Things to Do at Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Complete Guide to Virginia Beach Boardwalk in Virginia Beach

About Virginia Beach Boardwalk

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a spectacular 3-mile oceanfront promenade that serves as the heart of Virginia Beach's resort area. Stretching from 2nd Street to 40th Street, this iconic wooden boardwalk offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and entertainment, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and a vibrant collection of hotels, restaurants, and attractions on the other. The boardwalk has been a beloved destination since the early 1900s and continues to attract millions of visitors annually. This family-friendly destination features a wide pedestrian walkway alongside a separate bike path, making it accessible for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers. The boardwalk is lined with towering resort hotels, charming shops, diverse dining options, and numerous entertainment venues. Throughout the year, it hosts various festivals, concerts, and events, while the adjacent beach provides endless opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The boardwalk truly embodies the classic American seaside resort experience.

What to See & Do

King Neptune Statue

A massive 34-foot bronze statue of the Roman god of the sea, created by sculptor Paul DiPasquale, standing majestically at Neptune Park at 31st Street

Virginia Beach Fishing Pier

An 1,200-foot fishing pier extending into the Atlantic Ocean, offering fishing opportunities, dining, and spectacular ocean views

Grommet Island Park

A beach-themed playground featuring climbing structures, slides, and interactive water features designed for children of all ages

Boardwalk Art Show

Annual outdoor art festival featuring hundreds of artists displaying paintings, sculptures, photography, and crafts along the boardwalk

Live Entertainment Stages

Multiple outdoor performance venues hosting free concerts, festivals, and cultural events throughout the summer season

Practical Information

Opening Hours

The boardwalk is open 24/7 year-round, though individual businesses and attractions have varying hours. Most shops and restaurants operate from 10 AM to 10 PM during peak season.

Tickets & Pricing

Access to the boardwalk is completely free. Individual attractions, restaurants, and activities have separate pricing. Parking meters along the streets typically cost $1.25 per hour.

Best Time to Visit

May through September for warm weather and full activities, though spring and fall offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Summer evenings are particularly magical.

Suggested Duration

Allow 2-4 hours for a leisurely walk, or a full day if combining with beach activities, dining, and shopping

Getting There

Virginia Beach Boardwalk is easily accessible by car via I-264 East, which leads directly to the oceanfront area. The boardwalk runs along Atlantic Avenue from 2nd to 40th Street. Public parking is available in municipal lots and metered street parking throughout the resort area. The Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provides bus service to the oceanfront, and many visitors also arrive via Norfolk International Airport, about 30 minutes away. Ride-sharing services and taxis are readily available, and many hotels offer shuttle services to the boardwalk area.

Things to Do Nearby

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
World-class aquarium featuring marine life exhibits, IMAX theater, and outdoor adventure park with zip lines and ropes courses
First Landing State Park
Historic state park offering hiking trails, camping, and the site where English colonists first landed in 1607
Military Aviation Museum
Extensive collection of vintage military aircraft from World War I through the Korean War, with many planes still in flying condition
Cape Henry Lighthouse
Historic lighthouse commissioned by George Washington, offering climbing tours and panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean
Ocean Breeze Waterpark
Large waterpark featuring slides, wave pools, lazy river, and family-friendly aquatic attractions

Tips & Advice

Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid peak crowds, especially during summer months
Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated - the boardwalk offers little shade during midday hours
Rent bikes or surreys from local shops to cover more ground and enjoy the dedicated bike path
Download the ViBe Creative District app for information about current events, live music, and special activities happening along the boardwalk

Tours & Activities at Virginia Beach Boardwalk