Flights to Norfolk

In Virginia Beach, you can lie out underneath the sun all day, with the waves lapping at the shore nearby. But if that's all you do in this resort-like seaside community, you won't get a true taste of the special flavor of Virginia Beach.

With so many nearby attractions, so many options for outdoor and beachfront activities, and so much to sample in terms of cuisine, Virginia Beach remains a favorite for couples, friends and families who go for "bigger is better" when it comes to a beach vacation.

Savvy visitors to Virginia Beach know that most of the activity can be found along the three-mile Virginia Beach Boardwalk, which slices through the most popular resort, hotel and restaurant area.

If you set up here, you'll be able to swim or wade in the water, dry off under the shade of a rented umbrella, and then stroll along the path and peruse menus at all kinds of eateries.

For a more secluded spot, head south to the quieter Sandbridge area, a residential portion of the city that's significantly calmer than its northern neighbor.

On the beach and in the surrounding area, it's not uncommon to see beachgoers enjoying all kinds of activities: biking, running, walking, rollerblading, swimming and bodyboarding, for example.

Travelers also explore nearby hiking and biking trails, as well as find opportunities to sea kayak. Both Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park are just a few miles away.

Lovers of history will want to check out the Cape Henry Lighthouse and the Old Coast Guard Station, as well as the Virginia Legends Walk and the various monuments that dot the Boardwalk. Kids will adore the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and the Ocean Breeze Waterpark.

Sound like a lot? To be honest, it hardly scratches the surface of what's available to do in the area. To really get to know Virginia Beach, you simply have to visit it yourself. Enjoy!