Budget/Backpacker Travel Guide: Virginia Beach

Accommodation

$25-65 per night

Budget motels along Atlantic Avenue, hostels, vacation rental shared rooms, or camping at state parks

Food & Dining

$15-35 per day

Fast food, pizza slices, convenience store meals, grocery shopping for self-prepared meals, happy hour specials

Transportation

$5-20 per day

Walking, biking, public bus system (HRT), rideshare splitting, occasional taxi for longer distances

Activities

$0-25 per day

Free beach access, public parks, free outdoor concerts, self-guided walking tours, occasional paid attraction

Visit during shoulder seasons (late fall or early spring) for 25-40% savings on accommodation

Eat at local restaurants away from the boardwalk and oceanfront areas, typically 30-50% cheaper

Use the public bus system instead of taxis and rideshares for 70-80% transportation savings

Book vacation rentals with kitchens to prepare some meals yourself, saving $20-40 per day on food

Take advantage of free beach activities, state parks, and outdoor concerts instead of paid attractions

Look for hotel packages that include parking, breakfast, or attraction tickets for better overall value

Shop at grocery stores and convenience stores away from the tourist strip for 40-60% savings on snacks and drinks

Staying directly on the oceanfront during peak summer season without booking months ahead, paying 100-200% premium rates

Eating every meal on the boardwalk or in resort areas, typically costing 150-300% more than local alternatives

Relying solely on taxis and rideshares instead of walking, biking, or using public transit, increasing transport costs by 300-500%

Not researching free activities and beaches, missing out on Virginia Beach's many no-cost attractions and natural areas