Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Virginia Beach, United States

Virginia Beach, United States, Virginia Beach, Activity-Based Travel Pages, Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks

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