Exploring Virginia Beach: Local Gems, Parks, History & More

Virginia Beach, Virginia offers an incredible variety of things to see and do—from 38 miles of pristine beaches and scenic state parks to historic landmarks, world-class aquariums, vibrant neighborhoods, and waterfront recreation. Whether you live in Virginia Beach, serve here at one of the military installations, or are visiting the area, here are some great local destinations you’ll want to explore. Use this page as your go-to “bucket list” for Virginia Beach, VA.

First Landing State Park & Historic Landing Site

One of Virginia Beach’s most treasured attractions is First Landing State Park, Virginia’s most visited state park and the site where English colonists first landed in 1607. Located along Shore Drive near the Chesapeake Bay, this 2,888-acre park features 19 miles of hiking trails, pristine beaches, camping areas, and diverse ecosystems including maritime forests, dunes, and tidal wetlands.

At the park you’ll find kayak launches, bike trails, fishing spots, and beautiful Chesapeake Bay beach access. Whether you’re hiking the Bald Cypress Trail, launching a kayak into the bay, or exploring colonial history, First Landing State Park is an essential Virginia Beach experience.

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

For an educational and entertaining experience, visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center (717 General Booth Boulevard). This premier attraction features over 800,000 gallons of aquariums, sea turtle and river otter habitats, touch pools, and engaging exhibits showcasing local marine life and global ocean ecosystems.

The aquarium also offers seasonal boat tours for dolphin watching and whale watching, along with educational programs perfect for families. Located near the Oceana Gardens and Dam Neck neighborhoods, it’s a top destination for Virginia Beach residents and visitors alike.

Mount Trashmore Park & Family Recreation

A unique Virginia Beach landmark is Mount Trashmore Park, a 165-acre recreational space built on reclaimed landfill. This creative park transformation features two man-made mountains, skate parks, playgrounds, lakes for fishing, walking trails, and open fields for sports and community events.

Throughout the year, Mount Trashmore hosts festivals including the Cherry Blossom Festival and Autumn in the Air. Located near the Kempsville area, it’s easily accessible for families from neighborhoods including Green Run, Landstown, and Princess Anne.

The Virginia Beach Oceanfront & Boardwalk

No visit to Virginia Beach is complete without experiencing the iconic Oceanfront and 3-mile boardwalk. This vibrant area features the beach, a separate bike path, street performers, live music venues, restaurants, shops, and year-round events. From sunrise walks to evening concerts, the boardwalk offers something for everyone.

The Oceanfront spans from North End (a quieter, more residential beach area) down to Rudee Inlet and beyond. Whether you’re staying in Croatan Beach, the Resort Area, or Sandbridge, Virginia Beach’s coastal character defines the community’s identity.

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge & False Cape State Park

For nature enthusiasts seeking a more secluded experience, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park offer pristine wilderness along Virginia Beach’s southern shoreline. These protected areas feature miles of undeveloped beaches, maritime forests, freshwater marshes, and exceptional bird watching opportunities.

Back Bay is accessible from the Sandbridge area and provides kayaking, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing in a peaceful natural setting. It’s perfect for Virginia Beach residents looking to escape into nature without traveling far from home.

Town Center Virginia Beach & Urban Amenities

For shopping, dining, and entertainment in an urban setting, Town Center Virginia Beach offers a walkable mixed-use district with restaurants, boutiques, movie theaters, and seasonal events. Located in the central part of the city near Pembroke, this area provides cosmopolitan amenities while maintaining Virginia Beach’s welcoming character.

Town Center hosts outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and community gatherings throughout the year, making it a hub for residents from Kempsville, Lynnhaven, and surrounding neighborhoods.

Neighborhood Connections: Oceanfront, Kempsville, Great Neck, Alanton & More

Virginia Beach comprises many distinct neighborhoods, each offering unique character and amenities. Some of the most prominent areas include:

Oceanfront/Resort Area – The vibrant beachfront district with tourism, dining, and entertainment Kempsville – Central location with family-friendly neighborhoods, schools, and recreation centers Great Neck – Established community with diverse housing, excellent schools, and bay access Alanton – Waterfront estates on Broad Bay with boating access and community amenities Chic’s Beach/Chesapeake Beach – Quieter bay-side beach neighborhood near the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel Sandbridge – Secluded southern beach community with a laid-back, residential atmosphere Princess Anne – Historic area with rural character and agricultural heritage Town Center/Pembroke – Urban mixed-use neighborhoods with modern amenities Red Mill – Family-oriented community with parks and highly rated schools Green Run – Large planned community with excellent schools and parks

By including these neighborhoods and referencing local landmarks, we emphasize geographical relevance for Virginia Beach, VA.

Maritime & Water Access: Chesapeake Bay, Atlantic Ocean & Inland Waterways

Virginia Beach’s connection to water defines the city’s identity. With access to both the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay, plus inland waterways including Lynnhaven River, Linkhorn Bay, Broad Bay, and Lake Joyce, water recreation is woven into daily life.

Whether it’s surfing at the Oceanfront, kayaking through Back Bay, boating on Lynnhaven River, fishing from Rudee Inlet, or paddleboarding on Linkhorn Bay, these water access points make Virginia Beach uniquely positioned for coastal living and outdoor activity.

Making the Most of Your Visit to Virginia Beach

If you’re planning a day exploring Virginia Beach, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Morning: Start with sunrise at the Oceanfront boardwalk, followed by breakfast at one of the oceanfront cafes. Then visit First Landing State Park for a nature hike along the Chesapeake Bay.

Midday: Head to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center for marine life exhibits, followed by lunch at Town Center or along Shore Drive in Chic’s Beach.

Afternoon: Visit Mount Trashmore Park for recreation, or explore the quieter beaches at Sandbridge or North End. Consider kayaking through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for nature immersion.

Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of Virginia Beach’s waterfront restaurants in the Oceanfront area, Lynnhaven, or Chic’s Beach before heading home.

Additional Local Highlights & Links

• Explore attractions at the Official Virginia Beach Tourism Site for events, festivals, and seasonal activities
• Check out Virginia Beach’s city parks and recreation at the official city website
• Visit the Military Aviation Museum in Princess Anne for historic aircraft collections
• Experience the ViBe Creative District for art galleries, murals, and creative community

Where Virginia Beach’s Coastal Beauty Meets Exceptional Dental Care

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay, Virginia Beach, Virginia is a place where coastal beauty, active lifestyles, and strong community pride come together. With 38 miles of stunning beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and a perfect blend of resort energy and residential tranquility, Virginia Beach offers residents an unmatched quality of life. It’s a city where families thrive, military personnel serve with pride, and retirees enjoy sun-filled days by the water.

Virginia Beach’s history stretches back to 1607 when English colonists made their first landing at what is now First Landing State Park. Today, the city honors that heritage while embracing growth and diversity. From the bustling Oceanfront and Town Center to the quiet shores of Sandbridge and the waterfront estates of Alanton, Virginia Beach offers something special for everyone who calls this coastal community home.

Tree-lined neighborhoods, pristine beaches, protected wildlife refuges, and miles of scenic waterways create a backdrop rich with natural beauty. From the peaceful trails of First Landing State Park to the family-friendly recreation at Mount Trashmore, from the educational wonders of the Virginia Aquarium to the serene wilderness of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Virginia Beach is filled with places to explore, relax, and reconnect with nature.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Virginia Beach is paradise. Residents enjoy surfing and swimming at the Oceanfront, kayaking through Back Bay, fishing from Rudee Inlet, sailing on the Chesapeake Bay, hiking through maritime forests, biking the boardwalk, and discovering hidden coves along Lynnhaven River and Linkhorn Bay. Whether you’re watching dolphins from Croatan Beach, paddleboarding on Lake Joyce, or simply walking barefoot in the sand at sunset, Virginia Beach offers a coastal lifestyle that beautifully blends adventure with relaxation.

But beyond its natural splendor, what truly defines Virginia Beach is its people. Teachers shaping young minds across Virginia Beach City Public Schools. Military service members stationed at Naval Air Station Oceana, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, and Training Support Center Hampton Roads. First responders, healthcare professionals, and hospitality workers keeping the community safe and thriving. Small business owners, families spanning multiple generations, and newcomers drawn by opportunity and quality of life—they all bring character and heart to every neighborhood.

At The Foleck Center, we’re proud to care for the people who make Virginia Beach the remarkable community it is. We understand the active lifestyles, busy schedules, and high standards of the families and individuals who live here. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional dental care—whether you’re a parent managing family life in Great Neck, a professional working in Town Center, a military service member stationed at Oceana, or a retiree enjoying coastal living in North End or Alanton.

Our Virginia Beach area offices provide comprehensive general dentistry, advanced cosmetic treatments, restorative solutions, and top-tier dental implant care. We combine state-of-the-art technology—including digital imaging, Pearl AI diagnostics, and guided implant planning—with compassionate, patient-focused care.

Because for us, dentistry is more than a clinical service—it’s our way of supporting the community we’re proud to call home. Every smile we care for represents a family, a story, and a future we want to help keep bright.

We are honored to serve patients across Virginia Beach and its surrounding neighborhoods, including Oceanfront/Resort Area, Kempsville, Great Neck, Alanton, Chic’s Beach, Sandbridge, Princess Anne, Town Center, Pembroke, Red Mill, Green Run, Lynnhaven, Croatan Beach, North End, Dam Neck, Oceana Gardens, Little Neck, Bayside, Thoroughgood, Linkhorn Park, and all throughout the Virginia Beach region.

At The Foleck Center, we are dedicated to keeping Virginia Beach’s smiles healthy, confident, and strong—with care rooted in integrity, respect, and genuine community connection.