A longtime local favorite on 17th Street with hearty Southern-style breakfasts and house-cured meats; a perfect start before a beach day. Doc Taylor's typically opens early (around 7:00am) but confirm hours for Monday.
Stroll or bike the 3-mile boardwalk, visit the iconic Neptune statue and people-watch; the boardwalk is open 24/7 and great for taking in the oceanfront energy. Shops and arcades have varied hours (mid-morning openings).
Explore extensive exhibits (sea turtles, sharks, marshlands) and the outdoor trail; the aquarium typically opens around 9:00am and closes mid-to-late afternoon (commonly 5:00pm). Plan ~2–3 hours to see the highlights.
Classic oceanfront seafood spot famous for local fish and waterfront views; most days it opens for lunch around 11:00am and stays open through dinner service. Good for relaxed, scenic midday dining.
Stroll the ViBe neighborhood to see murals, small galleries and local shops (many galleries open midday–late afternoon); it's a low-effort cultural compliment to the beach.
A popular destination for seasonal, locally sourced dinner plates and craft cocktails — ideal for a relaxed, higher-end evening. Typical dinner service begins in the early evening (around 5:00pm); reservations recommended.
Finish the evening with a walk along the boardwalk to enjoy the ocean breeze and any live music or street performers; a low-cost, calming end to day one (boardwalk open 24/7).
Hike the maritime forest trails and/or paddle the calm waters where Jamestown settlers first landed; the park is open sunrise to sunset, with a vehicle entry fee and optional kayak rentals available locally. Allow several hours to enjoy both hiking and water options.
Upscale yet approachable seafood and shellfish on the oceanfront with steam pots and raw bar options; open for lunch from late morning into the afternoon. Good midway rest after the morning outdoors.
Visit the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse and nearby battery areas for coastal history and panoramic views; the lighthouse and grounds have seasonal/opening-hour restrictions (often daytime hours, e.g., 10:00am–4:00pm) so confirm availability for climbs or tours.
View a large collection of restored military aircraft and often witness flight demos on select days; typical visiting hours are mid-morning to mid-afternoon (confirm special-event or demo schedules before you go).
Coastal-inspired dinner with an emphasis on local seafood and creative cocktails — a reliable spot for dinner after a day of exploring. Dinner service usually begins in the early evening; reservations recommended on busier nights.
Start early for birdwatching and quiet dune landscapes; the refuge is open sunrise to sunset and offers short walks and scenic overlooks. Pack water and binoculars for best experience.
Enjoy a locally focused brunch with seasonal ingredients — ideal before a short drive into Norfolk. Most local brunch spots open by 8:00–9:00am; check specific hours and wait times.
Scenic drive up I-264/Route 58 depending on your starting point; parking options near Nauticus and downtown Norfolk are available (metered and garages).
Interactive maritime science center plus the massive USS Wisconsin battleship nearby; Nauticus generally opens mid-morning and closes mid-to-late afternoon (commonly 10:00am–5:00pm). Plan 2–3 hours to tour ship and exhibits.
Return to Virginia Beach for a final relaxed meal; choose between boardwalk seafood, waterfront taverns, or a ViBe district bistro depending on appetite and timing. Confirm kitchen hours (many kitchens shift to dinner in the later afternoon).
If you have time before departure, head to quieter Sandbridge Beach for a final swim or beach walk, or use this time to pack and relax at your lodging. Sandbridge is public and open daily, but commercial services have individual hours.