Live the Life in Virginia Beach

In Virginia Beach, let the warm sun, sandy beaches and iconic boardwalk entice you to “Live the Life.” For those who long to strap on their running shoes, pedal some trails or sleep under the stars, nature’s gifts await you in Virginia Beach. Grab a surfboard, swim through the mighty waves, kayak with dolphins, embark on a sport fishing adventure, traverse the world-class 3-mile boardwalk or simply relax with your toes in the sand. Spring and summer breathe new life in this East Coast resort city with plenty of exciting events, attractions and exhibits to explore.

With more than 18,600 acres of nature in two state parks and a wildlife refuge, over 121 navigable miles of waterways and 35 miles of ocean and bay beaches, visitors can enjoy a variety of landscapes for exploring the great outdoors. Bike through First Landing State Park, Virginia’s most visited state park, which offers more than 19 miles of interpretive hiking trails through protected salt marsh habitat, freshwater ponds, beach, dunes, forest, tidal marsh and cypress swamp. Hop in a kayak and paddle through the peaceful waters of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge or the ocean waves as you glide alongside bottlenose dolphins. Check out the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) with its unveiling of “Andy Warhol: Portraits,” showcasing more than 200 original works from The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, Pa. from May 24 to Aug. 19. For more information, visit www.VirginiaMOCA.org.

After a day full of activity, it’s time to reward yourself with an amazing meal. New to the region are the Coastal Food Tours of Virginia, a series of guided epicurean adventures with themed itineraries and mouth-watering cuisine. Virginia Beach offers the Boardwalk Food Tour, a three hour “Surf & Turf” journey where participants sample local favorites such as fresh mahi-mahi and crab cakes, while a guide explains area history along the way. The three stops along the tour -- Waterman’s Beachwood Grill, Mahi-Mah’s Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Saloon and Black Angus – offer small meals and alcohol pairings.

Virginia Beachis an accommodating destination, with more than 12,000 hotel rooms, more than 1,800 campsites and several hundred vacation homes for rent – most with ocean or bay-front views. Getaway and vacation packages are offered in Virginia Beach throughout the year that not only please your soul, but your wallet as well. New packages are always being added. For a complete list of Virginia Beach vacation package options or more information, visit www.VisitVirginiaBeach.com or call 1-800-VA-BEACH.

Photo Credits: Virginia Beach CVB