Surfers, swimmers, and sunbathers come to Virginia Beach to spend sunny days at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay as it meets the Atlantic Ocean. The three-mile coastal boardwalk is lined with fresh-pressed juice shacks, pastry shops, and fashion boutiques, and there’s a separate lane for skaters and rollerbladers. Sweet saltwater taffy and maple nut fudge are traditional treats to savor along the shore, and local Lynnhaven oysters are an ever-popular mainstay on local menus.

For a commanding view of the bay, climb the 191 steps up Old Cape Henry Lighthouse — part of the journey involves climbing a tall ship’s ladder. Mount Trashmore provides an offbeat attraction that combines a skatepark, playground, and a grassy mound of reused landfill. If it’s been a while since your last surfing trip, Croatan Beach is the place to get some inspiration when it hosts the East Coast Surfing Championships.

If you’re flying to Virginia Beach, you have two primary options — Norfolk International Airport (ORF), 20 minutes from the oceanfront, and Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF), about an hour away. For train travelers, Amtrak services run to Newport News, which is linked to Virginia Beach by bus. Despite some heavy beachfront traffic and challenging parking, a car is one of the best ways to get to your vacation rental and explore once you’ve settled in. During the summer months, the 1920s-style VB Wave trolley system offers three routes, and rideshares are also available. If you plan on spending a lot of time at the beach itself, you can’t go wrong on a cruiser, bike, or just a comfy pair of flip-flops.

Summer is by far the most popular season here, with the sun and sand attracting visitors looking for Virginia Beach condo rentals. Spring is a lovely time to visit, especially for those who enjoy the great outdoors and a mild climate. The fall is a not-so-well-kept secret in Virginia Beach, as pleasantly warm temperatures can extend well into September, allowing visitors to stretch out their stays with a little more space to breathe. This is also when the Neptune Festival showcases intricate sand sculptures along the shore. The holiday season is a big deal here, with plenty of festivities such as Holiday Lights at the Beach, the Surf-n-Santa 5 Miler, and the Christmas Market. The winter months also bring thousands of migrating birds to the bay, and this is the place to be for whale-watchers.

Marine Science Center

The Marine Science Center is committed to marine conservation through research, education, and sustainable practices. The center is focused on the study of native Chesapeake Bay marine animals and plants, though researchers have pursuits and interests that cover the world’s oceans and waterways. Take a boat tour to learn more about its work and the bay’s underwater residents.

Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art

Step back from the shore for a while and take a look around the collection at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art on Parks Avenue. The popular Boardwalk Art Show takes place over the summer months, and the alternative ViBe District is home to craftspeople, skate shops, and music venues.

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Grab your paddle and set out for a leisurely afternoon on the water. Explore Chesapeake Bay, venture into Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, or float further afield through the scenic Great Dismal Swamp. Harbor seals, black bears, bobcats, and even bald eagles can be spotted in the local area. Braving cooler temperatures in winter might even be rewarded with a humpback whale sighting.