butterfly Habitat: Includes a butterfly house and garden for close-up observation
8. Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
Iconic engineering marvel offering views of wildlife such as seals and migratory birds.
- Engineering Marvel: First bridge-tunnel system in the world
- Seal Watching: Opportunities to spot harbor seals from observation decks
- Bird Migration Views: Serves as a major stopover for migrating birds in spring and fall
9. Kiptopeke State Park
Waterfront park offering scenic views, wildlife watching, and beach access.
- Scenic Waterfront Views: Beautiful vistas of the Chesapeake Bay
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to see birds, deer, and other wildlife
- Beach Access: Offers a quiet, less-crowded beach experience
10. Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Large wetland habitat for wildlife including bears, bobcats, and alligators.
- Wildlife Diversity: Home to a variety of mammals, reptiles, and birds
- Historic Value: Features the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom
- Wilderness Trails: Offers hiking and canoeing opportunities for wildlife viewing
11. Holland Point Park
Beautiful park with scenic views of the Chesapeake Bay and abundant wildlife.
- Scenic Views: Panoramic vistas of the Chesapeake Bay
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to see a variety of bird and marine life
- Recreational Activities: Features walking trails, fishing pier, and picnic areas
12. Pungo Forks Natural Area Preserve
Wetland habitat for wildlife such as bald eagles, otters, and beavers.
- Wildlife Diversity: Home to a variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles
- Environmental Education: Provides educational programs about the preserve's ecosystem
- Natural Beauty: Beautiful wetlands and waterways for photography and relaxation
13. First Landing State Park Interpretive Center
Educational center with exhibits on the region's history and wildlife.
- Historical Perspective: Offers insights into the region's colonial past
- Wildlife Information: Provides information on the park's diverse wildlife
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours for exploring the park's trails and habitats
14. Norfolk Premium Outlets Wildlife Area
Shopping center with a wildlife area featuring ponds, wetlands, and observation decks.
- Retail Opportunities: Offers brand-name outlet shopping
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe birds, turtles, and other wildlife
- Restful Environment: Relaxing pond and wetland areas for a break from shopping
15. Virginia Living Museum
Hands-on wildlife park with exhibits on the region's ecosystems and conservation efforts.
- Regional Ecosystems: Represents Virginia's coastal, freshwater, and terrestrial habitats
- Conservation Efforts: Involved in wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and release programs
- Hands-on Exhibits: Allows visitors to interact with animals through touch tanks and encounters